Love To Change Your Hair Color? Go Demi.
What the heck is demi-permanent hair color? Most clients have heard of semi-permanent and permanent color. Demi, on the other hand, remains an elusive yet promising option for many people’s hair care and color goals. In terms of longevity and commitment, you can think of demi-permanent as somewhere in between semi-permanent and permanent hair color. Demi is a versatile option that offers unique benefits for those looking to enhance their hair without committing to a super long-term change. While it may not provide lift or 100% full coverage like permanent hair color, demi-permanent color offers several advantages.
Understanding Demi-Permanent Hair Color
Demi-permanent color is a type of hair dye that deposits color without lightening or lifting the existing hair color. Unlike permanent hair color, it doesn’t contain ammonia, making it a gentler alternative. Ammonia can cause damage and dryness to hair, especially with repeated exposure. Demi-permanent color usually lasts around 24 washes, but the actual duration can vary depending on multiple factors such as hair type, maintenance routine, and environmental factors like water quality. I’ve seen demi last less than 24 washes for some people, and then sometimes for others it will last well beyond 24 washes.
Grey Coverage and Natural Blending
One of the best benefits of demi-permanent hair color is its ability to cover grey hair while blending it more naturally. If you have 50% grey or less, demi-permanent color can usually effectively cover and blend it. As the color starts to fade, the remaining pigment on your natural silver will create a lovely highlight effect.
Temporary Change and Versatility
Demi is a fantastic option if you want to experiment with a new color without being married to it. Permanent color is very often challenging, time-consuming, and expensive to correct if you're not happy with the result. However, demi-permanent color gives you much more flexibility since it gradually fades with time. This allows you to enjoy a temporary change and transition back to your natural hair color if you choose. It’s also easier than permanent color to remove from hair, so if you’re someone who likes to switch up their look often, demi is my go-to recommendation.
Less Frequent Salon Visits
Depending on your desired look, demi-permanent color may allow you to extend the time between salon visits. The "line of demarcation," which refers to the stark contrast between your natural hair color and dyed hair as it grows out, is less noticeable with demi-permanent color. As the color gradually washes out, the transition between your roots and colored hair becomes more subtle.
Toner For Previously Lightened Hair
If your hair has already been lightened with hair color or bleach, you’ve probably already experienced demi-permanent color without knowing it. This is because most toners are just light demi-permanent hair colors! Many people use the words toner, gloss, and glaze interchangeably to describe demi-permanent color. Note that demi provides more shine than permanent color as an added benefit!
Demi Limits
If you want your hair to be lighter than it currently is, demi will not work for you. This is because any lightening to hair color is always a permanent process. Additionally, if you have grey hair and want it to be covered 100% then demi is also not a fit for your needs.
TLDR
Let’s re-cap! Demi-permanent hair color is an excellent choice for those seeking a temporary change or more natural-looking grey coverage, and is a fantastic fit for people who enjoy frequent hair color changes. It offers the flexibility to experiment with new colors without the long-term commitment and allows for a more seamless blend between dyed hair and natural hair as it grows out. While it does not lighten color, it provides a gentle and versatile option for anyone looking to enhance or refresh their current shade or try something new. Enjoy the freedom demi-permanent color can give you in exploring and expressing your style!