Permanent hair dye lasts for a long time – usually unit your hair regrows. Demi-permanent hair color, on the other hand, gets washed out after about 20-30 shampoos, and it takes only 4-12 shampoos to wash out semi-permanent dyes. Read on to learn why it is so!
Permanent Hair Dye: A Lasting Transformation
Permanent hair dye (https://www.madison-reed.com/shop/permanent-hair-color) is the go-to choice for those seeking a significant change in hair color, be it covering grays or lightening, darkening, or altering the hair’s tone. This type of dye penetrates deep into the hair shaft, altering the hair’s natural pigment and delivering long-lasting color that only grows out with your hair.
Permanent color typically involves a chemical process using ammonia (though there are gentler alternatives!) to open the hair cuticle, allowing the color to deposit deeply within the hair shaft for vibrant, enduring results. This process can be more damaging when compared to the other types of hair colors, but it gives long-lasting results and is often the only way to deal with stubborn, color-resistant hair (typically: grays).
Demi-Permanent Hair Dye: The Gentle Enhancer
Demi-permanent hair color offers a less permanent solution; it’s ideal if you’re looking to enhance your natural hair color, blend grays, or darken your hair color without committing until your hair regrows. Unlike permanent hair color, demi-permanent dyes typically do not contain ammonia. Instead, they use an alkali agent to slightly open the outer hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to enter the hair shaft without deeply penetrating it.
This results in a softer, more natural color that gradually fades over time, usually lasting about 20-30 washes. Demi-permanent color is less damaging to the hair, making it a gentler option for achieving a refreshed look or experimenting with new shades without significantly altering the hair’s structure. Still, considering that you shouldn’t wash your hair everyday, it might last for quite a long time, so you need to consider opting for demi-permanent hair dye carefully.
Semi-Permanent Hair Color: The Flexible Colorist
Semi-permanent hair color sits on the surface of the hair, coating the strands with color without altering the natural pigment or structure. This type of dye is ammonia-free and does not require a developer, meaning it does not penetrate the hair shaft but instead adds a layer of color on top. It’s perfect if you’re looking to experiment with color without a long-term commitment, enhance natural color, add shine, or cover grays temporarily.
Semi-permanent color typically lasts between four to twelve shampoos, depending on the hair’s porosity and the frequency of washing. It’s the most flexible and least damaging option, ideal for frequent changes or adding a pop of color to your hair.
Have you ever dreamt of getting your hair pink or green but don’t want such shades in the long run? Then, semi-permanent hair dye is the perfect choice for you.
The Takeaway
Now, you should understand the difference between permanent, demi-permanent, and semi-permanent hair dyes. Choose the one that suits you the most, and enjoy a new, fresh look!
