The two are similar, but not exactly alike.
What Is Permanent Hair Color?
That’s because permanent color opens the cuticle (the outside layer of the hair).
Photo:Sofia Polukhina/Getty Images
What Is Semi-Permanent Hair Color?
Semi-permanent dye cannot lighten your hair for that reason.
Semi-permanent hair dye washes out in just four to 12 shampoos.
Is Semi-Permanent Hair Color Damaging?
For these reasons, semi-permanent hair color tends to be the gentlest option.
What Is Demi-Permanent Hair Color?
A demi-permanent hair dye will last around 24 shampoos because it penetrates deep into the hair, Fleming explains.
Demi-permanent hair color also tends to contain an alkali ingredient that helps open up the cuticle, as well.
Is Demi-Permanent Hair Color Damaging?
However, it is more damaging than semi-permanent hair color because it opens the hair cuticle to deposit color.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide between semi-permanent and demi-permanent hair color.
Who Should Consider Using Semi-Permanent Hair Color?
Want to try a color without any major commitment?
Semi is the way to go, given how quickly it will wash out.
Semi-permanent is also a nice pick if you want to tone your highlights, notes Gache.
But keep in mind that regular maintenance and upkeep are required to maintain the effect.
Who Should Consider Using Demi-Permanent Hair Color?
This means no real need forroot touch-upsbecause there will be no dramatic line of demarcation from new growth.
Demi-permanent can cover some gray but will still keep your color close to the natural tone, says Gache.
Semi-permanent color is generally considered safe for all hair types, including chemically treated or textured hair.
Demi-permanent color is also generally considered safe for most hair types.
Always do a patch test before using hair-coloring products to verify that your hair doesn’t have adverse reactions.
This helps you to avoid over-processing your hair, which can lead to dryness and damage.
Contrary to popular belief, Kool-Aid is not considered a semi-permanent hair color.
The color of the juice does not actually bond to the hair shaft.
“Sulfates in Shampoo.”
McGill University: Office for Science and Society.
