What Is Progressive Hair Color?

By Staff WriterLast Updated December 11, 2023

Progressive hair color gradually colors the hair by creating pigments that darken the hair over multiple applications. This type of hair coloring technique is subtle and results in a more youthful appearance, but the results are not permanent.

Some advantages of progressive hair color are that it can easily reverse gray hair and doesn’t require mixing of the color before application. This technique makes it simple to apply highlights and is a discreet way to cover grays.

Progressive hair color alters the original shade gradually and appears more natural than permanent or semi-permanent color. Progressive hair colors often contain lead acetate, which many consider to be harmful, according to the Food and Drug Administration.