When it comes to transforming your hair with a vibrant, lasting shade, one question often pops up: Is Creme of Nature hair dye permanent? If you’re considering this popular brand for your next hair color adventure, you’re in the right place. Creme of Nature is a well-known name in the hair care world, especially for those with textured or natural hair. But does it deliver on permanence, and what should you know before diving in? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from the permanence of Creme of Nature hair dye to its formulations, application tips, and how it stacks up for different hair types—all optimized to answer your burning questions and help you make an informed choice.
Understanding Creme of Nature Hair Dye: Permanent or Not?
Creme of Nature offers a variety of hair dye products, and yes, many of them are indeed permanent. The brand is celebrated for its Moisture-Rich Hair Color and Exotic Shine Color lines, both of which are formulated as permanent hair dyes. These products are designed to penetrate the hair shaft, delivering rich, long-lasting color that doesn’t fade quickly with washing. Unlike semi-permanent or temporary dyes, which sit on the surface of the hair and wash out over time, Creme of Nature’s permanent dyes chemically alter the hair’s natural pigment for a lasting effect.
The permanence of these dyes comes from their use of a developer (typically included in the kit), which opens the hair cuticle and allows the color to deposit deeply. This process ensures that the shade—whether it’s a bold red, soft black, or honey blonde—stays vibrant for weeks, often up to 6-8 weeks, depending on hair care habits and maintenance. So, to answer the core question: Yes, Creme of Nature hair dye is permanent in its primary offerings, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a durable color change.
What Makes Creme of Nature Hair Dye Stand Out?
Creme of Nature isn’t just about permanence—it’s about quality and care, especially for textured, curly, or coily hair. Here’s what sets it apart:
Infused with Nourishing Ingredients
Unlike some traditional permanent dyes that can leave hair dry and brittle, Creme of Nature incorporates conditioning elements like Argan Oil from Morocco and Shea Butter. These ingredients work to hydrate and strengthen hair during the coloring process, reducing the risk of damage. The Exotic Shine Color line, for instance, uses Micro-Sphere Technology to deliver strengthening conditioners and vitamins that penetrate the hair shaft, leaving it healthier and shinier post-color.
Ammonia-Free Options
For those wary of harsh chemicals, Creme of Nature offers ammonia-free permanent dye options in its Moisture-Rich Hair Color collection. Ammonia is a common ingredient in permanent dyes that helps lift the hair cuticle, but it can be drying and irritating to the scalp. The ammonia-free formula still provides 100% gray coverage and vibrant color while being gentler on your hair and skin.
Wide Range of Shades
Whether you’re after a natural black, a vivid red, or a trendy honey blonde, Creme of Nature has you covered. With over 10 shades in the Exotic Shine line and 9 in the Moisture-Rich collection, there’s a color for every skin tone and style preference. This variety makes it a versatile choice for anyone looking to switch up their look permanently.
How Permanent Is Creme of Nature Hair Dye Really?
When we say “permanent,” it’s worth clarifying what that means in the world of hair dye. Permanent hair color doesn’t wash out completely like semi-permanent dyes, but it does fade gradually over time due to factors like shampooing, sun exposure, and heat styling. With Creme of Nature, the longevity of the color depends on how well you maintain it.
Typically, users report that the color remains vibrant for 4-6 weeks before subtle fading begins. The roots will start to show your natural color as hair grows (about ½ inch per month), requiring touch-ups if you want to maintain a seamless look. The inclusion of conditioning agents in the dye helps lock in the color longer than some harsher formulas, but it’s not immune to gradual wear. To maximize permanence, pair it with sulfate-free shampoos and color-safe conditioners.
Application Process: How to Use Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Dye
Ready to try Creme of Nature for a permanent color change? Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure the best results:
Step 1: Do a Patch Test
Before applying any permanent dye, including Creme of Nature, perform a skin allergy test 48 hours in advance. Mix a small amount of the colorant and developer, apply it to a patch of skin (like behind your ear), and wait to see if irritation occurs. This step is crucial, as permanent dyes contain ingredients like phenylenediamines that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
Step 2: Strand Test for Color Preview
Snip a small section of hair and apply the dye mixture to preview the final shade. Wait 25 minutes, rinse, and dry the strand. This helps you confirm the color matches your expectations, especially if you’re not bleaching beforehand.
Step 3: Prepare Your Hair
Start with unwashed hair (1-2 days of natural oils help protect your scalp). Section your hair into manageable parts, and wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
Step 4: Mix and Apply
Combine the colorant and developer as instructed—usually by pouring the color into the developer bottle and shaking well. Apply evenly from roots to tips, ensuring full saturation. For gray coverage, focus on those areas first.
