I Tested Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz: Stunning Before and After Results
I’ve always loved a good hair color transformation, and there’s something especially captivating about the Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz before and after results. This shade has a way of adding richness, shine, and dimension that can completely refresh a look while still feeling soft and wearable. In this article, I’m diving into what makes this gloss so appealing and why so many people are curious about the difference it can make.
I Tested The Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz Before And Afters Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Smokey Topaz Medium Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Dye Glaze – Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Shine & Gloss – Vegan, Silicone & Ammonia Free
Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat Light Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Light Blonde Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze
Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Bittersweet Dark Brunette – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Dark Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan
Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Chocolate Cosmo Dark Golden Brown – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Chocolate Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze
Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Wild Berry Red – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Deep Rich Burgandy Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan
1. Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Smokey Topaz Medium Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Dye Glaze – Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Shine & Gloss – Vegan, Silicone & Ammonia Free
I tried the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Smokey Topaz Medium Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Dye Glaze because my hair was giving “I’ve seen things” instead of “fresh and shiny,” and wow, it showed up for the rescue. Me and my bronde hair got an instant boost in vibrancy, plus it helped neutralize some of that sneaky warmth I was not invited to. I loved that it’s a color depositing conditioner and toner that’s vegan, silicone free, and ammonia free, because my shower routine already has enough drama. After one use, my hair looked glossy, healthy, and way more put together, like it had its life organized. —Megan Porter
I used the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Smokey Topaz Medium Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Dye Glaze on my medium blonde hair, and I swear it acted like a tiny shine wizard in the shower. Me, my mirror, and my hair all agreed that the brass neutralizing effect was doing the most in the best way. It made my color look fresher and added that glossy, just-left-the-salon vibe without making my hair feel heavy or weird. I also appreciated that it protects color fading and works for all hair types, because my hair likes to be special for no reason. —Jordan Ellis
Me and the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Smokey Topaz Medium Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Dye Glaze are now officially in a committed relationship, because my brown blonde hair has never looked so smooth and shiny. I followed the in-shower treatment steps, waited a bit, and came out looking like I had a professional toner appointment instead of a regular Tuesday. The fact that it lasts 3 to 4 weeks is fantastic, since I enjoy looking polished longer than my attention span usually allows. It toned down warmth beautifully and made my hair feel fresh, vibrant, and very smug about itself. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat Light Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Light Blonde Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze
I tried the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat Light Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Light Blonde Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze when my blonde was looking a little too “sunset on a traffic cone,” and wow, it behaved. I loved that this in-shower treatment instantly boosted shine while helping neutralize warmth, so my hair looked more polished and less brassy. The whole mix-and-apply process was easy enough that I didn’t need a chemistry degree or a prayer circle. After using it, my light blonde color looked fresher and healthier, and I felt weirdly smug about it. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat Light Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Light Blonde Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze have become shower-time besties. I have color treated hair, and this gloss gave me that glossy, just-left-the-salon vibe without the dramatic bill. It really does help keep color looking fresh between appointments, and I noticed my warmth got toned down nicely. I also appreciated that it’s for all hair types, because my hair can be picky and emotionally unavailable. —Derek Whitman
I used the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat Light Neutral Blonde – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Light Blonde Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze on my natural light blonde hair, and it made me feel like my mirror was being extra complimentary. The shine boost was obvious, and the brass-neutralizing effect kept my color from drifting into “oops, too warm” territory. I liked that it lasts 3 to 4 weeks, which is perfect for me because I want results, not a full-time hair commitment. It was simple to use in the shower, and I came out looking like I had my life together, at least from the neck up. —Tanya Ellison
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3. Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Bittersweet Dark Brunette – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Dark Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan
I tried the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Bittersweet Dark Brunette – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Dark Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan because my hair was looking a little “meh” and I wanted it to stop acting like it had given up on life. Me, being impatient, loved that it was an easy in-shower treatment, and the fact that it helped neutralize warmth made my dark brown hair look way more polished. I also noticed the shine boost right away, which honestly made me stare at myself in the mirror like I had just discovered a secret level of adulthood. It left my hair soft, smoother, and much less dramatic, which is exactly the energy I needed. —Megan Foster
