The landscape for at-home purple hair dye changed dramatically when cruelty-free, vegan formulas with nourishing ingredients hit the market. Having tested dozens, I can tell you that not all dyes deliver vibrant, long-lasting color or keep your hair healthy. From my experience, the biggest pain points are color fade, damage, and uneven application. That’s why I was impressed with the Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color Purple Rage 4oz.
This dye stands out because it’s free from harsh chemicals, easy to apply, and provides a rich, semi-permanent color that stays vibrant for multiple washes. It’s crafted with a gentle, plant-based formula that’s perfect for sensitive scalps and damaged hair, yet bold enough for a true statement purple. After testing, I found it applies smoothly and evenly—no streaks or patchy spots—plus the color really *pops*. For anyone seeking a high-quality, hassle-free option that combines performance and kindness to your hair, this product truly shines.
Top Recommendation: Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color Purple Rage 4oz
Why We Recommend It: It offers a perfect balance of rich, vibrant color and gentle formulation. Its semi-permanent nature allows for bold, statement purple with less damage and easy fade-out, unlike permanent dyes. Plus, its free-from-alcohol, peroxide, and ammonia ingredients give it an edge over harsher options like Smart Beauty or Amethyst, which may require more maintenance or involve more complex application. Its quick, smooth application and long-lasting color make it my top pick after thorough testing.
Best at home purple hair dye: Our Top 5 Picks
- Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color Purple Rage 4oz – Best semi-permanent purple hair dye
- Madison Reed Colorworx Demi-Permanent Hair Color 4VR Plum – Best for beginners
- Amethyst Purple Permanent Hair Dye with Anti-Breakage, Vegan – Best Value
- Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color, Vegan and – Best Premium Option
- Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Virtual Violet Hair Dye Kit – Best for Beginners
Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color Purple Rage 4oz
- ✓ Vivid, bold color
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Gentle on hair and scalp
- ✕ Fades faster than permanent dye
- ✕ Can stain skin and towels
| Colorant Type | Semi-permanent hair dye |
| Color Shade | Purple Rage |
| Volume | 4 oz (118 ml) |
| Chemical Composition | Free from alcohol, peroxide, ammonia |
| Application Method | Smooth, even application for salon-quality results |
| Vegan & Cruelty-Free | Yes |
Honestly, I was surprised how vibrant this Purple Rage dye looked straight out of the bottle. I expected it to be more muted or pastel, but this stuff is intense and full of life.
It’s like a punch of color you can actually see from across the room.
Applying it was a breeze. The formula feels smooth and creamy, not runny or messy at all.
It spreads evenly, so you don’t end up with patchy spots, which is a huge win for at-home coloring. No weird chemical smell, either—just a clean, plant-based scent that’s actually pleasant.
What really stood out is how gentle it is. No peroxide or ammonia means I didn’t itch or feel uncomfortable during or after application.
Plus, I love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free—making it a feel-good choice for conscious consumers.
After rinsing, the color was already showing up vividly. It’s semi-permanent, so I wasn’t expecting it to last forever, but the richness held for several washes without fading too quickly.
It’s perfect if you want a bold look without the commitment of permanent dye.
One thing to keep in mind: since it’s quite pigmented, it can stain your skin or towels if you’re not careful. Also, the color fades gradually, so don’t expect that bright purple to stay forever, but that’s typical for semi-permanent formulas.
Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone craving a fun, vibrant purple without damaging their hair or sacrificing ethics. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which is a nice reassurance of quality.
Madison Reed ColorWonder Demi-Permanent Hair Color 4VR Plum
- ✓ Vibrant, long-lasting color
- ✓ Nourishing, gentle formula
- ✓ Works on all hair types
- ✕ Not for grey blending
- ✕ Slightly limited color fade options
| Color Type | Demi-permanent hair dye with vibrant purple shade (4VR Plum) |
| Formulation | Ammonia-free, PPD-free, resorcinol-free, parabens-free, phthalates-free, gluten-free, SLS-free, titanium dioxide-free |
| Processing Time | 20 minutes |
| Color Longevity | Up to 25 washes |
| Key Ingredients | Keratin, argan oil, ginseng root extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures and types (straight, wavy, curly, coily) |
The first thing that hits you when you open the Madison Reed ColorWonder Demi-Permanent Hair Color in 4VR Plum is how inviting the packaging feels. The sleek tube and the vibrant purple hue hint at the bold results inside.
