Introduction
In the world of professional hair color, few products have revolutionized toning and glossing the way Shades EQ has. Known for delivering brilliant shine, soft color, and minimal damage, Redken’s Shades EQ line has become a salon staple worldwide. But to unlock its true power, you must first understand its most essential tool—the Shades EQ color chart.
Whether you’re a hairstylist, color enthusiast, or simply someone looking to tone your blonde or refresh dull hair, this guide will break down everything you need to know about the Shades EQ color chart—what it is, how to use it, why it’s so popular, and the benefits it offers. You’ll also get helpful tips, a breakdown of color families, and answers to the most common questions.
What is the Shades EQ Color Chart?
The Shades EQ color chart is a comprehensive visual reference used to navigate the wide range of Shades EQ demi-permanent hair colors by Redken. This chart categorizes the colors into tonal families, levels, and undertones, making it easier for users to select the perfect shade based on their desired outcome and current hair state.
Shades EQ includes over 50 shades across cool, neutral, warm, and corrective categories. Each shade is coded with a level number (1–10) and letter indicators that denote tone. For example:
- 9V = Level 9 Violet (cool, for canceling yellow)
- 7N = Level 7 Neutral (balanced tone)
- 6T = Level 6 Titanium (cool ash for neutralizing red/orange)
The color chart isn’t just a swatch book—it’s a strategic guide to achieving custom, salon-quality results every time.
Why is the Shades EQ Color Chart Important?
Although it may seem like just another tool, the Shades EQ color chart is fundamental to successful toning and glossing because it helps:
1. Ensure Color Accuracy
Selecting the right tone and level is crucial for color correction and enhancement. The chart simplifies this by clearly mapping out what each shade does.
2. Support Formulation Precision
Mixing multiple Shades EQ colors is common practice. The chart ensures harmonious combinations.
3. Avoid Unwanted Results
Toning without the chart can result in over-toned, dull, or brassy hair.
4. Tailor Colors to Skin Tone and Hair Goals
Warm tones work better for some skin types, while others shine with ash. The chart allows personalized service.
5. Simplify Color Correction
It assists with neutralizing, canceling, or enhancing underlying pigments, especially after lightening services.
Why Is the Shades EQ Color Chart Trending?
Redken’s Shades EQ line has been around for years, but recently it has seen a major resurgence—especially thanks to social media, new fashion trends, and growing demand for glossy, healthy-looking hair.
What’s fueling its popularity?
- Blonde toning obsession
Everyone wants the perfect icy, beige, or buttery blonde—and Shades EQ is the go-to product for that. - TikTok and Instagram hair trends
Stylists and influencers are sharing before-and-afters using Shades EQ, often tagging the color codes from the chart. - Celebrity usage
Stars like Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid have credited Redken colorists with their iconic tones, all formulated using the chart. - Low-commitment hair color demand
As a demi-permanent product, Shades EQ lets people experiment without long-term commitment, making it ideal for seasonal color changes. - Shine + health emphasis
Consumers now prioritize hair health and shine, which this formula delivers beautifully without ammonia or harsh developers.
Benefits of Using the Shades EQ Color Chart
There’s more to this chart than just selecting a swatch—it’s an intelligent system that offers both practical and aesthetic benefits.
Top advantages include:
- ✅ Guides correct toner selection based on hair level and tone
- ✅ Enhances accuracy in creative color formulation
- ✅ Helps balance or neutralize unwanted undertones
- ✅ Saves time during salon consultations
- ✅ Improves client satisfaction through predictable results
- ✅ Makes glossing accessible to non-color professionals
- ✅ Supports trendy and seasonal hair transformations
- ✅ Aids in blending gray or enhancing natural tones
Color Families in the Shades EQ Chart
Redken categorizes Shades EQ tones into color families, each designed to achieve specific results:
| Color Family | Description | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| V (Violet) | Cool tone to neutralize yellow | Ideal for blonde toning |
| T (Titanium) | Blue-based, very cool | Cancels red/orange in brunettes |
| N (Neutral) | Balanced between warm and cool | Used for glossing natural hair |
| NB (Neutral Brown/Blonde) | Soft, rich warmth | Enhances natural tones |
| G (Gold) | Adds golden warmth | Brightens dull hair |
| P (Pearl) | Soft violet-blue | Subtle, sophisticated toning |
| B (Blue) | Deep cool correction | Best for correcting unwanted brass |
| RR (Rubilane Red) | Vibrant, warm red | Fashion-forward reds |
| GN (Green Natural) | Ash-based natural | Strong toning for red control |
| C (Copper) | Warm, fiery orange | Creates copper or strawberry tones |
How to Use the Shades EQ Color Chart
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by codes and tones. But once you understand the chart’s system, formulating becomes second nature.
Steps to using the chart effectively:
- Determine the hair’s current level
Use a level finder swatch or eye test to find the base level of lightness. - Identify the undertone
Is the hair yellow, orange, red, or cool already? - Define your desired tone
Want an ash blonde? Rich caramel? Cool brown? - Use the chart to select matching levels and tones
Match the level and choose a tone that cancels or enhances the existing shade. - Mix with Shades EQ Processing Solution
Use a 1:1 ratio and apply for 20 minutes (or less for softer results). - Rinse, condition, and style
No need to shampoo immediately—just rinse and treat with a color-protective conditioner.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering the Chart
Here are some helpful insights from professional colorists:
- Always tone on damp hair for even distribution.
- Use clear gloss (Crystal Clear) to dilute or soften intense tones.
- Mix cool and warm tones for a neutral result.
- Never go more than 1–2 levels darker or lighter with demi-permanent shades.
- Apply lighter shades on porous ends last to avoid over-toning.
- Refresh faded ends by glossing with matching natural tones.
- Use Shades EQ Bonder Inside (a newer formula) for added strength during toning.
Why Use the Shades EQ Color Chart Over Guesswork?
While trial-and-error is common in home coloring, guessing leads to brassiness, patchy tones, and damage. Using the chart:
- Guarantees predictable results every time
- Improves client trust in professional environments
- Saves money by avoiding costly color corrections
- Educates stylists and clients about color theory and undertones
- Makes the toning process more enjoyable and less stressful
Conclusion
The Shades EQ color chart isn’t just a guide—it’s a powerful toolkit that unlocks creativity, precision, and confidence in the world of hair color. Whether you’re a salon professional or a passionate DIY colorist, understanding this chart means you’ll never leave toning to chance again.
Its strategic structure, diverse color families, and science-backed formulation make it one of the most trusted resources in modern color theory. So next time you reach for your gloss bowl, make sure the Shades EQ color chart is right beside you. It could be the difference between a good result—and a flawless one.
Also Read: Helen Lasichanh: A Modern Icon of Quiet Influence
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shades EQ permanent color?
No. It’s demi-permanent, meaning it gradually fades and doesn’t lift natural pigment.
Can I use it at home?
Yes, but professional guidance is recommended, especially for first-timers.
How long does Shades EQ last?
Typically 4–6 weeks, depending on hair porosity and washing habits.
Does it damage hair?
No. It’s formulated without ammonia and is acidic, making it gentle on hair.
What’s the difference between Shades EQ and permanent dye?
Shades EQ deposits tone without lifting, while permanent dye lifts and deposits color.
Can Shades EQ cover gray?
Yes, it can blend up to 50% gray for a soft, natural effect.
