Question 1

Do I really need to do a patch test every time I use hair dye?

Accepted Answer

Yes — every single time, even with a brand you've used before. Allergic sensitisation to PPD (para-phenylenediamine) can develop at any point, even after years of problem-free use. The reaction, when it occurs, can be severe — swelling, blistering, and in rare cases anaphylaxis. UK regulations require all oxidative hair dye products to include patch test instructions, and reputable brands like Schwarzkopf, Clairol, and Wella are explicit about this. Apply a small amount behind your ear or in the crook of your elbow 48 hours before colouring. It takes two minutes and could prevent a trip to A&E.

Question 2

What's the difference between Wella and Schwarzkopf Igora Royal — is Wella actually worth the higher price?

Accepted Answer

Both are professional-grade lines, but they suit different colouring approaches. Wella's colour system (particularly Koleston Perfect) is widely regarded as offering superior grey coverage and a broader, more nuanced shade range — it's the dominant choice in UK salons for a reason. Schwarzkopf Igora Royal is slightly more forgiving for home use, with a more straightforward numbering system and consistent results across its range. If you're a professional or highly experienced home colourist, Wella's precision justifies the price premium. For most home users doing root touch-ups or shade refreshes, Igora Royal delivers comparable results at a lower average price.

Question 3

Can I use a permanent hair dye to go from dark brown to blonde at home?

Accepted Answer

No — attempting to lift more than two to three levels at home with a box dye is genuinely risky and rarely produces good results. Going from dark brown (level 3–4) to blonde (level 7+) requires multiple lightening sessions with a high-volume developer, and doing this incorrectly causes severe breakage, uneven brassiness, and potential scalp burns. Even professional colourists typically spread this process over several appointments. At-home permanent dyes are designed for one to two levels of lift or for going darker — anything beyond that should be handled by a trained colourist.

Question 4

Are PPD-free hair dyes as effective for covering grey hair?

Accepted Answer

Honestly, no — PPD-free formulas are noticeably less effective on resistant grey hair. PPD (para-phenylenediamine) is the primary oxidative dye molecule responsible for deep, lasting colour penetration. Alternatives like PTD (para-toluenediamine) are gentler but don't bind to the hair shaft as effectively, resulting in faster fading and incomplete grey coverage. If you have a PPD allergy, these alternatives are your only option — but go in with realistic expectations, particularly on coarse or wiry grey hair. A semi-permanent approach layered over a PPD-free base can sometimes improve the result.

Question 5

How long does semi-permanent hair colour actually last?

Accepted Answer

Typically four to eight washes, though this varies significantly depending on your hair's porosity and how you wash it. Highly porous or bleached hair absorbs semi-permanent colour deeply but also releases it quickly. Washing with cool water and a colour-safe shampoo extends the life noticeably. Manic Panic-style vivid fashion colours tend to fade fastest — expect two to four weeks of vibrancy before the tone shifts. Darker semi-permanent shades (deep reds, rich browns) generally last longer than pastels or vivid fashion colours.

Question 6

What does the developer volume number actually mean, and which should I use?

Accepted Answer

Developer volume refers to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which determines how much the dye lifts your natural colour. 10 volume (3%) provides minimal lift and is used for toning or depositing colour on pre-lightened hair. 20 volume (6%) is the standard for one to two levels of lift — most at-home kits use this. 30 volume (9%) lifts two to three levels and is used by professionals for more dramatic changes. 40 volume (12%) is for maximum lift and should only be used by trained professionals — it causes significant damage and scalp irritation if misapplied. Most home users should never need to go above 20 volume.

Question 7

Is it worth buying professional hair colour in bulk (500ml–1000ml) for home use?

Accepted Answer

Only if you colour frequently and are confident mixing developer ratios accurately. A 1000ml Goldwell Topchic or Wella tube can reduce your cost per application dramatically compared to single-use kits — but once opened, professional colour oxidises over time and loses potency. If you're colouring every six to eight weeks and have a consistent shade, bulk buying makes financial sense. If you colour occasionally or switch shades often, you'll likely waste product. Also factor in that you'll need to purchase developer separately, which adds to the upfront cost.

Hair Colours Price Comparison

Schwarzkopf Palette Intensive hair colour Brown 115 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal hair colour Brown 60 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Absolutes hair colour Brown 60 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Absolutes hair colour Blonde 60 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Absolutes hair colour Brown 60 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Color10 hair colour Brown 60 ml

Revlon Revlonissimo Color Excel Tone On Tone hair colour Blonde 70 ml

Goldwell 4021609012481 hair colour 1000 ml

Goldwell Topchic hair colour 1000 ml

Manic Panic Classic High Voltage Wildfire 118 ml

Manic Panic Classic High Voltage Sunshine 118 ml

Revlon Nutri Color Filters hair colour 100 ml

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal 8-0, 60 ml

Manic Panic Classic High Voltage Shocking Blue 118 ml

Manic Panic Cotton Candy Pink 118ml High Voltage Classic Cream Formula

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Absolutes hair colour Blonde 60 ml

Schwarzkopf Haarcoloration Live Colour XXL Pilar Box Red hair colour

Schwarzkopf Live Color 00A hair colour Blonde

Hair Colours Price Comparison