eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit

eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 1
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 2
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 3
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 4
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 5
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 6
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 7
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit — image 8
78%
22%
74%
Gray Coverage
63%
Color Accuracy
88%
Ingredient Quality
83%
Ease of Application
86%
Kit Completeness
84%
Scent Experience
71%
Color Longevity
76%
Value for Money
79%
Hair Condition After Coloring
81%
Packaging & Instructions
78%
Scalp Comfort
54%
Shade Range Versatility
91%
Cruelty-Free & Ethical Profile
82%
Application Speed
More

Overview

The eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit positions itself squarely in the middle of the at-home color market — not a bargain box dye, but not a fully custom salon service either. This at-home color kit stands out by ditching ammonia and other harsh chemicals that most drugstore options still rely on. The Dark Blonde Copper Gold shade (7CG) is designed to deliver multi-dimensional color results rather than a flat, one-note tone. Everything you need arrives in one box, so there's no scrambling for developer or gloves. This review covers the full kit contents, ingredient highlights, who it actually suits, and what real buyers think.

Features & Benefits

What's inside the box is genuinely thoughtful. The kit arrives with color, developer, a shampoo and conditioner sachet, stain guard, stain remover, and two pairs of non-latex gloves — a detail cheaper kits routinely skip. The liquid formula leans on an ingredient list that reads more like a hair care product than a dye: Quinoa and Jojoba Esters help anchor the color, Aloe Vera adds shine, Keratin strengthens the strand, and Silk Amino Acid works to retain moisture. No ammonia, no PPD, no parabens, no SLS. The 35-minute processing time is on the shorter end for permanent color, and the formula carries a certified cruelty-free status.

Best For

This permanent hair dye set makes the most sense for someone pulling back from regular salon appointments but not quite ready to go fully DIY without some guidance. It's a solid fit for those dealing with moderate to significant gray — the formula is built to handle it, though results can vary depending on hair texture and starting color. People with ammonia or PPD sensitivities will appreciate the cleaner ingredient profile. One important caveat: this kit works best when the target shade is within about two levels of your current color. Big, dramatic changes — dark brown to light blonde, for instance — aren't what the eSalon kit is designed for.

User Feedback

With a 3.9-star average, the reception is broadly positive but not without real complaints. Buyers frequently mention ease of application, a noticeably milder scent than traditional box dyes, and solid gray coverage for those with light to moderate graying. The all-inclusive format also gets consistent praise — people appreciate not having to hunt down extras separately. Where things get messier: some users found the final color didn't quite match what they expected from the shade name, and results varied based on starting hair color and texture. A few reviewers familiar with eSalon's custom subscription service felt this retail kit offered less personalization, which is a fair and worth-knowing distinction.

#Hair Color
#Hair Coloring Products
#Hair Care
#Beauty & Personal Care

Pros

  • Ammonia-free and PPD-free formula is noticeably gentler on the scalp than most drugstore dyes.
  • The kit is genuinely all-inclusive — developer, gloves, stain guard, and post-color sachets are all in the box.
  • A 35-minute processing time is on the shorter end for a permanent color result.
  • Gray coverage is effective for light to moderate graying across a range of hair types.
  • The liquid formula produces multi-dimensional color rather than a flat, single-tone result.
  • Scent is far milder than traditional permanent dyes, which buyers consistently highlight as a plus.
  • Certified cruelty-free and free from parabens, SLS, phthalates, and titanium dioxide.
  • Two pairs of non-latex gloves are included — a detail many competing kits skip entirely.
  • Ranked among the top hair color products in its category, reflecting a solid track record with buyers.

Cons

  • Shade accuracy can be hit or miss — the final result does not always match what the color name suggests.
  • Results vary meaningfully depending on starting hair color, texture, and porosity.
  • A single kit may not be sufficient for longer or thicker hair, requiring a second box.
  • This at-home color kit offers no personalization; buyers with complex color histories may find it limiting.
  • Heavy or highly resistant gray may not achieve full coverage in a single application.
  • The retail kit cannot replicate the tailored experience of eSalon's custom subscription service.
  • Color longevity at the roots can feel short for people with fast hair growth, requiring frequent reapplication.
  • Shade selection is fixed — if the available shades do not closely match your current color, your options are limited.

