Hair Gloss & Toner Secrets: Before & After Pics + Tips!

Dalbo

28 Apr, 2025

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to achieving vibrant, healthy, and head-turning hair color without the commitment of a permanent dye? The world of hair glosses, specifically the Redken Shades EQ, is your gateway to achieving salon-quality results from the comfort of your own home.

The quest for the perfect hair color is a journey many embark on, often fraught with risks of damage, unpredictable results, and significant financial investment. But what if there was a solution that offered the desired impact with minimal commitment and a focus on hair health? Enter the hair gloss. This gentle form of hair color provides a subtle wash of color, incredible shine, and can even improve the overall condition of your hair. Before it was the mainstream knowledge it is today, salons around the globe knew of the powers it wielded. But how does it work, and can it truly deliver on its promises?

One of the leading products in this arena is Redken Shades EQ, a demi-permanent hair color known for its versatility and conditioning properties. It's a favorite among professionals and home users alike for its ability to enhance color, add shine, and correct tone without causing extensive damage. The formula is made up of several components, which is why it can appear darker when developing, but this does not necessarily translate to a darker color. It's designed to work with your existing hair color to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results.

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Many users are drawn to hair glosses because they are less damaging than permanent hair color, as they are deposit-only. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want to experiment with color without the long-term commitment. The cost-effectiveness is another significant benefit; salon hair gloss treatments typically cost between $50 and 100, while at-home options, like Redken Shades EQ, offer similar results at a fraction of the price.

However, with so many products on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. The key is understanding the benefits of different glosses and how they interact with your hair type and desired result. This is where we will dive into the specifics of products like Redken Shades EQ and explore how to get the best results.

Understanding Redken Shades EQ

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Redken Shades EQ is a demi-permanent hair color that has gained popularity for its ability to provide vibrant color, shine, and conditioning benefits. Unlike permanent hair color, which alters the hair's structure to deposit color, Shades EQ works by depositing color onto the hair shaft. This makes it a gentle option that is less damaging and more versatile.

Key features of Redken Shades EQ include:

Demi-Permanent Formula: This means it gradually fades over time, allowing for experimentation without a permanent commitment.
Acidic pH: The acidic pH of Shades EQ helps to smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in enhanced shine and condition.
Ammonia-Free: This reduces the risk of damage and irritation, making it a great choice for all hair types.
Versatile: It can be used to refresh color, tone highlights, blend gray hairs, and add shine.

The versatility of Shades EQ is a major selling point. It can be used for everything from glossing and toning to color correction. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of hair types and desired results.

How to Use Redken Shades EQ

Using Redken Shades EQ is relatively straightforward, but there are a few essential steps to ensure the best results. First, you need to select the right shade. There are numerous shades available, from natural tones to vibrant hues, allowing you to customize the color to your liking. It is important to note that these swatches are generally done on level 9 hair. Consulting with a professional stylist can help you choose the best shade for your hair type and desired outcome.

Next, you will need to mix the color according to the instructions. The standard mixing ratio is 1:1 with Shades EQ Processing Solution. This solution activates the color and ensures even distribution. Shades EQ gloss may be applied with a bowl and brush or bottle and may be diluted with crystal clear to lessen intensity or customize any shade. For specific dilutions, the following guidelines are helpful:

Maximum Dilution: 15ml Shades EQ + 45ml Crystal Clear
Moderate Dilution: 30ml Shades EQ + 30ml Crystal Clear
Minimal Dilution: 45ml Shades EQ + 15ml Crystal Clear
Full Strength: 60ml Shades EQ

Pro Tip for Diluting Shades EQ: Shades EQ can be diluted with 000 Crystal Clear or a 09 or 010 level shade to lessen or lighten the tonal deposit of any Shades EQ formula. 000 Crystal Clear should be used when less color deposit is desired. 09 and 010 level shades are to be used when a lighter color deposit is desired.

Once the mixture is prepared, apply it evenly to clean, dry or slightly damp hair. The application method depends on the desired effect. For all-over color, apply from root to tip. For toning or glossing, focus on the areas that need correction or enhancement. Be sure to apply the gloss evenly to avoid blotchiness.

Shades EQ can appear dark when developing because Shades EQs formula is made up. Process at room temperature for 20 minutes, up to 40 minutes for gray hair. After processing, rinse the hair thoroughly until the water runs clear. There is no need to shampoo. Follow with a conditioner to help lock in moisture and maintain shine.

How Long Does Shades EQ Last?

