My second attempt with Clairol semi-permanent color. I tried the moisturizing version first with zero results. I am 35-40% silver with fine virgin hair. I decided to try Clairol Professional Advanced Gray Solutions next to see if it would produce results. I don't mind my silver at all. But, as a former Cosmetologist, I domiss playing with color and having options. I have become highly sensitive to chemicals from years of exposure working in them. I typically cannot color my hair without reactions. I was a fan of Clairol's gentle Loving Care line before it was discontinued. I had been able to use it successfully for years. I am thrilled to report this product appears to be a comparable spinoff of Loving Care. Free of ammonia, peroxide, and other harsh chemicals.
I chose Toasted Hazelnut, the lightest color in this line. The goal being three-dimensional high and lowlights. My existing natural dark, silver blond, and the toasted hazelnut color to coat the silver areas of choice. I washed my hair with a clarifying shampoo, so the color would have the best chance to coat the hair. I dried my hair and pulled the desired strands through a highlighting cap. Next, I dampened them and carefully applied the product. I allowed the color to stay on a full 45 minutes, per other reviews. Also, remember my hair was completely resistant to the other color. Since this product uses o2 technology, allow air to reach your hair, rather than using the typical plastic cap.
I had snipped an inconspicuous silver strand and applied both color versions before wasting my time. So, I knew exactly what to expect from both products according to those results. The Advanced Gray Solutions version is much thicker. The color is more condensed and resulted in a successful tinting of color on my strand test. But yes, it ONLY TINTS. At least on my hair. Toasted Hazelnut for me is pale caramel (see photo). I will continue to play with other colors in this line. Darker colors may coat and hold somewhat better.
Overall, I am happy to say at least the advanced gray version did lightly tint my hair. I had no issues using the product. I did not experience the usual dizziness, headache, irritated scalp, throat, etc., I normally would have from color. Hooray, an option for very sensitive people! The fragrance is fairly pleasant and tolerable to my very sensitive nose and breathing. The color rinses off of skin easily. Easy to apply using a standard plastic bowl, applicator brush, and latex gloves. No staining or mess (just use an old towel). Product rinsed from my hair quite easily with no lasting offensive fragrance. I found that quite unusual and pleasant. I only wish it colored more thoroughly and the results lasted longer. Thus, 4 stars. I noticed quite a loss of color from only one shampoo.
Overall, a great hair color product for sensitive people in my honest and professional opinion.
