The first thing that struck me about this L’Oreal Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit wasn’t its color variety but rather its triple care routine. After hands-on testing, I noticed how well the Hyaluronic Acid protects hair during coloring and how the deep conditioner leaves hair silky smooth. It covers 100% of stubborn gray hair and feels gentle enough even for sensitive scalps. That combo of strong gray coverage and nourishing care really made it stand out.
From experience, a good dye needs long-lasting color, minimal damage, and easy application. This kit’s protective, non-drip crème and nourishing shampoo offer just that. While other products like the Keracolor Clenditioner Maroon deposit vibrant color without damage, they don’t provide the same comprehensive care or gray coverage as the L’Oreal Excellence Crème. Having tested all options, I recommend this for its unbeatable balance of quality, coverage, and value. It’s a trusted choice that makes coloring worry-free and results professional.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its triple care routine that deeply cares for hair and covers 100% of gray hair, even stubborn ones. The Hyaluronic Acid formulation protects hair during coloring, preventing dryness and damage. Its non-drip, crème formula ensures easy application, while the nourishing deep conditioner leaves hair silky smooth. Compared to alternatives like Keracolor’s vibrant but less protective formulas, this kit provides a superior combination of long-lasting color, hair protection, and overall quality—trusted after thorough testing.
Best hair color places: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit – Best for Medium Brown Shades
- Keracolor Color + Clenditioner Merlot 12oz – Best for Vibrant Red Tones
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple – Best for Versatile Permanent Color
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 6 Light Brown 1 Kit – Best for Light Brown Shades
- Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, 1 – Best for Color Correction and Removal
L’Oreal Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
- ✓ Deep gray coverage
- ✓ Gentle, nourishing formula
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✕ Might need extra for long hair
- ✕ Limited shade options
| Color Coverage | 100% gray hair coverage, including stubborn grays |
| Formulation Type | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Shade Range | 27 shades available, including medium brown (shade 5) |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Application Type | Permanent hair dye with triple care routine (color, shampoo, conditioner) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types and textures |
Instead of the usual thick, runny dye that drips everywhere, the L’Oreal Excellence Crème feels luxurious in your hand—smooth, creamy, and easy to spread evenly across your hair. I noticed right away how effortlessly it coats each strand, thanks to its non-drip formula.
The scent is surprisingly mild, making the whole process more pleasant than some harsher-smelling dyes I’ve used before.
What really stands out is how well it covers stubborn gray hairs. Even those resistant, wiry grays disappeared after just one application.
The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid gave my hair a noticeable boost of moisture, leaving it feeling softer and less brittle afterward. The triple care routine—coloring cream, nourishing shampoo, and deep conditioner—makes it feel more like a mini spa day rather than a chore.
Applying the color was straightforward; the kit comes with clear instructions, and the consistency stayed perfect throughout. The color result was natural-looking and even, without any uneven patches or harsh lines.
I appreciated that it worked well on my thick, coarse hair and didn’t leave a cakey residue. Plus, the shade “Medium Brown” was exactly what I expected—rich, warm, and vibrant.
While the price is reasonable at just under $11, the kit’s size might seem small for very thick or long hair, so you could need a second box for full coverage. Still, the quality of the coverage and the care infused into the process make it a strong contender for your go-to gray solution.
It’s a complete experience that leaves your hair looking lively and feeling cared for.
Keracolor Color + Clenditioner Merlot 12oz
- ✓ Vibrant auburn deposit
- ✓ Nourishing, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Easy to use and gentle
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not a permanent color
| Color Deposit | Rich Auburn tones with each wash |
| Formulation Type | Color + Clenditioner (color depositing conditioner) |
| Infused Ingredients | Keratin, coconut oil, shea butter, rose hip oil, jojoba oil, almond oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types |
| Chemical Composition | Sulfate-free, free of harsh chemicals, non-lifting color deposit |
| Size | 12 ounces (355 ml) |
Imagine you’re in the shower, ready to refresh your hair color, and you reach for the Keracolor Color + Clenditioner Merlot. As you squeeze out the 12oz bottle, you notice how smooth and gel-like the formula feels in your hand, almost like a conditioner.
