A systematized visual representation of Redken Shades EQ glosses organizes the various shades by level and tone, facilitating the selection of a precise color formulation. This typically displays swatches of each gloss on hair samples, allowing for a direct comparison of the nuances in color. Such tools often include numerical and/or alphabetical codes corresponding to each shade, streamlining communication and ensuring accuracy when mixing and applying the product.
This organized visualization of the Shades EQ palette benefits both colorists and clients. It enables predictable color results by providing a clear understanding of how each gloss will appear on the hair. This predictability minimizes the risk of unexpected outcomes and empowers colorists to create customized shades tailored to individual needs and preferences. Historically, achieving such precise color formulation required extensive experience and experimentation. A structured system simplifies the process, making advanced color techniques more accessible and consistent.
Understanding the nuances of this system is essential for successful color application and formulation. The following sections will delve into specific aspects, such as reading and interpreting the system, utilizing it for different hair types and textures, and exploring advanced techniques for achieving desired results.
1. Shade Selection
Accurate shade selection is paramount when using Redken Shades EQ, and the color chart serves as the primary tool for achieving desired results. The chart organizes the available shades logically, allowing for methodical selection based on factors such as existing hair color, desired tone, and level of color deposit.
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Target Tone
Identifying the target tone is the first step. Whether aiming for warmth, coolness, or neutrality, the chart visually represents these tonal variations, facilitating precise targeting. For instance, a client seeking to neutralize unwanted brassiness would require a shade with a violet or blue base, easily identifiable on the chart. This targeted approach eliminates guesswork and ensures predictable outcomes.
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Hair Level
Considering the existing hair level is crucial. The chart categorizes shades by level, ensuring compatibility with the client’s current hair color. Applying a shade drastically different from the existing level may yield undesirable results. The chart enables selection within the appropriate level range, promoting seamless blending and natural-looking results.
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Underlying Pigment
Understanding the underlying pigment of the hair is essential for achieving the desired tone. The color chart indirectly aids in identifying the underlying pigment by showcasing the potential outcome of each shade on different base colors. This allows for informed decision-making, especially when correcting or neutralizing unwanted tones.
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Desired Result
Ultimately, shade selection hinges on the desired result. Whether the goal is a subtle refresh, a vibrant color change, or gray blending, the chart provides a visual representation of the achievable outcomes. This allows clients and colorists to align expectations and select a shade that best suits the desired transformation.
By considering these facets in conjunction with the Redken Shades EQ color chart, colorists can confidently select the appropriate shade, ensuring predictable and desirable results that align with client expectations and hair characteristics. This methodical approach minimizes the risk of unwanted outcomes and maximizes the potential of the Shades EQ glosses.
2. Tone Deposit
Tone deposit represents the core function of Redken Shades EQ glosses, and the color chart serves as the roadmap for navigating this crucial aspect. The chart visually represents the tonal direction of each gloss, allowing for precise control over the final color result. This connection between tone deposit and the color chart is essential for predictable and desirable outcomes. For example, depositing a warm, golden tone onto a light blonde base requires selecting a gloss from the gold family on the chart. Conversely, neutralizing unwanted brassiness in a brunette may necessitate a gloss with cool, ash tones, readily identifiable on the chart by its corresponding designation. The chart facilitates this decision-making process by clearly delineating the tonal value of each gloss.
Understanding the impact of tone deposit on various hair levels is also crucial. The chart aids in this understanding by organizing shades according to level and tone. A specific gloss will deposit varying degrees of tone depending on the underlying hair color. On a lighter base, the tone deposit will be more pronounced, while on darker hair, the effect may be more subtle. The chart visually represents these nuances, assisting colorists in selecting the appropriate gloss to achieve the desired level of tonal shift. For instance, a level 9 blonde aiming for a beige tone will utilize a different shade compared to a level 6 brunette seeking the same tonal result. The chart clarifies these distinctions, allowing for accurate tone deposit across diverse hair levels and underlying pigments.
Successful color formulation hinges on the accurate assessment of existing tone, desired tone, and the predictable impact of the chosen gloss. The Redken Shades EQ color chart facilitates this process by providing a visual and organized representation of tone deposit. Mastering this relationship between the chart and tone deposit empowers colorists to achieve precise and harmonious color results. The chart functions as a critical tool, translating theoretical color principles into practical application and predictable outcomes. Without a thorough understanding of this interplay, achieving consistent and desired tonal results becomes significantly more challenging.