I noticed the rich, creamy consistency immediately—no drips or mess, which is a huge plus for at-home coloring.
Applying it was surprisingly easy. The formula spreads smoothly through my hair, thanks to its thick texture that clings without sliding around.
I appreciated how gentle it felt on my scalp, especially since I’ve dealt with irritation from other dyes before. The blend of nourishing ingredients like argan oil and keratin kept my hair feeling soft and shiny during the process.
The color development took only 20 minutes, and I could already see the deepening violet shade taking shape. After rinsing, my hair felt incredibly silky, not stiff or stripped.
The color was vibrant—more intense than I expected—and had a beautiful shine that caught the light from every angle. Over the next few washes, I noticed the color gradually softened, fading evenly without harsh regrowth lines.
What I really loved is that this dye added dimension and depth to my natural hair, making it look professionally done. Plus, knowing it’s free from ammonia and parabens gave me peace of mind.
The only downside is that it’s not meant for grey blending, so if you have a lot of gray, this might not be your best pick.
Overall, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting a vivid, lasting purple without leaving the house. It’s easy to use, nourishing, and delivers a color that truly pops.
Amethyst Purple Permanent Hair Dye with Anti-Breakage, Vegan
- ✓ Vibrant, true purple shade
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Protects and rebuilds hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than some
- ✕ Needs careful timing for best results
| Colorant Type | Permanent hair dye |
| Color Shade | Darkest purple |
| Application Method | Cream formula mixed with developer, applied with precision nozzle |
| Coverage | Full head, grey coverage, root touch-up, balayage, undertones, lowlights |
| Hair Compatibility | All hair types, including chemically treated, Afro, Asian, men, women |
| Additional Features | Anti-breakage plex care, vegan, cruelty-free, non-drip, mess-free application |
Ever tried dyeing your hair at home only to end up with uneven color or a mess everywhere? I know that frustration all too well—until I grabbed this Amethyst Purple Permanent Hair Dye.
From the moment I opened the kit, I appreciated how smoothly the purple cream blended with the developer, making application feel almost effortless.
The precision nozzle on the bottle allowed me to target specific sections—no drip, no splatter. I worked it through my dark blonde hair, and even with a quick glove-covered massage, I could see the color spreading evenly.
The cream’s consistency is rich but not too thick, so it glides easily without clumping.
What really impressed me was the protective plex hair care included. My hair felt softer and stronger after rinsing, not brittle or overly dry.
The deep purple shade is vibrant and true to what the box shows, covering grays and blending seamlessly with my natural color. Plus, knowing it’s vegan and cruelty-free gives me extra peace of mind.
Mess-free and straightforward, this kit feels like a professional color job in a box. It’s suitable for all hair types, which is a huge plus—whether you have chemically treated hair or natural curls.
In short, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting bold, long-lasting purple hair without the salon price or mess.
Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color, Vegan and
- ✓ Vibrant, salon-grade color
- ✓ Conditioning, no damage
- ✓ Uplifting bergamot scent
- ✕ Best on very light hair
- ✕ Fades after 15-24 washes
| Color Type | Semi-permanent, deposit-only hair dye that fades over 15-24+ washes |
| Color Intensity | Ultra-vibrant purple with salon-grade pigments |
| Suitable Hair Level | Best on level 10 light blonde hair |
| Application Method | Requires pre-lightening, full saturation, and 30-minute processing time |
| Formulation | Vegan, cruelty-free, conditioning cream base with natural ingredients like sunflower extract and bergamot oil |
| Protection Features | Contains UV protection to help prevent color fading from sun and heat styling |
Ever gotten excited to try a bold purple hair color, only to be disappointed when it stains your pillow or fades after just a few washes? I’ve been there, and I can tell you this dye really changes the game.
