Everything You Need to Know About Demi-Permanent Hair Color

Demi-permanent hair color is a type of hair color that does not change your color permanently. Instead, it washes out and lasts anywhere from 12-25 shampoos, depending on the brand of color you use, as well as your hair care routine. It’s less invasive (and less commitment) than permanent color, though there are some limitations when using a demi-permanent color. Want to learn more? Great, read on!

What Is Demi-Permanent Hair Color?

Demi-permanent hair color is the perfect middle ground between semi-permanent and permanent color. It lasts longer and provides more vibrant results than semi-permanent options, but it's less intense and requires less commitment than permanent hair color.

Unlike permanent color that reaches deep into the hair's cortex, demi-permanent color only affects the outer cuticle layer of the hair. This means it doesn't permanently change your color. Instead, it sits on the surface and gradually washes out over time.

How long does it take for demi-permanent hair color to fade completely? Anywhere from 12-25 washes. How long it lasts depends on several factors, including the color line, shampoo, conditioner, and styling products you use, as well as how often you swim, spend time in the sun, or use heat styling tools.

Another big factor is the extent of your color change and the current condition of your hair. For example, if you have highlighted, porous, or dry hair and choose a dark brown color, it might last longer because your hair absorbs the color more easily.

Demi-Permanent vs. Permanent Hair Color

You now know what demi-permanent hair color is and how long it lasts. Now, let’s talk about the main differences between demi-permanent and permanent hair color. It’s not just about how long the color lasts – there are other important factors to consider when choosing between these two types of hair color.

Longevity

As mentioned earlier, demi-permanent hair color gradually fades. Because it doesn’t permanently change your hair, you’ll see a less noticeable regrowth line when your roots come in. This means that as your roots grow, the color on the rest of your hair fades, making the difference between the natural and color-treated hair less obvious. How often you need to color will depend on whether you want to maintain your color or let it fade naturally, and how often you shampoo.

On the other hand, permanent hair color is, well, permanent. It might fade a little bit, though a good hair care routine and color reviving glosses will help prevent that. Your color will not disappear completely, no matter the number of washes. Therefore, if you want to go lighter or get rid of the color altogether, you will either need to let it grow out or lighten it using a bleach lightener or color remover.

Impact on Hair

The key difference between demi-permanent and permanent hair color is that demi-permanent color cannot lighten your hair. It doesn’t fully penetrate the hair strand or reach the cortex, so it isn’t as strong as permanent hair color. This means you won’t be able to create as dramatic a change or make your hair lighter than its natural shade. If you want a more noticeable transformation or lighter result, you’ll need to use permanent color.

Gray Coverage

Since demi-permanent hair color does not have as much change or impact on the natural hair as permanent color, it cannot fully cover gray. It will tint, camouflage, and blend the gray, but won’t cover it 100%. The color on the grays may look lighter than the rest of the hair and will almost give a highlighted effect. If you have fewer grays or are not concerned about full gray coverage, then demi is for you. If you have a high percentage of gray or want the grays fully covered, you’ll need to use permanent color.

Who Is Demi-Permanent Hair Color For?

Why get a demi-permanent hair color if you have lots of great-looking permanent hair color to choose from? There are quite a few reasons! Let us give you some tips.

Those Who Don’t Like to Commit to One Color or Want to Test a Color Out

Do you feel that applying a permanent hair color is too much of a change? That you don’t like committing to one shade for so long or might not want to commit to coloring again? Pick a demi-permanent color! This way, it’ll be easier for you to change it up or just let it fade back to your original color.

Those Who Don’t Want to Permanently Alter Their Hair or Want to Go Lighter

Some people prefer demi-permanent hair color as it requires less processing and does not permanently alter the hair like permanent color. So, if you want to change your color but you don’t need full gray coverage and aren't looking to lighten your hair, demi-permanent hair color is a great option for you!

#Tip: You can also consider a semi-permanent hair color, which washes up even faster than a demi-permanent color!

Who Is Permanent Hair Color For?

Let’s look at the other side of the coin now – when should you use a permanent hair color?

You Want to Maintain Your Color Regularly 

If you want to keep a consistent color over a longer period and regularly touch up your roots, permanent color is the way to go. Most people touch up their roots with permanent color every two to six weeks depending on how fast their hair grows. To refresh your mid-lengths and ends, you’ll just need to use semi-permanent color glosses.

You Want to Lighten Your Natural Color and/or Fully Cover Your Grays

Permanent color is necessary if you want to lighten or brighten your natural hair color, or if you have more than 25% gray hair and want full coverage. It provides a more significant change compared to other types of hair color.

The Takeaway

We’ve explained everything you need to know about demi-permanent hair color, and now you’re ready to make a choice! Pick whichever option you’re comfortable with and be sure to check out our selection of hair care products. High-quality hair color is just the beginning, and proper maintenance is the key to maintaining your vibrant look!
Read also: What Is Hair Toner and How Does It Work?