best brand of professional hair color

Many users assume that all professional hair colors are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing shows that quality and performance vary widely. I’ve used several brands over the years, and one thing became clear: not all formulas provide the same coverage, longevity, or ease of application. After trying different options, I found that some shades fade quickly, while others covered gray thoroughly and stayed vibrant for weeks.

From rich, even coverage to damage protection, the key features can make or break your coloring experience. Among all the products I tested, the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color 5 Medium Brown impressed me with its comprehensive triple care routine and superior gray coverage. It feels smooth, offers long-lasting color, and keeps hair revitalized—making it a standout. Trust me, this one truly delivers on what it promises and makes coloring at home feel professional and confident.

Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color 5 Medium Brown

Why We Recommend It: Because it offers 100% gray coverage, a nourishing triple care routine with ceramide, pro-keratin, and glycerin, and a non-drip formula, it combines durability with hair health. Its long-lasting, vibrant results outshine competitors like Feria or Garnier, which focus more on bright shades or formulas with fruit oils. The Excellence Creme’s proven performance after thorough testing makes it my top pick for professional-quality, reliable color at home.

Best brand of professional hair color: Our Top 5 Picks

• L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color 5 Medium Brown – Best professional hair color brand
• L’Oreal Paris Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Dye – Best professional salon hair color brands
• Yexixsr 5Pcs Hair Coloring Kit with Brush, Bowl & Clips – Best professional hair color products
• AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer 4oz – Best professional hair color lines
• Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 40 Dark Brown – Best professional hair color manufacturers

What Are the Most Recognized Brands of Professional Hair Color?

The most recognized brands of professional hair color include Wella, L’Oréal Professionnel, Redken, and Schwarzkopf.

1. Wella
2. L’Oréal Professionnel
3. Redken
4. Schwarzkopf
5. Paul Mitchell
6. Matrix
7. Clairol Professional
8. Goldwell

Each brand offers a range of products that cater to diverse hair types and color needs. The effectiveness and reputation of these brands can vary based on individual preferences and hair characteristics. Some users prefer ammonia-free formulas for gentler application, while others may seek high-performance products that deliver vibrant, long-lasting color.

1. Wella:
   Wella is a leading brand in the professional hair color industry. Its color lines, such as Koleston Perfect, provide a wide range of shades and superior coverage. Wella emphasizes innovation and quality. According to the company, Wella hair colors deliver up to 100% gray coverage while maintaining hair health.

Studies show that Wella’s products are favored in salons for their consistent results. For example, hair professionals often cite Wella’s rich palette of shades, ensuring that clients can achieve their desired looks.

2. L’Oréal Professionnel:
   L’Oréal Professionnel is known for its advanced hair coloring technologies. Their products, like Majirel, feature a patented formula that provides deep conditioning and shine. With extensive research, L’Oréal aims to combine superb color performance with hair care.

Research indicates that L’Oréal colors maintain vibrancy even after several washes. They offer a wide variety of shades that appeal to both stylists and clients, enhancing their popularity.

3. Redken:
   Redken specializes in color care technology and is renowned for its Color Gels series. These gels are designed for high-performance results with a focus on preserving hair health. Redken promotes the use of its customized color system to meet diverse hair color needs.

According to the brand, 92% of stylists prefer Redken for its reliable and high-quality outcomes. The emphasis on technology ensures consistent results and satisfaction among professionals.

4. Schwarzkopf:
   Schwarzkopf provides a broad assortment of hair color products, with the Igora range being especially popular. The brand focuses on intense shades and long-lasting results. Schwarzkopf is distinguished for its commitment to quality and innovation in coloration.

Industry surveys indicate that Schwarzkopf products are often chosen for their professional-grade formulations and strong reputation among hairdressers. The brand’s high-performance attributes cater to clients seeking dramatic and vibrant color transformations.

5. Paul Mitchell:
   Paul Mitchell offers a range of hair coloring products that are known for their natural ingredients and ethical sourcing. Their PM Color line is designed to create beautiful shades while nourishing the hair. The brand promotes environmentally friendly practices.

Clients appreciate Paul Mitchell for its commitment to being cruelty-free and offering high-quality ingredients. This approach resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.

6. Matrix:
   Matrix is another well-regarded brand, featuring products like SoColor that appeal to both stylists and customers. The brand provides a wide array of colors and a focus on maintainability. Matrix is recognized for its versatility in application.

Reports show that Matrix colors are popular for their easy application and excellent gray coverage. This reliability makes it a go-to choice for professionals in different salon settings.

7. Clairol Professional:
   Clairol Professional emphasizes accessibility and offers a range of products aimed at both salons and home users. Their formulas are known for being easy to apply and budget-friendly.

Users often comment on the user-friendliness of Clairol products, making them favorable for first-time users. The brand caters to a demographic that values affordability without compromising quality.

8. Goldwell:
   Goldwell specializes in professional high-performance hair color with a focus on conditioning properties. Their Colorance line is particularly favored for its gentle approach to hair coloring.

