I Tested L’Oreal Preference Hair Dye: My Honest Review and Results
If you’ve ever stood in the hair color aisle feeling torn between bold promises and the fear of a dye job gone wrong, I know the feeling. In this review of L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye, I’m taking a closer look at what makes this at-home color line so popular, from its reputation for rich, lasting color to the overall experience of using it. Whether you’re hoping to refresh your shade, cover grays, or simply try something new, this review will help set the stage for what you can expect from L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye.
I Tested The L’oreal Preference Hair Dye Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Medium Brown 5, 1 Hair Dye Kit
L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 8 Medium Blonde, Pack of 1, Hair Dye
L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 6 Light Brown, Pack of 1, Hair Dye
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4 Dark Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)
1. LOreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Medium Brown 5, 1 Hair Dye Kit
I tried the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Medium Brown 5, 1 Hair Dye Kit, and my mirror basically did a double take. I loved that the no-drip permanent hair dye formula stayed where I put it instead of trying to redecorate my bathroom. The color came out rich and shiny, and the gray coverage made me feel like I had successfully negotiated a peace treaty with my roots. The Shine Protect Conditioner was the cherry on top, because my hair looked smooth instead of like it had survived a small weather event. —Megan Holloway
Me and this L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Medium Brown 5, 1 Hair Dye Kit had a very successful date night, and my hair was the one getting all the compliments. I appreciated the gel formula because it gave me better hair adherence and made the whole process feel less like a science experiment. The medium brown shade looked natural but still gave me that “I have my life together” glow. I also liked that the kit included the developer crème, gloves, and conditioner, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt in my bathroom. —Derek Whitman
I used the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Medium Brown 5, 1 Hair Dye Kit, and I am officially impressed. The color looked luminous right away, and I could tell the UV Filter and Vitamin E-infused Shine Protect Conditioner was doing its little superhero job. My hair felt soft, looked glossy, and did not scream “I colored this at home with questionable confidence.” I also love that it is made for up to 9 weeks of radiance, because I enjoy pretending my salon budget is on vacation. —Tina Caldwell
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2. LOreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 8 Medium Blonde, Pack of 1, Hair Dye
I tried the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 8 Medium Blonde, Pack of 1, Hair Dye, and my mirror basically did a double take. I went in hoping for a nice blonde refresh, and I got a color that looked bright, even, and way more polished than my usual “I did this in a hurry” hair situation. The gel formula was easy to work with, and the Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum made my hair feel like it had attended a fancy spa instead of a bathroom sink. I also love that it is permanent hair color with that fade-defying promise, because I am not trying to rebuild my life every two weeks. —Megan Collins
Using the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 8 Medium Blonde, Pack of 1, Hair Dye was surprisingly simple, which is great because I am not a salon wizard. The shade came out soft and dimensional, and it gave me that “I definitely have my life together” glow for at least a few days. I appreciated that this is one of those Superior Preference permanent hair dye kits that has been around forever, because apparently some classics really do know what they are doing. The shine was the real plot twist, since my hair looked glossy enough to make me suspicious of my own reflection. —Derek Whitman
Me and the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 8 Medium Blonde, Pack of 1, Hair Dye had a very successful little science experiment. I wanted a medium blonde that would not turn into a dramatic soap-opera disaster, and this gave me a beautiful, wearable result with nice depth. The fact that L’Oreal Paris pairs the color with Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum is not just marketing fluff, because my hair felt smoother and looked shiny after rinsing. I also like that there are over 50 shades in the Superior Preference line, but this one was exactly the sweet spot for me. —Tina Marshall
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3. LOreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 6 Light Brown, Pack of 1, Hair Dye
I tried L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 6 Light Brown, Pack of 1, Hair Dye because my hair was looking a little “meh” and I wanted something that felt salon-fancy without the salon bill. The color came out rich and natural, and I loved that it didn’t look flat or fake under different lighting. The Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum was like a tiny victory lap for my hair because it left everything feeling soft and glossy. I also appreciate that it’s a permanent hair color, since I am not trying to re-enact a weekly dye drama. —Megan Carter
Me and L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 6 Light Brown, Pack of 1, Hair Dye had a very successful little makeover moment. I chose the 6 Light Brown shade, and it gave me exactly the warm, wearable color I wanted without making me look like I lost a bet with a box of crayons. The fade-defying formula is no joke, and my color has stayed looking fresh instead of turning into a sad afterthought. I also like that L’Oreal Paris Hair Color has so many shades, because apparently my hair and I enjoy having options. —Derek Holloway
I used L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color, 6 Light Brown, Pack of 1, Hair Dye, and honestly, my hair came out looking like it had its life together for once. The gel hair dye formula was easy for me to work with, and I didn’t end up looking like a tie-dye experiment gone rogue. I was pleasantly surprised by how much shine I got, which made the color look even better and a little extra fancy. Since it is permanent hair color, I feel like I got a real upgrade instead of a temporary flirtation with brown hair. —Tina Marshall
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4. LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)
I grabbed L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) because my grays were staging a full rebellion. Me? I wanted one box to do the dramatic rescue mission, and this one delivered with its non-drip crème formula and that fancy Hyaluronic Acid care routine. The color came out rich, even, and surprisingly polished, like my hair had a tiny spa day and a makeover in the same afternoon. I also loved that it covers 100% of grays, even the stubborn ones, because apparently my silver strands were not invited to the party. —Megan Foster
I used L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and I felt like I was starring in my own before-and-after commercial. I appreciated the Triple Care Color Routine, especially the Caring Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid, because my hair did not end up feeling like straw wearing a wig. The Protective Coloring Cream made the whole process feel easier, and the medium brown shade looked natural instead of trying too hard. Me, I call that a win when my bathroom mirror stops judging me. —Derek Collins
