Colour cream

Types of colour creams

A colour cream is a liquid or paste that people use to change the natural colour of their hair. Hair dye colour cream is usually packed in tubes and comes in different types, which include:

• Permanent hair colour cream

  A permanent hair colour cream changes the hair's colour permanently. It works best for users who want to change their hair colour drastically. Permanent hair colour cream also works for users seeking a long-lasting hair colour. While the dye lasts long, it requires users to do a touch-up on the roots every few months. The cream penetrates the hair shaft to deposit colour. This makes it hard for the colour to wash out.

• Demi-permanent hair colour cream

  A demi-permanent hair colour cream is a good middle option. The dye does not penetrate the hair shaft as deeply as permanent colour. However, it goes a bit deeper than semi-permanent colour. It usually lasts around 20 washes or 6 to 8 weeks. The demi-permanent colour cream is less damaging than permanent dyes. It contains no ammonia, so it will not open up the hair cuticle.

• Semi-permanent hair colour cream

  A semi-permanent hair colour cream is a good option for users who want to try a new hair colour. The dye adds colour on top of the hair shaft. It does not penetrate deeply, so it does not change the colour of the roots. The hair colour cream lasts 4 to 12 washes before it fades away. It is less damaging than permanent and demi-permanent dyes. This is because it does not require any mixing and contains no harsh chemicals.

• Temporary hair colour cream

  A temporary hair colour cream is the least permanent option. The dye only adds colour on top of the hair shaft. It is not as durable as semi-permanent colour. The colour can come off when the user washes the hair with shampoo. Temporary hair colour cream is ideal for users who want to change their hair colour for a short time. It is also suitable for those who want to add highlights to their hair.

How to choose colour creams

• Hair type and texture:

  The type of hair and texture affects how well a hair dye works. Hair that is already fine or thin may take color more easily than thicker or coarser strands. This means it could damage the hair structure if too much is applied. Hair that is coarser or curly doesn't soak up color as easily, so it may need extra help from products like developers to get the shade wanted. Using the right formula for the kind of hair being dyed helps get good results without damaging hair from taking too much color.

• Gray coverage:

  The amount of gray hair affects what dye is best. Hair with just a few grays can use semi-permanent dye. This dye lightly colors the hair and blends gray in without fully covering it. The color is natural-looking, and the dye isn't as damaging to hair. For more grays, permanent dye covers them completely. It creates a new, solid color for all the hair, not just the grays. Permanent dye gives a bolder look but may be harsher on the hair. Choosing semi or permanent based on gray amount gives the most suitable option for hair health and desired appearance.

• Desired longevity:

  Think about how long the new hair color is wanted. Semi-permanent creams only last a few weeks before fading away. This is good if the intention is to test out a new shade or if hair needs low-maintenance treatment. Permanent hair color cream changes the hair color completely and lasts much longer. It's better if one plans to keep that color for a long time. Permanent dye does require touch-ups as the roots grow in, but it usually needs less work than semi-permanent. Consider how long the different options will take before needing another treatment.

• Allergies:

  If a person has sensitive skin or is allergic, it's important to pick the right dye. Some dyes have ingredients that could irritate skin or cause a reaction. Allergies to ingredients in dye can differ from person to person. One should carefully choose a dye that won't harm the skin or cause redness. Sensitivity means picking a dye that is less likely to irritate. Dyes exist that are better for people with delicate skin. Selecting an option for those with allergies will reduce the risk of problems.

• Cost:

  The expense of different hair color treatment methods varies. Permanent dye usually costs the least since it fully covers all hair for a long time. This means touch-ups aren't needed as often, keeping costs down. Semi-permanent creams are applied on just the hair shafts, so the roots will need touch-up treatments as they grow in. While semi-permanent may require more applications than permanent to maintain the color, each application is cheaper. Weigh the total cost of buying the dye versus going to the salon for treatments to see which is more affordable. Consider how treatment will be done at home versus the salon, too.

