What is Semi-Permanent Hair Color?

Mastering the Basics: What is Semi-Permanent Hair Color?

Color us impressed with semi-permanent hair color.

We all want to switch up our hair color from time-to-time, but you may find it difficult to commit to one shade, or even know what shade to try. An easy way to experiment with hair color is try out a semi-permanent hair color, which works to color your hair without opening up the hair shaft. This temporary solution is usually used to darken the hair since hydrogen peroxide isn’t used. So before you take the hair color leap, read on to discover more about semi-permanent hair color to figure out if this is the right option for you.

What is Semi-Permanent Hair Color?

semi-permanent hair color tips
A new hair color could change you life.

Semi-permanent color contains gloss that adds color to hair without opening up the hair shaft. What that means is it offers a temporary hair dyeing solution that generally lasts for around eight shampoos. Considered a little less damaging than a permanent dye, semi-permanent solutions don’t use a developer and it doesn’t require any mixing.

Benefits of Semi-Permanent Hair Color

  • Darkens hair
  • Generally provides a more natural color and “wash out”
  • Solution doesn’t require mixing
  • Solutions can be reused
  • Adds shine
  • Easy to apply
  • Tends to fade with shampoo
  • Won’t lighten or alter your natural color
  • Considered to be less damaging to hair
  • Contains no ammonia
  • Contains no peroxide
  • Can be used on sensitive hair types

So, How is Semi-Permanent Hair Color Different?

In addition to being a temporary solution, a semi-permanent color can boost your hair with some shine since it also works as a deep conditioner. However, it isn’t ideal for those who want serious coverage—such as those with gray hair—since it doesn’t change the hair structure to make any color changes. This can be a pain for those looking for a more consistent solution, as they then will have to constantly reapply semi-permanent color as it wears off. It is also considered a safer option than permanent hair color since hydrogen peroxide isn’t used.

Semi-Permanent Color Maintenance

In general, semi-permanent hair color lasts for around 8 to ten shampoos. To hold onto your color, you’ll need a wash and care system for color-treated hair. You’ll also have to get regular semi-permanent hair color treatments to maintain the look. For everyday maintenance, wash and condition for your hair with Nexxus Color Assure Step 1 Rebalancing Shampoo and the Nexxus Color Assure Step 2 Restoring Conditioner.

Have you ever tried semi-permanent hair color? Sound off on @AllThingsHairUS.

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