Plant-based hair colour is now recognised as a credible alternative, supported by scientific research, to chemical hair colouring. Plant-based hair colours are a natural colouring process made from plants, respectful of both human health and the environment. Here are five major scientific arguments explaining why plant-based colouring is increasingly favoured by professionals and consumers.The range of plant-based hair colours offers a wide variety of shades suited to every natural hair base, including blonde hair, allowing harmonious tones and optimal grey coverage. Knowing your natural base is essential to choosing the right shade. Plant-based hair colour is made exclusively from powdered plants and hot water, and the quality of the water used (hot or demineralised) is crucial to optimise pigment release.Pigments extracted from dye plants play a key role in these formulations, providing natural colour that binds to the surface of the hair for a soft, natural result. Unlike chemical colouring, plant pigments do not alter the internal structure of the hair.Plant-based hair colour is vegan, environmentally friendly, and some brands stand out for their ethical commitment and formula purity. It is suitable for everyone, including pregnant women, people undergoing chemotherapy, or those with allergies, as it contains no harsh chemical ingredients.Plant-based hair colour provides 100% grey coverage with no transparency, delivering a natural and even result. It also acts as a hair treatment that enhances the hair over successive applications and fully satisfies clients.In the rest of this article, you will find practical advice and application recommendations to help you achieve the best results from plant-based hair colour.Principles of plant-based hair colouringPlant-based colouring relies on a simple and respectful principle: using the power of natural pigments extracted from dye plants to enhance hair colour without aggressive chemicals. Unlike chemical dyes that modify the internal structure of the hair, plant-based pigments from henna, cassia auriculata or other plants bind to the hair surface, forming a protective sheath that reflects light and provides natural shine.This surface-binding process preserves the hair’s integrity and respects its natural health. The plants are carefully selected for their active compounds and colouring performance, allowing a wide palette of shades, from luminous blonde to deep brown, with copper or golden undertones. Each formula can be adapted to hair type and desired colour for a bespoke, professional result.One of the major strengths of plant-based colouring lies in the quality of its ingredients: dye plants are generally sourced from organic farming, without chemical substances or harmful additives. This ensures product purity, effectiveness and gentleness. Natural pigments also provide nourishing and protective benefits, strengthening the hair fibre and restoring vitality and shine.Plant-based hair colour is suitable for all hair types, even the most sensitive or previously damaged. Thanks to plant diversity and controlled formulation, it provides excellent grey coverage, subtle highlights or intense shades while respecting the hair’s natural structure.By choosing plant-based colouring, you opt for a healthy, effective and environmentally responsible alternative that combines the best of nature with professional-level results.1. Preservation of hair structureChemical colouring works by oxidation: it opens the cuticle and destroys natural melanin so artificial pigments can penetrate. This weakens the hair fibre and reduces its mechanical strength. Plant-based colour, by contrast, does not alter the internal structure. Natural pigments (henna, indigo, cassia) bind around the fibre, forming a protective layer that strengthens hair and improves shine.2. No oxidation and no keratin degradationChemical dyes repeatedly oxidise keratin and lipids, accelerating hair ageing (dryness, breakage, loss of elasticity). Plant-based colouring contains no peroxide or ammonia, preserving the hair’s biochemical integrity and slowing its natural ageing process.3. Better scalp toleranceMany dermatological studies identify chemical dye molecules (such as PPD or resorcinol) as causes of contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. Dye plants used in plant-based colouring, on the contrary, have soothing, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that promote a healthier scalp.4. Treatment effect and improved hair qualityPlant-based colouring does more than colour. Tannins, flavonoids and polyphenols from plants provide a protective, strengthening effect. Studies show reduced hair porosity and improved perceived thickness after repeated applications.It is important to avoid chemical hair products after plant-based colouring, as they may cause colour fading.5. Reduced environmental impactChemical dyes generate persistent toxic residues, especially in wastewater. Plant-based colouring, made from biodegradable plant powders, releases no pollutants and respects ecosystems and global health.The natural benefits of Rodolphe&Co plant-based hair colourRodolphe&Co plant-based colouring is based on biological mechanisms that respect hair, scalp and the environment. Supported by strong scientific data, it represents a true sustainable evolution in hair colouring.Its formulas combine dye plants and Ayurvedic botanicals with colouring, strengthening and therapeutic properties. Some shades are produced from dried flowers ground into powder, creating natural, delicately scented colours.Indigo: strengthens fibre, adds depth and shine. Henna: coats, fortifies and purifies the scalp. Amla: powerful antioxidant, boosts growth and shine. Ziziphus: purifies, regulates sebum, softens hair. Eucalyptus: purifies and stimulates microcirculation. Aloe Vera: hydrates, soothes and repairs. Turmeric: anti-inflammatory, protects and brightens colour. Chamomile: soothes and enhances light tones.Rodolphe&Co colour does more than dye: it treats, protects and enhances hair over time while helping manage regrowth and extend time between root touch-ups for a more natural, low-maintenance routine.In the salon, professional expertise allows custom shade formulation based on your natural base for a perfectly harmonised result. Processing time varies according to the chosen shade and hair base, ensuring optimal intensity and quality.Complementary treatments are available, including hair masks to nourish and hydrate, or flower-based treatments to strengthen and scent the hair. Before-and-after photos illustrate the effectiveness of plant-based colouring.
