There has never been strong federal regulation of the ingredients in hair color, says Monica Martelo, owner of the Organic Color Bar, in Bethpage. That’s why she offers natural alternatives to commonly used toxic chemical services used in many hair salons.  

“We use the first professional-grade hair color, formulated with the highest concentration of organic, biodynamic, and fair-trade ingredients,” she says. “Our hair color is free of ammonia, PPD, resorcinol, synthetic fragrances, gluten, and soy.”

Martelo says she wasn’t surprised to learn that researchers have been studying a possible link between hair color and various types of cancer.

“Certain ingredients found in regular hair color, such as amines, have been shown to cause cancer in lab animals in long-term use,” she says. “Small amounts of hair dyes are absorbed through the skin or inhaled from toxic fumes in the air.”According to Martelo, the Food and Drug Administration does not approve each ingredient used in hair dyes before it goes on the market. “Many of the harmful ingredients in hair color were excluded when the FDA was initially given the power to regulate these products back in the 1930s,” she notes.

At the Organic Color Bar, Martelo has aligned her professional skill with her dedication to holistic, natural, and sustainable living. 

“Our environment keeps both clients and artists safe from chemicals,” she says.

Location: 280B Broadway, Bethpage, NY. For appointments or information, call 516-396-1880 or visit OrganicColorBar.com.