How-Tos > Hair Color > Stormy Gray
Last updated: August 25, 2017

Stormy Gray

close formula
  • Formula A:

    Schwarzkopf Professional BLONDME Lightener + 30-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula B:

    Joico Crème Lightener + 25-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula C:

    BLONDME Lightener + 40-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula D:

    Equal parts Redken Shades EQ 7V + Shades EQ 9B + a squirt of Kenra Professional Violet Booster + Processing Solution

  • Formula E:

    Shades EQ Clear + a splash of Shades EQ 1B + Processing Solution

It took nearly seven hours, but Mary Tran (@mare.l.a) created a stunning transformation that earned her a finalist spot in the 2017 #ONESHOT Hair Awards for Transformation Shot of the Year. Loving this dark, smoky hue? Check out the steps below to find out how the Santa Monica-based salon owner created this shade of gray!

 

Want to be featured? Tag your pics to #behindthechair!

 

Total time: Almost 7 hours

 

Pricing: About $700; “I usually charge $100 an hour for a creative color like this,” says Mary.

COLOR FORMULAS

  • Formula A:

    Schwarzkopf Professional BLONDME Lightener + 30-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula B:

    Joico Crème Lightener + 25-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula C:

    BLONDME Lightener + 40-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

  • Formula D:

    Equal parts Redken Shades EQ 7V + Shades EQ 9B + a squirt of Kenra Professional Violet Booster + Processing Solution

  • Formula E:

    Shades EQ Clear + a splash of Shades EQ 1B + Processing Solution

Products Used

HOW-TO STEPS

  • 1

    Start by cutting her hair into a graduated bob.

  • 2

    Then, apply Formula A from about 1 inch off her scalp to the ends. Process until she reaches a Level 8.

  • 3

    While that processes, apply Formula B to the root area only. Then, apply Formula C from the midlengths to the ends and place a cap over her hair. 

  • 4

    Process until her hair reaches a pale yellow. Rinse, then apply Olaplex No.2 and let process for 10 minutes. 

  • 5

    Shampoo with Fanola No Yellow Shampoo, then towel-dry her hair.

  • 6

    Apply Formula D all over, then create a shadow root by applying Formula E to the root area only.

  • open color formula
    close formula
    • Formula A:

      Schwarzkopf Professional BLONDME Lightener + 30-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

    • Formula B:

      Joico Crème Lightener + 25-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

    • Formula C:

      BLONDME Lightener + 40-volume developer + Olaplex No.1

    • Formula D:

      Equal parts Redken Shades EQ 7V + Shades EQ 9B + a squirt of Kenra Professional Violet Booster + Processing Solution

    • Formula E:

      Shades EQ Clear + a splash of Shades EQ 1B + Processing Solution

    7

    Finished look