What should I look for in semi-permanent hair dye, especially "punk" or unnatural colors?

I'd like reviews of products you tried, ingredients that are major 'no' or 'yes's and some mentions of what makes certain product work for some others- while it completely fails on others.

Thank you!

Oh, I have auburn hair, shoulder length, thick, and hair-dressers tell me I have good texture, :)

-Alika613

What should I look for in semi-permanent hair dye, especially "punk" or unnatural colors?

I dye my hair purple...Its awesome. I go for a sort of dark purple, but not as dark as black. You could also do black with pink, blue, green or purple streaks in it. That would look fantastic. I use Schwartzkopf, and its worked for me so far. They last around 8 washes, or you can get more permanent ones (they don't come in cool colours though) that last for around 12 washes. The first time you dye your hair it'll be messy...be careful. After that, you'll be fine.

Keep in mind-you can't dye your hair any colour lighter than your natural colour (this is with temporary dyes), so you wouldn't be able to go platinum blonde or anything. You could also try a bright red. I did that, but it didn't work as well and the purple since I have medium brown hair. It might work on you, though. Good luck.

What should I look for in semi-permanent hair dye, especially "punk" or unnatural colors?

special effects or manic panic

What should I look for in semi-permanent hair dye, especially "punk" or unnatural colors?

I've only ever used Manic Panic, although I hear Special Effects is better (meaning, you have to redye your hair less frequently-- it takes longer to come out). With any dye, reds come out easier than other colors. I think blues are supposed to last the longest.

Both are fine for your hair, as far as I know, however they become less healthy when you bleach your hair before applying the dye. Because your hair is auburn, bleach probably won't be necessary. I have dark blonde, and due to not knowing any better, I used bleach when I first started dying my hair. It DOES make the color appear brighter, but with light hair it can still look good without.

If you do decide to color your hair, I suggest that when you wash it, wash it in cold water. Semi-permanent dyes tend to run when you wash them (obviously), and they do this MUCH less when you use cold water.

So, yeah. I'd try Special Effects, but if you can't get it, Manic Panic is fine.