Understanding Permanent Hair Color
Permanent hair color works by opening the hair cuticle with an alkaline agent (typically ammonia or an ammonia alternative), depositing color pigment into the cortex, and then sealing it in. Unlike semi-permanent or demi-permanent color, permanent formulas:
- Provide 100% gray coverage
- Lighten natural hair color when used with developer
- Last until the hair grows out or is cut
- Require a developer (oxidant) to activate
Choosing the right developer strength is critical — it determines how much the cuticle opens and how dramatically the color lifts.
Choosing the Right Developer
- 10 Vol: Deposits color with minimal lift. Best for darkening or toning.
- 20 Vol: The most common choice. Provides 1–2 levels of lift and full gray coverage.
- 30 Vol: Lifts 2–3 levels. Use for lightening dark hair or achieving vibrant results.
- 40 Vol: Maximum lift. Reserved for advanced techniques — use with precision.
For most applications — especially gray coverage — 20 Vol developer is the professional standard, But with Prestige Color all developers cover grey.
Spotlight: Colorianne Prestige
Colorianne Prestige is a professional-exclusive permanent hair color line engineered for salon performance. Developed for licensed colorists who demand precision, consistency, and exceptional results across a full spectrum of hair types and service goals.
What sets Colorianne Prestige apart in a professional setting:
- 100% gray coverage — reliable, uniform results even on resistant hair
- Extensive shade library — naturals, fashion shades, blondes, and intensifiers for custom formulation
- Creamy, controlled consistency — stays exactly where you apply it, reducing waste and improving precision
- Conditioning complex — leaves hair with a healthy, luminous finish that clients notice immediately
- Low-ammonia formula — reduces in-salon odor and scalp sensitivity without compromising lift or deposit
Colorianne Prestige is formulated to perform at the speed and standard of a professional color service — not a compromise, but a deliberate choice for stylists who won't settle for less.
Shop the full Colorianne Prestige professional color line at Reflection Beauty Supply, available in professional sizes.
What You'll Need
- Colorianne Prestige color in your chosen shade
- Developer (10, 20, 30, 40,Vol recommended for gray coverage)
- Mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- Sectioning clips
- towel or color cape
- Petroleum jelly (to protect the hairline)
- Timer
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Permanent Hair Color at Home
- Do a strand test first. Apply a small amount of mixed color to a hidden section of hair. Process for the recommended time, rinse, and evaluate the result before committing to a full application.
- Protect your skin. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining.
- Mix the color. Combine color and developer in a 1:1 ratio (or per the product instructions) in a non-metallic bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Section your hair. Divide hair into four quadrants using clips. Work in sections for even coverage.
- Apply to roots first. If you have significant gray at the roots, start there — they need the most processing time. Work section by section, applying color from root to mid-shaft.
- Work through the lengths. Once roots are saturated, comb color through the mid-lengths and ends for the last 10–15 minutes of processing.
- Set your timer. Process for the time indicated on the packaging — typically 30–45 minutes. Do not exceed the recommended time.
- Rinse thoroughly. Rinse with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Follow with a color-safe shampoo & conditioner.
Tips for Long-Lasting Color
- Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo to prevent fading
- Rinse with cool water to keep the cuticle sealed
- Limit heat styling, or always use a thermal protectant before applying heat
- Touch up roots every 4–6 weeks rather than re-coloring the full length each time
When to See a Professional
Visit Salon for maintaining your current shade, covering grays, or going darker
- Lifting more than 2–3 levels (e.g., going from dark brown to blonde)
- Correcting a previous color mistake
- Working with heavily damaged or chemically processed hair
Ready to Color?
Shop our full selection of Colorianne Prestige permanent hair color and professional developers at Reflection Beauty Supply. Whether you're covering grays, refreshing your shade, or trying something new, we have everything you need for a flawless result.