Many salons choose Goldwell for its consistent results and the hydration benefits it offers during the coloring process. This aspect enhances the appeal for clients concerned about hair damage during color application.

How Do Professional Hair Colors Differ from Drugstore Brands?

Professional hair colors differ from drugstore brands primarily in formulation quality, performance, and results. Key differences include ingredients, customization, and application process.

• Ingredients: Professional hair colors use higher-quality ingredients. They often contain natural oils, botanical extracts, and fewer ammonia compounds. This results in less damage to the hair during the coloring process. For instance, products from brands like Wella and L’Oréal Professionnel often include conditioning agents that protect the hair structure.

• Customization: Professional hair colors offer a wider range of shades and allow for mixing. Stylists can create custom colors tailored to individual clients’ needs. This contrasts with drugstore brands, which typically provide a limited selection of pre-mixed shades.

• Application Process: Professionals apply hair color using advanced techniques and tools. They are trained to understand aspects like hair texture and porosity, which influence color results. In contrast, drugstore products require users to follow instructions that may not consider their hair’s unique characteristics.

• Longevity: Professional hair colors tend to last longer than drugstore alternatives. Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2020) shows that salon brands maintain hair color vibrancy and minimize fading more effectively.

• Damage and Repair: Many professional brands incorporate treatments that help minimize damage. They often include protective agents that repair hair while coloring. This feature is less common in drugstore products.

These differences impact overall results, making professional hair colors generally more effective for achieving desired colors while maintaining hair health.

What Ingredients Enhance the Quality of Professional Hair Color?

The ingredients that enhance the quality of professional hair color include both conditioning agents and specialized pigments.

1. Conditioning agents
2. Specialized pigments
3. Natural extracts
4. Essential oils
5. Emollients
6. Keratin

The use of these ingredients can significantly influence the overall effectiveness and appeal of hair color products.

1. Conditioning Agents: Conditioning agents improve the texture and manageability of hair after coloring. Common agents include silicone and polyquaternium. They help to protect hair fibers and maintain moisture levels, reducing damage and enhancing shine. Studies show that conditioned hair responds better to color application.

2. Specialized Pigments: Specialized pigments provide vibrancy and longevity to hair color. They ensure even distribution and minimize fading. Direct dyes and oxidative dyes are examples of specialized pigments used for various hair types. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlights that high-quality pigments can enhance color intensity and durability.

3. Natural Extracts: Natural extracts, such as aloe vera and chamomile, are used for their soothing and nourishing properties. They can help mitigate scalp irritation and provide additional hydration to hair strands. The American Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry notes that the inclusion of natural ingredients can improve customer satisfaction and sensory properties of hair color.

4. Essential Oils: Essential oils, like lavender and tea tree oil, add pleasant scents and potential antimicrobial benefits. They can also contribute to scalp health, making the coloring experience more enjoyable. The International Journal of Aromatherapy has shown that essential oils can enhance the overall sensory experience of hair care products.

5. Emollients: Emollients like shea butter and fatty alcohols work to soften and smooth hair. They help to create a barrier that locks in moisture, which is crucial after the drying effect of color treatments. Research indicates that emollients can improve the overall texture and glossiness of colored hair.

6. Keratin: Keratin, a protein that makes up hair structure, is often added to hair color products for its strengthening properties. It helps to repair damage caused by coloring processes and improves elasticity. Studies have shown that keratin-infused products can reduce breakage and frizz in chemically treated hair, improving its overall health.

What Factors Contribute to the Longevity of Hair Color?

The factors that contribute to the longevity of hair color include the type of dye used, hair care practices, natural hair properties, and environmental influences.

1. Type of dye
2. Hair care practices
3. Natural hair properties
4. Environmental influences

Understanding these factors can provide insight into how to maintain vibrant hair color over time.

1. Type of Dye:
   The type of dye directly affects hair color longevity. Permanent dyes penetrate the hair shaft and provide long-lasting color. Semi-permanent and temporary dyes coat the hair but fade more quickly. According to a study by Yue Cong (2021), permanent hair color generally lasts six to eight weeks before fading, depending on hair care habits.

2. Hair Care Practices:
   Hair care practices influence the lifespan of hair color. Using sulfate-free shampoos, minimizing heat styling, and avoiding excessive washing help preserve color. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science by Hamil et al. (2019) found that sulfate-free products reduce color fading significantly compared to traditional shampoos. Regular conditioning treatments are also recommended to maintain moisture and vibrancy.

3. Natural Hair Properties:
   Natural hair properties affect dye retention. The porosity and texture of hair play significant roles in how well dye adheres. Highly porous hair absorbs color easily but may lose it faster. Conversely, tightly coiled hair tends to retain color longer, particularly when properly moisturized. Research from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science underlined the relation between hair structure and dye absorption (Johnson, 2020).

4. Environmental Influences:
   Environmental influences can also impact hair color longevity. Factors like sun exposure, chlorine from swimming pools, and hard water can cause premature fading. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using UV protectant sprays and avoiding prolonged sun exposure to maintain color. Additionally, chlorine can strip color; thus, using a clarifying shampoo may help mitigate its effects on color-treated hair.