3. Underlying Pigment
Underlying pigment plays a critical role in determining the final result when using Redken Shades EQ. The color chart, while not explicitly displaying underlying pigment, provides a crucial framework for understanding its influence. Each shade on the chart interacts differently with varying underlying pigments. For example, a cool-toned gloss applied to hair with pre-existing warm undertones will yield a different result compared to application on hair with cool undertones. The chart facilitates predicting these variations by allowing colorists to visualize the target shade in relation to the known or assumed underlying pigment. Understanding this interaction is essential for achieving the desired color outcome and avoiding unwanted tones.
Consider a scenario where two individuals, one with naturally golden blonde hair and another with ashy blonde hair, both desire a neutral beige blonde. The colorist must consider the underlying pigmentgold in the first case and ash in the secondwhen selecting the appropriate Shades EQ gloss. Utilizing the same gloss on both individuals would result in drastically different outcomes. The chart aids in selecting the correct gloss to neutralize the existing undertones and achieve the desired neutral beige in both cases. This highlights the practical significance of understanding underlying pigment in conjunction with the Shades EQ color chart. It allows for tailored color formulations, ensuring predictable and desirable results regardless of the client’s natural hair color or previous color treatments.
Effective utilization of the Redken Shades EQ system necessitates analyzing the existing hair color and identifying the dominant underlying pigment. This analysis, combined with the information provided on the color chart, allows for precise shade selection and predictable color results. Failure to consider underlying pigment can lead to undesirable outcomes such as unwanted warmth, brassiness, or muddiness. Therefore, accurate pigment identification, coupled with a thorough understanding of the color chart, is fundamental to achieving desired results and maximizing the potential of Redken Shades EQ glosses. This knowledge empowers colorists to create customized color formulations tailored to individual hair characteristics, ensuring predictable and harmonious results every time.
4. Level System
The level system within Redken Shades EQ represents a crucial framework for understanding and utilizing the accompanying color chart effectively. This system categorizes hair color based on lightness and darkness, typically ranging from 1 (darkest) to 10 (lightest). Accurate level identification is essential for predictable results when using Shades EQ glosses, as the chosen shade interacts differently with various hair levels. The color chart reflects this system by organizing shades according to level, allowing for informed shade selection based on the client’s existing hair color and the desired outcome. Without a firm grasp of the level system, navigating the nuances of the color chart and achieving desired color results becomes significantly more challenging.
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Identifying Natural Level
Accurately identifying the natural hair level is the first step. This involves visually assessing the hair’s lightness or darkness and matching it to the corresponding level on the chart. For example, a client with medium brown hair might fall within the level 5-6 range. This identification process lays the foundation for all subsequent color decisions, ensuring compatibility between the chosen gloss and the existing hair color.
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Deposit vs. Lift
Shades EQ glosses primarily deposit color and have minimal lift capabilities. Therefore, understanding the relationship between the desired level and the natural level is paramount. Choosing a gloss significantly lighter than the natural level without prior lightening may yield minimal visible change. The chart aids in selecting a gloss within a realistic range, ensuring achievable results. For instance, applying a level 9 gloss on level 6 hair without pre-lightening will likely not achieve a level 9 result. The chart helps manage expectations and informs appropriate product selection.
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Tone and Level Interplay
The interplay between tone and level significantly influences the final outcome. A particular shade at a darker level will appear different compared to the same shade at a lighter level. The chart showcases these variations, enabling colorists to anticipate the final result. For example, a warm gold gloss applied to level 6 hair will appear richer and deeper than the same gloss applied to level 8 hair. The chart facilitates these comparisons, allowing for accurate shade selection based on both desired tone and level. This visual representation is key to successful color formulation.
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Chart Organization
The color chart’s organization reflects the level system. Shades are typically arranged in ascending order of level, facilitating easy comparison and selection. This systematic arrangement enables quick identification of shades within a specific level range, streamlining the decision-making process and reducing the risk of errors. This clear organization based on level reinforces the importance of understanding the level system when navigating the color chart.
A thorough understanding of the level system is essential for effective utilization of the Redken Shades EQ color chart. By correctly identifying the natural hair level and understanding the impact of level on tone deposit, colorists can leverage the chart to achieve predictable and desirable color results. Failure to consider these factors can lead to inaccurate shade selection and ultimately, unsatisfactory outcomes. The level system, as represented on the color chart, provides a critical framework for successful color formulation and application, ensuring that the chosen gloss interacts harmoniously with the existing hair color to deliver the desired result.