One of the advantages of Shades EQ is its longevity. You can expect colour results to last from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair type, how frequently you wash your hair, and the products you use. The gradual fading ensures a natural transition, and you can easily reapply the gloss to maintain the color and shine.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

To get the most out of your Redken Shades EQ treatment, consider these helpful tips:

Choose the Right Shade: Consult with a professional or conduct a strand test to ensure the color is right for you.
Prepare Your Hair: Make sure your hair is clean and free of product buildup before applying the gloss.
Apply Evenly: Use a bowl and brush to apply the color evenly to avoid blotchy results.
Process Correctly: Follow the recommended processing time to allow the color to fully develop.
Use Color-Safe Products: To extend the life of your color, use shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Trust the Process: Top tips for using Redken Shades EQ involve trusting the process. The results may not be immediately visible during the application, but the final outcome will be worth it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While using Redken Shades EQ is generally straightforward, avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve your results. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Not Doing a Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying the color to your entire head.
Using the Wrong Developer: Use the Shades EQ Processing Solution, as other developers may not work effectively.
Over-Processing: Dont leave the gloss on longer than the recommended time, as this can lead to uneven results.
Not Rinsing Thoroughly: Rinse your hair until the water runs clear to remove any excess color.
Skipping Conditioner: Always use a color-safe conditioner after rinsing to lock in moisture and enhance shine.

Diluting Shades EQ with Crystal Clear

Shades EQ Crystal Clear is an unpigmented version of Shades EQ. It can be used to add a shot of gloss to dull or lacklustre hair, dilute a color level, reduce tonal intensity, and create an endless palette of color possibilities. It can also be used on its own as a clear glossing service. Shades EQ gloss crystal clear can be mixed with any shade to lessen or lighten the tone of the formula. Mixing in a 1:1 ratio with Shades EQ Processing Solution is crucial.

Benefits of Redken Shades EQ

Redken Shades EQ offers a plethora of benefits for those seeking to enhance their hair color and condition:

Enhanced Shine: The acidic pH helps smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in a radiant shine.
Improved Condition: The formula is designed to condition the hair, leaving it soft and manageable.
Versatile Applications: It can be used for glossing, toning, color correction, and color refreshment.
Gentle Formula: The ammonia-free formula is gentle on the hair and scalp, reducing the risk of damage.
Low Commitment: The demi-permanent formula allows for experimentation without a permanent color change.

Hair Gloss vs. Toner

Many people confuse hair glosses and toners, as they both address similar issues. While both treatments can enhance color and correct tone, there are some key differences:

Hair Gloss: Primarily focuses on adding shine, enhancing existing color, and conditioning the hair.
Toner: Used to neutralize unwanted tones, such as brassiness, and is often used after bleaching or highlighting.

Shades EQ can be used as both a gloss and a toner, making it a versatile option. Whether you want to add shine or correct unwanted tones, Shades EQ can help you achieve your desired results.

Before and After Examples

To truly appreciate the impact of Redken Shades EQ, let's look at some before and after examples. Consider the transformation from light blonde to dark blonde, or the correction of brassy tones to a more natural, cooler shade. These examples demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of Shades EQ in achieving various hair color goals.

For instance, check out articles with before and after pictures of hair toners by Wella and Redken. Wella T18 toner before and after pictures and Wella T28 before and after pictures demonstrate the power of toners in neutralizing unwanted tones. Similarly, John Frieda Brilliant Brunette before and after pictures show how a gloss can enhance the richness and depth of brunette hair.

These visual examples can provide inspiration and demonstrate the real-world impact of Shades EQ and other hair glosses. Like this video by Very Easy Makeup (veryeasymakeup.com)? The effects can be transformative, giving hair a healthier, more vibrant appearance.

Hair gloss treatments, like Redken Shades EQ, offer a transformative experience. The impact of a Redken Shades EQ treatment has become mainstream knowledge. Shiny, glossy color with supreme condition is a hallmark of a successful treatment. But before it was asked for by name, salons worldwide knew of the secret powers it wielded.

Common Questions About Redken Shades EQ

Q: How long does Shades EQ last on hair?

A: You can expect colour results to last from 4 to 6 weeks.

Q: Can I use Shades EQ if I have gray hair?

A: Yes, Shades EQ can blend gray hairs and add shine, but processing time may need to be extended. Process at room temperature for 20 minutes, up to 40 minutes for gray hair.

Q: What is the mixing ratio for Shades EQ?

A: The standard mixing ratio is 1:1 with Shades EQ Processing Solution.

Q: Does Shades EQ offer levels of lift?

A: No, Shades EQ offers no levels of lift. It is a deposit-only color.

Real User Experiences and Reviews

Let's delve into the experiences of individuals who have used Redken Shades EQ. Here are a few comments about using it:

I do a gloss with some SEQ mixture every 3ish months when I touch up my balayage, but I do a clear gloss about 2 months after I fully do my hair just to freshen it up.
I admit I am a bit biased though since I graduated from a Redken school and the only salon Ive ever done hair in is a Redken salon.
I've used Shades EQ gloss three times and don't quite get the hype. Maybe I am using it wrong, but I see very little shine or color change. I have used 7N, 8N, and 9V to tone, and my hair looks like... (about the reviewer - 17 reviews)
When I used the Redken Crystal Clear gloss on my hair, the hair gloss (surprisingly!) didn't make my hair shinier.

The experiences with Shades EQ are varied, so it is important to keep in mind your own hair type and desired outcome when using it.