How to use, install & product safety

• How to use

  One needs to prepare their hair before applying color cream. This means washing their hair to remove any dirt or oil buildup. Do not wash the hair a day or two before application. It is, however, important to have a clean surface to apply the dye. Do not use any products like conditioner or leave-in treatment. Towel dry the hair to remove excess water. The hair should be damp but not dripping wet. Comb the hair with a wide-tooth comb to remove tangles. This will ensure an even application of the cream.

  A barrier cream should be applied to the skin around the hairline, including the ears and neck area. This prevents staining of the skin by the color cream. Use a plastic applicator brush or tint brush to apply the cream at the roots. Apply at the roots where new hair growth is located. Then, work the cream through the lengths and ends of the hair. Ensure every strand is coated with color cream. Massage the color cream into the hair using gloved hands. This helps distribute the dye evenly. Once done, pile the hair on top of the head and cover it with a shower cap or plastic wrap. This traps heat and helps the dye penetrate the hair shaft.

• Product Safety

  To ensure a safe application of hair color cream, conduct a patch test. This will determine if one is sensitive to the ingredients in the formulation. If one experiences any redness or irritation, do not use the product. Use the color cream according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Make sure to wear gloves during application. This protects the hands from possible skin irritation. Ensure proper ventilation within the room where the application takes place. A well-ventilated room minimizes inhalation of irritating fumes.

Functions, features, and design of colour creams

Functions

• Skin Tone Correction

  One of the main functions of a colour cream is to achieve flawless skin by correcting skin discolouration. They contain pigments that help mask the dark circles, ruddiness, acne scars, uneven skin tone, and any other skin imperfections.

• Sun Protection

  Most colour creams have SPF sunscreen ingredients that help protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays. This can help prevent the skin from sunburns and offer protection against UVA and UVB.

• Anti-Aging Benefits

  Another function of colour cream is to offer anti-aging benefits. They contain anti-aging ingredients like collagen, peptides, and retinol that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the face a youthful look.

Features

• Lightweight Formula

  Most colour creams are made with a lightweight formula that makes the cream easy to apply and gives a natural look. This also makes the colour cream comfortable on the skin throughout the day.

• Moisturizing Properties

  Colour creams with moisturizing properties are great for dry and combination skin. Such colour creams hydrate the skin and give it a healthy glow.

• Long-lasting Coverage

  Unlike ordinary foundation makeup, long-lasting coverage colour cream is more durable and can last throughout the day, giving the user an all-day fresh look.

Design

• Packaging

  Most colour creams come in tube packaging. This tube packaging is usually sleek and portable, making it easy for the user to carry it anywhere. Some colour creams come in pump bottles, while others come in squeeze tubes or jars.

• Texture and consistency

  Colour cream is designed to have a smooth texture that is neither too thick nor too thin. This texture makes it easy to apply evenly on the face. Colour creams are thicker than tinted moisturizers but lighter than foundation.

Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between hair color and color cream?

A1: While both terms refer to products used to change or enhance the color of hair, they are different in formulation and application. Hair dye typically refers to a liquid or semi-liquid product that can be applied to hair to change its color. Hair dye comes in various forms, including liquid, gel, and powder. On the other hand, color cream is a thicker, creamier product that is usually applied to hair in a more targeted way. This thicker consistency allows for more precise application and less dripping during the process. In addition, color cream is often marketed as a more gentle option for changing hair color because its formulations are designed to be less harsh on the hair and scalp than traditional dyes.

Q2: How are color creams used?

A2: Color cream is applied to clean and damp hair. Depending on the thickness of the hair and the desired outcome, it is left on for a certain period of time, which can range from a few minutes up to an hour. After that, the hair is rinsed thoroughly with water until the water runs clear. Finally, the hair is dried and styled as desired.

Q3: Are there any color cream side effects?

A3: Some people may experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients in color creams, leading to irritation or swelling of the scalp. Additionally, if left on for too long, color creams can damage hair follicles and lead to dryness, brittleness, and split ends.

Q4: What is the shelf life of an unopened and opened color cream tube?

A4: An unopened color cream can last for 3 to 5 years, while an opened one should be used within 12 months for the best results.