Processing times vary by product and method but typically fall between about 10 and 30 minutes. Quick glosses or toners are at the short end of that range, while permanent dyes or bleach applications tend toward the longer end.
Several toners and glosses are formulated without ammonia (and some omit alcohol), and some at-home permanent kits also offer ammonia-free formulas designed for gentler coloring.
Toners and glosses deposit violet or brass-neutralizing pigments that counteract yellow or warm undertones and add shine, producing a cooler, more even-looking blonde.
Demi or pastel toners are often described as lasting up to about 12 shampoos. Semi-permanent glosses and in-shower treatments are commonly listed around 3–4 weeks, though user reports vary and some products may appear to last up to about 6 weeks.
Permanent hair color crèmes commonly advertise 100% gray coverage, while semi‑permanent glosses and ammonia‑free toners typically will not lift or cover grays.
Some cream lighteners advertise lift of up to about eight levels (shades) of lightening.
