Direct pigments: how do they work?

Direct dyes are products containing direct pigments that are ready for hair coloring without the participation of chemical oxidation reactions, that is, they do not mix with oxidants.

Basically, direct dyes are made on the basis of balms, masks and tinted hair shampoos. These products do not contain ammonia, do not lighten hair, but give it a tint. Thanks to this, the effect on the hair is softer and safer.

However, it is important for the master to remember that due to these same characteristics, direct pigments only work on the surface of the hair, which affects the wearability of the color. Unlike permanent and semi-permanent dyes, direct dyes do not penetrate the hair structure and do not cover gray hair, but can mattify it up to 50%.

Some pigments are still able to penetrate under the cuticular layer into the cortex. For example, if the hair fiber is very dry and/or very porous, direct pigment dyes can be a very convenient tool for both creating color and improving the condition of the hair.

For what purposes is it better to use direct pigments?

If you need to maintain the brightness of the color between hair dyeing in the salon - for home color care.

If the client wants bright accents on previously bleached hair, several dyed strands.

For light pastel toning of blonde shades (a small amount of direct dye mixed with balm).

Light camouflage of gray hair in the root zone (matting up to approximately 50%).

Direct dyes can be mixed with each other to obtain the desired shades (mixing is done before application to the hair).

In terms of pH level, direct dyes are slightly acidic products, which means they are safe for the scalp.

Rules for using direct pigment

Direct pigments do not work on dark hair. Dyes using only direct pigments do not have brightening ability, but have good conditioning and caring properties. This means that before use it will be necessary to lighten the curls. Direct action pigments are gradually completely washed out of the hair.

When working with dyes, it is necessary to carry out a test strand so that the end result does not come as a surprise.