Step 5: Process and Rinse
Let the dye sit for 25-30 minutes (add 5 extra minutes for stubborn grays). Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water until it runs clear, then follow with the included conditioner (like the Mango & Shea Butter conditioner) to seal in moisture and shine.
Who Should Use Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Dye?
This dye is particularly popular among those with natural, relaxed, or color-treated hair, especially in the Black hair community. Its conditioning formulas cater to hair that’s prone to dryness or breakage, making it ideal for:
- Curly and Coily Hair Types: The nourishing ingredients help maintain curl integrity.
- Gray Coverage Seekers: It offers up to 100% gray coverage, perfect for mature hair.
- First-Time DIYers: The straightforward kit and detailed instructions make it beginner-friendly.
However, if you have very light or bleached hair, the color outcome might differ from the box due to your starting shade. Darker hair may also require bleaching first for lighter tones like honey blonde to show up vividly.
Pros and Cons of Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Dye
Pros
- Long-Lasting Color: True permanent dye that lasts weeks.
- Moisture-Rich Formula: Reduces dryness with Argan Oil and Shea Butter.
- Ammonia-Free Options: Gentler on hair and scalp.
- Affordable: Available at retailers like Walmart, Sally Beauty, and Amazon for under $10-$15 per kit.
- Vibrant Shades: Bold, multi-dimensional results.
Cons
- Potential Scalp Irritation: Some users report tingling or burning, especially with sensitive skin.
- Fade Over Time: Like all permanent dyes, it’s not 100% fade-proof.
- Limited Lightening Power: Won’t lift dark hair significantly without pre-bleaching.
How Does Creme of Nature Compare to Other Permanent Dyes?
When pitted against brands like Clairol, Garnier, or L’Oréal, Creme of Nature holds its own, especially for textured hair. Clairol’s Textures & Tones is a close competitor with ammonia-free options, but it lacks the Argan Oil infusion. Garnier Nutrisse offers intense nourishment but uses ammonia in most formulas. L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème boasts triple-care protection, yet it’s pricier and less tailored to natural hair needs. Creme of Nature strikes a balance of affordability, conditioning, and permanence, making it a standout for its target audience.
Tips to Maintain Your Permanent Creme of Nature Color
To keep your color popping and your hair healthy:
- Wash Less Often: Limit shampooing to 1-2 times a week with a sulfate-free product.
- Use Cool Water: Hot water strips color faster.
- Deep Condition Weekly: Maintain moisture with a mask or the included conditioner.
- Protect from Sun: UV rays can fade color—wear a hat or use a UV-protectant spray.
- Touch Up Roots: Reapply every 4-6 weeks to cover regrowth.
Common Questions About Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Dye
Does It Damage Hair?
Thanks to its conditioning ingredients, it’s less damaging than many permanent dyes. However, any chemical process can weaken hair if not followed by proper care. Users with pre-damaged or over-processed hair should proceed cautiously.
Can It Lighten Dark Hair Without Bleach?
Not significantly. For dark hair (black or dark brown), lighter shades like honey blonde may result in a subtle tint or coppery tone unless you bleach first.
Is It Safe for Sensitive Scalps?
The ammonia-free options are gentler, but always do a patch test. Some users experience mild irritation despite the nourishing formula.
Real User Experiences with Creme of Nature Permanent Dye
Online reviews highlight a mix of rave and cautionary tales. Many love the vibrant color and softness it leaves behind—one user called it “the only dye that lightened my dark hair without bleach.” Others praise the gray coverage and shine. On the flip side, a few mention scalp burning or unexpected shades (e.g., honey blonde turning orange on dark hair). The consensus? It’s a solid choice if you follow instructions and know your hair’s limits.
Where to Buy Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Dye
You can snag it at:
- Walmart: Around $8-$13, depending on the shade.
- Sally Beauty: Often carries the Exotic Shine line for $10-$12.
- Amazon: Prices vary ($11-$15), with bundle options available.
- Creme of Nature Website: Direct purchase with occasional promos.
Check local beauty supply stores too—prices are competitive, and availability is widespread.
Final Verdict: Is Creme of Nature Hair Dye Permanent Worth It?
So, is Creme of Nature hair dye permanent? Absolutely—and it’s more than just a color change. With its conditioning formulas, vibrant shade range, and focus on textured hair, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting lasting color without sacrificing health. Whether you’re covering grays, going bold, or refreshing your look, this dye delivers on its promises, provided you prep and maintain properly. For a budget-friendly, nourishing permanent dye, Creme of Nature is tough to beat.
Ready to transform your hair? Grab a box, do your tests, and enjoy a vibrant, long-lasting color that celebrates your unique style!