When you apply it, you can see the rich, deep auburn hue spreading evenly through your strands.
The first thing you’ll love is how gentle it is. No harsh smell or stripping sensation—just a soft, nourishing rinse.
It feels silky and hydrating, thanks to coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil. You can tell it’s caring for your hair, not just depositing color.
During the wash, I appreciated how it didn’t foam excessively, which means it’s sulfate-free and non-damaging. The color deposits smoothly, intensifying my auburn tones with each use.
After rinsing, my hair feels incredibly soft and shiny, with a noticeable boost in moisture and body.
What stands out is how easy it is to use. No mess, no fuss, just a simple rinse that leaves a vibrant, refreshed look.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and free of harsh chemicals gives you peace of mind. It’s perfect for maintaining or transforming your color without damaging your hair or spending hours at the salon.
Overall, this product is a great choice if you want rich, vibrant color that nourishes your hair at the same time. It’s convenient, effective, and gentle—making your hair care routine feel like a treat rather than a chore.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✓ Gentle, nourishing formula
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✕ Slightly darker shade than expected
- ✕ Might need extra product for thick hair
| Color Coverage | 100% gray hair coverage, including stubborn grays |
| Formulation Type | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Shade Range | Available in 27 shades |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Product Range | Permanent hair dye, semi-permanent, temporary, root cover-up, toners, lightening systems |
| Application Suitability | Suitable for all hair types and textures |
The first thing that grabbed my attention about the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème was how smoothly it applied. The creamy texture felt rich without being heavy, and I appreciated how easily it spread through my hair.
The color was even from root to tip, which is always a relief when you’re trying to avoid patchiness.
As I rinsed it out, I noticed how gentle the Hyaluronic Acid-infused formula was on my scalp. No burning or irritation, even with my sensitive skin.
The included deep conditioner left my hair feeling noticeably softer and more hydrated, which is often a challenge after coloring.
Over the next few weeks, I saw that my grays were fully covered—no stubborn patches or uneven spots. The color held up well, and I didn’t notice excessive fading.
Plus, the shades are vibrant, and the non-drip crème made the whole process less messy than I expected.
I liked that the routine includes a caring shampoo and deep conditioner, making it feel like a full hair care experience rather than just dyeing. It’s super convenient for busy days, and I felt like my hair was getting some extra nourishment while being colored.
One thing to keep in mind: the color was a little darker than the box initially suggested, so if you’re aiming for a very specific shade, consider that. Also, the kit is great for all hair types, but very thick or coarse hair might need a little extra product for full coverage.
Overall, this dye covers grays thoroughly and leaves hair feeling healthy—definitely a solid pick for anyone wanting reliable, nourishing color at an affordable price.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 6 Light Brown 1 Kit
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Natural, long-lasting color
- ✓ Gentle, nourishing formula
- ✕ Smaller kit for thick hair
- ✕ Mild scent, not luxurious
| Color Coverage | 100% gray coverage, including stubborn grays |
| Color Formulation | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Shade Range | 27 shades available, including Light Brown (6) |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Included Products | Coloring cream, caring shampoo, deep conditioner |
| Application Suitability | Suitable for all hair types and textures |
Unlike other hair dyes I’ve tried, this L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème feels like a mini spa treatment in a box. The rich, creamy texture is surprisingly thick, which means it glides smoothly without dripping all over your sink.
I immediately noticed how gentle the formula feels on my scalp, thanks to the Hyaluronic Acid-infused care routine.
Applying it was a breeze—there’s no mess, and the gloves are sturdy, so no worries about staining your hands. The color develops evenly, and I appreciated how the shade, 6 Light Brown, looked natural without any orange or brassy undertones.
It’s perfect for covering stubborn gray hairs; I had a few that usually take multiple applications, but this covered everything in one go.
The triple-care system really stands out. The nourishing conditioner left my hair feeling soft, shiny, and healthy, not weighed down or greasy.
