In recent years, color depositing masks have become a popular way to temporarily color gray hair at home. These conditioning masks use pigments to deposit color onto gray strands, providing subtle color effects that can help blend away grays between salon visits. But do they actually work on stubborn gray hairs? Here, we’ll explore whether color depositing masks can effectively cover grays, how long the color lasts, which products work best, and more.
How Do Color Depositing Masks Work?
Color depositing masks contain direct dyes, which are pigments that coat the outside of the hair strand. When applied to gray hair, these tiny pigments adhere to the surface and effectively “stain” the gray hairs by depositing color.
The color payoff is subtle, meaning the grays won’t be covered as completely as they would with permanent hair dye. However, color depositing masks can add just enough tone to blend away grays and make hair look richer and shinier.
Can They Cover Stubborn Gray Hairs?
It depends on the percentage of grays. Color depositing masks work best on hair that is less than 50% gray. They can neutralize and blend away grays well when they make up around 25% or less of your hair.
However, as your percentage of grays increases, especially beyond 50%, a depositing mask likely won’t provide enough coverage. The pigments only coat the surface of hair strands, so they have a harder time covering super stubborn gray hairs.
How Long Does the Color Last?
Color depositing masks provide temporary color that washes out over time. Most users can expect the color results to last between 1 and 10 washes, depending on the product formula and percentage of grays.
Higher quality color depositing masks made with nourishing ingredients and saturated pigments tend to have longer lasting results. Using a good color-locking shampoo and limiting washes can also help extend the color.
Which Color Depositing Masks Work Best?
Here are some top-rated color depositing masks that users say do a great job covering stubborn grays:
| Brand | Mask Name | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Overtone | Coloring Conditioner | Concentrated pigments, moisturizing formula, variety of colors |
| Lunata | Color Depositing Mask | Salon-quality pigments, damage blocking ingredients, scents |
| Hairprint | Color Restoring Mask | Certified organic ingredients, long-lasting effects |
| Bold Uniq | Purple Hair Mask | Made for blonde and gray hair, neutralizes brassy tones |
Look for masks that use saturated or concentrated pigments to maximize color payoff. Many also incorporate caring ingredients like oils, keratin, and antioxidants to nourish gray hair. Follow the brand’s instructions closely and leave the mask on for the full processing time.
Tips for Making Color Depositing Masks Last
Here are some tips to extend the longevity of color depositing masks on your gray strands:
- Wash hair less frequently, ideally just 1-2 times per week
- Rinse hair with cool water instead of hot
- Use a sulfate-free, color-locking shampoo and conditioner
- Apply a leave-in conditioner after washing
- Reapply the color depositing mask as needed to refresh the color
Considerations Before Use
Color depositing masks only coat the outside of hair, so they won’t damage or permanently alter gray strands like permanent dye can. However, keep these precautions in mind:
- Do a patch test for any potential allergic reaction
- Avoid getting product on skin to prevent staining
- Don’t use if you have color-treated hair, as it may shift the tone
- Opt for a lighter shade than your natural color to subtly blend grays
The Takeaway
For those with 25-50% gray hair, color depositing masks offer an easy and damage-free way to neutralize and blend away grays right at home. While they won’t completely cover or eliminate grays like permanent dye, the subtle coloring effects can provide a quick refresh in between salon appointments. Look for highly pigmented masks that also nourish gray hair, and implement tips like washing less frequently to get the longest lasting results.