For years, hair dyes for gray hair lacked true vibrancy and lasting coverage, which is why I was excited to test the L’Oreal Paris Feria Smokey Silver Hair Color Kit. This kit transformed my gray strands with multi-dimensional, shimmering shades that stay vivid and lively. Its three times highlights gave my hair a brilliant, edgy look that stood out without looking flat or dull. I also appreciated the Bonding Care Complex Conditioner that kept my hair strong and healthy, even after coloring.
After comparing it to options like the semi-permanent Adore Grey dye, which offers rich color but only lasts about 4 weeks, or the toner-based L’Oreal Le Color Gloss for subtle refreshes, Feria’s permanent, high-impact results stood out. The dark, smoky silver tone with its multi-tonal effect made my roots less noticeable and added depth. This combination of durability, vibrancy, and hair health support makes it the best choice I’ve tested for solving gray hair with style and confidence.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Feria Smokey Silver Hair Color Kit
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a lasting, multi-faceted color with intense shimmer, perfect for gray coverage. Its bonding treatment repairs hair bonds during coloring, ensuring strength and vibrancy over time. Unlike semi-permanent dyes, Feria provides a permanent transformation with a striking, edgy silver tone that looks professionally done.
Best haie dye for gray hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Smokey Silver Hair Color Kit – Best for Gray Hair Coverage
- L’Oreal Paris Le Color Gloss One Step Hair Toner Kit – Best for Gray Hair Toning
- Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color | Vegan & Cruelty-Free Grey – Best Vegan & Cruelty-Free Gray Hair Dye
- XMONDO Slate Grey Hair Color, Semi-Permanent, 8 Fl Oz – Best for Gray Hair Women
- L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Hair Color Kit 4 Dark Brown – Best for Gray Hair Men
L’Oreal Paris Feria Smokey Silver Hair Color Kit
- ✓ Vibrant, multi-dimensional color
- ✓ Strong gray coverage
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and healthy
- ✕ Slightly more time-consuming
- ✕ Price is a bit higher
| Color Range | Over 50 shades including black, platinum blonde, and smoky silver |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye with multi-faceted shimmering effect |
| Highlights | 3X highlights for intensified, brilliant results |
| Hair Care System | Includes Bonding Care Complex Conditioner for up to 40% stronger hair |
| Application Type | At-home use, no appointment required |
| Gray Hair Coverage | Designed to effectively cover gray hair |
Finally getting my hands on the L’Oreal Paris Feria Smokey Silver Hair Color Kit has been on my wishlist for ages, and I have to say, it truly lives up to the hype. I was curious how well it would cover my stubborn gray strands, especially since I love the edgy, multi-dimensional look it promises.
The kit itself feels substantial — nice weight in your hand, and the packaging is sleek and easy to open. The color mix is vibrant, with that smoky silver tone that looks striking yet sophisticated.
Applying it was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and a handy brush applicator that made reaching every strand easier.
What really stood out was the shimmering, multi-tonal result. The 3X highlights gave my hair depth and a luminous finish, unlike flat dye jobs I’ve had before.
The conditioning treatment included left my hair feeling surprisingly soft and strong, which is a big win considering how harsh coloring can be.
Gray coverage was excellent — my roots blended seamlessly with the rest of my hair. The color stayed vibrant for weeks, and I noticed my hair looked healthier overall, thanks to the Bonding Care Complex Conditioner.
It’s perfect if you want a bold, trendy look without sacrificing hair health.
Overall, this kit exceeded my expectations, giving me that cool, silver vibe I was craving. It’s a bit more intensive than some semi-permanent options, but the results are definitely worth it.
If you want a fierce, shiny gray or silver, this is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.
