Ask Shawana

Q: I want to color my hair but I don't want to damage it, my co-worker recommended henna. Is henna better for my hair than regular color.

A: First let me start by saying. anytime you're considering chemically altering your hair you should always visit a reputable stylist for the service. Most henna hair color that is available is not 100% henna, which makes it hard to determine what the actual color result will be. These products also contain ingredients that don't mix well with other chemicals and products which could lead to extreme damage to your hair. However, there are a few color lines (non-henna) out there that offer ammonia free color such as INOA by Loreal or Chi by Farouk which keeps damage to a minimum. I would personally prefer to use one of these depending on the desired results instead of henna. Overall it's best to pay a visit to your stylist to discuss these options.



Q: Why is my hair dull and gray no matter how much oil I use on it?

A: That dull appearance is likely due to a buildup of carbon on your hair from the different chemicals and products you are using. To solve this problem I usually use a mineral remover treatment on my clients. Depending on the amount of buildup on your hair more than one treatment may be required.





Q: What is a sulfate free shampoo? Does it really get the hair clean enough?


A: A sulfate free shampoo is a shampoo that does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate which is commonly found in cleaning products. This chemical (sodium lauryl sulfate) is useful where the removal of oily residue is needed but can also irritate the scalp and excessively strip essential oils and cause hair to be dry. Sulfate free shampoos are typically much gentler on the hair and scalp and tend to leave the hair much softer and moisturized than other shampoos. Most people associate the thick rich lather of a shampoo containing sulfate with  "clean hair" but that is not necessarily the case. Although sulfate free shampoos do not lather, if used correctly they cleanse the hair very well.