Ratings

The scores below reflect an AI-driven analysis of verified buyer reviews for the eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit, collected from multiple global sources with spam, bot activity, and incentivized submissions actively filtered out. The resulting ratings capture what real users experienced — not what the packaging promises — and both the genuine strengths and the consistent frustrations are weighted equally. If a category scored low, it's because buyers said so repeatedly.

Gray Coverage
74%
26%
For buyers dealing with light to moderate gray, this at-home color kit delivers reliable, even coverage that holds up well over a four-to-six week cycle. Many users with salt-and-pepper growth reported that roots looked genuinely filled in after a single application, with no patchy or translucent areas.
Coverage becomes less predictable on heavily resistant gray or dense, coarse hair — a recurring frustration among buyers with more than 60% gray concentration. A single application sometimes leaves a slight warmth or translucency around the temples where gray is most stubborn.
Color Accuracy
63%
37%
When the shade is a close match to the buyer's natural or existing color, the Dark Blonde Copper Gold reads as a warm, multi-dimensional tone rather than a flat result — something users switching from drugstore dyes specifically appreciated. The copper undertone adds depth that looks more natural than many comparable box colors.
Shade accuracy is the most commonly cited disappointment in user feedback. A number of buyers found the finished color noticeably warmer or lighter than expected, and results shift significantly depending on starting color — making it a less reliable choice for anyone with darker or previously colored hair.
Ingredient Quality
88%
The absence of ammonia, PPD, parabens, SLS, and phthalates is not just a marketing claim — buyers with sensitive scalps and prior chemical reactions to traditional dyes report a noticeably more comfortable application experience. Ingredients like Keratin and Silk Amino Acid contribute to a post-color feel that is softer than typical permanent dye results.
While the cleaner formula is genuinely appreciated, some experienced colorists note that ammonia-free permanent dyes can require more precise application technique to achieve full, even saturation. A small number of buyers with very sensitive skin still reported mild scalp tingling, suggesting the formula is gentler but not entirely reaction-proof.
Ease of Application
83%
The liquid formula flows evenly and the included instructions are written in plain, step-by-step language that does not assume prior experience. Buyers new to at-home coloring frequently noted that the process felt approachable, and the 35-minute processing window is short enough to fit into a regular evening routine without feeling like a project.
A few users found the liquid consistency harder to control around the hairline without the stain guard, and some wished the applicator offered more precision for root-only touch-ups. Those with longer or thicker hair also noted that working quickly enough to apply evenly before the formula begins processing added some stress.
Kit Completeness
86%
The eSalon kit stands out from similarly priced competitors by including genuinely useful extras — two pairs of non-latex gloves, stain guard, stain remover, and post-color care sachets all arrive in one box. Buyers consistently praised not having to rummage through a drawer for gloves or run to the store for a stain fix.
The post-color shampoo and conditioner sachets are single-use and quite small, functioning more as a rinse-out treatment than a proper wash. A handful of buyers with longer hair also noted that the kit is sized for one average application, which may fall short if your hair is particularly thick or falls past the shoulders.
Scent Experience
84%
The ammonia-free formula makes a real difference in the day-to-day reality of coloring at home — multiple buyers mentioned being able to dye their hair in a small bathroom without needing to open windows or leave the room between steps. The scent that does exist is mild and fades quickly after rinsing.
While significantly better than conventional dyes, the formula is not entirely odorless, and users with very high sensitivity to chemical smells may still find it noticeable during the 35-minute processing window. A small number of buyers described the scent as faintly medicinal, though this was rarely raised as a major complaint.
Color Longevity
71%
29%
As a permanent formula, the color bonds to the hair shaft and does not wash out the way a semi-permanent dye would, which buyers found reassuring when planning a maintenance schedule. Most users reported that the color remained vibrant and consistent for three to four weeks before noticeable fading began at the ends.
Root regrowth is the primary longevity issue — fast-growing hair can reveal a visible line within three weeks, pushing some buyers to reapply more frequently than the recommended four-to-six week cycle. Warm tones in the copper-gold shade also tend to fade faster than cooler or neutral shades, particularly with frequent washing.