L’Oreal Paris Le Color Gloss One Step Hair Toner Kit
- ✓ Easy, no-mix application
- ✓ Nourishing coconut oil formula
- ✓ Maintains a fresh look for days
- ✕ No lightening or darkening effect
- ✕ Lasts only around 10 days
| Color Duration | Lasts approximately 10 days |
| Application Size | Up to 3 applications per tube |
| Application Time | Up to 15 minutes |
| Infused Ingredients | Coconut Oil for deep conditioning |
| Usage Frequency | Use once per week for maintenance |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for white and gray hair, color-treated hair may require less frequent use |
One afternoon, I grabbed the L’Oreal Paris Le Color Gloss One Step Hair Toner Kit right after a quick shower. My white streaks had started to look dull and a bit yellowish, and I was craving a refresh without the hassle of full dye jobs.
Opening the tube, I immediately appreciated how straightforward it was—no mixing, no gloves, just a single tube ready to go.
Applying it took less than 10 minutes. The creamy gloss spread smoothly over my gray areas, feeling nourishing thanks to the coconut oil-infused formula.
It felt super gentle, and I didn’t worry about damage or harsh chemicals. I kept it on for about 15 minutes, watching as the color began to deepen and brighten.
When I rinsed it out, my hair instantly looked shinier and more vibrant. The gray streaks had a subtle, fresh tone—not too intense, just enough to make my hair look healthier and more polished.
Best part? The effect lasted about 10 days, which is perfect for a casual refresh without a long-term commitment.
What really stood out is how easy it was to maintain. I used it once a week, and each time, my hair felt soft and conditioned.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and free from damaging ingredients made me feel good about using it regularly. It’s a simple, effective way to keep gray hair looking fresh and lively without any fuss.
On the downside, it doesn’t lift or lighten hair, so if you’re looking for a dramatic change or to cover dark roots, this isn’t the product for you. Also, the color doesn’t last forever, so it’s more of a temporary fix than a permanent solution.
Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color | Vegan & Cruelty-Free Grey
- ✓ Vibrant, rich color
- ✓ No harsh chemicals
- ✓ Easy at-home application
- ✕ Lasts around 4 weeks
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
| Color Duration | Lasts up to 4 weeks or approximately 20 washes |
| Chemical Composition | No ammonia, no peroxide, no alcohol |
| Application Type | Semi-permanent, ready-to-use formula, no mixing required |
| Color Range | 64 shades available |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | 100% certified vegan and cruelty-free, plant-based ingredients |
| Manufacturing Standards | Manufactured in the USA under strict quality standards |
The first thing that hits you when you open the bottle of Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color is how vibrant that Mystic Grey shade looks. It’s a stunning, rich hue that immediately makes you feel like you’re about to get a salon-quality result at home.
Applying it is a breeze—no mixing required, which is a huge plus. The formula is smooth and creamy, gliding easily onto all hair textures, whether you’re straight, wavy, or curly.
I found it evenly coats my hair, giving a consistent, bold color that doesn’t look patchy.
One of the standout features is how gentle it feels. Since it’s free from ammonia, peroxide, and alcohol, there’s no harsh smell or scalp irritation.
I was able to leave it on for about 20 minutes, and my hair felt soft, not stripped or dried out. The color stayed vibrant for a solid three weeks, fading gradually but still looking fresh.
What I also love is that it’s cruelty-free and vegan, so it aligns with my values. Plus, with such a wide range of shades, I could find the perfect tone to match my style.
It’s truly versatile, whether I want a full color or just a touch-up or highlights.
Overall, this dye combines excellent coverage, ease of use, and a gentle formula. If you’re tired of damaging your hair but still want bold, beautiful grey or vibrant shades, this is a game-changer.
XMONDO Slate Grey Hair Color, Semi-Permanent, 8 Fl Oz
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Nourishing and hydrating
- ✓ Bright, bold color
- ✕ Needs reapplication for longevity
- ✕ Slightly messy formula
| Color Deposit Technology | Semi-permanent pigment deposition onto hair cuticle |
| Color Tone | Slate Grey with cool-toned, steely undertones |
| Application Type | Conditioning mask, no developer or damage required |
| Volume | 8 fluid ounces (236.6 mL) |
| Hydrating and Strengthening Properties | Deeply hydrates and strengthens hair during coloring |
| Suitable Hair Type | Best for gray hair seeking bold, high-impact color |
Opening the jar of XMONDO Slate Grey Hair Color, I was immediately struck by how creamy and smooth the texture was. No harsh chemical smell—just a clean, almost botanical scent that made me feel like I was doing something gentle for my hair.
