Semi-Permanent Colour in Brighton: Low-Commitment Shine with Salon Results

Linda ScarboroughArt Director and Senior Technician

Published

Want healthy shine and a touch of tone without a long commitment? Semi-permanent colour gives you a soft, light-reflecting finish that fades beautifully. It’s ideal for first-time colour, a seasonal refresh, or a quick glow-up before an event in Brighton.

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What semi-permanent means

Semi-permanent colour sits on, or just inside, the outer layer of the hair. It enhances tone, adds gloss, and blends without creating a hard regrowth line. At Ginkgo Hair we use Wella Color Fresh — an ammonia-free, peroxide-free, low-pH liquid colour that conditions as it tones. It’s perfect for adding warmth, cooling brassiness, boosting depth and shine, or tidying an old shade between bigger colour services.
Learn more here: Semi-Permanent Colour.

Why we use Wella Color Fresh in salon

  • Gentle formula: Low pH, no ammonia or peroxide.
  • Versatile uses: Quick tonal top-ups, colour correction, or soft grey blending (up to 30%).
  • Fast application: Applied to shampooed, towel-dried hair and processed for 5–20 minutes, then rinsed.
  • True-to-tone fade: Lasts up to 10 washes, fading softly and evenly for a natural look.

At-home top-ups: Wella Color Fresh Mask

Between visits, we often recommend the Wella Color Fresh Mask — a zero-damage, colour-depositing mask enriched with avocado and apricot kernel oils.

  • Best for: Maintaining or refreshing tone at home, or trying a subtle new shade.
  • How to use: After shampooing, apply generously to towel-dried hair, comb through, leave 10 minutes (up to 20 for extra intensity), then rinse. No conditioner needed.
  • Results: Moisturising, glossy finish that fades true-to-tone and keeps your salon colour looking fresh.

Who it suits best

Choose semi-permanent if you want subtle change and a healthy-looking finish. It’s ideal for first-time colour clients, anyone growing out a previous shade, and clients who like to switch looks with the seasons. If your hair is highlighted, a semi-permanent gloss can refine tone and add mirror-like shine. For fragile hair, pair your gloss with WellaPlex for extra bond care.
Meet your stylist: Our Team.

How long it lasts

With Wella Color Fresh, expect colour to last up to 10 washes. Longevity varies with hair type, depth of shade, and how often you shampoo. Love the result? We can set a gentle maintenance plan so your colour always feels fresh.

Topping up gloss and tone

A quick salon Toner or Color Fresh top-up between big services keeps colour balanced and bright. Most clients refresh every 4–6 weeks. If you want more impact later, we can build on your semi-permanent with subtle face-framing or a richer shade at your next visit.

Aftercare for shine

  • Use a colour-safe shampoo and conditioner, rinse with lukewarm water.
  • Limit daily washing to reduce fade and always use heat protection.
  • Add a weekly nourishing mask on mid-lengths and ends (or use Color Fresh Mask).
  • If you swim or exercise outdoors, protect hair with a leave-in and cleanse gently after.

FAQs

Will it cover grey
Semi-permanent colour softens and blends rather than fully covers. With Wella Color Fresh we can blend up to 30% grey. For full coverage we’ll discuss permanent options or a layered approach.

How long does it last
With Wella Color Fresh, colour lasts up to 10 washes, fading gradually and evenly.

Do I need a patch test
Yes, please visit us 48 hours before any colour that contains colourants, even gentle formulas.

Can I go darker then lighter easily
Yes. We’ll plan the journey with you so your hair stays healthy and the changes feel seamless.