Demi-Permanent vs Permanent Hair Colour
Choosing between demi-permanent and permanent colour is one of the most common questions in our consultations. They sit side by side on the colour menu, but they behave very differently on your hair. Here is the difference in plain English, and how we decide which to use at Gusto.
What is demi-permanent hair colour?
Demi-permanent colour deposits pigment onto and into the hair without lifting your natural colour. It is mixed with a low-strength developer, so it is gentler than permanent colour, and it is typically ammonia-free. It can make hair richer, deeper or warmer, add tone, and leave a glossy finish.
What it cannot do is make your hair lighter. It works with your base colour, not against it, which makes it a good choice if you want to refresh, tone or darken without committing.
What is permanent hair colour?
Permanent colour uses a stronger developer and an alkaline agent to open the hair cuticle, so it can both lift your natural pigment and deposit new colour. That is why it is the choice for going lighter, making a big change, and covering grey hair fully.
The result is long lasting. It does not wash out, so as your hair grows you will see a regrowth line at the roots, and you will need a root touch up to keep it looking seamless.
How long does each one last?
Demi-permanent colour fades gradually over a number of weeks, usually softening rather than leaving a hard line at the root. That gentle fade is a big part of its appeal if you like to change your look. How quickly it fades depends on your hair, how often you wash it and what products you use.
Permanent colour stays until it grows out or is cut off, though the tone can shift over time. A professional gloss or toner can refresh it between appointments.
Which one is right for you?
Demi-permanent is a great fit if you want to boost shine, enrich your natural colour, tone existing colour, or blend early greys softly. It is also a lower-commitment way to try a new shade.
Permanent is the right call if you want to go lighter, cover grey completely, or make a dramatic change. If you are weighing grey options, our guide to grey blending vs a root tint goes deeper.
Hair that is already coloured or lightened needs care in both cases. A consultation lets us check your history, since previous colour can change how new colour takes. If a home colour has gone wrong, see our colour correction guide.
Keeping your colour looking fresh
Whichever you choose, aftercare protects it. Use a colour-safe shampoo, wash with cooler water where you can, and add a repairing mask such as WNt Revive to keep coloured hair soft and glossy. Our tips on making your colour last cover the rest.
Not sure which is right for you? Book a consultation and our colourists will talk you through it before anything touches your hair.