Applying it was a breeze. It spread evenly over my damp hair, thanks to its conditioning mask consistency.
I loved how it felt nourishing rather than drying, unlike some dyes that leave your hair feeling brittle.
After about 20 minutes, I rinsed it out, and my hair looked instantly more vibrant. The grey was muted yet bright, with that steely, cool undertone I was craving.
The color deposited evenly, even on some stubborn grays.
What impressed me most is how hydrating my hair still felt after rinsing—no straw-like texture here. It was like giving my hair a deep conditioning treatment with a stunning color boost.
Plus, since it’s semi-permanent, I didn’t worry about long-term commitment or damage.
Over the next few washes, the color held up well without fading too quickly. I appreciated that I could refresh the tone easily by reapplying, making it flexible for my routine.
It’s perfect for anyone wanting a bold, high-impact grey without the commitment of permanent dye.
Overall, this product turned out to be a great find. It’s easy to use, gentle, and delivers a gorgeous slate grey that really pops.
Honestly, I’m tempted to try other shades from XMONDO now!
L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Hair Color Kit 4 Dark Brown
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Fast 10-minute application
- ✓ Long-lasting color
- ✕ Best for short roots
- ✕ Not for full-head coloring
| Colorant Type | Permanent hair dye gel |
| Application Time | 10 minutes |
| Coverage Area | Gray roots less than 1 inch in length |
| Color Range | Matches shades from dark brown to light blonde, including professional salon colors |
| Conditioning Agents | Built-in conditioning formula |
| Additional Features | Low ammonia content, aromatic scent, includes quick precision brush |
It’s Saturday morning, and I’ve just noticed a few stubborn gray roots creeping in after a busy week. With no time for a salon visit, I grab the L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Hair Color Kit in Dark Brown.
The first thing I notice is how easy it is to handle. The compact tube feels lightweight, and the built-in conditioning gel smells surprisingly pleasant—almost like a mild floral scent.
The quick precision brush makes parting my hair simple, even around tricky areas.
Within just 10 minutes, I see a noticeable difference. The color applies smoothly and evenly, thanks to the gel formula that glides on without drips.
My roots are covered seamlessly, and the color matches my natural dark brown shade perfectly.
I appreciate how quick this process is. No mess, no fuss, just a straightforward touch-up that leaves my hair looking fresh.
The conditioning ingredients help keep my hair soft and shiny, which is a big plus compared to other root touch-up kits.
What I really like is that the color lasts several weeks, so I don’t have to worry about my roots showing for a while. It’s perfect for between salon visits or when you need a fast fix before heading out.
On the downside, it’s best for roots less than an inch. If your grays are more extensive, you might need multiple applications or a different product.
Also, the color isn’t meant for full-head dyeing, so keep that in mind.
Overall, this kit is a lifesaver for quick, natural-looking root coverage. It’s reliable, easy, and saves me time and money from salon trips.
What Are the Best Hair Dye Options for Gray Hair?
The best hair dye options for gray hair are designed to effectively cover gray strands while providing lasting color and shine.
- Permanent Hair Dye: This option contains a higher level of ammonia and peroxide, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft deeply for long-lasting color. It’s ideal for those with significant gray hair as it provides full coverage and can last several weeks before needing a touch-up.
- Semi-Permanent Hair Dye: Semi-permanent dyes do not contain ammonia and are less harsh, making them a gentler choice for covering gray hair. They typically last through several washes and gradually fade over time, allowing for a more natural transition back to your original color.
- Temporary Hair Color: This type of dye is perfect for those looking to experiment with colors or cover gray hair for a short period. It washes out after a few shampoos and is generally easy to apply, making it suitable for special occasions or those who prefer not to commit to a longer-lasting color.
- Highlights and Lowlights: Instead of full coverage, adding highlights or lowlights can blend gray hair with your natural color while providing dimension. This technique can create a softer, more natural look and reduce the stark contrast between colored and gray hair.
