What Is the Difference Between Semi Permanent & Demi Permanent Hair Color?

Semi-Permanent and Demi-Permanent hair colors are similar in terms of the end result. However, they differ in how they are formulated and the way the color deposits onto hair follicles.

Semi-Permanent Color

Semi-permanent color is a collection of small color molecules which deposit color onto the hair without lightening it.

How it Works

Semi-permanent hair color is designed to raise the cuticle layer of the hair and deposit color onto the hair shaft. Heat can be used with semi-permanent color without any worries as to negative effects on the color or your hair's natural color.

How Long it Lasts

Color normally lasts between six and 12 shampoos after which the color begins to fade.

Demi-Permanent Color

Demi-permanent hair color uses a cream-based, mild developer to process the color onto the hair.

How it Works

Demi color utilizes peroxide and sometimes contains an ammonia substitute, which allows the color to penetrate the cuticle layer and the hair shaft to deposit color directly onto your hair. The results might cause your natural hair color to lighten slightly. Demi is recommended for covering gray hair.

How Long it Lasts

Demi color can last up to two months or longer, depending on your hair care regime.

References

• Hair Color
• Tips