organic hair care
Want to look younger? Everyone does in this youth centered culture. But Gatchell hair-dresser Anna Le-Grie says many people are concerned about the chemical preparations used in hair colouring, shampoos and cosmetics.
"Many people are sensitive to chemicals like ammonia used in hair colour treatments. As a hair-dresser I found I was affected too so I began looking for safer organic treatments for hair. After years of searching I have found products that I and my clients are comfortable with at an affordable costs," said Le-Grie owner of More Than Just Hair at 973 Lorne St.
Seven years after being a hair dresser in England, Le-Grie found that she suffered from breathing problems. She suspected it was linked to the ammonia she was exposed to in the products she used at work.
"Many of my clients reported they suffered from scalp tingling, nausea, breathing problems and headaches but they, like many people thought it was the price they paid for looking younger," she said.
After some years Le-Grie came upon Organic Color Systems, a former British company that pioneered organic hair colour products, and which was promoted by prominent Australian Hilton Bell.
According to their website ammonia not only affects the health of clients and hairdressers but it is hard on the hair cuticles themselves.
"Ammonia not only makes the shaft of the hair cuticle resemble Swiss cheese, it also damages the amino acid or protein called Tyrosine which is found inside the hair shaft. Tytosine is responsible for producing melanin, the natural pigment in the hair shaft).
When the Tyrosine is damaged, the hair's ability to hold onto color is greatly reduced…by introducing color into the hair shaft without damaging the Tyrosine the color lasts longer because the color has something to bond to," states the website.
"The hair colouring products I use here are organically based from natural ingredients, are safe for myself, my clients and their hair. If they weren't I would be the first to know," said Le-Grie.
Even cosmetics and shampoos are suspect says Le-Grie.
"Shampoos that are chemically based can damage the hair-drying it out for example. I sell the line of shampoos from Miessence. The natural ingredients such as aloe vera, lemon myrtle rosemary and sage are grown without the use of synthetic insecticides, herbicides and fumigants. They are certified organic," she said.
Natural based products even feed the scalp and hair with the nutrients contained within the products said Le-Grie.
Probably most important of all the natural approach works.
Hair feels softer and the look is more natural.
And how do I feel with my new look, all without chemicals? Hey as a newly single guy, I appreciated it when a 20 year old blonde gave me the look this morning downtown. That's a boost to any man's day!
For more information phone 675-6607 or visit More Than Just Hair Care across from the big Tim Hortons on Lorne St. The websites are www.organiccolorsystems.com and www.lightworlds.net.
