Ammonia Free Hair Colour Benefits

What does ammonia free actually mean, and what are the benefits of using this in favour of traditional hair colour formulas? Read on to find out more in our guide to ammonia free colour for hair.

What does it mean if hair colour is ammonia free?

Ammonia is a chemical typically found in permanent hair dyes used to lift the hair’s cuticle layer by increasing the pH (making it more alkaline/basic), which then allows the dye to penetrate the hair shaft. Other than hair dyes, ammonia has a wide range of uses including fertilisers and cleaning agents. Depending on the concentration, ammonia can be irritating to the skin and other parts of the body. Ammonia is known for its strong smell that can sting the eyes and nose, similar to nail polish (which is derived from ammonia!) Ammonia free hair colour products contain no trace of this chemical compound at all. 

How do ammonia free hair colouring products work?

For ammonia free permanent hair colour like the revolutionary iNOA range, the formula uses a unique oil delivery system to help deliver pigment to the cortex of the hair fibre. The pigments are attracted to the moisture in the hair's fibre away from the oils, deeply depositing colour for long lasting results.

Is ammonia free hair colour safe?

Ammonia free hair colour has an extra gentle formula, which is great news for those with sensitive skin, or hair that feels frazzled from previous colouring or processing like heat damage or chemical styling. That said, to be on the safe side, your stylist should always do a patch test before colouring to check for sensitivity whether using an ammonia free hair colour or not.

Ammonia free hair colour benefits

Odur Free

One of the main criticisms about ammonia-based hair dyes is the strong smell that some products can give off, which can sting the eyes and nose. Ammonia free products like iNOA and Dia contain absolutely no ammonia, which means you can breathe easy and keep your eyes open during the colouring process to appreciate the changes taking place. Hair colouring will become a luxurious experience to treat yourself to!

Damage free on hair 

With traditional dyes, the process of lifting the cuticle when pH is increased with ammonia can cause permanent coarseness and leave hair feeling like unruly straw. Using an ammonia free colour for hair removes this risk, leaving hair healthier. 

Damage free on scalp

Even at low concentrations, ammonia can cause sensitive skin to experience a burning or itching sensation. Eliminating ammonia consequently eliminates these effects for an irritation-free colouring experience!

No compromise in performance

How long does ammonia free hair colour last and how often can you use ammonia free products? This will depend on the type of product you choose (permanent vs semi-permanent). Colour payoff and frequency of touch ups will be similar to ammonia-containing counterparts. 

Grey coverage

Dia and iNOA ammonia free hair colours have the ability to cover up to 100% grey hair, making them an ideal, natural look choice. Using a semi-permanent colour like Dia can help to blend roots better as it gradually fades. 

Shade options

With over 200 shades to choose from across the iNOA and Dia ranges, you won't be short on options for choosing your perfect, natural looking ammonia free colour for hair. 

Imparts shine 

The unique delivery system infuses the hair with nourishing oils to give it a silky smooth finish but protects the hair’s natural moisture levels to prevent dryness and prolong colour.

Types of ammonia free hair colour

Trusted by salon stylists and artist across Australia and New Zealand, L'Oréal Professionnel's ammonia free hair colour products include a range of types from permanent and semi-permanent to lightening.

Permanent ammonia free hair colour

Over a decade ago, L’Oréal Professionnel introduced permanent colour iNOA, short for innovation no ammonia. It uses pioneering technology of a unique oil delivery system where oils are used to deliver pigment deep into the hair fibre. 

Semi-permanent ammonia free hair colour

For permanent ammonia free hair colour, iNOA remains one of the best ammonia free hair colour options. But what if you’re looking for a semi-permanent or temporary shade? Look no further than the Dia range, resulting in a reflective finish and soft touch. The Dia range is also used in part of our signature colouring techniques French Balayage and French Glossing to intensely condition hair and leave it with a healthy shine. 

Ammonia free lightener

If you need to lighten hair before colouring with your desired shade, there are ammonia free options for you too! Blond Studio 7 Lightening Clay Powder offers precise application and lightens up to 7 shades. 

To discover more about ammonia free options to suit your hair goals, find a L’Oréal Professionnel expert at a salon near you today.