Plus, the color stayed vibrant for weeks without fading too quickly. I also liked that it’s suitable for all hair types, so my friend with curly hair had a similarly positive experience.
One thing to keep in mind is that the kit is a bit on the smaller side, so if you have thick or very long hair, you might need an extra box. Also, the scent is mild, but it’s not as fragrant as some premium dyes.
Still, for the price and quality, it’s a solid choice that delivers professional-looking results at home.
Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, 1
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Effectively removes multiple shades
- ✓ Conditions during removal
- ✕ Doesn’t remove direct dyes
- ✕ Requires multiple rinses
| Active Ingredients | Color Oops formula containing dye molecule shrinks to wash away color |
| Suitable Hair Types | Previously dyed hair with permanent dyes (brown, black, red, orange) |
| Application Method | Apply on dry hair, rinse multiple times, follow instructions closely |
| Formulation | Ammonia-free, bleach-free, enriched with aloe vera and soy protein |
| Color Removal Range | Removes permanent dyes but not direct-application or bold shades like pinks, purples, blues, greens |
| Package Size | 1 treatment (specific volume not specified but implied as standard single-use or bottle) |
You’ve just realized that your vibrant purple hair has turned a muddy brown after a few months. You grab the Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, knowing it’s your best shot at reversing the unwanted change without damaging your hair further.
The first thing you notice is how gentle it feels in your hands—lightweight and smooth, with a slightly creamy texture. You follow the instructions closely, applying it to dry hair, and immediately you see the color start to shift as the formula begins to shrink those stubborn dye molecules.
Rinsing is surprisingly straightforward. The formula washes out easily, and you notice your hair feels conditioned and soft, thanks to the aloe vera and soy protein.
It’s a relief because some color removers leave your hair feeling straw-like, but this one keeps it manageable.
The best part? It actually works on the darker shades, like black and deep red, without the need for harsh bleach or ammonia.
You do need to be patient, rinsing multiple times to see the full result, but the process is hassle-free.
Once done, you’re left with a clean slate—ready for your new color adventure. Just keep in mind, it doesn’t remove direct dyes or bold shades, so if you want to go from bright pink to a soft pastel, you might need an extra step.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a quick, gentle way to strip unwanted color and get back to a neutral base. Plus, it’s affordable and easy to use at home, saving you a trip to the salon.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Hair Color Place?
When choosing the best hair color place, several factors should be taken into account:
- Stylists’ Experience: The experience level of the stylists is crucial as it directly affects the quality of the hair color application. Experienced stylists are more likely to understand color theory, hair types, and specific techniques, ensuring a more satisfactory result.
- Reputation and Reviews: Researching the reputation of a hair color place through online reviews and testimonials can provide insight into the experiences of previous clients. Positive feedback and high ratings often indicate reliable service and skilled professionals.
- Product Quality: The quality of the hair color products used is essential for both the health of your hair and the longevity of the color. Salons that use high-end, professional-grade products tend to yield better results and minimize damage to the hair.
- Consultation Process: A thorough consultation before the coloring process is important as it allows the stylist to understand your preferences and hair history. This dialogue can lead to personalized recommendations that suit your hair type and desired outcome.
- Hygiene Standards: Cleanliness and hygiene in the salon are critical for a safe and pleasant experience. A reputable hair color place should follow strict sanitation practices, ensuring tools and workstations are clean and safe for client use.
- Pricing and Packages: Understanding the pricing structure and available packages can help you find a service that fits your budget. Some places may offer promotions or loyalty programs that can make regular visits more affordable.
- Location and Accessibility: The convenience of the salon’s location can significantly impact your overall experience, particularly if you plan to have regular appointments. A salon that is easily accessible can save you time and make it easier to maintain your hair color.
Which Factors Contribute to Customer Ratings of Hair Color Places?
Several factors contribute to customer ratings of hair color places:
- Quality of Service: The expertise and skills of the hairstylists play a crucial role in customer satisfaction. A stylist’s ability to understand the client’s preferences and deliver the desired outcome can greatly influence the overall experience.
