15
June
What is Demi-Permanent Hair Colour?
What is Demi-Permanent Hair Colour?
Hair colouring is an exciting way to express your style, and in Australia, there's a growing trend towards choosing more flexible and gentle options like demi-permanent hair colour. But what exactly is demi-permanent hair colour, and why might it be the perfect choice for you?
Demi permanent hair colour is a versatile, ammonia-free option that adds depth, blends greys and enhances natural tones without the long-term commitment of permanent hair dyes. It typically lasts between 20-28 washes, making it perfect for those looking to experiment with colour or refresh their hair.
What is Demi-Permanent Hair Colour?
Demi-permanent hair colour is a popular choice for those who want to enhance their natural hair colour, add depth, or experiment with a new shade without the long-term commitment of permanent dyes. This type of hair colour contains no ammonia and uses a low-level peroxide developer to open the cuticle and deposit colour. Unlike permanent dyes, demi-permanent hair colour does not penetrate the hair shaft as deeply, making it a gentler option.
Demi-permanent colour is ideal for blending grey hairs, enhancing natural tones, or refreshing faded hair colour. It’s also great for those who want to try a new shade but aren’t ready to commit to a permanent change.
Popular Brands in Australia:
L'Oréal Paris: Known for its extensive range of demi-permanent colours that provide rich, long-lasting results.
Wella: Offers a wide variety of shades designed to give your hair a vibrant look while maintaining its health.
Herbatint: A natural, ammonia-free option that’s gentle on the hair and scalp, perfect for those looking for a more eco-friendly choice.
How Long Does Demi-Permanent Hair Colour Last?
Demi-permanent hair colour is designed to gradually fade out over time, making it a great option for those who want a temporary change. Typically, this type of hair colour lasts between 20 to 28 washes. The exact duration can vary depending on factors such as:
Hair Type: Coarse or porous hair may hold colour longer, while finer hair may see the colour fade more quickly.
Washing Frequency: The more often you wash your hair, the faster the colour will fade. Using colour-safe shampoos and conditioners can help prolong the life of your colour.
Product Quality: Higher-quality products tend to last longer and fade more evenly.
As the colour fades, it does so gradually, leaving a soft, natural transition back to your original shade, which is one of the key benefits of choosing a demi-permanent colour.
Who Can Use Demi-Permanent Hair Colour?
Demi-permanent hair colour is suitable for a wide range of people, making it a versatile choice in the world of hair colouring.
New to Hair Colouring: If you’re experimenting with hair colour for the first time, demi-permanent colour is a fantastic way to try out a new shade without the commitment. It allows you to see how a colour suits you without making a permanent change.
Blending Grey Hairs: For those with early signs of grey, demi-permanent colour can blend these strands seamlessly into your natural hair, offering a more youthful appearance without the harsh lines that sometimes come with permanent dyes.
Refreshing Natural Colour: If your hair has become dull or faded, a demi-permanent colour can revive your natural shade, giving it more vibrancy and shine.
Hair Types: Demi-permanent hair colour works well on most hair types. It’s particularly beneficial for those with dry or damaged hair, as it is less invasive than permanent dyes and doesn’t require the same level of commitment.
Does Demi-Permanent Hair Colour Damage Hair?
One of the most appealing aspects of demi-permanent hair colour is that it’s much gentler on your hair compared to permanent dyes. Since it doesn’t contain ammonia and uses a lower level of peroxide, it doesn’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply. This means less damage and a reduced risk of causing long-term harm to your hair’s natural structure.
Signs of Damage: While demi-permanent colour is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of the potential for damage if used improperly. Signs of damage can include:
Dryness and Brittleness: Overuse of any hair colouring product can lead to dryness. To avoid this, ensure you follow the recommended usage guidelines.
Split Ends: If you notice split ends after colouring, it might be time for a trim and a deep conditioning treatment.
Loss of Elasticity: Hair that loses its bounce and elasticity may be over-processed. Regular conditioning and the use of leave-in treatments can help restore moisture.
Expert Tips: To keep your hair healthy while using demi-permanent colour, follow these tips from professional hairstylists:
Always use a deep conditioning treatment after colouring to lock in moisture.
Avoid washing your hair with hot water, as this can strip the colour and moisture from your strands.
Use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner to prolong the vibrancy of your hair.
How to Use Demi-Permanent Hair Colour
Applying demi-permanent hair colour at home is straightforward and can be done with minimal fuss. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve salon-quality results:
Preparation: Start by reading the instructions that come with your hair colour kit. Ensure you have all the necessary tools, including gloves, a mixing bowl, and an applicator brush. It’s also a good idea to do a patch test 48 hours before application to check for any allergic reactions.
Mixing: Follow the instructions to mix the colour with the developer. Typically, this involves combining the colour cream with the developer in equal parts.
