If you work behind the chair day in and day out, you’ll know that the right products don’t just make a difference to your clients’ hair they make a difference to your business too.
That’s where Redken comes in. Loved by stylists worldwide, Redken blends science-backed formulas with salon-quality results, making it a go-to brand whether you’re running a busy salon, working freelance, or building your mobile hairdressing clientele.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about Redken from their hero ranges to practical salon tips that keep your clients coming back.
Why Redken Is a Stylist’s Best Friend
Redken has been around since the 1960s, and from the very start they’ve stood out for their science-led approach. Instead of fluffy promises, they focus on pH-balanced formulas, protein technology, and innovative colour systems that actually deliver.
Here are just three reasons why so many salon pros swear by Redken:
- Science you can trust – Protein and moisture balance for healthier hair.
- Results your clients see instantly – Shine, condition, and colour longevity.
- A full-service offering – From colour to care to styling, you can build an entire salon menu with one brand.
The Shades EQ Gloss Guide
Ah, Shades EQ - the stylist’s secret weapon!
If you’re not already offering gloss services, you’re seriously missing out.
What is Shades EQ?
A demi-permanent gloss that delivers shine, tone, and condition without commitment.
Why clients love it
Think mirror-like gloss, subtle tonal shifts, and that “fresh from the salon” look that keeps them hooked.
Application basics
Mix equal parts colour and developer, process for up to 20 minutes, and watch the magic happen.
Pro favourite
Sabrina Carpenter’s iconic blonde is maintained with Shades EQ, so if your clients are asking for that kind of effortless glow, this is your go-to.
Here is Sabrina's exact colour menu!
Bonder Inside
The latest formulas even include built-in bonding, meaning less damage and happier clients.
How to use Redken Shades EQ?
Always apply to dry hair
Shades EQ is designed to go on dry hair. Any leftover moisture can dilute the developer, meaning the pigments won’t deposit properly.
The result? A weaker colour payoff and shorter-lasting gloss.
So, towel off, blow-dry if needed, and make sure you’re working on completely dry strands.
Give it the full 20 minutes
Timing is everything. To unlock the full potential of Shades EQ, leave it to process for the full 20 minutes.
This ensures the oxidative dyes have enough time to develop, locking in tone and extending the life of your gloss.
A handy rule of thumb? One minute of processing equals one shampoo - so don’t cut the clock short if you want your client’s colour to last.
Trust the process
Don’t panic if Shades EQ looks darker while it’s developing. The formula blends direct dyes (which show up instantly) with oxidative dyes (which take time to activate).
So that intense colour you see at first isn’t the finished result - it’s just the direct dyes doing their thing.
Let it sit, let it work, and you’ll get the gorgeous tone you’re aiming for.
If you want to soften the deposit or feel a little cautious, mix in some Crystal Clear to dilute the effect without compromising shine.
Like the sound of Redken Shades EQ?
Check out our guide to using Redken Shades EQ Gloss in YOUR Salon
Let's take a look at the Redken ABC System...
Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate (ABC) System
Another must-have for your backbar is the ABC system - especially for clients with lightened or damaged hair.
The basics
A 3-step system (shampoo, conditioner, and intensive treatment).
Why it works
It reinforces weakened bonds, restores pH balance, and leaves hair feeling stronger and smoother.
ABC vs ABC Curls
The core range is perfect for all hair types, while ABC Curls is specially designed to enhance and protect textured hair.
Check out Redken Acidic Bonding Curls for Curl Repair in more detail here.
Celebrity inspo
Sabrina Carpenter’s blonde locks are also maintained with ABC alongside Shades EQ - proof that the system is red carpet-worthy!
Redken FAQs (The Ones Clients Always Ask)
What’s the difference between Shades EQ and permanent colour?
Shades EQ is demi-permanent - think shine and tone without commitment. Permanent colour offers long-lasting coverage and lift.
Can clients use ABC daily?
Yes! It’s designed to be gentle enough for regular use.
How long does a gloss last?
Around 4–6 weeks, depending on the client’s hair and routine.
Which Redken shampoo is best for my client’s hair type?
From Frizz Dismiss to Extreme, there’s something for every hair need - use a quick consultation to match the right one.
And now, a note on Redken Color Gels Lacquers
Redken Color Gels Lacquers stand out as the go-to for stylists craving the mirror-like shine of a gloss with the dependable coverage of a permanent colour.
This low-ammonia, liquid-lacquer formula delivers rich saturation and up to 100% grey coverage, while offering the flexibility to mix with Shades EQ Gloss for seamless colour transitions and refreshing melts.
With around 37 dazzling shades, this range lets you create everything from soft naturals to bold fashion tones. It’s liquid texture ensures easy application, whether you’re blending zones or doing all-over coverage.
Why Stylists Love It:
- Lustrous shine with real substance think super-glossy finish without sacrificing depth or coverage.
- Fade-resistant and high saturation, meaning gorgeous results that last.
- Low ammonia content, respectful to hair integrity.
- Mixes 1:1 with Pro‑Oxide Developer and pairs brilliantly with Shades EQ Gloss for personalised blends.
Meet the 10-Minute Express Version: Color Gels Lacquers 10-Min
When speed meets shine, you get Color Gels Lacquers 10‑Minute, a revolutionary liquid-permanent colour engineered for fast and flawless grey coverage.
It delivers up to 100% grey coverage in as little as 10 minutes, without compromising shine or longevity!
Key Highlights:
- Rapid-processing with no rush results thanks to Fast Kinetic Dyes and Smart Pause Technology, you achieve consistent results between 10–15 minutes without risk of over-processing.
- Perfect tone continuity each shade matches 1:1 with the regular Color Gels line, eliminating banding when clients return for touch-ups.
- Liquid format = faster saturation and fuss-free application across all hair textures.
- Same lasting power as traditional permanent colour, but with much quicker processing.
Pro Tip for Stylists
Ideal for speedy root touch-ups (up to 1 inch regrowth). For more extensive color services or full-base applications, the original Color Gels Lacquers are your best bet.
Standard mixing protocol: 1:1 ratio with Redken Pro‑Oxide 20‑Volume Developer, apply immediately, and rinse after 10 minutes for stunning shine.
Pro Salon Tip
Stock both versions, use the full Color Gels Lacquers for creative, full-service work, and leverage the 10-Minute variant to boost your chair turnover with flawless, express root coverage.
Trending Techniques & Looks
From glassy blondes to glossy brunettes, Redken is often behind the season’s most in-demand colour trends.
Right now, clients are loving...
Iconic blondes (think soft, creamy, lived-in shades).
Shiny brunettes with depth and dimension.
Bond-protected blonding thanks to Redken’s Bonder Inside.
How to Make Redken Work in Your Salon
Redken isn’t just about great colour - it’s about building services that keep clients returning and retail that boosts your bottom line.
Service menu ideas: Add express glossing, full-on Shades EQ transformations, or bond-repair add-ons with ABC.
Retail tips: Recommend at-home ABC kits to protect their salon investment. Clients who see results between appointments are far more likely to rebook.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re running a high-street salon or styling on the go, Redken is the kind of brand that does half the talking for you.
With results this good, your clients won’t just notice the difference, they’ll keep coming back for more.
Shop Redken at Salons Direct
Don’t forget to check out our blog to discover more product reviews and other articles on the Salons Direct blog…
Discover the pH Power of Redken
How To Master The 'Expensive Blonde' Hair Trend Using Redken Liquid Color
Discover The 1001 Blondes Collection With Redken Shades EQ