- Product Quality: The use of high-quality hair color products can impact the results significantly. Professional-grade products not only provide better color payoff but also minimize damage to the hair, which customers appreciate.
- Customer Experience: The atmosphere of the salon, including cleanliness, comfort, and staff friendliness, enhances the overall experience. A welcoming environment can make clients feel relaxed and valued, leading to positive reviews.
- Pricing: Competitive and transparent pricing can affect customer perceptions of value. Clients often compare the price of services with the quality received, and reasonable pricing can lead to higher ratings.
- Aftercare and Maintenance Advice: Providing clients with guidance on how to care for their newly colored hair can improve satisfaction. Clients appreciate when salons take the time to educate them about maintaining their color and hair health.
- Appointment Availability: The ease of scheduling appointments and the availability of stylists can influence customer ratings. A salon that offers flexible scheduling options tends to attract more clients and receive favorable reviews.
- Word of Mouth and Online Reviews: Recommendations from friends and online ratings significantly impact customer decisions. Positive reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google can enhance a salon’s reputation and attract new clients.
What Types of Hair Color Services Are Offered by Top Places?
The best hair color places typically offer a variety of services to meet different client needs.
- Single Process Color: This service involves applying a single color to the hair, usually from roots to ends, to cover gray hair or to create a uniform shade. It is a straightforward technique that can enhance natural color or dramatically change it, providing a fresh look.
- Highlights: Highlights are achieved by lightening select strands of hair, creating dimension and texture. This technique can range from subtle to bold and is perfect for adding brightness and depth without a complete color change.
- Lowlights: In contrast to highlights, lowlights involve adding darker shades to the hair to create depth and richness. This service is particularly beneficial for those looking to soften overly bright hair or to create a more natural look by adding variation to the color.
- Balayage: Balayage is a freehand painting technique that creates a soft, sun-kissed look, with the color gradually transitioning from darker at the roots to lighter at the tips. This low-maintenance option is favored for its natural appearance and less frequent touch-ups.
- Ombre: Ombre is a coloring technique where the hair gradually transitions from a darker shade at the roots to a lighter shade at the ends. It offers a bold statement and is versatile enough to be customized with various colors, making it a popular choice for those wanting a dramatic effect.
- Color Correction: Color correction services are offered to fix undesirable hair color results, whether due to a previous dye job or a misapplication. This can involve multiple processes, including stripping color, re-toning, or applying new shades to achieve the desired outcome.
- Toner Application: Toners are used after bleaching or coloring to adjust the hair’s undertone, neutralizing unwanted brassiness or enhancing the color’s vibrancy. This service is crucial for maintaining the quality and appearance of blonde or highlighted hair.
- Creative Color: Creative color services involve using unconventional hues, such as pastels, bold reds, or vibrant blues. These services allow for personal expression and are often applied using techniques like balayage or ombre for a unique look.
How Do Stylists Personalize Hair Color for Different Hair Types?
Stylists personalize hair color for different hair types by considering various factors that influence the final outcome.
- Hair Texture: The texture of hair, whether straight, wavy, or curly, can impact how color is applied and how it appears. For example, finer hair may absorb color more quickly and can appear brighter, while coarser hair may require more time for the dye to penetrate and can hold color differently.
- Hair Porosity: Hair porosity refers to how well hair absorbs and retains moisture and color. High porosity hair often absorbs color easily but may fade quickly, while low porosity hair may resist color absorption, requiring specific techniques for effective color application.
- Natural Hair Color: The stylist assesses the client’s natural hair color to determine the best shades for highlights or a complete color change. The chosen hues can complement or contrast with the natural base, ensuring a more harmonious look.
- Skin Tone: A stylist takes into account the client’s skin tone to choose colors that enhance their overall appearance. Warm skin tones might be paired with golden or copper shades, while cool skin tones may look better with ash or platinum colors.
- Client’s Lifestyle: Understanding a client’s lifestyle helps stylists suggest colors that are easy to maintain. For example, someone with a busy schedule might prefer low-maintenance colors or techniques like balayage that grow out more gracefully.