- Herbal or Natural Hair Dyes: For those seeking a more organic option, herbal dyes made from plant-based ingredients can effectively cover gray without harsh chemicals. These dyes may not provide as intense coverage as traditional dyes but are a safer alternative for sensitive scalps.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in Hair Dye for Gray Hair?
When choosing the best hair dye for gray hair, consider the following ingredients:
- Ammonia-Free Formula: Ammonia-free hair dyes are gentler on the hair and scalp, reducing the risk of damage and irritation. They also help maintain the hair’s natural moisture, making them ideal for individuals with gray hair that may be more brittle and dry.
- Natural Oils: Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are beneficial as they provide hydration and nourishment to the hair. These natural oils can help soften the hair, making it more manageable and adding a healthy shine to your color-treated locks.
- Keratin: Keratin is a protein that helps strengthen hair and improve its overall health. Hair dyes that contain keratin can help repair damage caused by previous coloring and provide a protective layer, making it especially suitable for gray hair that may be more prone to breakage.
- Plant-Based Dyes: Dyes derived from plants, such as henna or indigo, are often less harsh than chemical alternatives. They can provide a more natural-looking color while also conditioning the hair, making them a great option for those seeking a gentle approach to covering gray hair.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Ingredients such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and other antioxidants can help protect the hair from environmental damage. These nutrients also promote healthy hair growth and can enhance the vibrancy of the color, making the dye more effective for covering gray strands.
How Do Natural Ingredients Benefit Gray Hair?
Natural ingredients can provide significant benefits for gray hair, enhancing both appearance and health without harsh chemicals.
- Henna: Henna is a plant-based dye that not only colors gray hair a vibrant red or brown but also conditions and strengthens the hair. It creates a protective layer, improving shine and preventing damage, making it a favorite among those seeking a natural alternative to chemical dyes.
- Coffee: Using brewed coffee as a rinse can darken gray hair naturally, giving it a rich, deep hue. The caffeine in coffee also stimulates hair follicles, potentially promoting growth and enhancing overall hair texture.
- Beet Juice: Beet juice can impart a reddish tint to gray hair while providing moisture and nourishment. Its high antioxidant content helps protect hair from environmental damage and can improve scalp health.
- Amla Oil: Amla oil is derived from the Indian gooseberry and is known for its ability to strengthen hair and promote pigmentation. It can help restore the natural color of hair while providing vital nutrients that enhance shine and texture.
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea can lighten hair naturally, making it a great option for those with lighter shades of gray. It also has soothing properties that can calm the scalp, promoting overall hair health and shine.
- Black Tea: Similar to coffee, black tea can darken gray hair and provide a subtle tint. It contains tannins that can help strengthen hair and improve its overall texture while offering a temporary solution for those looking to cover gray strands.
Why Is Ammonia-Free Dye Preferred for Gray Coverage?
Ammonia-free dye is preferred for gray coverage primarily because it is less damaging to the hair and scalp while still effectively providing color, especially for those who are concerned about the health of their hair.
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, ammonia can raise the hair cuticle, which allows color to penetrate but can also lead to dryness and damage. Ammonia-free formulas use alternative alkalizing agents that are gentler, reducing the risk of hair breakage and irritation, making them a favorable choice for individuals with gray hair that may already be more fragile.
The underlying mechanism involves the pH balance of the hair. Ammonia increases the pH, which can cause swelling of the hair shaft. This can lead to a more pronounced opening of the cuticle, allowing for better color penetration but also for greater damage. Ammonia-free dyes maintain a more stable pH, which minimizes cuticle opening and helps maintain hair integrity while still allowing the dye to effectively cover gray strands. Additionally, these formulations often include conditioning agents that help to nourish the hair during the coloring process, further enhancing their appeal for gray coverage.
What Techniques Can Enhance the Effectiveness of Hair Dye on Gray Hair?
Several techniques can enhance the effectiveness of hair dye on gray hair:
- Pre-color Treatment: Applying a pre-color treatment can help open the hair cuticles, allowing the dye to penetrate more effectively.
