Hair Gloss vs Toner: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?

 

Salon Rouge Ottawa Hair Salon

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At Salon Rouge, we get this question all the time and we love that you're curious! Whether you're a blonde fighting brassiness or a brunette looking to boost shine, understanding the difference between a hair gloss and a toner can make a world of difference in how your color looks (and lasts).  We are here to answer those questions for you.

What Exactly is a Toner?

If you ever got your hair highlighted, think highlights, balayage, or a full lightening service, your stylist most likely used a toner. Toners are color-depositing treatments used after a lightening service to adjust or refine the tone of your hair. You typically will see this being used at the sink after the lightening is done and your foil crown is finally coming off! They’re especially important for neutralizing unwanted tones like brassiness, yellowness, or warmth that can show up after. It’s the magic step that takes you from “okay” blonde to “wow” blonde. When used as an individual service it is most common with blondes but it can definitely be used for all hair colors. For example, toning brown hair allows our brunettes to improve the look of their brown locks. Whether you want a more neutral look by reducing the warm tunes, or if you want to add more warmth to satisfy your chocolate-loving heart, we'll tailor your toner to your perfect shade. 

Toner Timing!

So when it comes to getting a touch up we suggest getting it done over the next 4 to 8 weeks as it does fade out and then you will gradually see the initial undertone that you may not like. The fading time depends on your home products such as the time of shampoo and conditioner you use and the amount of times you wash your hair in general. That’s why we always say: your hair is 50% salon, 50% at-home care! It is a team effort, that's why the right products matter. 

What Is a Hair Gloss?

Gloss is like a glow-up for your hair. It’s a shine-boosting, conditioning treatment that can be clear or tinted with subtle colour. While some glosses contain pigments that tone like a toner, their main focus is enhancing shine, smoothing the cuticle, and boosting colour vibrancy. You don’t need to have just lightened your hair to get a gloss. In fact, it’s perfect for anyone whose colour is looking a little dull or faded or who just wants a salon-finish shine.

                                                               Gloss O'Clock!

Seeing as how a gloss treatment, whether clear or colored, does not lift or lighten the hair,  you won't get harsh root regrowth. Meaning that this is a low-commitment color. Hair gloss may feel like magic, but it doesn’t last forever so timing is everything! Most gloss treatments last around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair type, how often you wash it, and the products you use at home (remember the 50/50 rule!). Think of it as a topcoat for your hair: it adds shine, smoothness, and subtle tone, but eventually, it fades. To keep that glossy, freshly-done look going strong, we recommend a refresh every 4 weeks or just before any special events where you want that wow-factor shine. 

Team Toner or Gloss: Visit Us to Find Out Which Is Best for You!

Visit us today and discover why we’re a top choice among Ottawa salons for results-driven, luxury haircare.

If you’re in the Downtown Ottawa area, there’s no better time to transform your hair! Ask your stylist which service is right for you or stop by Salon Rouge to explore the options!

Got more questions? We love talking all things hair. Give us a call at 613-241-1110, visit us at our beautiful Byward Market salon, or reach out online at salonrouge.ca to book a consultation. Your dream color starts here!