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Bigen Hair Dye – The Side Effects You Must Know

As much as its popularity, Bigen hair dye has some side effects. Bigen hair dye has been a hard-hitter within the home hair coloring industry for a number of years and its appeal, for some, still continues despite some side effects.

Bigen produces two types of dye: the permanent powder type or the semi-permanent color, meaning you can achieve a plethora of long-lasting or temporary shades.

bigen hair dye side effects

The big appeal with Bigen has been their easy-to-use powder which is touted to darken hair effectively and easily cover grey. It is also claimed that the color is longer lasting than that of other branded products – their top-up color time is cited at around six weeks.

So that’s a big draw for those who lack the time or the funds to keep on top of their locks, right?

The powder mixed at home with water is advertised as effective and safer to use as it does not contain ammonia, metallic ingredients, or hydrogen peroxide within the powder or in any of their products.

Those dying their hair will already know that bleaching can often result in some damage and dryness, so the lack of these harmful chemicals is a big appeal for some.

This means that you can lighten dark hair without lifting, which naturally means there is less potential for damage to the hair.

Bigen Hair Dye Side Effects

Following are some side effects of Bigen hair dye that product users can encounter!

Usage of Borates

side effects of bigen hair dye

However, while Bigen advertises its more wholesome approach to hair dye by not including ammonia, metallic products, or hydrogen peroxide, it has come under scrutiny for its use of sodium perborate as the riskiest side effects.

Borates such as sodium perborate and perboric acid are no strangers to the beauty industry. They have historically been used within teeth whitening clinics due to their supreme efficacy at creating that Hollywood smile.

However, concerns surrounding the health effects of these borates have risen drastically, resulting in a no exception ban on sodium perborate for all cosmetic dentistry within the European Union. It has been classified as carcinogenic and toxic for reproduction.

In addition, borates are known to be highly combustible, and therefore these very flammable components can run a great risk of catching fire.

Chemical Reaction on Health

bigen hair dye side effects

Despite extensive criticism and many supermarkets withdrawing the products from their shelves, Bigen continues to use sodium perborate within its hair products and concerns regarding the use of this chemical remain rife.

The Bigen website itself states that using the dye for eyelashes or eyebrows can, in fact, cause blindness and also should not be inhaled due to the risk of respiratory irritation.

There have been reports of hospitalization due to the side effects of Bigen hair dye. The most concerning is the effects of sodium perborate on fertility and unborn children in gestation.

Although the producers of these cosmetic products state that the exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals is low – there is still a risk!

It would seem that the Bigen manufacturers have found a concoction that works. However, it could be suggested that they need to move with the times and with the development of science and put their customers and their customer’s health first.

Effective Ways to Remove Hair Dye from Skin

 After Effects

hair loss due to bigen hair dye

All home hair companies suggest carrying out a patch test on hair prior to using their product in case of an allergic reaction. However, there are countless Bigen hair dye side effects listed on the internet, specifically about the Bigen brand, and some of these side effects include:

  • Itching
  • Swelling
  • Hair loss
  • Pain
  • Black Eyes
  • Chemical Burns
  • Difficulty breathing

Much like the scientific research surrounding smoking being carcinogenic and therefore harmful to the human body, fertility, and unborn children, sodium perborate has too been categorized as a carcinogen.

That is obviously not to say that all users will be affected by these effects, but knowledge and awareness of the potential side effects of Bigen are essential.

FAQs

What is Bigen hair dye made of?

The main ingredient in Bigen permanent hair dye is sodium perborate, whose safety is contested. Bigen semi-permanent hair dyes only coat the outer surface of the hair and contain chemicals similar to any other temporary or semi-permanent hair dye.

Can Bigen hair dye cause hair loss?

Any hair dye can cause hair loss due to irritation of the scalp from the hair dye ingredients. Bigen is no exception, but hair loss from hair dye is rare. 

How frequently can I use Bigen hair dye?

Bigen can be used every two weeks.

How long does Bigen hair dye last?

Semi-permanent Bigen hair dye lasts for less time than other semi-permanent hair dyes as it doesn’t use harsh chemicals. It will fade within eight washes. The permanent dye also fades quicker than a harsher hair dye. 

Is Bigen hair dye permanent?

There is a permanent version of Bigen hair dye, yes. No hair dye is truly permanent as they all fade.

Can I use Bigen on facial hair?

No, Bigen is designed to be used on the hair of the head only as it is made to be compatible with the skin of the scalp. The skin on the face is different and can be more sensitive, so it’s not suggested to use Bigen on the face.

If used in the eyebrows or eyelashes it can leak into the eyes and cause blindness. So this is also not recommended.

How long does Bigen processing take?

For both permanent and semi-permanent dye, Bigen takes around 30 minutes to process if your hair isn’t chemically processed, less if it is.

Can I apply Bigen dye on wet hair? 

The instructions indicate using it on dry hair only. If you use it on wet hair, it could leak into the eyes and cause blindness.

Does Bigen dye cover gray hair?

Yes.

Are Bigen hair dyes ammonia-free?

Yes.

How much is Bigen hair dye?

The prices vary, but cost around $5 in the US.

Is Bigen safe for pregnant women?

Bigen contains sodium perborate, which in sufficient quantities can harm the fetus. 

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