Value for Money
76%
24%
Compared to a professional salon appointment for the same shade and coverage, this permanent hair dye set offers a meaningful cost saving while delivering a noticeably more complete kit than drugstore alternatives in the same price range. The all-inclusive format also eliminates the hidden costs of buying developer or gloves separately.
At its price point, the kit sits above most drugstore options, which can feel hard to justify when shade accuracy or coverage is inconsistent. Buyers who have tried eSalon's custom subscription service sometimes feel the retail kit offers less value relative to what the personalized option delivers for a comparable price.
Hair Condition After Coloring
79%
21%
A recurring positive in buyer feedback is that hair does not feel stripped or brittle after using this at-home color kit — a meaningful contrast to the dry, straw-like texture that many users associate with standard permanent dyes. The conditioning agents in the formula, combined with the post-color sachet, leave most hair feeling soft and manageable immediately after rinsing.
The conditioning benefit is most noticeable in the first day or two post-application; buyers report that hair texture gradually normalizes and the softness diminishes without a dedicated color-safe conditioning routine. Those with already dry or chemically processed hair may find the built-in conditioning insufficient for maintaining moisture long-term.
Packaging & Instructions
81%
19%
The box is well-organized and compact, with each component clearly labeled and easy to identify even for first-time users. The instructions walk through the process in plain language and include practical guidance on strand testing and shade selection, which helps set more realistic expectations before application.
The instructions do not address what to do if you run out of product mid-application, nor do they offer specific guidance for previously color-treated hair — a gap that experienced colorists and repeat users pointed out. Some buyers also found the shade-selection guidance (staying within two levels) buried rather than prominently flagged at the start.
Scalp Comfort
78%
22%
The PPD-free, ammonia-free formula makes this a genuinely more comfortable option for buyers who have experienced itching or burning with traditional permanent dyes. Several users who described themselves as having reactive scalps reported completing the full 35-minute process without any discomfort, which is not something they could say about previous at-home color attempts.
A small but consistent group of buyers still reported mild scalp sensitivity during or after application, which suggests the formula cannot be treated as entirely hypoallergenic. Performing a patch test before the first use is still advisable, particularly for anyone with a documented history of color-related skin reactions.
Shade Range Versatility
54%
46%
Within the Dark Blonde Copper Gold shade, the multi-dimensional liquid formula does produce more tonal complexity than a single flat color — buyers appreciated the warmth and variation rather than a uniform, one-dimensional result that can look artificial in natural light.
This is a single-shade retail product, and the available shade range across the retail line is limited compared to what eSalon's subscription service offers. Buyers looking for cool, ashy, or more neutral blonde tones will not find a close match here, and the copper-gold direction is fixed regardless of individual preference.
Cruelty-Free & Ethical Profile
91%
The certified cruelty-free status is a genuine differentiator for buyers who factor ethics into purchasing decisions, and it is backed by formal certification rather than self-reported claims. The absence of titanium dioxide, parabens, and phthalates also resonates with buyers who scrutinize ingredient lists beyond the basic allergen check.
While the ethical credentials are well-documented, some buyers noted that cruelty-free certification does not automatically mean vegan — and the product does not explicitly confirm vegan status for all components. This is a relatively minor point but relevant for a small segment of buyers with strict ingredient standards.
Application Speed
82%
18%
A 35-minute processing time is genuinely fast relative to many competing permanent color kits that require 45 to 60 minutes, and buyers frequently cited this as a practical advantage for fitting a color session into a busy schedule. The preparation steps are also minimal enough that the total time from start to rinse is manageable in under an hour.
The 35-minute window can feel tight for users with thicker or longer hair who need more time to ensure even application before processing begins. A few buyers mentioned that rushing the application to hit the processing start time led to uneven coverage at the ends — a trade-off of the shorter overall timing.

