No, permanent hair dye is not forever. While it's called "permanent," the color lasts only until your hair grows out or you re-dye it.
How Long Does Permanent Hair Dye Last?
The longevity of permanent hair dye depends on several factors, but generally, it lasts 6-12 weeks before significant fading becomes noticeable. Several sources confirm this timeframe [1, 7, 9, 10]. However, the color remains in the hair until it's cut off [2, 3]. Fading is influenced by factors like washing frequency, sun exposure, and the initial hair condition [9]. Ideally, the color would remain vibrant until new hair growth appears [8], but this is rarely the case in reality.
Some people report shorter durations, like a week [4], but this is likely due to individual factors or the use of products or techniques that are not optimal for maintaining color.
What Happens to Permanent Hair Dye?
Permanent hair dye alters the hair's pigment, but it doesn't permanently change the hair structure itself. As new hair grows, it's uncolored, revealing the roots. The dyed portion fades gradually due to washing, sun exposure, and natural wear [1, 7, 9, 10]. This fading can be mitigated with proper aftercare products and techniques, but it won't prevent it completely. The color remains in the existing hair until it is cut [2,3].
Key Takeaways:
- Permanent hair dye is not truly permanent; it lasts until new hair grows.
- Expect the color to fade over time, typically within 6-12 weeks.
- Factors like washing and sun exposure affect how long the color lasts.
