Demi-Permanent vs. Semi-Permanent Hair Color: Differences Worth Knowing

Hair color is the latest trend these days. Some may choose to mask their grey hair, while some may simply choose to look fashionable. However, as there are many varieties of hair color available, you may wonder about their differences. Here we are trying to analyze demi-permanent vs semi-permanent hair color, to help you make your decision.

Demi-permanent hair colors have no ammonia present and are used for turning hair into darker shade. The duration for these hair color lasts up to 24 hair washes and are meant for blending grey hair to its natural color thereby giving you a fashionable look. These hair colors can stay for a maximum duration of 6 weeks.

Benefits of demi-permanent hair color include the following:

• Turn your hair color into refreshing tone
• Gentle and safe on hair as no ammonia is present
• Healthier than other hair color options
• You can try out different colors as it is easier to get back to your natural hair color.

Application of demi-permanent hair colors is quite easier. Demi-permanent hair color does not penetrate the hair but it does darken your hair but since there is no ammonia present, this hair color cannot lighten up your hair. As far as covering grey is concerned, this color is not that effective.

For your decision between demi-permanent vs semi-permanent hair color, you need to understand the difference between the two and and choose the most appropriate one according to your need.

Semi-permanent hair color is also termed as hair booster or hair gloss which is usually meant for covering up dull looking hair. This color doesn’t change the hue of your hair but provides a more dramatic and refreshing look by coloring dull hairs. So, you get a natural look of hair in contrast to demi-permanent hair color but always remember that semi-permanent hair color is used for adding color to your hair.

For trying out a different look, semi-permanent hair color is the best as it last for up to six wash and no ammonia or peroxide is used. If you have permed hair, semi-permanent hair color is a good option in comparison to permanent hair color.

Semi-permanent hair color may enter hair cuticles to deliver the required color. So it is on the surface of the hair that color is achieved but does not last for a long time. Maximum duration up to which hair colors can gain traction is generally up to 8 washes.

In different scenarios, you need to pick either demi-permanent or semi-permanent hair color. Let us understand in detail about demi-permanent vs semi-permanent hair color.

Here are the situations when demi-permanent hair color is the best choice:

• For a hair color which can fade with 24 washes
• For giving better color to your hair
• To darken your hair
• When you want to avoid any damage to your hair

In contrast, check when semi-permanent hair color suits your mane:

• Suitable for new dyers
• If you don’t want to be too experimental with your hair color
• For changing the tone of your hair
• A hair color which goes away with 12 washes

When we talk about demi-permanent vs semi-permanent hair color, their usage too is considered.

Here are the steps for the right usage of demi-permanent hair color:

• Mix hair color crème with developer
• After the mixture blends well, apply it immediately

For semi-permanent hair color, the application is as follows:

• Hair wash with gentle shampoo
• Blow dry
• Apply the dye
• Leave it for the required time
• Wash it off till the extra dye goes out of hair
• You don’t need to add any developer in this crème as semi-permanent hair color is applied without it.

For both demi-permanent and semi-permanent hair color, there is a difference in the mixing of developer. In case of former, developer used has no ammonia therefore, this type is considered to be a safer option for hair. Talking about latter category, the semi-permanent hair colors don’t come with developer and has a short stay.

Demi-permanent hair color helps in covering up the grey hair more effectively in contrast with semi-permanent hair color. Though latter also covers up the grey hair but stay is much shorter. So, if you look at hair color efficacy that shows up for a long time, it is the demi-permanent hair color.

Damaging hair color makes your hair go dry and dull over a period of time. In this regard, demi-permanent hair colors need to be avoided. Damages may or may not be permanent but it is better not to take risk with your hair. So take up semi-permanent hair color which offers better protection as it does not open the hair shaft whereas demi-permanent hair color does open and damage the hair. Effects of damage cause due to demi-permanent hair color include frizzy hair, dryness and coarse hair. If you are looking for less damage to your hair, you can choose semi-permanent hair color.

Your hair need to be cared for really well especially if you have colored your hair using demi-permanent hair color. Many applications of hair color will make your hair dry and coarse so using moisturizing shampoo is essential. You can also use some hair remedies and oiling on a regular basis so that the color does not wash out quickly. When working out, tie your hair back for color protection and ensure coverage from UV rays which can adversely affect your hair quality.

For semi-permanent hair colors too, you may need to care for your hair and limit hair washes to protect the hair color.

Choosing hair color can be a tricky thing, you need to put in some efforts for choosing the right color. Make sure you perform the patch test to ensure that hair color suits you well. Now that you are aware of the facts related to demi-permanent vs semi-permanent hair color, you can you’re your choice. Chan ging your look is a good option therefore, go for the hair colors which suit your skin tone and are not damaging for your hair.

Also Read:

• How long does hair dye allergy last and how to avoid getting allergy to hair dye
• Causes & Home Remedies for Sudden Growth of Grey Hair or Premature Grey Hair
• Can Working Out Cause Hair Loss?
• How Fast does Hair Grow & Ways to Grow Hair Faster