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Hair

14 Best Hair Glosses of 2024, Tested by Experts

 

Boost your shade (and shine!) instantly.

Maintaining fresh hair color can be a lot of work. The glossy, vibrant shade you leave the salon with — or that DIY hair color job you pulled off at home — doesn't last forever, and in some cases, doesn't even last more than a few weeks! But we've got an easy solution to prevent dull, brassy hair: at-home hair glosses and glazes.

"These hair treatments are typically designed to boost shine and some even add a hint of temporary color via pigments," explains Danusia Wnek, Senior Chemist at The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab. "They are typically applied on wet hair and left on between 3 to 20 minutes. Some treatments are applied before shampoo and conditioner, others are applied after conditioner and a few are used in place of your conditioner, so be sure to read your product’s directions for proper application."

These shine (and sometimes color-enhancing) treatments are available at both the salon and for at-home use. To find the best and most effective hair glosses, GH Beauty Lab scientists tested five formulas both in the Lab and with 22 consumers who evaluated the products at home and then shared their findings in a questionnaire. Check out our top picks for the best at-home glosses and glazes, including top-rated formulas from the Lab and professional hairstylists, plus more information about how to use the treatments at the end of this guide.

BEST OVERALL HAIR GLOSS

Redken Shades Eq Hair Color Gloss

PROS

• Doubles as a conditioning treatment
• Works especially well for blondes
• Great for shine and body

CONS

• For professional salon use only

A go-to product for professional hair colorists, both Lorena Martinez, a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, and Giselle Luza, founder of Giselle Luza Studio in New York City, are big fans of Redken's gloss. "It is translucent and demi-permanent, which makes it perfect for creating a custom shade, canceling unwanted tones or enhancing any existing color," Luza says. "It doubles as a conditioning treatment, so hair always feels amazing after." But take note: It's for professional use only, so you'll have to head to Redken's website to find a salon that carries it near you.

Number of Shades Over 100
Formula Liquid
Size 2 oz.

BEST OVERALL HAIR GLAZE

Oribe Glaze for Beautiful Color

PROS

• Super shine-enhancing
• Helps detangle
• Softens hair

CONS

• Expensive

To boost shine without depositing color, reach for Oribe's luxurious salon-quality glaze. A pricey pick, "this glaze is my absolute favorite — it provides a silky and shiny finish that can’t be beat," Martinez says. "While it doesn’t change the color of your hair, it adds so much reflection that makes it worth it." She loves that it also helps detangle hair and can replace conditioner when you use it.

Number of Shades One
Formula Cream
Size 5.9 oz.

BEST SHINE-ENHANCING HAIR GLOSS

eSalon Color Depositing Hair Color Balancer Treatment

PROS

• Easy to apply
• Provides uniform color distribution
• Doesn't stain
• Adds shine and enhances color

CONS

• Can be runny coming out of the tube

In GH Beauty Lab testing, eSalon's treatment ranked high for both uniform color distribution and being easy to apply in GH Beauty Lab testing. This gloss is an updated formula and offers a range of 12 shades, suitable for a wide variety of tones and colors. “I loved how easy the product was to apply," one tester said of the original formula. "It smells great and didn't stain my tub, shower curtain or anywhere." Others raved about the results and its ability to revive faded color: “It provided shine to the hair and enhanced the color and left the hair soft and easily manageable.” One tester did note that the formula can be runny coming out of the tube.

Number of Shades 12
Formula Gel
Size 3.9 oz.

BEST HAIR GLOSS MASK

igk Color Depositing Mask

PROS

• Multi-tasking formula
• Boosts color
• Works on non color-treated hair as well

CONS

• May stain skin and clothing

This color-depositing hair mask does double duty: "I use a shade that is the same color as my hair and it performs like a gloss, too," says Good Housekeeping Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn. "As someone who doesn’t color her hair, I loved the extra vibrance and shine it instantly gave my hair, and the color was definitely richer post-treatment." Be sure to use gloves when applying — a few reviewers noted staining on fabrics and skin.

Number of Shades 13
Formula Gel mask
Size 6 oz.

BEST HAIR GLOSS FOR BRUNETTES

dpHUE Gloss+

PROS

• Conditioning benefits
• Comes in multiple shades of brown

CONS

• May change color dramatically and hard to change back

Luza loves the variety of shades that dpHue's gloss comes in, including four brown tones. "They have a clear formula to add shine, along with several shades to choose from that will enhance your natural hair color," she says. It's super hydrating, so it will leave your hair feeling smooth and healthy.

You may want to try a test patch before applying all over; a few reviewers found that it changed their color extremely and wouldn't come out after multiple washes.

Number of Shades 10
Formula Cream
Size 6.5 oz.

