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Semi Permanent Hair Colour

Demi & Semi Permanent Hair Colour & Dyes

For a change in hair colour that you don't want to be permanent, you can use demi or semi permanent hair dye. Some of the colours and dyes in this range are recommended for hairdressing professionals only and will show as restricted to trade purchasing.

Some semi permanent dyes and colours can be used at home by carefully following the directions for use. For hair colouring effects like streaks, a steady hand is needed and you may want to think twice about doing streaks on your own. It can be difficult to reach the back part of your head and you may miss some spots. A professional will always do a better job but if you are confident in your skills you can give it a go.

The Difference between Demi and Semi-Permanent Colours

It is always a good idea to wash hair before applying semi-permanent colour. In this way, you will avoid washing it later and keep the shade for longer. Unlike demi-permanent hair colour, that will wash off after 25 washes, semi-permanent colours last to roughly a maximum of 8 washes. Typical demi permanent colours last anywhere between 3-5 times as many washes as semi permanent. 

The semi permanent nature allows you to get creative and try a wild colour such as hot pink or an electric blue. It is important to note that some of semi or demi dyes will require you to lighten your hair to fully achieve the colour goal. If the base colour is darker, you won't be able to effectively see the colour transformation of neon type colours. Instead, they may appear as a dark blue. Your hairdresser will be able to assist you in lightening your hair colour if needed.

How Demi Permanent Hair Colours Work

Demi Permanent hair colours work with a low volume developer but the dye doesn't penetrate the hair like with a full permanent colouring process.

Demi colours are low maintenance and can be left to just wash out if wanted. They will wash out though, generally by about 25 washes. 

How Semi Permanent Hair Dye Works

The way these direct dyes work is via particles of the colour molecules entering the hair's cuticle. The dye is unable to deeply penetrate the hairs cortex as they are so small, so the dye will rinse off after a few shampoos but can last up to 8 washes.

Semi permanent dyes are less harmful to hair as they are unable to change the hair's structure, so very minimal damage or irritation is caused. For the most effective grey coverage, a permanent hair dye is recommended. If you have any questions about the right products for you, our hair colour experts are always happy to help.

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    Your Questions Answered

    Expect semi-permanent dye to last approximately 4-6 weeks and 3-10 washes. The exact lifespan depends on the hair colour, texture and application technique. Whatever the circumstances, keep in mind the lifespan is shorter than permanent dyes.

    Although semi-permanent colour washes out after several weeks, a small amount of pigment may remain afterwards. This is most common when using darker shades on lighter hair. Don’t panic though. We recommend colour remover to create a fresh canvas once again.

    Although research is limited, most experts agree semi-permanent colour is safe to use during pregnancy. There are a few recommendations though. Anyone using semi-permanent colour should wait until the second or third trimester. The scalp should be avoided, and non-toxic colours should be prioritised. Most importantly, clients should double-check the ingredients with their doctor beforehand.

    The traditional activation time for semi-permanent colour is 20-30 minutes. However, the most accurate instructions are located on the back of your chosen dye. Follow the steps carefully for the best result.