Suitable for:

The eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit is a strong fit for people who are stepping back from regular salon appointments and want a more polished result than a standard drugstore box dye typically offers. If you have light to moderate gray growth and need reliable coverage every four to six weeks, this at-home color kit is built precisely for that kind of routine maintenance. It works across all hair types, which makes it a practical option whether your hair is fine, coarse, curly, or straight. Anyone with a sensitivity to ammonia or PPD will find the ingredient profile here noticeably gentler — a real advantage if traditional dyes have caused scalp irritation in the past. The all-inclusive format also suits buyers who want everything in one box without separately sourcing developer, gloves, or post-color care. Ethically conscious shoppers will appreciate the certified cruelty-free status and the absence of parabens, SLS, and phthalates.

Not suitable for:

The eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit is not the right tool if you are chasing a dramatic color shift — the formula is designed to work within roughly two shades of your current color, so trying to go from dark brown to light blonde is likely to end in frustration. If you have heavily resistant gray or very coarse, dense hair, coverage results can be inconsistent, and expectations should be tempered accordingly. Those who have previously used eSalon's custom subscription service may find this retail kit underwhelming by comparison, since that service factors in your specific hair profile and color history in a way a single off-the-shelf shade simply cannot replicate. This permanent hair dye set is also a single-application kit, so if you have longer or thicker hair, one box may not be enough for full coverage from root to tip. Buyers wanting vivid, fashion-forward colors or significant lightening should look elsewhere entirely.

Specifications

  • Brand: Manufactured by eSalon, a brand known for professional-grade at-home hair color products.
  • Shade: Available in Dark Blonde Copper Gold, designated by the colorist code 7CG.
  • Form: Liquid formula designed for even application and multi-dimensional color absorption.
  • Permanency: Permanent hair color that bonds to the hair shaft for long-lasting results.
  • Processing Time: Color processes in 35 minutes after application, which is relatively quick for a permanent formula.
  • Gray Coverage: Formulated to provide up to 100% gray coverage, though results may vary by hair texture and density.
  • Kit Contents: Each box includes hair color, developer, shampoo sachet, conditioner sachet, stain guard, stain remover, two pairs of non-latex gloves, and instructions.
  • Ammonia-Free: The formula contains no ammonia, making it gentler on the scalp and producing a significantly milder scent than conventional dyes.
  • PPD-Free: Free from para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a common allergen found in many standard permanent hair dyes.
  • Excluded Ingredients: Contains no phthalates, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), or titanium dioxide.
  • Key Ingredients: Active conditioning agents include Quinoa, Jojoba Esters, Aloe Vera, Keratin, and Silk Amino Acid.
  • Cruelty-Free: Certified cruelty-free, meaning no animal testing is conducted on the product or its ingredients.
  • Hair Types: Suitable for all hair types, including fine, coarse, straight, wavy, and curly hair.
  • Use Frequency: Recommended for use once every four to six weeks to maintain consistent color and root coverage.
  • Package Dimensions: The kit box measures 7.99 x 7.13 x 2.76 inches, making it compact enough for easy storage.
  • Weight: The complete packaged kit weighs 14.07 ounces (approximately 399 grams).
  • Shade Range Guidance: For best results, eSalon recommends selecting a shade no more than two levels lighter or darker than your current hair color.
  • UPC: The product UPC is 810070790493, corresponding to the Dark Blonde Copper Gold 7CG variant.

