Comparatively Speaking: Altering Hair with Bleach vs. Temporary Dye

By: Anthony J. O'Lenick, Jr.

Posted: October 23, 2012

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Hair color is typically measured using a color level ranging from 1-12, as explained through the below and bleaching will generally reduce the number by 3-4 units.

1 = Black
2 = Dark brown
3 = Medium brown
4 = Light brown
5 = Lightest brown
6 = Dark blonde
7 = Medium blonde
8 = Light blonde
9 = Very light blonde
10 = Lightest blonde
11 = Super light blonde
12 = Ultra light blonde

Temporary Dyes

Temporary dyes are applied to the hair and last until hair is shampooed. The colorants do not penetrate hair, hence the "temporary" label. Large molecules are used to limit penetration. These materials have been extensively studied by the US Food and Drug Administration and a lot of information exists in the public domain.

Temporary dyes are easy to use and do not damage hair since they do not penetrate. There is no damage to the native pigment in the hair, so natural hair color can be obtained with washing. Temporary dyes provide the user with an opportunity to experiment with different colors. Since they are truly temporary (as opposed to lasting until the hair grows out), temporary dyes allow for quick and easy application and removal. A potential draw back is a color change during removal.