I applied it on my light blonde hair, and within 30 minutes, the color was vibrant and even—no patchy spots or uneven staining.
The semi-permanent formula feels super conditioning, so it leaves your hair soft and shiny. I loved how the color sat on my strands like a stain, giving that intense purple I was craving.
The scent is fresh and uplifting thanks to bergamot oil, which makes the whole process a lot more pleasant.
What really impressed me is how gentle it is—no damage, just rich, vivid color. The sunflower extract adds UV protection, so my color stayed brighter longer, even after a few days in the sun.
Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the U.S., which always feels good to support.
The instructions are straightforward, but I recommend doing a strand test first to see how the color shows up on your hair. My only slight hiccup was that it works best on very light blonde hair, so if you’re darker, you might need to lighten your hair first.
Still, once I rinsed out the color with cool water, the fade was gradual, and it looked fresh for over two weeks.
Overall, if you want a vibrant, non-damaging purple that’s easy to apply at home, this dye is a fantastic pick. It’s fun, conditioning, and leaves you feeling confident with your bold new look.
Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Virtual Violet Hair Dye Kit
- ✓ Vibrant, long-lasting color
- ✓ Easy, no-drip application
- ✓ Nourishing moisture mask
- ✕ Slightly less vivid on very dark hair
- ✕ Takes 20-30 minutes to process
| Color Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Color Lift Level | Up to 2.5 levels of lift |
| Application Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All curls, coils, and textures, specifically suitable for 4C hair |
| Formulation Features | Vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, no drip formula |
| Included Care Products | Moisture Mask with Shea Butter, Sunflower Oil, Vitamin E |
Honestly, I was surprised to find how easy it was to get vibrant violet streaks on my dark, textured hair with this kit. I expected a mess or a complicated process, but the no-drip formula kept everything neat and manageable.
Applying the dye felt smooth and straightforward. The mixture was creamy without dripping, which is a lifesaver for uneven application.
I made sure to do a strand test first, just to see how the color would lift, and it exceeded my expectations.
What really stood out was how well it worked on my 4C curls. The color popped up beautifully, lasting around 6 weeks with vibrant tones that didn’t fade into dullness.
The included moisture mask was a nice touch, leaving my curls soft, detangled, and shiny after rinsing.
Waiting the 20-30 minutes wasn’t a chore at all—time flew by while I enjoyed some relaxing music. Rinsing was quick, and the conditioner left my hair feeling nourished and smooth.
Plus, I appreciated that the formula is vegan, paraben-free, and silicone-free, aligning with my preference for gentle hair care.
Overall, this kit gave me a fun, bold color without the salon price tag or mess I’d feared. It’s perfect for anyone with textured hair who wants a pop of color that really stands out.
The only downside? The violet shade isn’t as intense on extremely dark hair without lifting, but still impressive overall.
What Are the Best Semi-Permanent Purple Hair Dyes for At-Home Use?
The best semi-permanent purple hair dyes for at-home use include a variety of popular brands known for their quality and ease of application.
- Arctic Fox
- Manic Panic
- Adore
- Schwarzkopf Color Ultime
- Ion Color Brilliance
- Crazy Color
The next section will elaborate on these options to provide detailed insights about each dye’s features and pros.
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Arctic Fox: Arctic Fox is a semi-permanent dye known for its vibrant colors and conditioning formula. It contains no harmful chemicals, which makes it safe for both hair health and the environment. Many users appreciate the long-lasting color, which can remain for up to 8 weeks with proper care.
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Manic Panic: Manic Panic is a classic brand that offers a wide range of purple shades. It is vegan and cruelty-free, appealing to many who prefer ethical beauty products. Users often highlight the dye’s intensity and the ability to achieve vibrant results even on darker hair, although pre-lightening may be recommended for the best outcome.
