Years ago, it seemed like you had only two options in the salon: cuts and color. In today's professional hair world, the possibilities are just as focused on making your hair as healthy-looking as possible as they are crafting dramatic transformations.
If you're interested in hair that looks like we imagine a celebrity's might after a particularly luxurious day of spa treatments, you should know about the below-the-radar technique known as a hair glaze.
We touched base with Belinda Gambuzza, a L’Oréal Professionnel partner from Visage Salon, Spa & Studio, who gave us the 411 on how hair glaze can add a much-needed final touch to any color service.
What is hair glaze?
If you've ever taken a spin at the pottery wheel, the word glaze probably stands out to you. In arts and crafts classes, it's often the final step that seals the pottery, locks in color, and provides a lasting shiny finish.
Hair glaze is not so different than the clay mug you made your mom for mother's day. According to Gambuzza, glaze is the must-have final step that often separates salon color administered by a professional from at-home shades.
Gambuzza swears by Dia Richesse from L'Oreal Professionnel, demi-permanent cr�me hair color.
What's the difference between hair glaze and hair gloss?
There are nearly endless technical terms in the hair world, so you're forgiven for not being able to tell them apart. When it comes to the differences between glaze and gloss, however, you may be surprised to learn are not so similar.
Unlike a glaze, a gloss contains no ammonia and cannot actually adjust the level (read: color) of the hair.
"Glaze can penetrate slightly deeper, creating longer-lasting benefits, whereas the gloss stays on the surface of the cuticle concentrating on shine and tone as its main objectives," Gambuzza explains.
That being said, the hair pro readily recommends a glaze as the final step in most color services. If you've invested time and money in a particularly bright shade of blonde, however, you may want to consult with your stylist before making any decisions that could alter the tone of your mane.
Still, if you have the ability, Gambuzza recommends glazes for everybody.
"The results on any hair type are vividly noticed. Shine, richness and spot-on tone are what makes a glaze an effective step to any hair color procedure."
What's the best way to ensure your hair glaze lasts between appointments?
As all hair enthusiasts know, your hair is only as good as your maintenance routine between appointments. Hair glazes should last well between appointments, but harsh hair formulas and overexposure to the sun can fade your color over time.
"Harsh detergents can strip the glaze right out, so expert shampoo and conditioner recommendations are always best for the life of a glaze," Gambuzza says.
Stumped about where to start? The pro stylist recommends L'Oréal Professionnel Vitamino Color A-OX Shampoo, Conditioner, and Masque for color radiance protection.
When in doubt, consult your stylist. They have your best interest (and that of your hair!) in mind.
For customized hair color advice, use our salon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.
Your Privacy Choices