5. Gloss Application
Proper gloss application is crucial for maximizing the efficacy and predictability of Redken Shades EQ. The color chart serves as a guide for shade selection, but the application technique itself directly influences the final result. Understanding this connection between the chosen shade (as indicated on the chart) and its application ensures the desired color outcome and overall hair health.
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Saturation and Coverage
Achieving even saturation and full coverage is essential for consistent color deposit. The desired result, as visualized on the color chart, can only be achieved with thorough and methodical application. Insufficient saturation can lead to uneven color, patchiness, or diluted tonal results. For example, if aiming for a vibrant, rich tone, as depicted on the chart, skimping on product application will compromise the intensity and vibrancy of the final result.
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Root to End Application or Targeted Application
The chosen application techniqueroot-to-end or targeteddepends on the desired outcome. For overall color refresh or tonal shift, as indicated on the chart, a root-to-end application is generally preferred. However, for addressing specific concerns, such as gray blending or correcting uneven tones, targeted application may be more appropriate. The color chart guides shade selection for both approaches. For example, using a specific shade at the roots for gray blending, and another for toning the mid-lengths and ends, requires careful consideration of the chart and how the shades will interact.
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Processing Time
Adhering to the recommended processing time is crucial. Insufficient processing can result in underdeveloped color, while excessive processing can lead to overly intense or uneven results, potentially deviating from the intended shade displayed on the chart. The processing time, combined with the chosen shade from the chart, contributes significantly to the final color outcome. For instance, a gloss intended to create a subtle tonal shift, as visualized on the chart, may result in a more dramatic change if processed for an extended period.
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Hair Porosity and Condition
Hair porosity and condition influence how the gloss absorbs and interacts with the hair shaft. Porous hair may absorb color more readily, resulting in a more intense color deposit compared to non-porous hair, even when using the same shade selected from the chart. Understanding this interaction is crucial for achieving predictable results. For example, if the chart indicates a specific shade will deposit a certain tone, the actual result may be more intense on porous hair and less intense on non-porous hair. Adjustments to the chosen shade or processing time may be necessary to accommodate variations in porosity.
Effective gloss application techniques, informed by the color chart, are essential for optimizing Redken Shades EQ results. By understanding the interplay of saturation, application method, processing time, and hair condition, colorists can ensure that the final outcome aligns with the desired shade visualized on the chart. Ignoring these factors can compromise color evenness, intensity, and longevity, ultimately hindering the potential of Shades EQ to deliver predictable and desirable results. Each aspect of application must be considered in conjunction with the color chart to achieve the desired transformation.
6. Formula Mixing
Precise formula mixing is paramount for achieving predictable and desirable results with Redken Shades EQ. The color chart serves as a crucial guide, but the art of formulating lies in understanding how different shades interact and how to combine them to achieve customized results. This process involves careful consideration of the desired tone, underlying pigment, and hair level, all of which are informed by the information presented on the color chart. Accurate mixing translates the visual representation on the chart into tangible color formulations.
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Additive Color Mixing
Shades EQ glosses operate on the principles of additive color mixing. This means that combining different shades results in a new shade with combined tonal characteristics. The color chart facilitates this process by providing a visual representation of each individual shade. For example, mixing a golden gloss with a copper gloss will result in a warm, coppery-gold hue. The chart helps predict the general direction of the resulting color by understanding the tonal characteristics of each component shade. This knowledge allows for the creation of nuanced and customized colors beyond the pre-existing shades available on the chart.
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Neutralization and Tone Correction
The color chart is crucial for formulating neutralizing or corrective mixtures. Understanding the color wheel principles, as reflected in the chart’s organization, allows for strategic shade selection to counteract unwanted tones. For example, to neutralize unwanted orange tones, a blue-based gloss can be incorporated into the formula. The chart aids in identifying glosses with the appropriate counteracting tones. This precise approach relies on understanding how different tones interact, a concept visually represented on the color chart. Accurate neutralization or correction hinges on selecting the appropriate counter-tone and mixing it in the correct ratio, informed by both the chart and experience.
