Ammonia-free hair color is no longer a trend, it’s become a global movement. But what’s the reason for this? Why has ammonia been used traditionally in hair color, is it possible to get great results without it, and are all ammonia free hair colors equal?

Ammonia, which is an alkaline chemical, is used to raise the pH level of our hair during the coloring process. It helps lift the cuticle of the hair fiber and to allow the color to be deposited onto the cortex which is the inner part of the hair protected by the cuticle. Ammonia is also used to lighten the hair’s natural pigment so it can be re-colored. 

Ammonia Stinks

Ammonia generally has an unpleasant odor that will linger in the air and is associated with negative health effects such as birth defects, skin irritation, liver and blood toxicity, and allergic reaction.

Not All Ammonia-free Hair Color is Equal

Ammonia-free hair color replaces ammonia with different ingredients and technology. But not all ammonia-free products work in the same way, and they all have varying results. In fact, ammonia-free doesn’t mean non-toxic as many ammonia-free hair color products have a toxic chemical composition that includes paraphenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is a chemical substance that is widely used in permanent hair color. PPD is also found in temporary tattoo ink, printer ink, and gasoline. 

Calura by Oligo Professional

Sunday Salon uses an ammonia-free hair color line made by Oligo Professional, a Canada-based hair care line from Montréal that was founded over 35 years ago. Calura (which means heat in Italian) is Oligo’s permanent hair color collection that is formulated with an innovative exothermic technology that was designed to maximize color penetration and minimize hair damage. Each shade was formulated to generate a specific increase in temperature to achieve desired results. The exothermic heat allows a thorough penetration of the certified organic essences and keratin which results in radiant shine.

The Calura exothermic system offers three primary benefits

• Ultimate grey hair coverage
• Up to five levels of lift
• Longer-lasting fashion shades

All shades are ammonia and PPD-free, while infused with certified, pure organic essences like Avocado Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Shea Butter, Pomegranate Seed Oil and Keratin to create the ultimate barrier against environmental damage.

We love the Calura line because it produces

• Superior shine and conditioning
• Superior scalp comfort
• Pleasant fragrance and better air quality resulting in a healthier salon environment

Switch to ammonia free hair color now

With millions of people all over the world coloring their hair, ammonia-free hair color offers an alternative for those who want radiant color, perfect coverage and healthy hair. There’s no reason you shouldn’t switch to ammonia free hair color, and if you know anyone who is still using ammonia color, please be a true friend and tell them about Sunday Salon.

We offer hair coloring services from Balayage to all-over color and everything in between. Our colorists work with your features, skin tone, and natural hair texture to create a custom look that complements you and works for your lifestyle.