Whether you’re a regular at your local hair salon or have started dying your own hair to save money during a cost of living crisis, you might have seen hair dye labelled as either ‘permanent’ or ‘semi-permanent’. While both will still transform your look, there are a few key differences to be aware of.
Here’s everything you need to know about permanent and semi-permanent hair dye to help you decide which one is right for you.
What is permanent hair colour?
Permanent hair colour is what it says on the tin (or box!) as it’s permanent. When you put the hair dye over your virgin hair, you’ll replace the natural pigment in your hair with a permanent colour.
It works by opening the hair cuticle to let the dye set into the hair strands. That means that the colour will technically never leave your hair until it grows out. But that doesn’t mean it’s a total commitment! Your hair colour will usually fade of its own accord, and you can still dye your hair over the top.
What are the benefits of permanent hair colour?
- It gets rid of grey hair: According to research, most women have at least a few grey hairs. If you’ve started to notice more grey hair cropping up, you might be looking for a way to get rid of them. If so, permanent hair dye is likely the best option as the dye won’t just mask grey hairs, it’ll change them.
- You can use it instead of bleach: Permanent hair colour can lighten your natural hair colour by up to two shades – without the need for bleach! This means it’s far less damaging to your hair.
- You’ll get a better colour payoff: Permanent hair colour doesn’t fade as quickly as semi-permanent.
What is semi-permanent hair dye?
Semi-permanent hair colour is ammonia-free, so its molecules stick to the outside of the hair shaft. This means that the dye wears quicker than permanent hair dye, so it’s far less commitment – ideal if you like to switch up your look!
What are the benefits of semi-permanent hair dye?
- No obvious roots: As semi-permanent hair dye washes out gradually, you’re far less likely to get the telltale line as your roots grow out. If you like a low-maintenance look or want to save money on trips to the hair salon, semi-permanent is the best option.
- It’s easier to change: As semi-permanent hair colour coats the outside of your hair rather than changing it completely, it’s a much better option for those who like to change their hair colour. If you’re the ‘go dark for autumn and light for summer’ kind of person, stick with semi-permanent.
At the end of the day, there is no right and wrong when it comes to hair colour. It all depends on your style preferences and lifestyle. Which one will you choose?
