What You Need to Know About Gray Coverage

Have you been covering your gray hair for some time now? If not, are you thinking of doing so? Are you trying to hide the few irksome gray hairs you see beginning to pop through?

Regardless of your answer, there are two different ways to color your gray hair: permanent and demi-permanent. How your stylist approaches gray coverage is determined by several factors.

Read below to find out what method of gray coverage may be best for you!

photo taken from redken.com

Permanent Color

Permanent color is exactly what the word means: permanent.

This is usually the preferred method of tackling grays because permanent color offers 100 percent gray coverage. This type of color lifts the hair by opening up the cuticle and depositing the desired color into the hair strand.

Almost all color lines that offer permanent color come in a variety of shades and tones, making it easy to stick to something natural looking or give you an opportunity to try a totally new color. On virgin hair, it is possible to even lighten your hair a few shades.

Pigments are much more intense, so you are left with long lasting color intensity.

With that being said, permanent color usually requires more frequent salon visits because your roots will be noticeable once they start to appear.

Permanent color works for every hair type.

Demi-Permanent Color

Demi-permanent color does not contain ammonia, and only deposits color onto the hair strand. Their pigments are less intense and will fade over time.

Coverage is not nearly as solid. In fact, demi-permanents are more likely to blend gray hair. With this color route, it is easier to experiment with different shades and tones.

One great benefit of coloring with a demi-permanent: the grow-out is less noticeable, which means you can go longer between salon appointments. On average, a demi-permanent color application can last up to 20 shampoos.

Using a demi-permanent for gray coverage works well for someone with fine hair, or if you only have 50 percent gray or less. This route usually does not work for someone with coarse, thick hair.

In Conclusion...

Gray coverage is so important to most women. Your stylist will be happy to have a conversation with you to determine what route is most conducive to your needs and lifestyle.

It's also completely possible to transition from demi-permanent color to permanent color. And likewise, if you cover your roots with permanent color, your stylist can add a gloss to the ends of your hair to refresh your locks and give you serious shine.