What Is a Hair Gloss? Why It's Worth Trying, According to Experts

If you're curious about coloring your hair but hesitant to commit, a hair gloss might be the perfect first step. This treatment won't drastically change your shade, but it does enhance what you already have, adding noticeable shine and softness. A hair gloss is ideal for those who want a boost without the permanence of traditional dye. Think of it as a way to bring out the best in your natural color rather than change it. We spoke with experts to explain what a hair gloss is, how it compares to a glaze, and why this subtle treatment might become your new go-to fix for healthy, vibrant hair.

What Is a Hair Gloss?

A hair gloss is a low-commitment approach to color; it can improve, soften, or refine natural or already-colored hair, says Jodana Geary, an education master at Kevin Murphy and the brand's offshoot COLOR.ME. The temporary pigment expands inside a strand's cuticle layer and gradually washes away over time.

Unlike dye, a gloss won't alter the hair's internal structure because it revitalizes the color you already have. "We also call it a toner because it works on your hair's color tone," says Giovanni Di Gesu, master hairstylist at Bulgari Hotel Dubai.

Types of Hair Glosses

Glosses are divided into two types: semi-permanent and demi-permanent. While some believe that semi-permanent iterations have greater staying power than demi-permanent ones, both varieties will last roughly the same amount of time. "If you wash your hair once or twice a week, you should be able to go four to six weeks without needing a touch-up," says Justi Embree, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Embree Theory Hair. "You'll get more bang for your buck if you shampoo your hair less frequently."

You have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to both demi-permanent and semi-permanent glosses. There's clear gloss, which adds a glossy sheen without changing your hair color. Alternatively, you can try an ash, pearl, or soft violet reflect to refine the warm tones of your signature blonde—or select a chocolate reflect to add richness if you're a brunette.

Benefits of a Hair Gloss

A hair gloss acts as a tone adjustor and hair strengthener. "The hair can be darkened somewhat or given a tone, such as red, gold, or ash," says Kasper Heemskerk, the International Education Manager for Balmain Hair Couture. "Above all, it illuminates the hair while reconstructing it from the inside out."

The restorative properties of a hair gloss can even help reduce frizz if hair is damaged or particularly porous hair. Another major pro to hair gloss is the result window—you'll be able to see the change in your hair in as little as 10 to 20 minutes, which is why adding one onto your weekly blowout or regular hair cut is a quick, effective boost.

Cons of a Hair Gloss

The main downfall of a hair gloss happens when it is incorrectly administered, which may stain your ends, permanently altering the hair color there. Another con? Gloss is not the best choice if you want a major change. "Do not put a light pink over dark brown hair and expect to emerge with a pink tint. Glosses will not lighten your hair," says Heemskerk.

They also can't cover gray hair (you need conventional dye to do that), but they can be used to make silver strands more vibrant.

Hair Gloss vs. Hair Glaze

Glosses are often confused with glazes. The key distinction between the two is that glosses are produced with low ammonia developers, while glazes are processed with heat. "Both glazes and glosses are good choices for individuals with coiled, coarse, or damaged hair, because they reduce flyaways and frizz," says Embree. While both provide a vibrant sheen and gentle color grade, glazes have shorter lifespans than glosses.

Can You Use a Hair Gloss at Home?

You can use a hair gloss at home, but turning to a professional hairstylist is ideal. "We know how to apply the product properly, and we'll top it off with a spectacular blow-dry that will undoubtedly make a difference," says Di Gesu. What's more, an experienced colorist can mix up a bespoke gloss that properly complements your skin tone. Using the wrong formula can even drown out existing dye jobs or make hair overly warm or cool.

If you're adamant about attempting an at-home solution, stick with a less-permanent glaze rather than a gloss, says Embree. You should also select a ready-to-use formula, like a pigmented mousse or color-depositing conditioner for a seamless result. Look for a nourishing deep conditioner available in your shade.