But did you Dye?! Permanent vs Semi Permanent Color options
Summer is quickly approaching and if you’re like me, many of you are thinking about ways to switch up our look for vacations, weekend brunches with our girls, or to match that summer tan and glow. Well, why not color your hair?
Sometimes we shy away from color because we don’t want to commit to something so permanent. Who we are today, and the decisions we make in the moment, might not align with who we are and what we want to display to the world next week. The #1 reason why I refuse to get curly bangs ever again…but that’s another post for another day. When it comes to color, there are more options out there than you may think.
Before you continue, please understand that the most significant conversation to have, after the one you have with yourself to move forward, is with a licensed trained professional who is experienced with color. That person is not me, not your friend who watched 75 videos on YouTube, or your grandma who has been box-dying her hair since grade-school. Things can go really REALLY wrong if done incorrectly, so please yall, leave hair color to the professionals.
So, what are the options for those who live to dye?
Permanent
If you’re not afraid of commitment, and are sold on the right color for you, then permanent hair dye is the way to go. Because permanent dye has a more intense chemical process, you can trust that it will penetrate your hair a bit deeper than other options. This means the color should last longer than other options. Not forever, just longer, so expect to get either your roots touched up or a complete dye job again depending on how well you take care of it. Post application, I suggest you wait a few days before you shampoo your hair. This will give the hair cuticle time to fully close so that a lot of color isn’t lost. Permanent hair color can be used to lighten or darken your hair so there’s added options there.
Semi-Permanent
If you’re like me and can kinda commit to a different style on a temporary basis, then semi-permanent dye is just for you. Semi- permananent hair color lasts typically 12 or less washes so you can easily switch up your style every season if that’s what you’re into. Since it doesn’t last long, be sure to use a sulfate-free and color safe shampoo to help reduce the amount of color loss. It’s the perfect option only if you want to darken your hair, not lighten, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Washable Colored Wax
Like to switch it up a lot? Monthly, weekly, daily?! Then hair wax is the perfect option for you! The most appealing thing about colored hair wax, other than the fact that it washes right out, is that it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that chemically alter the structure and health of your hair. Colored hair wax is a viable option for young adults who want to express themselves through their hair, but aren’t old enough to dabble in permanent or semi-permanent options. However, keep in mind that although it’s easy to use, colored hair wax can be kinda messy if you’re not careful when applying. Colored wax doesn’t require a trained professional to use as it’s quick and easy with pretty simple instructions. However, be sure to read the instructions and let your hair fully dry before allowing it to touch your clothes and/or fabrics around you.
Whatever you decide, have fun with it! Remember, your hair can be an added expression of who you are. Rock it long, short, curly, red, blue or purple!
Xo,
Tabitha Wiggins