“Miss Pam, your hair is turning gray on top.” These words, spoken by the 10 year old we often babysit, spurred me into action. “My hair is NOT going gray,” I stated, “I will have it dyed.” I called my hairstylist and asked, “How much would it cost to change up my hair color?” The answer? $130 every four to six weeks. It took me three seconds to decide to try a different approach. I purchased a box of color at a big box store and it worked. Sort of. I was ready for a change. Enter eSalon, a revolutionary take on at home hair color. eSalon is the first and only customized mass hair color service globally, currently available in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Europe.
What’s different about ESalon?
In a word, everything. I’ll take you step by step through the process and give you some tips I learned along the way.
Before I Began:
I checked out reviews to find the majority of people were thrilled with eSalon hair color. After launching in 2010, they’ve received press from publications such as Cosmopolitan and The Wall Street Journal. They also received the Best Home Hair Color award by Allure.
The Ordering Process
I began the process by creating a custom formulated hair color set. Each order offers an expert colorist consultation and guidance. A questionnaire asks basics, such as my natural hair color, how much gray do I have, which picture (showing roots) was closest to my natural hair color, what type of color do I have and what treats I have had, when I last colored my hair, and questions about my skin tone and eye color. Next, I worked through a series of questions of hair coloring, hair style and length and my desired color. I also uploaded a picture of myself. The entire process took ten to fifteen minutes. Once I had my details, I was asked if I could have a quick phone call with their personal colorist.
I arranged the phone call and chatted about my desired color. I explained I would like a copper tone on my hair and the stylist worked with me to create a personalized, individually blended color. The phone call took about five minutes. The product was shipped quickly, arriving within a few days after I chatted with the stylist.
The Package:
Wow! When the products arrived, the package included hair color, a brush, stain guard, stain remover, shampoo and conditioner, and two pairs of gloves. I also had a bonus set of professional quality accessories, including plastic hair clips, a coloring bowl, a color tint brush and a timer.
The Process:
I was impressed with the detailed steps including in the instructions, which I recommend reading completely before using the product. I would also recommend wearing old clothing and keeping an old towel handy to prevent staining. Be sure to apply the stain guard as recommended. I accidentally dropped some of the hair dye on my arm and left a small stain. I did not notice the hair color smelling any stronger than the product I normally purchase, although I wouldn’t recommend using any hair color in a small, cramped space.
The process is more complicated than the usual box of hair color I picked up in a big box store. It begins with dividing hair into four sections, and then coloring the roots. I was advised to work using thin strips of hair, which took approximately 10 minutes. I allowed the product to set in my hair for 15 minutes, before beginning step two, working through the length of my hair, followed by allowing my hair to set ten more minutes.
These steps are followed by the rinsing process, including a salon industry secret to achieve shiny, multidimensional color, and the cleanse and condition process. I allowed my hair to air dry before styling.
The Results:
My hair had a soft, multidimensional color as promised instead of the one dimensional color I have seen after using boxed color. My daughter even remarked, “That looks like actual hair, with all the different colors blended into it.” My hair remained its natural texture; I didn’t notice any excess dryness. I have the option to change hair colors if I want since eSalon keeps my results on file, along with ongoing access to colorists by phone or email.
Ready to Change Up Your Hair Color Routine? eSalon hair color is regularly $19.95, but first time customers can try it for $10 by using this eSalon link. ESalon is a subscription service, but it is easy to receive a one time shipment to test. They offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee with your choice of reformulate for free or refund the product price.
Have you tried eSalon?
Great job, I’m a hardcore bathroom beautician because it cost so much to get your hair colored in the salon. The more you do it the easier it gets. I certainly look for color that says it will cover grays. I have tons of them, but I’m not ready to sport them just yet.
Your hair looks fab!!! I’m actually all about doing my hair at home . I swear I do a better job than most stylist!
I like the color of your hair! The last time I have a salon treatment is been a year.
You’re color is great. I’m still too scared to try this on my own.
Your hair came out really nice. I dye my hair at home but it never really comes out good. I will have to try this next time.
My daughter tries to get me with that remark every once in a while, but I know better. No gray hairs here! However, if I do get them, I will try this product out on them!
You hair looks great. I have never tried this service, I am too scared to do anything at home usually. But this sounds like something I would be okay with.
It doesn’t look fake at all! I love it! I’m so paranoid that my hair is going to look overly fake. haha
Your color looks wonderful. I have used eSalon in the past and was pleased with the results. I loved the color that the consultant helped me choose but the 1 thing I didn’t like was the ammonia smell. So one of my friends recommended Madison Reed, which is also customizable but is an all natural permanent at home permanent hair color. The way it works is pretty much the same as eSalon, as far as a consultant, etc. One of the biggest differences is that you can not go (I think) more than 2 shades lighter because there is no chemical for the lift. And yes it does last-I usually go 8-10 weeks before the color needs to be redone and that can be extended with thier shampoos. I just wanted to let your readers know that there is an alternative to eSalon if some are sensitive to the chemicals or scent.
Thanks so much for telling us how you did this! I have heard of this product before and have considered using it! Now that I know a bit more, maybe I’ll work up the courage!
Never heard of esalon before but what a lovely idea, doing it in the comfort of your own home. Your hair looks lovely
I have been wanting to try this on my hair. It looks like the process was easy. I love your results.
Looks great. I am always a bit afraid to do my own color. I love it on you! Looks very natural.
I dye my hair at home now and again and hate trying to find the right color. This sounds like a great service, I will have to give it a try.
I just love the color results and feel it looks fantastic on you. It really seems like eSalon makes the process simple.
Wow your hair looks awesome, what a cool brand to check out for sure.
It seems like they really do have everything you need to get a salon style at home. I love how your color turned out!
Your hair turned out great! This is a great way to save money.
What a cool idea! I’ve never heard of this brand but I love the idea behind it. Your hair came out great!
That looks so natural and it’s you! I love the color.
It turned out so great, and it looks totally natural like the kids said. You know I love your natural curls too!
Your hair looks fabulous! I haven’t had my hair done at a salon since I was 18. I love doing it at home, I love the colour you did though – its gorgeous. One I’d love to do!
I used to color my hair at home and when I started getting a lot of gray, I just couldn’t do it myself anymore and make it look good. Now I pay closest to $100 dollars a month to get my hair colored. I would love to give eSalon a try. Thanks for sharing!
Your before and after pictures are great! I’ve got to get some Esalon for myself. It’s a lot cheaper than paying to have my hair colored.
You look great! I’d love to save money by coloring at home but I’ve been to uncertain about drug store products. This looks like a solid way to give it a go.
What an interesting idea. It’s definitely a market that is new up-and-coming and I think a lot of people I’m going to like it.
This is a great ideal for those people brave enough to color their hair at home. It looks really good. It sure does save a lot of money.
Oh my, I am not sure I would have handled having a ten year old announce I have grey hair as gracefully as you did. I change out my hair colour at least once or twice a year so I am very familiar with the process but I have never tried this product before. Your hair looks beautiful! Great job 🙂