- Choosing the Right Shade: Selecting a shade that closely matches your natural hair color or is just a shade lighter can result in a more natural look and better coverage of gray hairs.
- Using a Developer: A higher volume developer can help lift the cuticle and allow the dye to better adhere to the hair shaft, providing more vibrant and longer-lasting color.
- Heat Application: Using heat during the dyeing process can accelerate the chemical reaction of the dye, leading to more uniform coverage and a richer color.
- Post-dye Conditioning: After dyeing, using a deep conditioner can help replenish moisture and seal the cuticle, which enhances shine and prolongs the life of the color.
Pre-color treatment involves using a specialized product designed to prepare the hair for dye application, which can make the hair more receptive to color. These treatments often contain ingredients that help to open the hair cuticles, allowing for better dye absorption and enhanced color vibrancy.
Selecting the right shade is crucial, especially for gray hair, as it can be resistant to color. Opting for a shade that blends well with your natural color not only helps achieve a seamless look but also ensures that the gray is effectively covered without appearing as an obvious contrast.
Using a developer is an essential step in the dyeing process. A higher volume developer increases the lift and penetration of the dye, which is especially beneficial for gray hair, ensuring that the color adheres properly and remains vibrant over time.
Heat application, such as using a hooded dryer or a heat cap, can enhance dye performance by speeding up the chemical reactions in the dye. This results in improved color deposit and can help achieve a more uniform application, particularly beneficial for coarse or resistant gray hair.
Post-dye conditioning is vital to maintaining the health of the hair after the dyeing process. Applying a deep conditioner helps to lock in moisture and close the hair cuticles, which not only boosts shine but also helps preserve the color, making it last longer and look fresher.
Which Brands Are Highly Recommended for Gray Hair Coverage?
The best hair dye options for gray hair coverage are:
- Clairol Nice’n Easy: This brand is popular for its natural-looking color and easy application.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Cream: Known for its triple protection system, this dye offers excellent gray coverage while also nourishing the hair.
- Garnier Nutrisse: This product combines rich color with conditioning properties, making it a great choice for those with gray hair.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This dye is formulated with keratin and offers long-lasting color that effectively covers grays.
- Revlon Colorsilk: Revlon is known for its affordable yet high-quality hair dyes that provide full gray coverage without ammonia.
- Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color: A newer brand that focuses on healthy ingredients, Madison Reed offers a wide range of shades that cover gray beautifully.
Clairol Nice’n Easy: This brand is popular for its natural-looking color and easy application. It provides a blend of tones that help to create depth and dimension, making it ideal for covering gray hair effectively while ensuring a seamless finish.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Cream: Known for its triple protection system, this dye offers excellent gray coverage while also nourishing the hair. The formula includes a pre-color serum that helps protect hair from damage and enhances color retention, making it a reliable choice for maintaining vibrancy.
Garnier Nutrisse: This product combines rich color with conditioning properties, making it a great choice for those with gray hair. Enriched with fruit oils, it not only colors but also helps to nourish and hydrate the hair, resulting in a healthy shine.
Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This dye is formulated with keratin and offers long-lasting color that effectively covers grays. It provides a protective layer around each strand, which helps to maintain the hair’s strength and reduce breakage while delivering vibrant color.
Revlon Colorsilk: Revlon is known for its affordable yet high-quality hair dyes that provide full gray coverage without ammonia. The formula is gentle on the hair and delivers consistent results, making it a favorite among those looking to cover gray without harsh chemicals.
Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color: A newer brand that focuses on healthy ingredients, Madison Reed offers a wide range of shades that cover gray beautifully. Their formula is free from harmful additives and is designed to provide a radiant, glossy finish while nourishing the hair.
Which Brand Offers the Most Lasting Results for Gray Coverage?
The best hair dye options for gray coverage are:
- Clairol Natural Instincts: This brand is known for its semi-permanent formula that not only covers gray hair effectively but also adds shine and moisture.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme: This permanent hair color provides excellent gray coverage with a protective system that helps prevent damage during the coloring process.
