Redken Shades EQ Color Chart: The Professional Toner Guide

Shades EQ is an acidic demi-permanent gloss: it does not lift, it only deposits color and shine. Unlike permanent color, it does not open the cuticle with ammonia but works on the surface and outer cortex. Ideal for toning blondes, refreshing color, and sealing the cuticle after lightening.

NB (Natural Beige) is a warm natural beige, a mix of natural base with a soft gold touch. WG (Warm Gold) is a more pronounced warm gold. These are Redken-exclusive codes that have no direct equivalent in other brands' standard numbering.

Shades EQ is mixed with Shades EQ Processing Solution (not conventional developer). The ratio is 1:1. Do not use permanent developer, as Shades EQ works with a low-pH acidic processor specifically formulated for this line.

Shades EQ lasts approximately 20 washes. Being demi-permanent, it fades gradually without leaving a line of demarcation. Ideal for clients who want subtle or temporary changes, and for maintaining blondes between lightening services.

Yes. Shades EQ is an acidic demi-permanent toner (low pH): it contains no ammonia, does not lift hair, and only deposits color. It is the most widely used toner in professional salons for neutralizing unwanted tones (orange, yellow) in pre-lightened blondes. The key difference from permanent color is that Shades EQ works on the surface and outer cortex without opening the cuticle.

To tone blondes with Shades EQ: 1) Lighten to the desired level (minimum level 8 for ash tones). 2) Mix the chosen Shades EQ shade with Processing Solution 1:1. 3) Apply to towel-dried damp hair. 4) Process for 20 minutes (check every 5 min). Most popular toning shades: 09T (platinum ash), 09V (platinum violet), 09P (pearl), 09NB (natural beige). Use our toner selector to find the ideal shade.

Yes. Use our hair color brand converter to find the equivalent of any Redken shade in Wella, Matrix, Schwarzkopf, and more. For exact formulas tailored to the salon's products, download Blendsor.