The Difference Between Salon & Box Colours

A major question clients often ask is: “What’s the difference between store bought box colours and professional applications at the salon?”. So, rather than going into lengthy detail with each and every client, we thought we’d let you know the main differences that make a huge impact on your hair!

So — what’s the deal with inexpensive box colours? In three words: unreliable & undesirable results. A lot of things factor in to the end result of your hair colour: application, colour formula, hair condition & previous colours are a few of them. Box colour is kinda a one-size-fits-all solution. The box doesn’t care what shape your hair is in, or what’s been done to it in the past — it has one specific solution and developer. It claims to provide the same results on all hair types: from virgin (never coloured) blondes to stubborn greys. But what the box doesn’t understand is that the colouring process is an individual thing and hair colour needs to be able to adapt! Your starting canvas will ALWAYS affect your end results!

Because the current condition of your hair affects the final result of your new colour, it’s important that the formula created for your application be personalized so that you get the desired results, rather than the ones you don’t simply by choosing a colour based on the model on the front of the box.

Another huge factor in box colours that many people don’t know is the developer strength. Box developers can only lighten 3 to 4 levels. Hair colour is categorized in levels: 1 being the darkest, and 10 being the lightest. So taking a dark brunette (level 8) to a medium blonde (level 3) simply can’t be done with box colour without pre-lightening and risking even more damage. Ammonia and peroxide are used in developer to chemically alter the hair by opening up the cuticle and allowing the colour to penetrate the hair shaft, thereby permanently changing your hair colour. Overly processed hair (using an improper, or overly strong developer, or colouring previously coloured hair) can lead to permanent damage and breakage.

Really, when it comes to hair colour, like most things in life — you get what you pay for. If you’re running into undesirable results, fading, discolouration, or damaged hair, it’s past time that you sought out a salon professional! The time and money that you spend on correcting a colour can be quite the sacrifice. Don’t be surprised if you book a colour correction with us and spend 3 to 4 hours in the chair. When we’re talking damage repair, a more long term treatment plan is needed. You have to ask yourself one thing: how important is having healthy and beautiful hair? If having enviable locks is something you’re after, it’s past time you ditched the box and stepped into Roka!

Always remember that stylists are professionally trained in the laws of colour, chemistry and processing. To accurately change the tone and level of your hair you need a personalized solution. Remember, all things hair related come into play — texture, density, porosity, colour and length. Hey, even your skin tone and eye colour are important factors when determining what’s best for your hair! As colour professionals we have the ability to highlight, lowlight, balayage, lighten, darken and create effects such as ombre, and mermaid styles unlike anything a box colour can do.

So, if you want to maintain a healthy head of hair and great colour at the same time, your best option is to consult the salon professionals at Roka. We love to get creative, and will customize your colour to suit every aspect of your style. It’s our job to give you the look you want! Ready to make the change from box to pro? Book an appointment with one of our amazing stylists today!

Struggling with colour issues? All of our Davines products are 100% colour safe! Why not try our Minu line — specifically formulated to maintain amazing colour:

Founded in Parma, Italy in 1983 by the Bollati Family, Davines Group started as a research laboratory, producing high-end hair care products for renowned cosmetic companies worldwide. After a decade of honing our expertise, we began creating their own brand of Davines hair care products exclusively for salons. Their sustainable hair care products are made from all natural ingredients and can be used not only on your hair, but your body as well. Experience the difference using Davines products today!