What type of haircolor is known to coat the hair surface?

Temporary haircolor is specifically designed to coat the hair's surface rather than penetrate deeply into the hair strands. This type of color typically contains larger pigment molecules that are unable to enter the cuticle layer of the hair. As a result, temporary haircolor can be easily washed out after a few shampoos, making it ideal for those looking for a non-committal change in hair color. This feature allows for vibrant, sometimes bold colors that can be applied for special occasions or experimentation without long-term commitment.

In contrast, semi-permanent, permanent, and demi-permanent haircolors generally involve deeper penetration into the hair shaft. Semi-permanent colors can last longer than temporary but still do not provide the long-lasting effects associated with permanent color. Permanent haircolor involves a chemical process that alters the hair structure, allowing for long-lasting results, while demi-permanent color uses low-level ammonia to facilitate color penetration with some longevity but not as extensively as permanent colors. Each of these alternatives interacts with the hair differently, leading to varying degrees of permanence and impact on hair health, unlike temporary haircolor, which primarily coats the surface.