These days it seems like all anyone can talk about in the hair world is intricate hair color techniques. Between balayage, ombre, money pieces, and gloss smudging, things can get confusing pretty quickly. If you like to take a simple approach to your hair care routine, it can start to feel pretty overwhelming. As much as we love the artistry colorists bring to their hair color techniques, sometimes we’re just looking for a quick and easy way to transform our hue—that’s where single process hair color comes in.
If you’re looking for an easy way to change your hair color without spending an entire weekend in the salon, we’ve got you covered with the best single process color transformations to inspire your next salon visit.
What is single process hair color?
Single process hair is when your colorist uses one hue to dye your entire mane. This global application technique can help to achieve countless new looks from dramatic transformations to subtle changes in the tone of your mane. Single process color is a quick and easy way for anyone to update their hair color without spending all day in the salon.
Want to know about single process color and how it compares to other hair dye techniques? Check out our guide: Single Vs Double Process Hair Color: A Simple Explanation.
The Best Single Process Color Hair Transformations To Try Now
Good hair day by @sadiejcre8s.
Caramel
We have a sweet tooth for all things caramel, like this multifaceted 'do created with using Matrix's ColorSync Sheer Acidic Toners in Sheer Nude, Violet, and Ash. Caramel is a bit lighter than your run-of-the-mill brown, so you’ll need to update your hair care routine if you want to keep unsightly brass at bay. We recommend swapping out your regular shampoo and conditioner for the Matrix Total Results Brass Off system.
Good hair day by @ellendevinehair.
Jet Black
Jet black is the OG single process dark hair color. The key to pulling off stunning jet black hair is to make sure it’s as shiny as possible. Every few weeks, head back to your salon for a clear gloss service to amp up your shine. We love the Redken Shades EQ gloss in Clear.
Good hair day by @sos.hair.studio.
Chocolate Brown
Chocolate brown is one of our absolute favorite brunette hair colors and for a good reason—it looks stunning on absolutely everyone, no matter your hair type or complexion.
Good hair day by @laura_carmichael.
Auburn
If you’re looking for a warm hue to cover your grays, look no further than auburn! This spicy reddish-brown color instantly brightens up any complexion and flawlessly covers gray strands.
Good hair day by @veronicavridge.
Garnet
If you’re interested in single process color but don’t want to change your look completely, opt for Redken’s Color Fusion Super Glow dye in garnet. This red glow will punch up any hair color instantly!
Good hair day by @traceycunningham1.
Cream Blonde
You almost always need to use bleach to achieve blonde hair but if you’re a natural blonde or already have a blonde base color, you don’t have to rely on the damaging chemical to switch up your hue. A single process gloss service like the Redken Shades EQ in Delicate Natural is the perfect way to make your blonde hair pop.
Good hair day by @shereeknobel_bixiecolour.
Violet Rose
Whether you’re looking to stay in the same color family or venture out to try something new, Redken has you covered with tons of Shades EQ hues. This Violet Rose shade is the perfect way to embrace pink hair this winter.
Lavender Ice
You don’t have to have dinosaur-inspired hair to embrace the purple trend. Opt for a subtle gloss service like Shades EQ in Lavender Ice to add a purple punch to any hair color.
Good hair day by @rubyredroots.
Copper
If you’re looking for a show-stopping single process color, it doesn’t get any better than copper. This bright and lively hue looks particularly amazing on curls!
Good hair day by @jeremyetpierrick.
Light Blonde
We love a dreamy all-over color like this light blonde shade, courtesy of L'Oréal Professionnel Majirel Glow.
Good hair day by @ajhandlonstyling.
Pastel Pink
Fantasy colors are usually very high maintenance and sometimes require several appointments to achieve your desired hue but when you’re starting with a blonde base, the possibilities are all but endless! Ask your colorist for an all-over punchy pastel pink for a final look that is bound to turn heads.
Interested in a single process color transformation? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
A gentle cleansing shampoo to care for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask for Color-Treated Hair
A mask for vibrant and long-lasting color protection.
Total Results Brass Off Shampoo
A color-depositing shampoo that banishes brass in lightened hair.
Total Results Brass Off Conditioner
A nourishing conditioner for color treated dry, brittle or damaged hair.
Total Results Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask
A color-depositing hair mask that neutralizes brassiness in colored hair.