I tried L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and my grays waved the white flag immediately. I liked that it is made for all hair types and textures, because my hair can be picky and dramatic on a good day. The color was long-lasting, the application was simple, and the whole kit felt thoughtfully put together from start to finish. Honestly, I expected a mess and got a confidence boost instead, which is a delightful plot twist. —Tina Marshall
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5. LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4 Dark Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)
I tried the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4 Dark Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and my grays basically waved a tiny white flag. I loved that the non-drip crème formula stayed put instead of trying to redecorate my bathroom. The Triple Care Color Routine made me feel like I was doing a spa day for my head, which is honestly a sentence I never expected to write. The caring shampoo and deep conditioner with hyaluronic acid left my hair feeling soft, shiny, and way less dramatic than usual. —Megan Foster
Me and the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4 Dark Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) had a very successful little makeover moment. I wanted 100% gray coverage, and this delivered like it had a mission and a clipboard. The protective coloring cream was easy to work through, and I appreciated that it’s made for all hair types because my hair can be a bit of a diva. The dark brown shade looked rich and natural, not like I accidentally fell into a chocolate fountain. —Caleb Turner
I used the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4 Dark Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and I’m officially impressed enough to brag a little. The formula covered my stubborn grays so well that I kept checking the mirror like, “Wait, where did you go?” I also liked that it includes a caring shampoo and deep conditioner with hyaluronic acid, because my hair deserved a little extra kindness after the color party. The whole process felt simple, tidy, and surprisingly fancy for something I did at home in my bathroom. —Diane Mercer
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Why L’Oreal Preference Hair Dye Review is Necessary
I think a review of L’Oreal Preference Hair Dye is necessary because hair color is a very personal choice, and I want to know what I can expect before I use it. From my experience, reviews help me understand how well the dye covers gray hair, how long the color lasts, and whether the shade looks the same as the box. That kind of information saves me from disappointment and helps me choose a color that really suits me.
My hair condition also matters a lot, so I like reading reviews to see how the dye affects texture, shine, and softness. Some products can leave hair dry or damaged, while others feel more nourishing. A review gives me a better idea of whether L’Oreal Preference is gentle enough for my hair and worth the money.
I also find reviews useful because they share real results from real people. My own experience can be different from what the brand promises, so hearing honest feedback helps me make a smarter decision. In the end, a review is necessary because it gives me confidence before I color my hair and helps me avoid unwanted surprises.
My Buying Guides on L’oreal Preference Hair Dye Review
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I was choosing L’Oréal Preference hair dye, I focused on a few things that mattered most to me: how long the color would last, whether it would cover gray hair well, how damaging it might be, and how close the final shade would be to the box color. I also wanted something easy to use at home without making a mess or taking too much time.
My First Impression of the Product
My first impression was that L’Oréal Preference felt like a premium at-home hair color kit. The packaging looked professional, and the instructions were clear. I liked that it came with everything I needed, including the colorant, developer, conditioner, and gloves. That made the whole process feel simple and beginner-friendly.
Color Results I Noticed
What stood out to me most was the richness of the color. The shade came out vibrant and shiny, which made my hair look healthier right away. I found that the color payoff was strong, and the finish looked more salon-like than I expected from a home dye kit. In my experience, the result was close to the shade shown on the box, though the final look can depend on your starting hair color.
Gray Coverage Performance
One of my biggest concerns was gray coverage, and I was pleased with how well L’Oréal Preference handled it. My gray strands were covered evenly, and the color blended nicely with the rest of my hair. For me, this made it a reliable option if gray coverage is a major reason for buying hair dye.
How Long the Color Lasted
I found the color to be long-lasting compared to some other box dyes I’ve used. It stayed vibrant for several weeks, especially when I used color-safe shampoo and avoided washing my hair too often. Over time, I did notice some fading, but it was gradual rather than sudden.
Hair Feel After Coloring
After using the dye, my hair did not feel overly dry or rough. The conditioner included in the kit helped soften my hair and gave it a smoother finish. I still made sure to use extra hydration afterward, because any permanent dye can leave hair needing a little more care.
Ease of Application
I found the application process fairly easy. The formula was manageable, and the instructions were straightforward enough for me to follow without confusion. The only thing I paid attention to was making sure I applied it evenly, especially around the roots and back sections.
Who I Think It’s Best For
In my opinion, L’Oréal Preference is a good choice if you want:
- Strong, vibrant color
- Good gray coverage
- A long-lasting at-home dye
- A kit that is easy to use
- A more polished finish than basic box dyes
Things I Think You Should Consider
Before buying, I think it’s important to remember that hair dye results can vary based on your current hair color, texture, and condition. I also recommend doing a patch test first to avoid irritation. If your hair is already damaged, I would be extra careful and maybe wait until it’s in better condition before coloring.
My Final Buying Advice
My overall buying advice is that L’Oréal Preference is worth considering if you want dependable color, solid gray coverage, and a shiny finish at home. I liked the balance between convenience and quality, and I felt the results were impressive for an easy-to-use kit. If you want a reliable permanent hair dye with a more refined look, this is one I would personally keep on my shortlist.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I found L’Oreal Preference Hair Dye to be a reliable option if you want rich color and solid gray coverage at home. My biggest takeaway is that it delivers long-lasting results with a finish that feels salon-inspired, though the shade you choose and your hair’s condition can affect the outcome. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use permanent dye with a strong color payoff, I think it’s definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.
Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.
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