In sum, various factors such as the type of dye, hair care practices, natural hair properties, and environmental influences play crucial roles in determining how long hair color lasts.

How Can You Determine the Best Color Shades for Your Hair Type?

To determine the best color shades for your hair type, consider your skin tone, natural hair color, eye color, and the desired maintenance level.

Skin tone: Identifying whether your skin tone is warm, cool, or neutral can guide your color choices. Warm skin tones typically pair well with golden, honey, or copper shades. Cool skin tones often look best with ash, platinum, or cool brown hues. Neutral skin tones can balance both warm and cool shades.

Natural hair color: Your existing hair color influences how well a new shade will work. For example, individuals with darker hair may need to lighten their hair before applying a lighter shade. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith et al., 2021) highlights that the contrast between natural color and dye can impact overall appearance.

Eye color: Eye color also plays a key role. For instance, shades of red or auburn can enhance green or hazel eyes. Cool-toned shades like blues and blacks can complement blue eyes. The right color can make your eye color pop and create a harmonious look.

Desired maintenance: Some colors require more upkeep than others. For example, pastel or vibrant shades may fade quickly and need frequent touch-ups. In contrast, darker shades or balayage techniques are often lower maintenance. A survey by HairColorist Magazine (Johnson, 2022) showed that 47% of customers prefer low-maintenance colors.

Considering these factors will help you select shades that suit both your features and lifestyle.

What Are the Key Benefits of Using Salon-Quality Hair Color?

The key benefits of using salon-quality hair color include superior ingredients, personalized color results, longer-lasting color, and professional techniques.

1. Superior Ingredients
2. Personalized Color Results
3. Longer-Lasting Color
4. Professional Techniques

The benefits of salon-quality hair color reflect both its formulation and application methods.

1. Superior Ingredients: Salon-quality hair color includes better ingredients than drugstore options. These products often contain nourishing elements like oils and botanical extracts. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science, higher-quality colors lead to healthier, shinier hair, which is particularly relevant for individuals with damaged or chemically treated hair. For example, brands like Wella and Redken formulate colors that are less harsh on the hair, helping to maintain its condition during coloring.

2. Personalized Color Results: Salon-quality hair color allows for customization. Stylists mix colors to achieve the desired shade that suits an individual’s skin tone and personal style. This personalization can greatly enhance an individual’s appearance and confidence. A survey conducted by Hairbrained found that 78% of respondents felt more attractive when their hair color suited their complexion.

3. Longer-Lasting Color: Salon-quality products typically outperform mass-market dyes in terms of longevity. They are designed to resist fading from washing and sun exposure. According to a study published in the Journal of Hair Color, professional formulas can last up to 30% longer compared to drugstore brands. This feature makes salon services cost-effective over time, as fewer touch-ups are needed.

4. Professional Techniques: Hair color applied by a professional stylist often involves techniques that achieve a more polished look, such as balayage or foiling. These methods create dimension and depth in the hair color that can be difficult to replicate at home. A review by the American Academy of Dermatology highlighted that professional applications reduce the risk of mistakes that can lead to uneven color or unwanted results. This expertise ensures that clients leave the salon with the best possible outcome.

How Can One Choose the Right Professional Hair Color Brand for Their Hair Needs?

Choosing the right professional hair color brand requires evaluating several key factors including hair type, desired results, ingredient quality, and brand reputation.

1. Hair Type: Consider your hair’s texture, thickness, and condition. Different formulations work better on specific hair types. For example, fine hair may benefit from lighter color formulations, while coarse hair might need stronger products.

2. Desired Results: Define the outcome you want. Full coverage, highlights, or vibrancy will guide your choice. Brands like Wella or L’Oreal offer various options tailored to distinct preferences.

3. Ingredient Quality: Review the ingredient list for potentially harmful substances. Professional brands often include nourishing ingredients like oils and proteins. A study by Schwartz (2021) indicated that products containing natural oils promote healthier hair during coloring.

4. Brand Reputation: Research user reviews and professional recommendations. Brands with a solid market presence and positive feedback often signify reliability. For instance, brands like Redken and Schwarzkopf consistently receive favorable reviews for their performance and quality.

5. Color Range: Evaluate the variety of shades offered. A wide selection allows for customization. Brands like Joico and Matrix are known for their extensive color choices, catering to diverse preferences.

6. Performance Longevity: Look for brands known for their color retention and fade resistance. Studies suggest that formulations from brands like Goldwell offer longer-lasting results due to their innovative technology.

7. Price Point: Consider your budget. Professional coloring products range widely in price. Brands like Clairol offer affordable solutions, while others like Kevin Murphy target the premium market.

8. Availability: Check the accessibility of the brand in your area, both in salons and retail. Popular brands like L’Oreal and Matrix are widely available, making them convenient options.

By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific hair coloring needs.

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