Glossing Grey Hair: Clear or Tinted?
Grey hair often presents a distinct set of characteristics, primarily a change in cuticle texture that can lead to dullness or brittleness. A gloss treatment provides a semi-permanent solution to smooth the cuticle, reflecting light to create a polished appearance. The choice between clear and tinted options depends on your desired outcome and the specific tone of your hair.
Clear gloss focuses on radiance and manageability without depositing pigment. Tinted gloss, conversely, can neutralize unwanted yellow tones or enhance silver depths.
Understanding the mechanics of your hair’s porosity is essential before applying these treatments at home. This guide outlines the standard application for a professional-grade finish.
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Total time
- 45 minutes
- Cost
- Moderate
- Cadence
- Every 4 weeks
Ingredients
- Silicones: Provides the reflective sheen associated with gloss.
- Ceramides: Helps fill in gaps in the hair cuticle for smoothness.
Tools List
- Clarifying shampoo
- Tint brush
- Wide-tooth comb
- Protective gloves
Step by step
Prepare a clean canvas
Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove mineral deposits and styling residue. Do not apply conditioner, as it will create a barrier that prevents the gloss from adhering to the hair shaft. Towel-dry your hair until it is damp but not dripping.
Tip: Use a microfiber towel to avoid excess friction.Section and protect
Divide your hair into four manageable quadrants using clips. Apply a light layer of petroleum jelly along your hairline and ears to prevent the pigment in tinted gloss from staining your skin. Wear protective gloves throughout the process.
Tip: Secure sections with plastic clips to avoid metal reaction.Apply the product
Starting from the roots, apply the gloss using a tint brush to ensure even coverage through the mid-lengths and ends. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product thoroughly. Ensure each strand is saturated but not saturated to the point of dripping.
Tip: Work quickly to maintain even processing times.Process and monitor
Allow the gloss to sit on your hair for the time specified by the manufacturer, usually 20 minutes. Do not use heat, as this can alter the deposition of the gloss. Observe the hair to ensure the product remains emulsified.
Tip: Set a timer to prevent over-processing.Rinse and finish
Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs completely clear. Follow with a light, sulphate-free conditioner to seal the cuticle. Avoid washing with shampoo for 48 hours to allow the gloss to fully set.
Tip: Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticle.
Trouble
My hair feels dry after the gloss.
Ensure you are using a sulphate-free conditioner after rinsing. Dryness often occurs if the clarifying shampoo was too harsh.
The tinted gloss is too dark.
Next time, dilute the tinted gloss with a clear gloss of the same brand to adjust the intensity of the pigment.
The gloss faded in one wash.
You may be using products that contain strong detergents. Switch to gentle, colour-safe formulas to preserve the treatment.
Can I use gloss on chemically treated hair?
This guide strictly addresses gloss for natural grey hair. Consult a professional for chemically treated hair to avoid adverse reactions.
A gloss does not change your natural colour; it changes how your natural colour interacts with light.
Consistency is more important than product volume when working with grey hair.