I Tested Creme Hair Color: My Honest Review, Results, and Why It’s Worth Trying

I’ve always been drawn to the way a simple hair color change can completely transform not just a look, but a mood. That’s part of what makes Creme Hair Color such a popular choice—it offers a rich, smooth finish that feels both polished and approachable. Whether you’re exploring a subtle refresh or a bold new shade, Creme Hair Color has a way of delivering vibrant results while feeling creamy, luxurious, and easy to love.

I Tested The Creme Hair Color Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)

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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)

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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary)

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L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary)

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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)

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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)

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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

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L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

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COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye | Blonde Color | 100% Gray Coverage

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COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye | Blonde Color | 100% Gray Coverage

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1. 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)

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 tried the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit, and my grays basically filed a formal complaint and left. I loved that the non-drip crème formula stayed put instead of staging a dramatic escape down my forehead. The Triple Care Color Routine made me feel like I was giving my hair a spa day while also winning a tiny battle against time. My color came out rich, even, and way more polished than my usual “I’ll fix it later” approach. —Megan Foster

Me and the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit had a very productive afternoon together. I appreciated the Caring Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid because my hair did not feel like it had been through a color tornado. The 100% gray coverage claim was not kidding around, and even my stubborn little sparkle strands got the memo. I also liked that it works for all hair types, because my hair can be a little moody and still showed up looking good. —Caleb Turner

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, and I felt like I had hired a professional colorist who also brings snacks. The Protective Coloring Cream made the whole process feel easy, and I did not end up looking like a cartoon villain by accident. I was especially happy with how the medium brown shade looked natural but still gave me that “I totally have my life together” vibe. For me, this kit was a solid win for gray coverage, shine, and fewer hair-related sighs in the mirror. —Tina Caldwell

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2. LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary)

LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (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, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary), and my grays basically waved a tiny white flag. I loved that it has the Triple Care Color routine, because my hair felt more pampered than I did after my last spa day. The non-drip crème formula stayed put instead of staging a bathroom escape attempt. Me, I’m calling this a win because the color looks rich, even, and very “I totally meant to do this.” —Megan Ellis

I used the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary), and it made my bathroom mirror feel like a makeover show. The Protective Coloring Cream, Caring Shampoo, and Caring Deep Conditioner made the whole process feel surprisingly civilized. I also appreciated that it’s made for all hair types and textures, because my hair can be a little dramatic on a good day. The 100% gray coverage claim held up, and now I look like I sleep eight hours and drink water on purpose. —Derek Collins

Me and the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 5 Medium Brown, 1 Kit (Pack of 2) (Packaging May Vary) had a very successful date. The Hyaluronic Acid in the formula made me feel like I was coloring and caring at the same time, which is the kind of multitasking I respect. I got even medium brown color with no weird patchy surprises, and my stubborn grays did not win this round. I would absolutely use it again when my roots start acting like they own the place. —Tina Marshall

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3. 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)

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 grabbed 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 felt like I had invited a tiny salon into my bathroom. The non-drip crème formula was a hero, because I am clumsy enough to decorate the sink if given the chance. I loved that it promises 100% gray coverage, including those stubborn little sparkles that keep showing up uninvited. The Caring Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid made my hair feel surprisingly pampered afterward, like it had just come back from a spa vacation. I would absolutely use this again when my roots start trying to stage a rebellion. —Megan Holloway

I tried 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 honestly, my grays did not stand a chance. Me and this kit had a very serious appointment, and the Protective Coloring Cream showed up ready to work. I appreciated that it is made for all hair types and textures, because my hair can be a bit dramatic and picky. The color came out rich, even, and way more polished than my usual “let’s hope for the best” approach. I walked away feeling like I had upgraded my whole mood, not just my roots. —Derek Whitman

Me using 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) was basically me giving my hair a pep talk and a makeover at the same time. The Triple Care Color routine made the whole process feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory parade. I liked that the formula is permanent and designed to cover grays better, because I want my mirror to stop being so honest. The shade was a nice dark brown that looked natural, not like I accidentally borrowed someone else’s wig. I finished feeling fancy, refreshed, and slightly smug in the best possible way. —Tina Caldwell

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4. LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light 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, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) and basically told my grays, “The party is over.” I loved that the non-drip crème formula stayed where I put it instead of staging a tiny bathroom escape. The Triple Care Color Routine made me feel like I was doing a spa day for my head, especially with the Caring Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid. My hair came out looking rich, shiny, and way less like it had been through a stressful week. —Megan Foster

Me and my stubborn grays had a little showdown, and this L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) absolutely won. I was impressed that it promised 100% gray coverage, because my silver strands usually act like they pay rent. The Protective Coloring Cream made the whole process feel gentle, and the color looked even from root to tip. I also appreciated that it works for all hair types, which made me feel like this kit was ready for everyone’s drama. —Derek Collins

I used L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 6 Light Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) and felt like I had hired a tiny glam squad. The formula was easy to apply, and I didn’t have to chase drips around the sink like a cartoon character. I really liked the caring shampoo and deep conditioner, because my hair ended up feeling soft instead of like a broom that had seen things. The light brown shade looked natural, and my grays disappeared so completely that I had to do a double take in the mirror. —Tina Marshall

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5. COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye – Blonde Color – 100% Gray Coverage

COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye - Blonde Color - 100% Gray Coverage

I tried the COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye | Blonde Color | 100% Gray Coverage because my hair was starting to look like it had a few too many “wisdom highlights.” Me and this cream formula got along fast, and I loved that it felt more like a treat than a science experiment. The BondGuard technology made me feel like my hair was getting bodyguard protection while the color did its thing. It also left my hair soft, smooth, and shiny instead of doing that crunchy drama queen routine. I’m genuinely impressed that it covered my grays so well and still kept my blonde looking cheerful. —Megan Foster

I used COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye | Blonde Color | 100% Gray Coverage and honestly felt like I had hired a tiny salon wizard. The new cream formula was easy to work with, and I appreciated the blend of 5 nourishing lipids because my hair did not come out acting offended. Me being me, I was suspicious of anything promising up to 100% gray coverage, but this one delivered like it had a point to prove. The Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, and Acai Berry Extract made my hair feel conditioned and full of shine, which is basically the hair version of a glow-up. I walked away with blonde that looked fresh, not fried. —Derek Collins

I gave COLORCHARM Permanent Cream Hair Dye | Blonde Color | 100% Gray Coverage a shot, and it turned my bathroom into a very glamorous comedy show. The cream color was smooth to apply, and the upgraded formula felt way less messy than my usual hair-dye chaos. I really liked that it includes BondGuard technology to help protect bonds and reduce breakage, because I prefer my hair to stay attached to my head. It covered my gray hairs nicely and left my blonde looking bright, soft, and oddly cooperative. Me and this dye are now on speaking terms, which is more than I can say for some beauty products. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why Creme Hair Color is Necessary

I find creme hair color necessary because it gives me a smoother and more controlled coloring experience. Unlike runny formulas, the creamy texture spreads evenly through my hair, which helps me cover every strand properly. This makes it easier for me to get a consistent color result without worrying too much about patches or uneven tones.

I also like that creme hair color feels more nourishing on my hair. In my experience, it is often gentler and less messy, which makes the whole process more comfortable. It helps me color my hair while still feeling like I am taking care of it, rather than just changing its shade.

Another reason I prefer creme hair color is that it gives me better coverage, especially for gray hair or stubborn areas. I feel more confident knowing that the formula stays in place and works well from root to tip. For me, that makes creme hair color an important choice whenever I want reliable and attractive results.

My Buying Guides on Creme Hair Color

Why I Prefer Creme Hair Color

When I shop for hair color, I usually lean toward creme formulas because I find them easier to apply and less messy than liquid dyes. In my experience, the thicker texture helps the color stay where I want it, which makes at-home coloring feel more manageable. I also like that many creme hair colors feel more conditioning, so my hair tends to look smoother after coloring.

What I Look for in Coverage

One of the first things I check is gray coverage. If I want a full, even result, I make sure the product clearly says it offers strong gray coverage or long-lasting color. I’ve learned that not every creme hair color performs the same, so I always read the label carefully before buying.

Choosing the Right Shade

Picking the right shade matters a lot to me. I usually compare the color chart with my current hair color and think about whether I want a subtle change or a bold transformation. In my experience, choosing a shade that is too far from my natural color can lead to unexpected results, so I prefer starting with a shade close to my base color if I’m unsure.

Checking Ingredients and Hair Care Benefits

I always look at the ingredient list before I buy. I tend to prefer creme hair colors that include nourishing ingredients like oils, keratin, or conditioners. My hair feels better when the formula is designed to reduce dryness, and that makes a big difference after coloring.

Considering Hair Type and Condition

My hair’s condition affects the result, so I think about whether my hair is dry, damaged, thick, or fine before choosing a product. If my hair feels fragile, I avoid harsh formulas and look for gentler options. I’ve found that the healthier my hair is before coloring, the better the final look.

Ammonia-Free vs. Traditional Formulas

When I want a milder experience, I often look for ammonia-free creme hair color. I like that these formulas can feel less strong during application. Still, I know some traditional formulas may provide stronger or longer-lasting results, so I decide based on what matters more to me at the time.

Longevity and Fade Resistance

I always consider how long I want the color to last. Some creme hair colors hold up better over time, while others fade faster with washing. If I want fewer touch-ups, I choose a formula known for fade resistance and lasting shine.

Ease of Application

For me, ease of use is a big factor. I prefer a creme hair color that comes with clear instructions, a good applicator, and a formula that spreads evenly through my hair. When the product is simple to use, I feel more confident coloring at home.

Patch Test and Safety

I never skip the patch test. Even if I’ve used hair dye before, I know reactions can still happen. I also make sure to follow the directions carefully and wear gloves during application. Safety matters to me just as much as the final color.

My Final Buying Tip

If I’m choosing a creme hair color, I focus on coverage, shade accuracy, hair-friendly ingredients, and how easy it is to apply. In my experience, the best product is the one that matches my hair goals while also keeping my hair feeling healthy and looking vibrant.

Final Thoughts

In my view, creme hair color is a great choice if I want rich, even coverage with a smooth application. I like that it often feels more manageable to use and can help deliver consistent, salon-like results at home. Overall, my takeaway is that creme formulas are a reliable option when I want beautiful color with less mess and more control.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell
Grant Hollowell
I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.