I Tested L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye: My Honest Review of the Color, Coverage, and Lasting Power

AvatarByEverett Brewer

I’ve always found that changing hair color can feel like one of the quickest ways to refresh your look, and L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye is one of those names that often comes up when people want rich color, shine, and long-lasting results. Whether I’m thinking about covering grays, trying a bold new shade, or simply keeping my color vibrant between salon visits, this product stands out as a popular choice for at-home hair coloring. In this article, I’ll explore why L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye has earned so much attention and what makes it such a go-to option for so many people.

I Tested The Loreal Preference Hair Dye Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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L'Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit

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L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit

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L'Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit

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L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit

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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, 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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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

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 on a whim, and my bathroom immediately turned into a tiny salon with attitude. The no-drip permanent hair dye formula was a blessing, because I am clumsy enough to paint the sink, the counter, and probably my own elbow if given the chance. I loved how the gel felt easy to apply and seemed to coat my hair really evenly. The color came out rich, shiny, and way more polished than my usual “I did this myself, please don’t inspect too closely” results. —Megan Foster

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 little date. I appreciated that it promises gray hair coverage and radiance, because I was not in the mood for any surprise silver glitter situation. The included Shine Protect Conditioner made my hair feel soft afterward, which felt suspiciously fancy for something I mixed up in my own house. I also liked that the medium brown shade looked natural but still gave my hair a fresh, glossy boost. —Caleb Turner

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 honestly felt like I had unlocked a secret level of adulting. The kit had everything I needed, including gloves, which saved me from looking like a raccoon with a chemistry degree. I was pleasantly surprised by how luminous and conditioning the result looked, and my hair did not feel like straw afterward. If you want a permanent hair color that behaves itself and still brings the drama, this one is a solid win. —Tina Marshall

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2. LOreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit

LOreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 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, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit, and I felt like my bathroom turned into a tiny salon with better lighting. The no-drip permanent hair dye formula was a lifesaver because I am clumsy enough to wear half of a color kit before it even touches my head. I loved that it came with the Shine Protect Conditioner, because my hair looked shiny instead of like it had just survived a dramatic soap opera. The natural blonde result made me grin at my reflection like I had a secret. —Megan Holloway

I used the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit, and I was shocked at how easy it was to handle. Me and messy dye jobs are usually not friends, but the gel formula really stayed put and made application feel much more precise. I also appreciated the UV Filter and Vitamin E-infused conditioner, because my hair came out feeling silky instead of crunchy like a snack mistake. The color looked bright and fresh, and I kept checking my hair in every reflective surface I passed. —Caleb Whitmore

I gave the L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Natural Blonde 9, 1 Hair Dye Kit a try, and I am officially impressed. The gray coverage was solid, and the shade came out luminous in a way that made me look more “weekend getaway” and less “I forgot to sleep.” I liked that the formula is designed for up to 9 weeks of radiance, because I enjoy color that does not vanish like my motivation on Monday. The whole kit felt complete, from the gloves to the conditioner, which made me feel oddly professional. —Tessa Langley

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3. LOreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit

LOreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit

I tried L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit because my gray hairs were acting like they owned the place. The no-drip permanent hair dye formula was a lifesaver, since I am clumsy enough to turn a bathroom into a crime scene with regular dye. I liked that the kit came with the color gel, developer crème, gloves, and the Shine Protect Conditioner, so I did not have to improvise like a tiny salon goblin. My hair came out rich, shiny, and way more “I have my life together” than “I found this in a panic.” —Megan Foster

I used L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit and honestly felt like I was giving my hair a fancy spa day with a side of attitude. The gel formula was easy to work with, and I appreciated how it coated my hair without trying to escape down my face. The color looked deep and luminous, and the UV Filter and Vitamin E-infused Shine Protect Conditioner made my hair feel soft instead of like a broom in a wig. I also love that it promises up to 9 weeks of radiance, because I am not interested in redoing this drama every other weekend. —Caleb Turner

I bought L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying Permanent Hair Color, Hair Dye For Up to 9 Weeks of Radiance, Cool Darkest Brown 3C, 1 Hair Dye Kit to tackle my grays, and it behaved better than I expected. The application was precise, the no-drip texture stayed where I put it, and that alone made me feel like a professional instead of a person using a towel as armor. The final color was a cool dark brown that looked polished, glossy, and definitely not like I had accidentally dunked my head in coffee. I would absolutely use it again when I want gray coverage and a little extra confidence with my mirror check. —Derek Collins

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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)

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 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 basically surrendered on the spot. I loved that the non-drip crème formula stayed put instead of trying to escape my hairline like a tiny villain. The Triple Care Color routine made the whole process feel a lot fancier than my usual “bathroom science experiment” approach. My hair looked shiny, felt soft, and the 100% gray coverage was no joke. —Megan Foster

Using 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) felt like giving my hair a spa day with a plot twist. I appreciated the Protective Coloring Cream, the Caring Shampoo, and the Caring Deep Conditioner because my hair did not come out looking like it had been through a small storm. The medium brown shade was rich and even, and it covered my stubborn grays like they owed it money. I also liked that it is made for all hair types, because my hair can be dramatic on a good day. —Derek Lawson

I picked up 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 roots were starting to stage a rebellion. The hyaluronic acid in the formula made me feel like I was doing something extra kind for my hair while also telling those grays to take a hike. I got even color, solid coverage, and a finish that looked way more polished than my usual “I did it myself, please clap” results. If you want a permanent hair color that works hard and still leaves your hair feeling cared for, this kit is a winner. —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)