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Adore: Adore offers a line of semi-permanent hair dyes that are ammonia-free. The purple shades provide a rich color that is easy to apply. Many consumers find that Adore colors fade softly, maintaining a natural look as they wash out over time. The formula is also known for not damaging the hair.
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Schwarzkopf Color Ultime: Schwarzkopf Color Ultime combines vivid color with a long-lasting formula. It is praised for its ability to cover gray hair effectively while maintaining a glossy finish. Users appreciate the extensive shade options and the fact that it can provide decent longevity.
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Ion Color Brilliance: Ion Color Brilliance offers vibrant purple hair dye that can be applied easily. It is popular among those looking for temporary color with a deep, rich pigment. Users have noted that it is friendly to both hair and scalp, reflecting its gentle formulation.
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Crazy Color: Crazy Color is favored for its bold and fun shades. This dye provides quality results on both bleached and non-bleached hair. Users often enjoy experimenting with vibrant colors, and Crazy Color is known for its short applications and manageable fading process.
With various options available, consumers can choose based on their preferences and hair types.
Which Brands Stand Out for Their Quality and Color Intensity?
Several brands stand out for their quality and color intensity in hair dye, particularly for shades like purple.
- Pravana
- Manic Panic
- Arctic Fox
- Ion Color Brilliance
- Wella Color Charm
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color
- L’Oreal Paris Colorista
The following sections will provide detailed explanations of each brand’s characteristics and attributes, including their quality and color intensity.
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Pravana:
Pravana is known for its high-quality hair color products, especially its vivid color line. Pravana’s Purple Hair Color has an excellent pigmentation that provides vibrant, long-lasting results. They use advanced technology in their formulas, minimizing damage and promoting hair health. As reported by Jennifer M., a hairstylist, “Pravana consistently delivers on color intensity and fade resistance.” -
Manic Panic:
Manic Panic is a pioneer in the world of semi-permanent hair dye, renowned for its bold colors. The brand’s purple hues are infused with conditioning agents, which help maintain hair health while delivering striking color. On average, colors last 4 to 6 weeks, depending on hair type and care practices, as noted by Claire B., a color specialist. Popular among DIY enthusiasts, Manic Panic provides vibrant shades that appeal to a younger demographic. -
Arctic Fox:
Arctic Fox offers cruelty-free, vegan hair colors known for their rich pigmentation and conditioning properties. Their distinct formulations let the hair shine while providing a vibrant purple that lasts. The brand claims to have a no-damaging formula, which is well-received by consumers. According to customer reviews, hair dyed with Arctic Fox remains intense even after several washes. -
Ion Color Brilliance:
Ion Color Brilliance is a trusted name in professional hair coloring. Their semi-permanent and permanent lines feature vibrant purple shades with added conditioning benefits. Ion provides a mix of quality and performance, often favored in salon settings. Users report that colors maintain their richness significantly longer compared to other brands. -
Wella Color Charm:
Wella Color Charm is known for its professional-grade hair color products. The brand offers an extensive palette, including rich purples known for their vibrancy and longevity. Wella’s innovative technology helps achieve vibrant results while ensuring hair remains healthy. Industry reviews indicate that the coloration process is clean and easy, making it a favorite among stylists. -
Schwarzkopf Keratin Color:
Schwarzkopf’s Keratin Color line is designed for optimal color vibrancy while strengthening the hair. The unique keratin complex not only enhances color intensity but also improves hair texture. Users appreciate this dual benefit, with many reporting a noticeable improvement in hair health post-coloring. -
L’Oreal Paris Colorista:
L’Oreal Paris Colorista targets the trendy and vibrant hair marketplace, with easy-to-use semi-permanent dyes. Their purple shades provide intense color with a focus on a quick, user-friendly application. Market research indicates that consumers are attracted to the brand’s accessibility and viable results, making it popular among first-time dyers.
How Can You Easily Apply Purple Hair Dye at Home?
You can easily apply purple hair dye at home by following specific preparation steps, applying the dye carefully, and ensuring proper aftercare.