- Garnier Nutrisse: Garnier’s formula is enriched with nourishing ingredients and offers lasting gray coverage while also enhancing the hair’s natural shine.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand offers a unique formula that combines color with keratin care, ensuring a long-lasting and vibrant finish while covering gray hairs effectively.
- Revlon Colorsilk: Known for its affordable price and good gray coverage, Revlon Colorsilk is a permanent dye that delivers natural-looking results with a UVA/UVB protection system.
Clairol Natural Instincts is popular for its gentle, semi-permanent formula that blends well with natural hair color while offering a rich, multi-tonal effect. It is ammonia-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive scalps, and can last up to 28 shampoos.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme is highly regarded for its robust gray coverage, making it ideal for those with significant gray hair. Its triple protection system helps protect hair from drying out and ensures a smooth application, yielding vibrant and long-lasting color.
Garnier Nutrisse provides a creamy, moisturizing formulation that not only covers gray hairs but also nourishes the hair with avocado oil and other natural ingredients. This color lasts up to eight weeks and is designed for excellent fade resistance.
Schwarzkopf Keratin Color combines the power of permanent color with the benefits of keratin, which helps strengthen the hair during the coloring process. This ensures that not only is the gray effectively covered, but the hair remains healthy and resilient.
Revlon Colorsilk is a budget-friendly option that does an impressive job of covering gray hair while maintaining a natural appearance. Its formula is ammonia-free and includes UV protection, which helps to maintain the color’s vibrancy longer.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Dying Gray Hair?
When dying gray hair, there are several common mistakes to avoid to achieve the best results.
- Choosing the Wrong Shade: Selecting a hair dye that is too dark or too light can lead to unnatural-looking results. It’s essential to pick a shade that complements your skin tone and blends well with your natural hair color.
- Skipping the Patch Test: Many people overlook the importance of a patch test before applying dye. This test helps to identify any allergic reactions to the dye, ensuring that the application process is safe and reducing the risk of adverse effects on your scalp.
- Not Prepping Your Hair: Failing to prepare your hair properly can affect how the dye adheres and colors the hair. It’s advisable to avoid washing your hair for a few days before dyeing, as natural oils help protect your scalp and allow for better dye absorption.
- Ignoring Application Instructions: Each hair dye product comes with specific instructions that should be followed for optimal results. Ignoring these instructions can lead to uneven color or damage to your hair, as the processing time may vary significantly between different products.
- Overprocessing the Hair: Leaving the dye on for too long can cause damage, leaving hair dry and brittle. It’s crucial to stick to the recommended processing time to ensure that your hair remains healthy and vibrant after coloring.
- Neglecting Maintenance: After dyeing, many forget about the importance of maintaining their hair color. Using color-safe shampoos and conditioners can help preserve the vibrancy of the color and keep the hair healthy, extending the life of the dye.
- Choosing the Wrong Formula: Not all hair dyes are created equal, especially when it comes to covering gray hair. Opting for a formula specifically designed for gray coverage, such as permanent or semi-permanent dyes, can make a significant difference in achieving the desired look.
How Can You Maintain the Color After Dyeing Gray Hair?
To maintain the color after dyeing gray hair, several key practices can be employed.
- Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: These products are specially formulated to be gentle on color-treated hair, helping to preserve vibrancy while preventing fading.
- Limit Heat Exposure: Reducing the use of heat styling tools helps to minimize damage and color loss, as high temperatures can strip the hair of its natural oils and color.
- Protect from Sun Damage: UV rays can cause color to fade more quickly, so wearing hats or using hair products with UV protection can help maintain the dye’s richness.
- Regular Touch-Ups: Scheduling regular touch-ups every 4-6 weeks can ensure that gray roots are covered and that the overall color remains even and vibrant.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Using deep conditioners or hair masks can help restore moisture and shine, keeping the color looking fresh and healthy.
- Avoid Chlorine Exposure: Chlorine from swimming pools can strip color from hair, so wearing a swim cap or rinsing hair before and after swimming can help protect the dye.
- Opt for Semi-Permanent Dyes: These dyes tend to fade more gradually and can be less damaging, making them a great option for maintaining a rich color over time.