Differences Between Semi And Demi-Permanent Hair Color

Differences Between Semi And Demi-Permanent Hair Color

Dyeing of hair has become the reigning thing and you cannot afford not to know certain things about hair dye if you love to color your hair. Especially since dyeing of hair is something that you can do at home, by yourself, there is a lot to know and consider; Hair color, hair texture, type of dye, etc.

Somehow in your hair journey, you must have heard of semi and semi-permanent hair color, you probably thought it was one of those hair color terminologies that don’t concern you or you have seen it on the pack of your hair dye and you don’t know what it means.

That’s fine, in this article, we will be helping you understand what these are and their differences.

Demi-Permanent Hair Color

Demi-permanent hair color is an alkaline, ammonia-free product. it comes in different shades and only washes out only after 24 to 28 shampoo wash. The demi-permanent hair color deposits pigments to the surface of the hair, it blends the hair color in a very safe way, it doesn’t penetrate the hair strands neither does it lightens the hair color.

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Image: Envato Elements

This indicates that the demi-permanent hair color doesn’t cause damages to the hair strands, it is also very safe and not harsh when compared to permanent hair color.

The demi-permanent hair color is suitable for anyone who wants to change their hair color for a short while, you can also use it to highlight, blend grays, tone, etc. It is suitable and safe for all hair types, it is, however, really good for women with textured hair, this is because it will not damage or alter their curls.

The demi-permanent hair color is great for darkening hair, so if you are looking to lighten your hair color, you should try other types.

Semi-Permanent Hair Color 

Like the demi-permanent hair color, the semi-permanent hair color is an ammonia-free hair dye, and unlike the demi-permanent hair color, it doesn’t require a developer to be used.

It is also referred to as toner, gloss, or stain, this is because it only coats the surface of the hair and does not penetrate the hair strands, this indicates that it doesn’t cause any permanent change to your hair structure or color. The semi-permanent hair color lasts up to five to twelve shampoo washes.

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Image: @mrskiac via Twenty20

The semi hair color is best if you intend to keep your natural hair color but still switch to the colors once in a while. If you are also dyeing your hair for the first time and you are not sure how long you want to keep the color, then the semi-permanent hair color is what you should try. The semi-permanent hair color gives you the freedom to dye your hair as many times as you want.

Differences Between Semi And Demi-Permanent Hair Color 

The major difference between these two hair dyes is in how long they last in the hair. The demi-permanent color lasts longer than semi-permanent hair color and this is because the latter does not penetrate the strands, it only sits on the surface, while the former only goes as far as just the first layer of the strands, this enables the color to blend.

The semi-permanent hair color also does not come with peroxide or a developer, however, the demi-permanent hair color mainly deposits, this indicates that it cannot be used to make the hair lighter, it can only maintain the hair color or go darker. They are both ammonia free which means they are not harmful to the hair.

Both can be used on all hair types, however, the purpose of use should determine which one is suitable for you at the time.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of what you intend to do, it is always best to consult your hair colorist or hairstylist on which one is best for you at the time, your hair colorist knows your hair and is in the best position to give you the guidance you need.

You should also moisturize your hair, this is because all hair dyes dry out the hair, lack of moisture can result in damages for your hair and you do not want that.   

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