Semi, Demi and Permanent Hair Color
In the hair color world, there are three main types of hair color. Semi-permanent, demi-permanent and permanent. Each one has their own purpose and level of commitment. It’s important to know when to use each type not only to get the hair color results you want but also, so you know if you’re in it for the long haul with your hair color.
Semi-Permanent
How does semi-permanent work?
Semi- permanent hair color is a direct dye, it does not need a developer to work. Instead, it simply deposits color on the outside of the hair strand without opening up the hair’s cuticle. It will not lighten hair or cover grays.
How much of a commitment is semi-permanent?
Think of semi-permanent hair color as your tinder date, it’s probably only going to last a few weeks. And after 5-10 shampoos it will rinse completely out of your hair. Because of its low commitment, it’s ideal for those who like to change things up on a regular basis.
When would you use semi-permanent?
Commonly used to deposit vibrant, fashion colors on pre-lightened hair. Think neon green, hot pink, teal. It can also be used to enhance or add shine to your natural hair color. It’s a great option to refresh hair color between salon appointments.
Side Note: Under the umbrella of semi-permanent hair color, falls temporary hair color. Temporary color works in the same way as semi-permanent but is usually applied via hair chalk, hair spray, shampoo and conditioners, etc. It is usually less pigmented and is also applied to hair in ways where it only lasts one to two shampoos. These can be used in fun ways to give you a different look for the day or keep hair toned each time you wash at home.
Demi Permanent
How does demi-permanent work?
Demi-permanent hair color uses a very low developer (little or no ammonia) to gently lift the hair’s cuticle, allowing the color to deposit both on the outside of the hair strand and in the outermost layer of the hair’s cuticle. It does not deposit color in the hair shaft, making it quicker to rinse out the hair. It also will not lighten the hair and it won’t completely cover your grays.
How much of a commitment is demi-permanent?
Demi-permanent is your summer fling, lasting several weeks and you can always make a long-term commitment with a permanent version if you really love it. Demi-permanent hair color last about 20 shampoos.
When would you use demi-permanent?
This is a great option if you want to go darker but also wants to keep hair color options open for the near future. It’s also a great for enhancing natural hair color or switching up the tone of current hair color. You could also use it for gray blending which won’t 100% cover but can make them less obvious and won’t give a harsh line of demarcation as if grows out (aka you don’t want to be in the salon all time getting your roots done but you don’t want your gray to be as noticeable)
Permanent
How does permanent work?
Permanent hair color uses a higher developer (ammonia) to open up the hair’s cuticle and deposit color all the way into the hair’s cortex. Like the name says, it permanently changes the color of your hair.
How much of a commitment is permanent?
You are now married to your hair color! At least until it grows out or gets cut off during a haircut. Permanent hair color may fade over time, but it never rinses out of your hair. It offers the most variety as it can lighten the hair, give 100% gray coverage and gives the most longevity.
When would you use permanent?
The top reason for using permanent color is to achieve full gray coverage. It is also commonly used for those who want to go lighter. Permanent is a great choice if you’ve colored your hair darker with demi-permanent, want longer lasting results and are ok keeping the same hair color for the foreseeable future (also ok with being in the salon more often because there may be a more noticeable root after a few weeks)