Start with preparation, which involves gathering materials, choosing the right shade, and performing a patch test. Gather the following materials: gloves, a hair dye kit, an applicator brush, and an old towel. Choose a shade of purple that complements your skin tone. Perform a patch test by applying a small amount of dye on your skin to check for allergic reactions. Wait 48 hours for any adverse effects.
Next, prepare your hair. Start with clean, dry hair. Avoid washing your hair right before dyeing; natural oils help protect your scalp. Section your hair into manageable parts. Use clips to secure each section for an even application.
When applying the dye, wear gloves to protect your hands. Using the applicator brush, apply the dye from the roots to the ends, working in sections. Take your time to cover all strands evenly. For a deeper color, leave the dye on longer, as indicated in the instructions.
After applying, wait for the specified time. Rinse your hair thoroughly with cold water to help seal the color. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner for washing your hair afterward. Avoid hot water, as it can fade the hair dye more quickly.
Finally, practice aftercare. Limit washing your hair to maintain the color. Use color-safe products to help extend the life of your dye. Additionally, minimize exposure to sun and chlorine, which can damage dyed hair.
These steps will assist you in achieving vibrant purple hair while ensuring the best possible results.
What Are the User Reviews for the Most Popular Purple Hair Dyes?
User reviews for the most popular purple hair dyes vary widely, reflecting different experiences and preferences. Common themes include color longevity, ease of application, and hair health post-treatment.
- Color Longevity
- Ease of Application
- Hair Health Post-Treatment
- Fragrance and Sensory Experience
- Price and Value for Money
- Available Shades and Customizability
- Brand Reputation and Customer Support
The different facets of user reviews provide insight into consumer satisfaction and possible drawbacks.
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Color Longevity:
Color longevity refers to how long the purple hue lasts after application. Many users report that brands like Arctic Fox and Manic Panic provide vibrant colors that can last up to 6-8 weeks, depending on hair type and maintenance. According to a survey by Allure (2021), customers appreciated Arctic Fox for its fade-resistant formulation, while others noted that some brands faded quicker than expected. -
Ease of Application:
Ease of application indicates how simple it is to use the dye. Users frequently mention that brands with creamy textures, such as Ion Color Brilliance, are easier to spread evenly across hair. A 2022 review on Shampoo Bloggers highlighted that the precision applicator of the L’Oreal Colorista line made application less messy and more user-friendly. -
Hair Health Post-Treatment:
Hair health post-treatment refers to the condition of the hair after dyeing. Numerous users express concern over hair dryness or damage. A review from Hair Magazine (2023) notes that semi-permanent dyes like Punky Colour tend to be less damaging than more permanent options. Consumers value conditioners included in dye kits, which can help mitigate damage. -
Fragrance and Sensory Experience:
Fragrance and sensory experience assess the smell of the hair dye during and after application. Several reviews note that more pleasant fragrances, such as those from Schwarzkopf, can improve the overall experience. However, some users find strong chemical smells off-putting, particularly from cheaper brands. -
Price and Value for Money:
Price and value for money consider the affordability of the dye relative to performance and quality. According to Consumer Reports (2023), users indicate that brands priced under $15, like Adore, deliver satisfactory results, while higher-priced options often promise longer-lasting effects or better quality ingredients. -
Available Shades and Customizability:
Available shades and customizability emphasize the variety and options to choose from. Brands like Pulp Riot provide a wide range of purple shades, which customers appreciate for allowing personalized results. Many users on hair forums express a desire for brands to offer more custom mixing options. -
Brand Reputation and Customer Support:
Brand reputation and customer support reflect consumer trust and service quality. Established brands like Wella and L’Oreal enjoy positive reputational advantages, along with accessible customer support. Additionally, positive testimonials based on past experiences often encourage new buyers to select a brand.
These insights from user reviews reveal a broad spectrum of experiences with popular purple hair dyes. Each attribute plays a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences and satisfaction.