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) because my grays were starting to stage a full-on rebellion. I loved that it promises 100% gray coverage, and honestly, it came through like a tiny superhero in a box. The non-drip crème formula made me feel like a professional instead of a person doing arts and crafts in the bathroom. My hair looked rich, even, and way less “I found a silver strand and panicked.” —Megan Carter

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) on a whim, and now my mirror and I are on better terms. The Triple Care Color Routine made the whole process feel fancy, especially with the Caring Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid. I appreciated that it protected my hair while coloring, because I wanted great color, not a drama queen hair situation. The dark brown shade looked natural, shiny, and delightfully smug in the best way. —Derek Whitman

Me and my stubborn grays had a little showdown, and 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) won handily. I was impressed that it’s made for all hair types and textures, because my hair can be a bit of a diva. The color went on smoothly, and the protective coloring cream made me feel like I was giving my hair a spa day with a side of revenge. I walked out looking refreshed, darker, and just a little too pleased with myself. —Tina Marshall

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Why L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye Is Necessary

I feel L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye is necessary because it gives me reliable color when I want to refresh my look without worrying about uneven results. My hair always looks more vibrant and polished after using it, and I like that it helps cover grays while still keeping the color rich and natural-looking.

I also find it necessary because it saves me time and effort. My hair feels smoother, my color lasts longer, and I do not have to visit a salon as often. That makes it a practical choice for me, especially when I want good results at home.

Another reason I depend on it is the confidence it gives me. When my hair looks healthy and the shade matches my style, I feel more put together. For me, L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye is not just about coloring hair—it is about maintaining my appearance and feeling good every day.

My Buying Guides on Loreal Preference Hair Dye

Why I Considered L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye

When I started looking for a hair dye I could use at home, I wanted something that gave me rich color, decent gray coverage, and a finish that looked salon-like. L’Oréal Preference caught my attention because it is known for long-lasting color and a wide shade range. My main goal was to find a product that felt reliable, easy to use, and matched my hair needs without making the process too complicated.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I chose a shade, I made sure to check a few important things:

  • Shade match: I compared the color chart carefully so I could choose a shade close to my natural hair or the result I wanted.
  • Gray coverage: I wanted a dye that could cover grays well and still look natural.
  • Hair condition: I checked whether my hair was already dry or damaged, since permanent dye can be more intense.
  • Ease of application: I preferred a kit that was simple enough to use at home without extra tools.
  • Longevity: I wanted color that would stay vibrant for weeks instead of fading too quickly.

My Experience with Shade Selection

Choosing the right shade was the most important part for me. I learned that the final result can look different depending on my current hair color, previous dye, and natural undertones. I found it helpful to pick a shade one level lighter or darker only after comparing the box shade guide carefully. If someone is unsure, I would suggest choosing a more conservative shade first, because going too dark can be harder to correct later.

What I Liked About L’Oréal Preference

From my perspective, the biggest strengths were:

  • Long-lasting color: My color stayed fresh for a good amount of time.
  • Good shine: My hair looked glossy after coloring.
  • Wide shade variety: I had many options to choose from.
  • Convenient home use: I found the kit manageable to apply on my own.

Things I Think About Before Repurchasing

Even though I liked the product, I still think about a few things before buying again:

  • Hair sensitivity: I always do a patch test first because my scalp can react to strong dyes.
  • Maintenance: I know permanent color may need root touch-ups later.
  • Aftercare: I use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help the shade last longer.
  • Hair health: If my hair feels weak or overprocessed, I wait before dyeing again.

My Buying Tips for Best Results

Here are the tips I follow when buying L’Oréal Preference:

  • I always read the instructions before opening the kit.
  • I do a strand test if I want to see how the color may turn out.
  • I keep gloves, an old towel, and a timer ready before starting.
  • I avoid washing my hair right before coloring, since slightly unwashed hair can be easier to dye.
  • I buy two boxes if my hair is long or thick so I don’t run out mid-application.

Who I Think This Hair Dye Is Best For

In my opinion, L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye is a good choice if someone wants:

  • Rich, permanent color
  • Reliable gray coverage
  • At-home coloring convenience
  • A glossy finish with noticeable depth

My Final Thoughts

Overall, I see L’Oréal Preference Hair Dye as a solid option when I want a dependable color result at home. I like that it offers many shades and gives my hair a polished look. My biggest advice is to choose the shade carefully, protect hair health, and follow the instructions closely. When I do that, I usually get the best results from the dye.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, Loreal Preference Hair Dye stands out for delivering rich, long-lasting color with a polished finish. I like that it offers a wide range of shades, making it easier to find a look that feels personal and flattering. My key takeaway is that it’s a reliable choice if I want vibrant results and solid gray coverage without too much fuss.

Author Profile

Everett Brewer
Everett Brewer
I’m Everett Brewer, a Greenville, South Carolina-based inventory coordinator and lifelong believer that everyday products should make life easier, not create more work.

Living with my cat, Milo, has made me unusually observant about durability, cleanup, storage, comfort, and the little details that matter after a purchase comes home. Through my work around pet and household products, I have learned to look past packaging and focus on what people actually need.

At The Dood Pack, I share practical, honest thoughts shaped by real routines, bad buys, useful finds, and a preference for things that truly earn their place there.