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Ratio and Dilution
The ratio of different shades within a formula significantly impacts the final result. The chart, while not explicitly providing mixing ratios, offers a foundation for understanding how varying proportions influence the outcome. For instance, a small amount of a highly pigmented shade can dramatically alter the overall tone of the mixture. Dilution with clear gloss can further refine the intensity and tonal saturation. These adjustments, informed by the visual guide provided by the chart, offer fine-tuned control over the final color deposit. Careful consideration of these ratios is crucial for achieving the desired level of tonal shift or correction.
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Chart as a Starting Point
The color chart serves as a starting point for formula development, but achieving precise and customized results often requires experimentation and adaptation. While the chart provides a visual representation of individual shades, the interaction of these shades in a mixture can be complex. Experience, combined with knowledge of the chart, empowers colorists to adjust formulas based on specific hair characteristics and desired outcomes. This adaptable approach ensures predictable and personalized results, maximizing the versatility of Shades EQ.
Mastering formula mixing is essential for leveraging the full potential of Redken Shades EQ. The color chart provides a critical foundation, but the ability to combine shades effectively and adjust formulas based on individual needs separates proficient color application from simply following a pre-determined guide. This skill, coupled with a thorough understanding of the color chart, allows for the creation of an infinite spectrum of customized colors, ensuring each client receives a truly personalized and predictable color result.
7. Chart Navigation
Effective navigation of the Redken Shades EQ color chart is fundamental to achieving predictable and desirable color results. The chart’s organization provides a systematic approach to shade selection, but understanding its structure and how to interpret the information presented is crucial for maximizing its utility. Proficient chart navigation empowers colorists to translate desired color outcomes into precise formulations, ensuring client satisfaction and consistent results.
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Understanding the Layout
The Shades EQ chart typically arranges shades by level and tone, creating a visual matrix. Levels often progress vertically, while tones vary horizontally. Familiarization with this layout allows for efficient identification of shades within specific level and tone ranges. For example, locating a level 7 warm beige blonde requires understanding where level 7 shades are positioned on the chart and then identifying the column representing warm beige tones. This systematic approach eliminates aimless searching and streamlines the shade selection process.
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Decoding Shade Codes
Each shade typically possesses a unique alphanumeric code that conveys essential information about its characteristics. Deciphering these codes provides insights into the shade’s level, tone, and underlying pigment. For instance, a code like “9NB” might signify a level 9 shade with a neutral beige tone. Understanding this coding system facilitates efficient communication and ensures accuracy when mixing and applying the gloss. It allows for precise replication of formulas and consistent results across applications.
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Utilizing Visual Aids
Most Shades EQ charts include visual aids, such as hair swatches, that showcase the actual color deposit of each shade. These swatches offer a tangible representation of the shade’s appearance on hair, allowing for a more informed selection process. Comparing swatches facilitates the visualization of subtle tonal differences and helps clients and colorists align expectations. The visual aids bridge the gap between the abstract representation of a shade code and its real-world manifestation on hair.
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Cross-Referencing with Formulation Guides
While the chart serves as the primary visual guide, utilizing supplementary resources, such as formulation guides or digital apps, can enhance accuracy and creativity. These resources often provide detailed information about mixing ratios, corrective techniques, and advanced color formulations. Cross-referencing the information presented on the chart with these guides empowers colorists to create highly customized color solutions and achieve complex color transformations. This integrated approach expands the possibilities beyond the standard shades depicted on the chart.
Proficient chart navigation is essential for unlocking the full potential of Redken Shades EQ. Understanding the chart’s layout, decoding shade codes, utilizing visual aids, and cross-referencing with supplementary resources transforms the chart from a simple visual aid into a powerful tool for precise and creative color formulation. This comprehensive approach ensures that the selected shades, as interpreted through the chart, translate into predictable and desirable real-world results on the hair. Without these navigational skills, the effectiveness of the Shades EQ system is significantly diminished.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Redken Shades EQ color chart and its utilization.
Question 1: How does one determine the appropriate Shades EQ gloss level based on existing hair color?
Accurate level identification relies on visually assessing the hair’s current lightness or darkness and comparing it to the levels represented on the chart. Professional consultation is recommended for optimal accuracy.
Question 2: Can Shades EQ glosses lighten the hair?
Shades EQ glosses primarily deposit color and offer minimal lift. Significant lightening requires pre-lightening services before gloss application.
Question 3: How does underlying pigment influence the final result when using Shades EQ?
Underlying pigment interacts with the chosen gloss, impacting the final color. Careful consideration of underlying pigment is essential for achieving predictable results. Consultation with a trained colorist is recommended.
