Seamus Hammond
While perfume can be used to improve the scent of hair, it is not recommended for long-term use. This is because perfumes contain high amounts of alcohol, which can dry out hair and cause damage, including brittleness and split ends. However, some people report using perfume on their hair without any negative effects, and there is no scientific evidence that spraying perfume on hair can make it turn white or grey faster. Alternatives to using perfume on hair include hair mists, dry shampoo, scented serums, and oils.
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What You'll Learn
The effects of perfume on hair colour
While there is no evidence that perfume turns hair white, it can have other effects on hair colour.
Perfumes contain about 60 to 70% alcohol, which is a volatile substance that evaporates quickly, leaving only the concentrate on the skin or hair. Alcohol can dissolve oils, which can disrupt the hydrolipidic film on hair—a protective film that acts as a natural barrier. This disruption could potentially affect hair colour, as the hydrolipidic film helps to protect hair from environmental factors that may cause discolouration.
Additionally, alcohol has a drying effect on hair. This can lead to brittleness, split ends, and breakage, especially for those with damaged, dry, or naturally drier hair types. The drying effect of alcohol could also impact hair colour, as dry hair often appears duller and less vibrant.
Some individuals with oily hair have reported that the effects of alcohol in perfumes are counteracted by the oiliness of their hair, resulting in no noticeable change in their hair's moisture levels or colour. However, for those with dry hair, it is recommended to avoid spraying perfume directly onto the hair and instead opt for fragrance alternatives like scented hair mists, dry shampoos, or hair serums that are designed to maintain hair integrity and offer hydration.
Overall, while perfume may not directly turn hair white, its high alcohol content can cause drying and other forms of damage that could potentially impact the appearance and health of hair, including its colour.
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The drying effects of perfume on hair
While perfume can be used to scent hair, it can also have drying effects. This is due to the alcohol content in perfumes, which can range from 60 to 70%. Alcohol can dissolve oils, which can disrupt the hydrolipidic film on the hair and scalp. This protective film acts as a natural barrier, isolating and protecting the hair and scalp from the environment.
The disruption of this protective film can lead to dryness, which can cause long-term damage such as breakage, split ends, and frizziness. Individuals with dry hair are particularly susceptible to the drying effects of perfume and may experience more noticeable damage. However, those with oily hair may find that the oil counteracts the drying effect of the alcohol.
To minimise the potential for damage, it is recommended to use perfume sparingly on the hair, avoiding the scalp. Spraying perfume from a distance of 30-40 cm and limiting application to one or two puffs can help reduce the amount of alcohol coming into contact with the hair. Additionally, individuals can opt for lightly perfumed sprays that are specifically designed for hair and do not contain alcohol.
While the occasional use of perfume on the hair may not cause significant damage, regular use may lead to increased brittleness and split ends. Therefore, it is advisable to use perfume on the hair in moderation and to be cautious if you have any scalp issues or pre-existing hair conditions. Alternatives to perfume, such as hair mists, dry shampoos, or hair serums, can provide a refreshing scent without the same drying effects.
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The protective hydrolipidic film on hair
The protective hydrolipidic film is a thin, natural barrier that covers the scalp and hair shafts. It is composed mainly of lipids and sebum (produced by the sebaceous glands) and sweat. This protective film plays a crucial role in maintaining hair health by preserving moisture and protecting against external aggressors such as pollution, bacteria, and climatic variations.
The hydrolipidic film acts as a natural seal, helping to retain water inside the hair fibre, which ensures the hair's elasticity and resistance. It also acts as a regulator, maintaining a balance between the hair and its environment. For example, it protects against changes in humidity, preventing dryness or excess hydration that can make hair heavy.
The sebum in the hydrolipidic film may also have antibacterial and antifungal properties, further protecting the hair and scalp from infections. This protective film helps keep the cuticle, the outer layer of the hair, smooth and intact, giving hair its natural shine.