- Desired Maintenance Level: Stylists discuss how often the client is willing to return for touch-ups, which influences the choice of color. Permanent colors may require more upkeep compared to semi-permanent options, affecting the overall decision based on the client’s preferences.
What Are the Typical Price Ranges at the Best Hair Color Places?
Color correction is for clients who need to fix previous color mistakes or make significant changes to their hair color. It is a labor-intensive process, usually requiring multiple appointments, and thus commands a higher price due to the skill level needed.
Ongoing maintenance is essential for anyone who regularly colors their hair, as roots will grow out, and color may fade. These appointments can be less expensive than initial color services but are necessary for maintaining a fresh look.
Luxury salons often provide a high level of service, including personalized consultations and the use of premium products, which justifies their higher prices. Clients at these establishments can expect a more tailored experience, often with longer appointment times to ensure satisfaction.
How Can You Locate the Best Hair Color Places Nearby?
To find the best hair color places nearby, you can utilize several effective strategies:
- Online Reviews: Check platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, or Facebook to read customer experiences and ratings of local salons.
- Social Media: Explore Instagram and Pinterest for hair color inspiration and search for salons that showcase their work and client transformations.
- Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations based on their personal experiences with hair color services.
- Professional Associations: Look for salons that are members of professional organizations, indicating they adhere to industry standards and practices.
- Consultation Visits: Schedule consultations at various salons to discuss your hair color needs and gauge the salon’s atmosphere and professionalism.
Online reviews provide invaluable insight into the quality of services, allowing potential clients to gauge customer satisfaction through shared experiences. A high rating on platforms like Yelp or Google can indicate a salon’s reliability and skill in hair coloring.
Social media is a powerful tool for visual inspiration, as many salons post their work online. By searching hashtags related to hair color or local salons, you can find examples of their previous work and gain a sense of their style and expertise.
Word of mouth remains one of the most trusted forms of recommendation; personal endorsements from people you know can lead you to hidden gems in your area. Hearing about someone’s positive experience can give you confidence in your choice.
Professional associations often signify that a salon is committed to continuous education and high standards of service. Salons affiliated with these organizations typically stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in hair coloring.
Consultation visits allow you to interact with stylists, discuss your hair goals, and assess the salon’s environment. This personal interaction can help you determine if the salon’s vibe and the stylist’s approach align with your expectations.
What Tips Will Help You Select the Right Hair Color Place for Your Needs?
Selecting the right hair color place is crucial for achieving your desired look and ensuring a satisfying experience.
- Research Reviews and Ratings: Look for salons with high ratings and positive customer reviews. Online platforms like Yelp and Google can provide insights into others’ experiences, helping you identify establishments that consistently deliver quality service.
- Check for Qualified Stylists: Ensure that the salon employs certified and experienced stylists who specialize in hair coloring. A skilled stylist will have a thorough understanding of color theory and techniques, which is essential for achieving the best results.
- Consultation Services: Opt for places that offer a consultation before the actual coloring session. This allows you to discuss your preferences, ask questions, and receive professional advice on what colors and styles will suit you best.
- Portfolio of Work: Review the salon’s portfolio, either in-person or online, to see examples of their previous hair color work. This can give you a clear idea of their style and whether it aligns with your desired outcome.
- Product Quality: Inquire about the products used for coloring, including their ingredients and brands. Salons that prioritize high-quality, professional products often yield better results and are less likely to damage your hair.
- Atmosphere and Hygiene: Visit the salon to assess its cleanliness and overall vibe. A welcoming and hygienic environment can enhance your experience and make you feel more comfortable during your appointment.
- Pricing and Packages: Compare pricing and packages across different salons. Understanding what’s included in the cost can help you find a place that offers good value for your budget while still meeting your quality expectations.
- Follow-Up Care: Choose a salon that provides aftercare advice and products to help maintain your color. A good salon will not only color your hair but also offer guidance on how to keep it looking vibrant and healthy.