The principle of 2-step herbal hair coloring

The 2-step herbal hair color is the most natural and effective method to cover 100% of white hair. At Tresse Paris, we’ve perfected this ritual to deliver professional results at home: luminous color, lasting shine, and a scalp that stays healthy.

1-step vs 2-step: what’s the difference?

• 1-step application: a single color mix. Ideal for refreshing your tone, slightly darkening, or maintaining an already pigmented base. Perfect if you have up to 20% white hair or simply want richer, more luminous tones. To use it, just mix 50% base and 50% color in the same bowl before application.
• 2-step application: two successive applications (pre-color and final color). The first step prepares the hair and anchors the pigments; the second delivers the final shade. This process achieves a tone-on-tone result where white hair is perfectly blended for a smooth, natural, and seamless look.

💡 The 2-step method applies exclusively to dark shades — from hazelnut to deep black. These colors require two stages for optimal adhesion and intense depth.

Our Tresse Paris boxes for these shades contain two separate sachets: one base and one color. Each base is specifically formulated for its corresponding shade, ensuring perfect consistency between both steps. This system provides unique flexibility: you can adjust the proportions or use only one step as needed.

✨ Tresse Paris is the only brand offering this ready-to-use 2-step format, inspired by professional high-end herbal coloring techniques.

Preparation: green clay detox (recommended)

Before any coloring, perform a green clay detox on damp hair: it removes silicones, pollution, care residues, and limescale that prevent pigment adhesion. Result: a “bare,” receptive fiber, and a more vibrant, long-lasting color.

1. Mix green clay with warm water until you get a smooth paste.
2. Apply to scalp and lengths, leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Rinse thoroughly without conditioner, then towel dry.

The two steps of the Tresse Paris ritual

Step 1: the base (pre-color)

Prepare a smooth, creamy paste (neither too liquid nor too thick) with hot (not boiling) water and check the temperature using the included thermometer. Apply to clean, slightly damp hair, focusing on white areas.

Processing time: 30 to 60 minutes depending on porosity and amount of white hair. Cover with a cap to retain warmth.

Rinse thoroughly without shampoo and towel dry.

Step 2: the final color

Prepare the second paste (again with hot, non-boiling water, checked with the thermometer). Apply strand by strand from roots to ends, coating the entire fiber evenly.

Processing time: 45 to 90 minutes depending on desired intensity.

Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear, without shampoo, then allow the color to oxidize naturally — avoid washing for 48 hours.

Essential steps for optimal results

• Thermometer: maintain steady, hot (not boiling) water to activate pigments.
• Texture: a homogeneous paste that adheres well to the hair.
• Generous application: fully cover all white strands.
• Gentle heat: use a cap or towel to promote pigment fixation.
• After application: use the SuperCare Herbal Mask to nourish, repair, and protect your color.

🛒 See also: Herbal Hair Color and our 2-Step Herbal Hair Color Kit.

Result: shine and natural coverage

The final color develops within 48 hours: deep reflections, smooth texture, supple, and shiny hair. Each ritual strengthens the fiber and enhances the shade without damage.

FAQ — 1-step / 2-step herbal coloring

Tresse Paris — the alliance of nature, French expertise, and style.