Black Box Dyes vs. Qwerky's Blackforest Semi-Permanent Hair Dye: What You Need to Know

So you want to go back to black? Before you shop for a random hair dye brand off the convenience store shelf-- we're here to compile what you need to consider for your hair type!

What's the difference?

Semi-Permanent Hair Dyes are conditioner-based and do not contain any lightening agents. The dye only stays on the hair's surface, providing shine, toning, and colour enhancement without damaging the hair's structure-- and gradually fades away to your base hair colour (before dyeing). Since Blackforest is a semi-permanent dye, it doesn't last as along compared to Black Box Dyes. Blackforest typically lasts for 90-150 washes (around 1-3 months). Do note that since Blackforest is such a pigmented and dark shade, slight staining may occur if left on for too long. 

Since semi-permanent hair dyes don't penetrate the hair, Blackforest will show up as a dark brown tint on natural white/grey hairs, so if you want to fully cover your grey hairs, box dyes may be a better option for you. 

Box Dyes consists of 2 parts: colour and developer, which are mixed together to before application. The developer, the lightening agent, opens the hair shaft allowing the colour to penetrate and alter your hair colour. However, you may spot a few harmful ingredients present like ammonia, peroxide, and PPDs present in Box Dyes, causing your hair to become dry and brittle. 

Things to consider:

1. Your Current Hair Health: If your hair is already dry and damaged, semi-permanent dyes that's free from harsh chemicals may be a better option for you. Semi-permanent dyes leaves your hair feeling smoother, softer, and more lustrous after each application.
   
   
   

2. Covering Grey/White Hair: If you want to cover your natural grey/white hairs, box dyes may be a better option for you as they have better coverage and last longer. Don't forget to do a patch test first just to be on the safe side!
   
   
   
   

3. Creative Colouring: If you have a full head of bleached hair, want to try out some creative looks using black dye but don't want to permanently commit to black hair, semi-permanent dyes offers a world of possibilities. You can use Blackforest to give yourself some black tips like the GIF below. Blackforest can also be used as a darkening agent to darken other Qwerky Colour dyes. Simply mix in a tiny bit of Blackforest at a time till you see the colour that you like!
   
   

4. Longevity: If you're looking to have dark hair for only a couple months and want to go back to bleached hair in the future, Blackforest is perfect for you since it gradually fades over 2-3 months. However, you're looking for something more permanent, Box Dyes may be a better option for you. But should you regret your decision and want to go back to bleached hair, do note that Box Dyes are much harder to remove!