BEST LEAVE-IN HAIR GLOSS

Goldwell Dualsenses Color Repair & Radiance Balm

PROS

• Won't weigh hair down
• A little goes a long way
• Can be used on damp or dry hair

CONS

• May be heavy for super fine hair

Think of this balm as the perfect partner to an in-salon gloss treatment. "I recently tried Goldwell's Colorance Gloss Tones in-salon hair gloss which helped make my months old highlights look fresh and vibrant," says GH Beauty Director April Franzino. "Post-gloss, I extended the shine and smoothness by applying this lightweight leave-in balm on both my damp and dry hair." Since it is a leave-in product, use sparingly on super fine hair, as it may be too thick for some.

Number of Shades One
Formula Balm
Size 2.5 oz.

BEST HAIR GLOSS FOR BLACK HAIR

KRISTIN ESS HAIR Signature Hair Gloss

PROS

• Budget-friendly
• Natural-looking results
• Easy to use

CONS

• Some felt the formula was thin and runny

Even black hair can benefit from a gloss, thanks to its shine-boosting benefits. "Kristin Ess's Signature Gloss is my favorite at-home gloss for anyone who wants to enhance super dark brown or black hair," Luza says. You apply it in the shower — meaning less mess — and it enhances black color in a natural-looking way. "It’s affordable as well which is always a plus," she adds.

Reviewers overall love this gloss but a few felt that the formula is thin and can be runny.

Number of Shades Eight
Formula Liquid
Size 2 oz.

BEST INSTANT HAIR GLOSS

amika Flash Instant Shine Hair Gloss Mask

PROS

• Works quickly on dry hair
• Great scent

CONS

• Some reviewers say it can leave hair tangled

If you're someone who likes instant results, look no further. Amika's gloss mask works its moisturizing and shine-enhancing magic in just 60 seconds, according to the brand. "I have very dry hair and after trying a sample of this product... I was amazed at how shiny and healthy my hair looked after a single use," shared one Sephora user. Keep a comb handy; a few reviewers commented that it left their hair tangled.

Number of Shades One
Formula Gel mask
Size 6.7 oz.

BEST CLEAR HAIR GLOSS

Pureology Color Fanatic Top Coat + Clear Gloss

PROS

• Works on all hair colors
• Conditions
• Gives noticeable shine

CONS

• Doesn't enhance color

Franzino recently tested this new gloss and really noticed a difference in her hair's shine. "I love that it doesn’t alter my color and contains botanical conditioning ingredients like coconut and camellia oils," she says. The clear formula makes it ideal for any hair color or type, although it won't enhance hair color.

Number of Shades One
Formula Cream
Size 6.7 0z.

BEST HAIR GLOSS FOR WAVY HAIR

Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

PROS

• Delivers instant shine
• Easy to use
• Clear formula works on all hair colors

CONS

• Doesn't enhance color

If you're looking for instant shine and fewer flyaways, Color Wow's spray gloss is for you. "It's an easy application and maintains shine in the hair in between color appointments," Martinez explains. The spray is heat-activated and also functions as an anti-frizz product by blocking moisture from getting into the hair, which is ideal for wavy and curly hair types. Plus, it doesn't contain color, making it ideal for any hair shade. Note: it won't enhance your color so keep that in mind if that is the goal when choosing a gloss.

Number of Shades One
Formula Spray
Size 6.7 oz.

BEST SPRAY HAIR GLOSS

L'Oréal Paris EverPure Glossing In Shower Acidic Glaze

PROS

• Immediate effect
• Makes hair shiny and soft
• Good for colored and chemically-treated hair

CONS

• Spray nozzle can be difficult to use

When you color or chemically treat your hair, it can alter the hair's pH which can often lessen the shine factor. L'Oréal Paris' fast-acting spray balances the pH levels in just three minutes, bringing back shine and making hair super soft, stat. Plus, it has UV filters to help prevent color fading. Reviewers love the salon quality and instant shine effect. "This has saved me so much money from having to get this at a salon and pay $75 every time I want a gloss," one Walmart reviewer said. "It has changed my hair." Some users did have a hard time using the spray nozzle, especially in the back of the head.

Number of Shades One
Formula Spray
Size 6.7 oz.

BEST STRENGTHENING HAIR GLOSS

Kérastase Chroma Absolu High Shine Gloss Treatment

PROS

• Softens and strengthens hair
• Easy to apply

CONS

• Some reviewers didn't love the scent

Martinez loves the ease of this clear gloss from Kérastase, as it is a "replacement for your conditioner and will make your hair feel shiny and soft" after just one use. Plus, the blend of amino acids, lactic acid and tartaric acid helps strengthen strands, heal damage from color and prevent fading. If you are scent sensitive, smell it before you apply — a few reviewers didn't like the strong chemical-y scent.

