Hair Glaze vs. Hair Gloss? We've Got The Scoop on the Actual Difference
Perhaps one of the most unanswered beauty questions is what really distinguishes a hair gloss from a hair glaze. While shine seems to be the obvious explanation, it’s about time we found out the real impact these shimmering applicators have on our do. To clear up the discrepancy that these formulas are the same, we talked to expert stylists and colorists to educate us on the actual difference. Their advice? When it comes to deciding between a hair gloss or glaze, it truly depends on what your specific hair needs are. Below, learn how long they last and how often you should get them. Plus, shop some of our favorite at-home shine solutions.
Glaze
To learn more about the intensity of a gloss, we spoke with Carline Ortega, Colorist at Rita Hazan Salon in New York City.
What exactly is a hair glaze?
A hair glaze, similar to a gloss, is temporary. They can be clear to just add shine or have some pigment to complement the tone of the hair color. Unlike a gloss, a glaze does not contain peroxide or ammonia. It simply coats or sits on top of the hair. They are incapable of depositing or lifting color from the hair cuticle making them even more temporary than a gloss.
How long do they last?
These typically last about 1-2 weeks.
Why should you get a hair glaze?
A glaze is used when the objective is primarily to give the hair that extra shine or give the color a slight boost. It's like the energy drink of hair color.
How often should you get a glaze?
A glaze should be a part of your salon regimen. You should get one on every hair color appointment. In between visits, I highly recommend using an at-home formula so you can always look your best.
At-Home Glazes We Love
Shop it (from left): Oscar Blandi Vivid Clear Shine Glaze, $28; amazon.com. PRAVANA Nevo Color Enhancer Treatment, $19; amazon.com. Ulta Ultimate Shine Luminous Clear Glaze, $10; ulta.com. John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze Clear Shine, $10; ulta.com. Pureology Colour Stylist Lustrous Volumizer Bodifying Glazer Shine Glaze, $24; walmart.com.
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Gloss
To learn more about the power behind a gloss, we chatted with Celebrity stylist Danny Moon of Andy Lecompte Salon and PRAVANA guest artist.
What exactly is a hair gloss?
A hair gloss is a transparent, semi-permanent shine service that can be done at the salon or at home. It works to fill the hair, closing the cuticle, creating a smooth surface that light bounces off of for immense shine. It overlays the strand, creating a protective shield that keeps color molecules in and not down the drain.
How long do they last?
A gloss can last you 3 to 4 weeks.
Why should you get a gloss?
Glosses are ideal if you need to fill porosity and are looking to maintain the current color you have.
How often should you get a gloss?
You should get a gloss as often as needed to achieve the look that you desire, possibly once to twice a month depending on whether you opt for a gloss or a glaze. Go ahead and shine on!
At-Home Glosses We Love
Shop it (from left): Rita Hazan Ultimate Shine Gloss, $26; sephora.com. PRAVANA Silk Degrees Demi-Permanent Shine Treatment. Gloss Moderne High-Gloss Masque, $65; sephora.com. Alterna Haircare Fade-Prood Finishing Gloss, $28; amazon.com.
Maintain Your Shine
When it comes to maintaining your shine, what you wash your hair with is crucial. “Using harsh shampoos can really pull out the shine quicker,” said Kristina Noto, colorist at Warren Tricomi Salon. “Sulfates make a difference, so always go with sulfate-free solutions such as those by Kérastase or Shu Uemura.”
Shop it (from left): Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste Sulfate Free Shampoo, $39; kerastase.com. Kérastase Discipline Fondant Fluidealiste Conditioner, $39; kerastase.com. Shu Uemura Color Lustre Sulfate-Free Brilliant Glaze Shampoo, $48; shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com. Color Lustre Brilliant Glaze Conditioner, $58; shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com.