Question 4: What is the significance of the alphanumeric codes associated with each Shades EQ gloss?
These codes convey essential information about the shade’s level, tone, and reflectance. Understanding these codes ensures accuracy in formulation and application.
Question 5: How does one correct unwanted tones using the Shades EQ system?
Color correction with Shades EQ involves selecting a gloss with a counteracting tone, guided by color wheel principles. Consultation with a colorist is advised for complex color correction scenarios.
Question 6: How often can Shades EQ glosses be applied without compromising hair health?
Application frequency depends on individual hair condition and the desired result. Generally, glosses can be applied every few weeks to refresh color and maintain tone. Consultation with a stylist is recommended for personalized guidance.
Accurate shade selection, informed by the color chart and professional guidance, remains crucial for successful outcomes when utilizing Redken Shades EQ.
For further information and personalized guidance, consult a qualified Redken colorist.
Tips for Utilizing the Shades EQ System
Optimizing results with Redken Shades EQ requires a nuanced understanding of its color chart and application principles. The following tips provide practical guidance for achieving predictable and desirable color outcomes.
Tip 1: Accurate Hair Level Assessment
Precise color formulation hinges on accurate hair level assessment. Utilizing a standardized level chart and comparing it against the client’s hair under neutral lighting ensures correct shade selection and predictable results. Misjudging the existing level can lead to undesirable tonal outcomes or insufficient color deposit.
Tip 2: Strategic Gloss Selection for Gray Blending
Effective gray blending requires careful gloss selection based on the percentage of gray and desired coverage. Utilizing shades specifically formulated for gray coverage ensures optimal pigment deposit and natural-looking results. Consider the client’s natural hair level and desired tone for seamless blending.
Tip 3: Formulation for Neutralization and Tone Correction
Counteracting unwanted undertones requires a strategic approach. Understanding color wheel principles and selecting glosses with complementary pigments allows for precise neutralization. Consult the color chart to identify appropriate corrective shades for addressing brassiness, ashiness, or other unwanted tonal variations. Precise mixing ratios are crucial for achieving the desired correction.
Tip 4: Gloss Application Techniques for Optimal Saturation
Consistent and even gloss application ensures optimal saturation and color deposit. Thorough saturation of each hair strand, particularly when working with porous or resistant hair types, is crucial for achieving uniform color results and avoiding patchiness. Employ systematic application techniques to ensure full coverage from root to end.
Tip 5: Processing Time Adherence
Adhering to the recommended processing times ensures predictable and desirable results. Insufficient processing can lead to underdeveloped color, while excessive processing can compromise hair health and yield uneven or overly intense color. Consistent monitoring throughout the processing time allows for adjustments based on individual hair characteristics.
Tip 6: Post-Gloss Hair Care
Maintaining gloss vibrancy and longevity requires proper post-gloss care. Utilizing color-safe shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for preserving color vibrancy helps extend the life of the gloss and prevent premature fading. Limiting exposure to harsh environmental factors, such as excessive sun or chlorine, further protects the color.
Tip 7: Chart Familiarity for Advanced Techniques
Advanced color techniques, such as color melting or creating custom shades, require in-depth understanding and familiarity with the color chart. Regularly consulting the chart, experimenting with different shade combinations, and understanding the interplay of tones and levels empower colorists to achieve complex and nuanced color results. Continuous exploration of the chart’s capabilities expands creative potential.
Consistent application of these tips, combined with ongoing professional development, optimizes the utilization of the Shades EQ system, ensuring predictable, desirable, and customized color results for every client.
By integrating these insights into practice, colorists can maximize the potential of Shades EQ and consistently achieve exceptional color results.
Conclusion
Mastery of the Redken Shades EQ color chart constitutes a cornerstone of achieving predictable and personalized color results. This comprehensive exploration has illuminated its multifaceted nature, emphasizing the significance of understanding underlying pigment, tone deposit, level systems, and precise formula mixing. Effective chart navigation, combined with meticulous application techniques, unlocks the system’s full potential, facilitating the creation of nuanced and customized color formulations tailored to individual needs.
Continued exploration and practical application of these principles remains essential for maximizing the versatility and efficacy of Redken Shades EQ. Through diligent study and informed practice, the color chart evolves from a simple guide into a powerful tool for achieving consistent, creative, and predictable color transformations. This empowers colorists to deliver exceptional results and elevate the art of hair color.