Number of Shades One
Formula Liquid
Size 7.1 oz.

BEST HAIR GLOSS FOR COLOR-TREATED HAIR

Kérastase Blond Absolu Hair Masque Ultra-Violet

PROS

• Works on gray, silver or blonde hair
• Moisturizes dry strands
• Extends color in between coloring sessions

CONS

• Not made to boost shine

While designed for blondes, this Kérastase treatment masque — which acts like a gloss — "helps neutralize yellow tones, enhances gray or silver tones and keeps color looking bright," Luza notes. Plus, "since it's in a moisturizing mask formula, it helps keep hair healthy," she says, as opposed to purple-toned shampoos, which can be drying. FYI: It isn't designed to boost shine, moreso to brighten haircolor.

Number of Shades One
Formula Cream
Size 6.8 oz.

BEST DRUGSTORE HAIR GLOSS

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Luminous Glaze

PROS

• Easy application and rinsing
• Appealing light scent
• Strong shine-enhancing effects

CONS

• Can stain hands

You don't have to spend a mint on a hair gloss to get professional-level results. John Frieda's formula received high marks in GH Beauty Lab testing. Users loved the effortlessness of a no-mess application, enjoyed its fragrance and thought it rinsed out easily. They also loved that it added noticeable shine. One user shared a suggestion before applying: wear gloves when using, as this gloss can stain your skin.

Number of Shades One
Formula Liquid
Size 6.5 oz.

How we test the best hair glosses

The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab scientists test hundreds of the best hair products every year, from shampoos and conditioners to hair masks, leave-in conditioners and every hair styling product on the market, including hair serums, mousses, hairsprays, dry shampoos and more.

To test hair glosses, the GH Beauty Lab evaluated five formulas both in the Lab and with a consumer panel of 22 women with different hair colors. In the Lab, scientists tested the products on hair swatches both for shine retention and color revival. The consumer testers evaluated the products based on ease of use and overall satisfaction. The above products are a mix of Beauty Lab winners and formulas recommended to us by professional colorists, along with top-rated picks from throughly vetted online reviews.

What to look for when shopping for the best hair gloss or glaze

• Choose a gloss if you want to freshen your color. "If you're interested in altering your color or need to get rid of unwanted tones, try a gloss," Luza advises, suggesting that you pick a shade that matches your existing color. A gloss can also be used to blend in gray hair. For those who color their hair at a salon, Martinez recommends asking your colorist to help you pick the right at-home gloss to use, especially when incorporating color.
• Opt for a clear glaze if you're more interested in shine and moisture than a color refresh. "When it comes to a non-pigmented gloss or glaze that acts more like a shine and conditioning treatment, these work on any hair type," says Martinez. A clear glaze can boost shine for all hair colors and those who don't color their hair. Note that some brands use the words "gloss" and "glaze" interchangeably, so consult the packaging and instructions before applying.

What's the difference between hair gloss and hair glaze?

Think of hair gloss like lip gloss, coating hair in translucent color and shine. "A hair gloss is a demi-permanent treatment that helps seal the hair's cuticle [outer layer], neutralizes any unwanted tones and enhances desired tones," Luza says. The effects of a good hair gloss "usually last about three to six weeks depending on the porosity of the hair," adds Martinez. "A gloss and a hair toner are the same thing, and can be used interchangeably," she adds. So if you hear the word "toner" at the salon, know that it serves the same purpose as a gloss for your color.

On the other hand, unlike hair glosses, glazes usually don't deposit color on strands. "A glaze is a milder form of a gloss, usually a clear formula or solely a conditioning treatment," Luza explains. While a gloss can neutralize brassiness and boost your existing color, a glaze is usually sheer and primarily delivers moisturizing benefits to your hair.

Are hair glosses good for your hair?

Good news here: "Hair glosses are great for all hair types," says Luza. "They don’t contain any ammonia or harsh chemicals and they seal the outer cuticle which helps the hair look shinier and healthier."

What are the disadvantages of hair gloss?

"Hair glosses are temporary, need to be reapplied consistently and do not last as long as salon treatments," says Wnek. "They also differ from salon glosses because stylists can create a custom color formula based on your goals which allows them to have more control than with at-home products."

How long does a gloss last in your hair?

It really depends on the product used. "Hair glosses applied in the salon can last between six to eight weeks and hair glosses used at home can last between two and four weeks," says Luza. Because gloss is ammonia-free and doesn’t penetrate the cuticle, it's normal to fade within a few weeks.

A couple of factors that affect the length of time a gloss lasts are the porosity of the hair and the level of deposit of the gloss. Plus, "how often you shampoo and your day-to-day lifestyle including styling routine can also play a role," adds Martinez. You can help your gloss last longer by washing less frequently and using less heat.