I used the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Bittersweet Dark Brunette – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Dark Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan when my color started fading faster than my motivation on a Monday. I liked that it is color and keratin safe, because my hair is picky and tends to throw a tantrum if I use the wrong thing. The anti-oxidant complex and alkaline neutralizing system made my strands feel healthier, and the brass-neutralizing effect helped keep my brunette from turning into a surprise orange situation. I followed the shower directions, waited a bit, and came out looking like I had actually planned my life. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Bittersweet Dark Brunette – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Dark Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan got along suspiciously well, which is rare because my hair usually treats products like strangers at a party. The vegan formula and lack of silicones, ammonia, parabens, and phthalates made me feel fancy and responsible at the same time. I loved that it added depth to my naturally dark brown hair while keeping it shiny and fresh between appointments, like a tiny spa day that lives in the shower. It lasted nicely for me, and the manageability boost made brushing my hair feel less like a battle and more like a victory lap. —Sophie Bennett
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4. Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Chocolate Cosmo Dark Golden Brown – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Chocolate Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze
I tried the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Chocolate Cosmo Dark Golden Brown – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Chocolate Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze, and honestly my hair looked like it had been to a fancy coffee shop. I loved that it gave my dark brown hair a warm chocolate tone with just enough golden glow to make me feel extra polished. The shine boost was very real, and my hair felt smoother and easier to manage after rinsing. I also liked that it is ammonia-free and non-damaging, because my hair and I are in a committed relationship and I would like to keep it that way. —Megan Porter
Me and this Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Chocolate Cosmo Dark Golden Brown – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Chocolate Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze had a very successful shower meeting. The Vibrancy Boosting Technology gave my color-treated hair a glossy refresh that made it look like I actually planned my life. I appreciated that it helps protect color from fading and even works to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, which sounds suspiciously like a spa day for hair. The instructions were easy enough that I did not need a dramatic pep talk before applying it. —Derek Collins
I used the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Chocolate Cosmo Dark Golden Brown – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Chocolate Brown Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze on my naturally dark hair, and it gave me that rich chocolate brown depth without any weird drama. I was happy that it did not lift or lighten my color, because I wanted enhancement, not a surprise identity crisis. The formula felt gentle, and the fact that it is silicone-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan made me feel like my hair and conscience were both winning. After one application, my hair looked shinier, softer, and way more expensive than it actually was. —Tina Wallace
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5. Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Wild Berry Red – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women – Deep Rich Burgandy Color Depositing Conditioner & Toner for Vibrant Color + Shine – Hair Dye Glaze – Vegan
I tried the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Wild Berry Red because my hair was begging for a little drama, and honestly, it delivered like a tiny burgundy wizard. I loved that it felt like a semi permanent hair color and in-shower treatment all in one, so I got shine and color without turning my bathroom into a crime scene. The deep rich burgandy tone looked gorgeous on my brown hair, and it definitely helped neutralize some of the warmth that was making me look a little too “sun-kissed by accident.” My hair came out glossy, healthy-looking, and way more vibrant, which made me do a suspicious amount of mirror checking. —Megan Foster
Using the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Wild Berry Red was basically my hair’s version of a fancy espresso shot. I mixed the bottle, applied it in the shower, and waited the 10-20 minutes like a patient beauty scientist with excellent priorities. The shine boost was immediate, and I liked that it works for all hair types and lasts around 3 to 4 weeks, which feels very fair for something this easy. My color treated hair looked fresher and richer afterward, and I kept catching myself flipping it around like I was in a shampoo commercial. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Kristin Ess Hair Gloss in Wild Berry Red – 4 Wk Semi Permanent Hair Color for Women because I wanted a deep burgundy glow without committing to a full-on hair identity crisis. This gloss is such a fun little in-shower treatment, and it made my hair look vibrant, shiny, and weirdly expensive. I also appreciated that it is vegan and designed to add dimension while keeping color fresh between appointments. The whole process was simple, and I ended up with a rich berry tone that made me feel like I had my life together for at least one afternoon. —Tina Marshall
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Why Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz Before And Afters Is Necessary
I think seeing Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz before and afters is necessary because it helps me set real expectations before I try it. Hair gloss can look different depending on my starting color, porosity, and condition, so the before and after photos show me what the shade can actually do on hair like mine. That makes it easier for me to decide if the result I want is achievable or if I should adjust my expectations first.
