Standing in the hair colour section of the pharmacy can be perplexing. Not only do you have an overwhelming choice of colours and shades you also need to choose between semi-permanent and permanent formulations. So what’s the difference and what are the pros and cons of your choice?

Semi-permanent color is composed of smaller molecules which partially penetrate the hair shaft, but they don’t bind tightly onto the hair protein. Therefore, this type of temporary dye typically lasts for around shampoos.

Considered as the safer option, they doesn’t use developer, peroxide, or ammonia, and semi-permanents can’t lighten the hair. What they can do is provide color-enhancing effects, with natural-looking results.

Scattered grays can be blended away quite easily, but for a head full of white hair, a more permanent product works best.

If you are a slave to the hair dye and your tresses are starting to show it with dry, snapping ends, consider swapping harsh colourants for a semi-permanent and give your hair a rest and some recovery time.