Related Reviews

eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit
76%
71%
Gray Coverage
57%
Color Longevity
88%
Formula Safety
86%
Kit Completeness
79%
Ease of Application
More
IGK 9NA Permanent Hair Color Kit
IGK 9NA Permanent Hair Color Kit
81%
78%
Gray Coverage
91%
Hair Condition Post-Color
83%
Color Accuracy
86%
Application Experience
93%
Scent & Fumes
More
IGK Permanent Hair Dye Color Kit Set of Two | 5N Back To Brown
IGK Permanent Hair Dye Color Kit Set of Two | 5N Back To Brown
85%
94%
Gray Coverage
88%
Ease of Application
82%
Long-Lasting Results
90%
Ingredient Quality
91%
Ammonia-Free Formula
More
IGK V Astro Babe Hair Color Kit
IGK V Astro Babe Hair Color Kit
76%
63%
Color Vibrancy
81%
Gray Coverage
88%
Formula Gentleness
86%
Hair Conditioning Effect
58%
Color Longevity
More
XMONDO Color 5N Depositing Mask 8oz
XMONDO Color 5N Depositing Mask 8oz
72%
71%
Color Payoff
88%
Shine & Gloss
84%
Conditioning Effect
79%
Ease of Application
67%
Longevity
More
dpHUE Color Dream Dark Brown Demi-Permanent Hair Color 7.05oz
dpHUE Color Dream Dark Brown Demi-Permanent Hair Color 7.05oz
83%
88%
Color Quality & Richness
90%
Ease of Application
85%
Shine & Softness Enhancement
75%
Longevity of Color
78%
Scent During Application
More
Schwarzkopf Color Ultime Permanent Hair Color Cream, 5.24 Cinnamon Brown
Schwarzkopf Color Ultime Permanent Hair Color Cream, 5.24 Cinnamon Brown
85%
92%
Color Intensity & Vibrancy
89%
Shine & Gloss
90%
Fade Resistance & Longevity
85%
Ease of Application
80%
Hair Condition After Use
More
Garnier Color Sensation Color Retouch Demi Permanent Hair Dye 5.0 Brown, Pack of 6
Garnier Color Sensation Color Retouch Demi Permanent Hair Dye 5.0 Brown, Pack of 6
86%
91%
Gray Coverage Effectiveness
88%
Ease of Use
95%
Application Time
87%
Color Longevity
90%
Mess-Free Formula
More
XMONDO Color Deep Red Brown Color Depositing Mask & Semi-Permanent Hair Dye, 8 Fl Oz
XMONDO Color Deep Red Brown Color Depositing Mask & Semi-Permanent Hair Dye, 8 Fl Oz
84%
89%
Color Intensity
87%
Moisturizing Effectiveness
76%
Ease of Application
90%
Shine and Luster
83%
Vibrancy Durability
More
Simpler Hair Color Brown Black Foam Dye
Simpler Hair Color Brown Black Foam Dye
79%
89%
Gray Coverage
91%
Application Ease
87%
Formula Safety
67%
Color Accuracy
72%
Beard Performance
More

FAQ

For light to moderate gray, this at-home color kit generally provides solid, even coverage. Results can vary if your gray is concentrated at the roots, very coarse, or makes up more than 50% of your hair — in those cases, full saturation during application matters a lot. It's permanent, not semi-permanent, so the coverage does hold up better than a blending product would.

That depends a lot on your starting color. On medium brown or naturally blonde hair, the copper-gold warmth tends to read as a rich, dimensional blonde rather than orange. If your hair is darker, the copper tones may not show as strongly since permanent color deposits but does not lift significantly. Sticking within two shades of your natural color gives you the most predictable result.

Yes, the gloves included in the kit are non-latex, so that concern is covered right out of the box. The formula itself is also free from several common sensitizers including PPD and ammonia, which makes it a more accessible option for people with known skin or scalp sensitivities.

The eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit is a fixed retail product — you pick a shade and that's what you get. The subscription service, by contrast, customizes the formula based on your hair profile, color history, and specific coverage needs. If you want a tailored experience, the subscription route offers more personalization; this kit is for buyers who already know their shade and want a ready-to-use solution without the commitment.

Everything you need for a single application is included — developer, gloves, stain guard, stain remover, and small post-color care sachets. The one situation where you might need a second box is if you have very long or thick hair, since one kit is sized for an average application.

As a permanent formula, the color itself does not wash out the way a semi-permanent dye would. What you will notice over four to six weeks is root regrowth and some fading at the ends, particularly with sun exposure or frequent washing. Using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner between applications helps extend vibrancy.

Generally yes, but you should be cautious. Hair that has been bleached, permed, or chemically relaxed is more porous and can absorb color unevenly or more intensely than expected. A strand test before full application is a smart step, especially if your hair has had significant prior chemical work.

Noticeably milder — this is one of the things buyers comment on most consistently. Without ammonia, the sharp chemical odor that most people associate with dyeing hair at home is largely absent. It still has a slight chemical smell since it is a permanent dye, but it's far more manageable, especially in a small bathroom.

It's generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before your first wash after applying permanent color. This gives the hair cuticle time to close fully and helps the color bond more securely, which means better longevity. The included post-color conditioner sachet is meant to be used right after rinsing out the dye, not as a substitute for waiting before shampooing.

For short to medium-length hair, one box should be sufficient. If your hair is past shoulder length or particularly thick and dense, buying a second box as a backup is worth it — running out mid-application is a real problem with any permanent dye, and color results can look uneven if sections are left undertreated.

Where to Buy

eBay
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit
In stock $49.76
Buy Now
eSalon
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit
In stock $32.50
Buy Now
eSalon Shopify
eSalon Personal Colorist Permanent Hair Color Kit
In stock $32.50
Buy Now