However, the hydrolipidic film can be damaged by certain hair care practices and environmental factors. Regular use of products containing sulphates, alcohol, or other harsh ingredients can strip away natural oils, compromising the integrity of the film. Hair treatments such as colouring or straightening can also damage the hydrolipidic film, leading to dehydration and increased sensitivity. Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, wind, and sun can also negatively impact this protective layer.
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The use of hair mists as a substitute
While there are no explicit mentions of perfume turning hair white, it is known to contain 60 to 70% alcohol, which can have a drying effect on hair. This can lead to brittleness and more split ends, especially with regular use. For this reason, it is recommended to use hair mists as a substitute for perfume.
Hair mists are a great way to safely fragrance your hair. They are designed to be used on the hair and typically have a lighter, more delicate fragrance than perfumes. They are usually formulated without alcohol, which means they won't dry out your hair or disturb the natural protective barrier that keeps your hair healthy.
There are many hair mists available on the market, including those from Sephora, which offers a range of scented hair mists. When applying a hair mist, it is recommended to spray it from a distance of 30-40 cm, and avoid spraying near any heat sources to prevent any potential fire hazards.
Some popular hair mist options include the Ouai hair mist, Sol de Janeiro (especially if you like sweeter scents), and Pacifica Island Vanilla hair and body mist for a warming, comforting scent. If you're looking for a hair treatment cream that also smells heavenly, try L'Ange Dream Cream, which also helps make your hair softer and tangle-free.
Hair mists are a great alternative to perfumes when it comes to fragrancing your hair, as they are designed specifically for hair and won't have the same drying effects as perfumes.
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The amount of alcohol in perfumes
Perfumes or extracts typically contain 20% odorous material and 80% alcohol. Eau de parfum contains 15% odorous material and 85% alcohol, while eau de toilette contains 10% odorous material and 85% alcohol. Eau de cologne usually contains no more than 5% odorous material, with the rest being alcohol. However, the exact concentration can vary, with some sources stating that eau de cologne contains up to 70% alcohol, while others claim that it can have as much as 88% alcohol.
The high alcohol content in perfumes is due to the role that alcohol plays in the fragrance. Alcohol is a volatile substance that helps to solubilize the essential oils in the perfume concentrate, allowing the scent to be released when applied to the skin. It also evaporates quickly, leaving only the concentrate on the skin. Additionally, alcohol acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the perfume and ensuring that it retains its quality and strength over time.
While the alcohol content in perfumes can vary, it is important to note that the alcohol used is typically denatured alcohol, which is not meant for consumption. This type of alcohol is often produced through laboratory synthesis, creating synthetic ethanol, or derived from plants as bioethanol or agricultural ethanol.
The high alcohol content in some perfumes can be a concern for those who wish to avoid its drying effects on hair and skin. Alcohol can dissolve the protective hydrolipidic film on the skin and hair, leading to dryness. However, the impact of the alcohol in perfumes may be negligible, depending on the amount used and the frequency of application. Some individuals may choose to use fragrance hair mists or lightly perfumed sprays that are specifically designed for hair and contain less alcohol. These alternatives can provide a similar aromatic experience without the potential negative effects of higher alcohol concentrations.
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Frequently asked questions
No, there is no scientific basis for the claim that perfume makes your hair white. However, it can cause long-term damage by drying it out.
Perfumes contain harsh alcohols, including ethyl alcohol, and heavy synthetic fragrances. Alcohol can dissolve oils, which can disrupt the protective hydrolipidic film on your hair.
You can use hair mists, dry shampoos, scented serums, or scented hair oils. These products are designed to leave a refreshing, lasting scent without drying out or damaging your hair.
It is generally recommended to avoid harsh alcohols like ethyl alcohol. However, fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and cetearyl alcohol can add hydration and lubrication to hair shafts.
While there is no definitive answer, some people believe that occasional use of perfume on the hair is unlikely to cause significant damage, especially if you have oily hair. However, regular use may lead to increased brittleness and split ends.
