The main difference between hair dye and hair colour is that hair dye goes inside the surface of the hair, whereas hair colour stays on the surface of the hair and colours the hair only from the outside.
These two words, hair dye and hair colour, are often used interchangeably. Hair dye generally gives the idea of fabrics in the dye solution, which gives a negative connotation; therefore, manufacturers use the word hair colour instead of hair dye as a marketing strategy. In the past, people used to dye their hair when it turned grey, but nowadays, people colour hair as a fashion statement.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Hair Dye
– Definition, Process, Features
2. What is Hair Colour
– Definition, Process, Features
3. Difference Between Hair Dye and Hair Colour
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Hair Colour, Hair Dye
What is Hair Dye
Hair dye colours the hair permanently from the inside of the hair. Earlier, natural dyes from plants and food sources were used to dye fabrics; then, synthetic dyes that gave the fabrics more longevity came into the market. Later, they developed this method to dye human hair. Initially, coal tar was used as the main ingredient in hair dye. Since coal tar causes allergic reactions, now most hair dyes contain petroleum sources.
The word ‘dye’ shows that chemicals are stronger and more in quantity, so this is long-lasting and more permanent. At the same time, this strong chemical mixture can have harsh and adverse effects on hair. Hair dye even affects the roots of the hair. Therefore, hair dyeing has a high risk of causing some cancers.
It is important to do a patch test before dying your hair. If there are any reactions at the test spot, you can change the brand and identify the one that suits you. When dying the hair, read the instructions in the packaging well, wear gloves, and do not leave the dye on your hair longer than necessary. Then thoroughly rinse the scalp after dyeing. Also, remember not to mix different hair dye products, and do not dye your eyebrows or eyelashes.
What is Hair Colour
Hair colour is a product that temporarily changes the colour of hair. It has no harsh chemicals or ammonia; therefore, it’s less harmful to hair. This does not penetrate the hair, so it stays on the surface. Since hair colour is temporary, it fades away with every wash, so the colour fades gradually and unnoticeably. It lasts for about 4-5 weeks or 25-30 washes. Colouring hair is easy and can be done at home. You can apply a hair colour evenly on your hair and then rinse it off.
There are different levels of hair colours ranging from 1-10. Level 1 is the darkest shade, and level 10 is the lightest shade. There are also different tones, such as cool tones like green, beige, ash, and violet and, warm tones like gold, brown, red, orange, and neutral tones like auburn. Neutral colours can be made by mixing two colours. In addition, there are temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent hair colours. Temporary colours fade away more quickly than the other two types.
Difference Between Hair Dye and Hair Colour
Definition
Hair dye is a product that colours the hair permanently from the inside of the hair while hair colour is a product that temporarily changes the colour of the hair.
Longevity
Hair dye lasts longer than hair colour.
Condition
Moreover, hair dye is stronger and more potent than hair colour.
Permanent
Hair dye colours the hair permanently from the inside of the hair, while hair colour temporarily changes the colour of the hair.
Ammonia
Most hair dyes contain ammonia, while hair colours do not.
Fade with Time
Hair dyes fade with time, but hair colours do not fade.
Damage
Hair dyes can do more damage to hair when compared to hair colour products.
Conclusion
Hair dye is a product colouring the hair permanently from the inside of the hair. It has strong chemicals like ammonia and permanently colours the hair, but it is more damaging. Hair colour is a product temporarily changing the colour of the hair. It is mild, less damaging, and fades away with every wash. Thus, this is the summary of the difference between hair dye and hair colour.
Reference:
1. “Hair Dyes.” Health Central.
2. “Hair Colouring.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Woman Getting Her Hair Color” (CC0) via Pexels
2. “Hair, pink, human hair color, blond, hairstyle, hair coloring, girl, long hair, brown hair, layered hair, hair care, neck, fun, magenta” (CC0) via Pxhere
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