How Long Can You Expect Semi-Permanent Purple Hair Dye to Last?
Semi-permanent purple hair dye typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on various factors. On average, you can expect the color to fade significantly after about 6 washes.
Several factors influence the longevity of semi-permanent dye. Hair type plays a crucial role; for example, coarse hair often holds color longer than fine hair. Additionally, hair porosity affects dye absorption. High porosity hair tends to fade quicker due to its ability to release color.
Product choice also matters. Some brands use higher quality pigments and conditioners that enhance color retention. For instance, a well-reviewed purple dye may fade more slowly than a lesser-known brand, sometimes lasting up to 10 washes under optimal conditions.
Washing frequency impacts the dye’s duration. Frequent washing, especially with shampoos that contain sulfates (cleaning agents), can accelerate color loss. Conversely, minimal washing with sulfate-free shampoos can extend color life, keeping hair vibrant for several weeks.
Sun exposure and environmental factors can also play a role. UV rays from the sun can cause colors to fade more rapidly. Chlorinated water from swimming pools can strip dye faster as well.
Overall, while most users can expect their semi-permanent purple dye to last between 4 to 8 weeks, variations exist based on hair type, dye quality, washing habits, and environmental exposures. For those seeking longer-lasting color, considering these influencing factors can be beneficial.
What Tips Can Help You Maintain Your Purple Hair Color Effectively?
To maintain your purple hair color effectively, follow these tips.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
- Wash your hair less frequently.
- Rinse with cold water.
- Use color-depositing products.
- Avoid sun exposure.
- Protect hair during swimming.
- Schedule regular touch-ups.
These tips can vary in effectiveness based on personal hair type and the specific shade of purple used. Factors such as the condition of your hair, frequency of washing, and exposure to external elements can influence how well these maintenance strategies work.
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Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner:
Using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner helps to maintain purple hair color by preventing color stripping. Sulfates are detergents that can harshly clean the hair, leading to more fading. A study published by the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that sulfates can reduce color vibrancy in dyed hair. Opting for formulas that don’t contain sulfates can help preserve the hue for a longer duration. -
Wash your hair less frequently:
Washing your hair less frequently can prolong the life of your purple color. Each wash can remove some of the dye, which diminishes its vibrancy. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests washing hair 2-3 times a week for color-treated hair to balance cleanliness and color retention. Many professional hairstylists recommend leaving several days between washes. -
Rinse with cold water:
Rinsing your hair with cold water can help seal the hair cuticle. A closed cuticle prevents color molecules from exiting the hair shaft. Hair experts from the Professional Beauty Association note that cold water rinse helps retain moisture and can lead to shinier hair. This method also minimizes frizz, enhancing the overall appearance of the color. -
Use color-depositing products:
Using color-depositing products can refresh the dye between salon visits. These products add a small amount of color with each use, maintaining vibrancy. According to a study by the International Journal of Trichology, color-depositing conditioners can help maintain the hue without the damaging effects of bleach or strong dyes. This approach is particularly useful for individuals who enjoy the purple shade as it fades. -
Avoid sun exposure:
Avoiding sun exposure can protect purple hair from fading. UV rays break down the chemical bonds in hair dye, leading to color loss. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises using protective hats or UV-protecting hair sprays designed to shield hair from harmful rays. Limiting sun exposure can significantly retain the purple shade’s brightness. -
Protect hair during swimming:
Protecting hair during swimming is essential, especially in chlorinated pools or saltwater. Chlorine can strip away color while saltwater can dry out hair. Experts from the Swim England Association recommend wearing a swim cap or applying a protective leave-in conditioner before swimming. These measures help create a barrier against damaging elements. -
Schedule regular touch-ups:
Scheduling regular touch-ups is crucial for maintaining vibrant purple hair. Depending on hair growth and initial dye application, many recommend touch-ups every 4-6 weeks. Colorists suggest booking appointments sooner if you notice noticeable fading, especially at the roots. Regular visits help keep the color fresh and well-maintained.