Application: Section your hair into manageable parts and apply the colour evenly, starting from the roots and working your way to the tips. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the colour through your hair for even coverage.
Processing Time: Leave the colour on your hair for the recommended time, usually between 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the colour to deposit fully without over-processing.
Rinsing: Rinse your hair with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo immediately after rinsing to allow the colour to set.
Aftercare: Apply the conditioner included in your kit or a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and lock in the colour.
Professional Advice: For the best results, consider visiting a professional hairstylist, especially if you’re making a significant colour change or need help achieving an even application.
How to Take Care of Demi-Permanent Hair Colour
Taking care of your demi-permanent hair colour is essential to maintaining its vibrancy and ensuring it fades gracefully. Here are some tips to help you keep your colour looking fresh:
Use Colour-Protecting Products: Invest in shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for colour-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and help extend the life of your colour.
Limit Washing: The more frequently you wash your hair, the faster the colour will fade. Try to wash your hair no more than two to three times a week, and use dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair looking fresh.
Avoid Heat Styling: Excessive heat can strip the colour of your hair. If you need to use heat styling tools, be sure to apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.
Regular Conditioning: Keep your hair hydrated by using a deep conditioning treatment once a week. This helps to maintain the health of your hair and keeps the colour looking vibrant.
Cold Rinse: Rinse your hair with cold water at the end of your shower. Cold water helps to seal the cuticle, locking in moisture and colour.
The Differences Between Demi-Permanent and Semi-Permanent Hair Colours
Understanding the differences between demi-permanent and semi-permanent hair colours can help you choose the right product for your needs:
Chemical Composition: Demi-permanent hair colour contains a low-level peroxide developer but no ammonia, allowing it to last longer and penetrate the hair shaft more deeply than semi-permanent colour. Semi-permanent colour, on the other hand, is free from peroxide and ammonia, making it an even gentler option that simply coats the hair without penetrating it.
Longevity: Demi-permanent colour typically lasts between 20 to 28 washes, whereas semi-permanent colour lasts about 4 to 12 washes. This makes demi-permanent colour a better choice for those who want a longer-lasting change.
Use Cases: Demi-permanent hair colour is ideal for those looking to blend grey hairs, enhance natural colour, or make a subtle change that lasts a bit longer. Semi-permanent colour is perfect for those who want to experiment with bold colours or make a short-term change.
Want to Become a Professional Hair Colourist?
If you’re passionate about hair colouring and want to take your skills to the next level, consider becoming a professional hair colourist. Makeup School Sydney offers a range of courses designed to help you develop your expertise, including Certificate iii in Hairdressing and Certificate IV in Hairdressing.
A demi-permanent hair colour is an excellent option for anyone looking to enhance their natural hair colour, blend greys, or experiment with a new shade without the commitment of permanent dye. It’s gentle on the hair, easy to apply, and offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among both professionals and home users.
Whether you’re new to hair colouring or looking to refresh your current shade, demi-permanent colour offers the flexibility and vibrancy you need to achieve the perfect look. If you’re considering a career in hair and beauty, professional training can help you master the art of hair colouring and open up new opportunities in this exciting industry.
Ready to try demi-permanent hair colour? Explore your options with trusted brands or consult a professional stylist to find the perfect shade for you.
Take the first step towards becoming a certified beauty professional with Makeup School Sydney.
FAQ
What is the distinction between semi and demi-permanent hair dyes?
Answer: The main distinction between semi and demi is permanence. Both are temporary, although demi lasts 24 to 28 shampoos, while semi lasts 3 to 6. We'll explain what they are and why you'd use them, as well as recommendations from our colourists to help you obtain the greatest results.
How long does demi-permanent hair colour last?
Answer: Demi-permanent hair colours can last up to 24 washes, while semi-permanent tints last 10-20 washes. In both circumstances, this may be longer if the hair is porous or extremely light, or if the colour you're using is strong.
Will demi-permanent colour wash away completely?
Answer: Demi-permanent hair colour is similar to semi-permanent colouring but has a longer-lasting effect. While semi-permanent colour fades after a few washes and permanent colour never fully departs, hairdresser Larry Sims claims demi-permanent colour may last up to 30 washes if you're willing to forego excessively hot baths.
How dangerous is demi-permanent hair colour?
Answer: Because demi-permanent hair colour contains less peroxide than permanent hair colour, it is often less harmful to the hair's natural structure. Of course, appropriate maintenance and the use of high-quality hair care products are essential for minimizing hair damage.
Can demi-permanent cover grey?
Answer: A demi-permanent will only conceal grey if your hair is fine or porous. It frequently blends grey, making it look emphasized.
Will my hair return to normal after Demi's permanent dye?
Answer: Yes! Because demi-permanent hair colour does not produce any long-term changes, your hair will revert to normal after the effects have washed out.