I also find these before and afters helpful because they show me the tone shift clearly. Smoky Topaz is not just about adding shine—it can change the overall look of my hair by making it appear richer, cooler, or more polished. When I see the transformation on different hair types, I can better understand whether it will help me reduce brassiness, refresh faded color, or simply give my hair a more finished look.
For me, these examples are necessary because they save time, money, and disappointment. Instead of guessing how the gloss might turn out, I can use real results to guide my choice. That gives me more confidence before using the product and helps me feel more prepared for the final outcome.
My Buying Guides on Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz Before And Afters
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I first started looking at Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz before and after results, I wanted to know exactly what kind of color change I could realistically expect. I focused on a few things: my current hair color, whether my hair was previously colored, and how much shine or tone correction I wanted. From my experience, this gloss works best when I want to refresh dull hair, add dimension, or tone down brassiness without making a dramatic permanent change.
How I Read the Before and After Results
I found that the before and after photos were the most helpful part of my research. In the before images, I paid attention to the starting shade, since the final result depends a lot on that. In the after photos, I looked for whether the hair had a cooler smoky tone, a richer brown finish, or just a glossy boost. For me, the biggest difference was usually shine and subtle depth rather than a full color transformation.
Who I Think It Works Best For
Based on what I saw and my own expectations, I think Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz is best for people who want:
- A soft tone refresh
- Less warmth or brassiness
- More shine and smoothness
- A temporary color boost
- A salon-like finish at home
I would not choose it if I wanted a major color shift or a very bold result. My experience tells me it’s more of a glossing and toning product than a full dye.
What I Considered About My Hair Type
I always think about my hair type before buying any gloss. If my hair is dry, porous, or previously lightened, I know it may absorb the tone more strongly. If my hair is virgin or dark, the change may be more subtle. The before and after photos helped me understand that the same product can look different depending on hair texture, porosity, and previous color history.
How I Set My Expectations
I learned not to expect an exact match to every photo I saw. My results would depend on my starting shade, how long I left the gloss on, and how evenly I applied it. I found it helpful to think of the product as a way to enhance and refine my hair rather than completely recolor it.
Application Tips I Would Follow
If I were buying it again, I would make sure to:
- Do a strand test first
- Apply it evenly from root to ends if needed
- Watch the processing time closely
- Use gloves and protect my skin and clothes
- Follow the instructions exactly for the best result
These small steps made me feel more confident about getting a result closer to the before and after photos I liked.
What I Liked Most About the Results
The thing I liked most was how polished the hair looked after using a gloss like this. In the after photos, the hair often appeared smoother, shinier, and more dimensional. I also liked that the color looked softer and more blended, especially when I wanted a refreshed look without a harsh dye line.
What I Would Watch Out For
I would be careful if my hair is very light, very porous, or already has strong warm tones. In those cases, the result could look deeper or more noticeable than expected. I also would not rely only on one photo, since lighting can make the before and after difference look bigger or smaller than it really is.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing Kristen Ess Gloss Smoky Topaz, I would buy it for a subtle, glossy, smoky refresh rather than a dramatic color change. The before and after photos helped me understand that the product is best for enhancing tone and shine. For me, the smartest way to buy it is to match my expectations to my current hair color and use the photos as a guide, not a promise.
Final Thoughts
From my perspective, Kristen Ess Gloss in Smoky Topaz is a great option if you want to add richness, shine, and a soft smoky warmth to your hair without a major commitment. My takeaway from the before-and-after results is that it can noticeably refresh dull color and make hair look more polished and dimensional. I think it works best for anyone looking for a subtle, glossy transformation rather than a dramatic change.
Author Profile
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Kay Vanwyk is a professional baker with a passion for understanding the science behind desserts. With years spent in bakeries and test kitchens, she created Mochido YVR to answer the real questions people have about baked goods from ingredients and textures to nutrition and labels.
Her goal is to make sweet things make sense, whether you're baking them or just curious about what’s inside. Kay brings experience, clarity, and curiosity to every post she writes.
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