12 September 2025
At-home plant-based hair colouring is attracting more and more people looking for a natural alternative that is closer to their values and respectful of both the hair fibre and the environment. However, even though this natural colouring method delivers luminous and long-lasting results, it also requires great care when it comes to maintenance in order to preserve both its radiance and the overall health of the hair.Ready to take the leap? Discover today our expert tips and advice to maintain your plant-based hair colour at home and enjoy its shine for a long time.Why is maintenance crucial after a plant-based hair colour? Unlike chemical dyes, which penetrate the core of the hair through oxidation, plant-based hair colour coats the fibre and protects it by covering the hair with natural pigments derived from dye plants. This fundamental difference explains why maintenance plays such a crucial role in prolonging the effects of your plant-based hair colour. An unsuitable hair care ritual may accelerate colour fading, weaken the hair or dry out the lengths. On the contrary, adopting the right habits and a proper routine helps extend the intensity of the shades while strengthening the hair and fully benefiting from the plant-based ingredients used in your natural hair colour. The right habits to adopt from day one After applying a plant-based hair colour at home, a few simple rules and steps help fix the pigments and protect both your hair and your freshly applied colour. - Wait before the first wash: We recommend waiting at least 48 hours after application before your first wash, allowing the pigments enough time to bind durably to the hair fibre.- Choose a gentle, natural shampoo: Avoid formulas containing sulphates and silicones, which have a “stripping” effect on colour. Opt instead for organic shampoos rich in hydrating active ingredients, such as the high-nutrition shampoo from Rodolphe&Co.- Avoid rinsing with hot water: Hot water opens the hair cuticle, encouraging natural pigments to escape (as they sit on the cuticle without penetrating the core of the hair). Prefer rinsing with cool or lukewarm water to maintain the radiance of your colour.- Limit aggressive drying: Air-dry whenever possible, or use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. The first few days after a plant-based hair colour are the most important, as the colour is still developing. These small but essential steps allow the colour to anchor itself and preserve your hair’s natural shine over the long term. Which natural hair care routine should you adopt? Once the post-colouring phase (48 to 72 hours) has passed, it is time to establish a gentle and regular routine to maintain your plant-based hair colour at home. Gentle washing (2–3 times per week): Two to three shampoos per week are sufficient. Washing more frequently may accelerate colour fading. Use a gentle colour-fixing shampoo made with natural hydrating ingredients or natural molecules and technologies that seal the hair cuticles, such as the patented Keraguard® technology. Hydrating mask (1–2 times per week): Hydration is key to keeping colour-treated hair healthy. Once or twice a week, apply a hydrating and nourishing treatment to the lengths and ends. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes under a warm towel or shower cap to enhance the penetration of active ingredients. Natural rinse: Rinsing with cold water or apple cider vinegar closes the hair cuticles, fixes the colour and adds shine. A few drops are enough for optimal results. Neutral henna (once a month): A neutral henna mask can be used to strengthen the hair, add volume and maintain the natural colour’s radiance without altering it. Bonus tip: apple cider vinegar rinse Apple cider vinegar is a valuable ally for naturally coloured hair. By slightly acidifying the hair’s pH, it helps tighten the cuticles and boost shine. Dilute two tablespoons in one litre of cold water and use this as a final rinse after shampooing, once a week. Mistakes to avoid after a plant-based hair colour Although at-home plant-based hair colouring is gentle and respectful, certain mistakes can compromise the results. Shampoos with harsh chemical compositions: formulas containing sulphates, PEGs or alcohol gradually strip away natural pigments. Silicone-based treatments: silicones create an artificial coating around the hair, preventing natural actives from penetrating and dulling the colour over time. Repeated exposure to external aggressors: UV rays and pollution oxidise pigments and dry out the hair fibre. Remember to apply a protective treatment or rinse your hair with clear water after swimming. Chemical colouring after plant-based colouring: chemical dyes can interact with natural pigments and cause unwanted tones. If you wish to change colour, consult a professional specialising in plant-based hair colouring before any new application. Maintaining your plant-based hair colour at home primarily means adopting gentle gestures and natural, chemical-free products. By respecting processing times, choosing the right treatments and avoiding chemical aggressors, you will enjoy long-lasting shine, colour hold and vitality provided by dye plants. What if you trusted your plant-based hair colouring expert?While at-home plant-based hair colouring delivers beautiful results, nothing replaces the expertise of a hairdresser trained in natural techniques. At Rodolphe&Co, our plant-based colour experts guide you in choosing the shades best suited to your complexion and hair type.You can find all our advice and products on our website, where our complete plant-based hair colouring kits are available for simple, professional application at home. These kits include everything you need: colouring powder, fixing treatment and accessories, for a sensory and hair-respectful experience inspired directly by the rituals of our salons.Thanks to this synergy between professional expertise and at-home kits, you benefit from a radiant, natural and long-lasting colour, while fully respecting the plant-based philosophy so dear to Rodolphe&Co.