After extensive research that included reviewing the pages of the leading brands of semi-permanent dyes and gathering some opinions from my most trusted colleagues, I can assure you that the longest lasting semi-permanent hair dyes are: Now, in addition to a longer-lasting semi-permanent hair dye, are you looking for a particular color? Then, you should know that:
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Also, you must consider that when we talk about the dye’s duration, we enter a gray area because things are neither white nor black. Why?
First, the duration I mentioned is what the manufacturer establishes. It should only be taken into account as a reference.
It brings us to the second reason: each hair dye will last more or less depending on your hair care routine. Later on, I promise I’ll tell you more about it.
Now, do you want to know about the unique features of these semi-permanent hair colors?
Let’s start with the first semi-permanent hair color on our list. It’s the longest-lasting one.
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Clairol Natural Instincts, to forget about refreshing your color for a long time
Clairol is one of the most widely used brands because of its durability and traditional color palette.
Do you know why?
Because it’s a pioneer in traditional color. If you want to color your hair black or blonde, Clairol semi-permanent hair dye has extra durability.
Strong, well-defined pigments make it a favorite.
L’Oréal Casting Creme Gloss, extra long-lasting red
Do you want to bring the color of passion to your hair without worrying about touching up your color?
Then, don’t hesitate, because L’Oréal’s Casting line should be your preferred brand.
I don’t mean that the other colors don’t have the same durability. They’ll last the same, only that L’Oréal’s reds are special due to their unique pigments. It makes this brand stand out from the other reds on the market.
Another advantage?
This dye lasts for 28 washes without fading completely, meaning that the color will fade but not completely disappear.
That is very important because most semi-permanent hair dyes fade, and the base color begins to show.
Punky Colour, extra long-lasting fantasy colors
Do you dream of wearing rainbow colors in your hair?
Then, the best alternative is Punky Color, a leader in fantasy colors.
The color you choose, be it green, blue, or pink, will last on your hair for over 25 washes.
If that’s not enough, the brand has a full line of shampoos and conditioners to help your color last even longer.
Pravana Chromasilk Vivids, guaranteed color durability and nutrition
Pravana is another pioneering brand in professional hair dyes. It’s widely used in beauty salons due to its excellent ingredients.
Is your hair dry or rough?
Then, if you’re looking for longer-lasting color, and you also want to provide nutrition and hydration, do not hesitate. The silk extracts will leave your hair more docile and smooth.
L’Oréal Colorista, for women who love changing their hair color
Do you like to wear a new hair color every two weeks, taking advantage of your extra blonde base?
Then, you don’t need a long-lasting semi-permanent hair color. L’Oréal comes to your rescue.
They’ve developed this line of fantasy colors that doesn’t last for long.
Tell me what color you want, and I’ll tell you how long it’ll last: the lightest ones only last 3 washes, the medium ones up to 10, and the intense ones up to 15 washes.
Arctic Fox and Manic Panic, fantasy colors that fade fast if you don’t care properly for them
I think these two brands have found a twist in marketing, not to mention the color’s exact duration. How have they done it?
By forcing you to take responsibility for the duration, i.e., the more you wash your hair, the faster the color will disappear.
- Also, the duration will depend on the range of colors you choose. Generally, the most vibrant colors, such as purple or blue, last a few more washes.
- As pigments are softer in pastel colors, they fade more quickly.
Now you know how long semi-permanent hair color lasts once it’s applied to your hair. Of course, the mentioned durations are according to the manufacturers, who always rely on “ideal” situations.
Do you want to know what those ideal situations are?
Take notes. It’ll make a hair color like Clairol, which lasts up to 28 washes, not to fade prematurely.
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What other factors determine the duration of a hair dye, apart from what the manufacturer says?
I would say the most important factor in making the color last longer is the hair washing frequency.
- How often do you wash your hair? Semi-permanent dye will not last as long if you wash your hair every day, as it does every three days.
Every time you wash your hair, clean products, and water, wash away the hair color’s pigments. So, a portion of the dye fades away with each wash. Ergo, the color lasts less.
- What kind of shampoo do you use? Any? You’re going against the duration of the dye!
If you color your hair a fantasy color, it’s best to use that color’s shampoo and conditioner. Those products contain pigments to extend the color duration.
If you color your hair blue, you should look for a blue depositing shampoo. If you dye your hair purple, look for a purple depositing shampoo, and so on.
If you’re using traditional hair colors, choose sulfate-free shampoos so that detergents don’t wash away the pigments.
- How will you take care of your new color on vacation?
I know that a few days at the beach are to be enjoyed without worries, but if you don’t want to look like a mermaid with bleached hair, you should take some precautions.
Let’s start with the easiest ones. Use a product to protect your hair from sun damage and a hat. Hats will give you one more reason to upload your stories on Instagram.
And if you’re swimming in the ocean or a pool, wear a silicone cap to prevent semi-permanent dye from contacting chlorinated or saltwater.
Conclusions
The duration of the semi-permanent hair dye varies according to the manufacturer.
However, you can be sure of one thing. Your hair care routine will be essential in keeping color from fading quickly.
Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, try washing your hair less frequently – two to three times a week – and protect your color from the sun.