What is the typical duration for semi-permanent hair color before it fades?

Semi-permanent hair color is designed to last longer than temporary hair color but does not provide the long-lasting effects of permanent dyes. Typically, semi-permanent hair color can maintain its vibrancy for about 8 to 12 shampoos. This duration indicates how the color gradually fades with regular washing while still allowing for a significant amount of use without considerable loss of pigment.

This answer reflects the typical behavior of semi-permanent formulations, which are often used to enhance natural color or add a more subtle tint without the commitment of permanent coloring. They contain smaller molecules that can penetrate the hair cuticle but do not chemically alter the hair structure, resulting in a more temporary effect. Consequently, clients can enjoy a new look for a few weeks to a month before it begins to noticeably fade.

The other responses either underestimate or overestimate this typical fading period, suggesting a much shorter or longer lifespan for semi-permanent colors which aligns more with other product types or levels of hair color resistance.