Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray Review: Is This Your New Go-To Hair Color Hack?

The Allure of Instant Hair Transformation

In a world where personal expression through hair color has become more prevalent than ever, temporary solutions like the Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray are designed to give you that edge without the permanence. The allure? You can switch up your look on the fly. These sprays offer a pop of color that washes out, letting you embrace bold shades like pink, blue, purple, or even silver whenever the mood strikes. No commitment, no long-term impact on hair health—just instant fun.

The promise is simple: vibrant color that you can spray in and wash out. But does it hold up under real-world conditions? I took this product for a spin to see how it performs, considering factors such as color payoff, application ease, longevity, and whether it lives up to its user-friendly claims.

Key Features and Promises

• Temporary Color: The color sprays are non-permanent and designed to wash out with shampoo, making them perfect for anyone looking to try out a bold shade without the commitment.
• Vibrant Shades: With a range of bright, playful colors, Superdrug’s Pick and Mix Colour Spray aims to cater to everyone, from those wanting a subtle tint to those ready for a full-on colorful makeover.
• Quick and Easy Application: No brushes, gloves, or mixing required. Simply spray on dry hair for instant results.
• Vegan and Cruelty-Free: A major bonus for those conscious about the ethical aspect of their beauty products.

First Impressions: Packaging and Product Design

Upon picking up the Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray, the first thing you’ll notice is its compact, sleek design. The spray can fits comfortably in hand, making it easy to control during application. The packaging is vibrant, reflecting the bold colors inside, with clear labeling of the shade and usage instructions.

One downside, however, is the lack of a protective cap. This could lead to accidental sprays or leakage if tossed into a bag carelessly. On the flip side, the lack of excess packaging supports a minimalist, eco-friendly approach.

Application: Is It as Easy as They Say?

The application process is straightforward, though it does have some quirks. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:

1. Preparation: Start with dry, styled hair. Make sure you cover your shoulders with an old towel or cloth, as the spray can stain clothing.
2. Shake and Spray: Shake the can well and hold it about 6 inches away from your hair. Spray evenly, starting from the roots and working down to the tips. For an ombre effect, you can focus on the ends.
3. Layering for Intensity: To achieve a bolder look, layer the spray by allowing each coat to dry slightly before adding more. This layering process allows for a deeper color payoff but can feel a bit heavy on the hair.
4. Let It Dry: Allow the spray to dry completely before touching or styling your hair further. This step is crucial to avoid smudging the color.

The spray nozzle provides a fine mist, which helps with even distribution. However, it can sometimes feel a little too fine, requiring more product to cover the desired area fully. One of the standout features is the product's buildability, allowing you to achieve anything from a subtle tint to a full-on vibrant hue.

Color Payoff and Appearance

When it comes to temporary hair colors, vibrancy is key. Superdrug’s sprays do not disappoint on this front, with shades appearing vivid and true to color. Whether you opt for electric blue, candy pink, or metallic silver, the shades are rich and impactful. However, darker hair may require a few more coats to reach the advertised vibrancy compared to lighter hair shades.

Pros:

• The color is immediate and impactful.
• It shows up well on various hair colors, though it’s particularly stunning on light or bleached hair.
• The metallic and pastel shades add a unique touch, especially for festivals or themed events.

Cons:

• For those with dark hair, achieving the same level of vibrancy may take several layers, which can feel heavy.
• Some colors, especially lighter ones, can appear slightly patchy on darker hair, requiring touch-ups.

Longevity and Wear

As a temporary spray, the Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray is not designed to last beyond your next wash. It’s perfect for a day’s outing but won’t withstand heavy rain or an intense workout. The color can transfer slightly if touched or brushed excessively, so it’s best to avoid wearing light-colored clothing or hats.

In Real-World Scenarios:

• At a Party: The spray holds up well, maintaining its vibrancy under normal indoor conditions.
• Outdoor Events: In windy or humid conditions, the color can start to fade slightly or transfer to the skin.
• Exercise or Sweating: Expect some streaking if you sweat heavily, as the formula is not water-resistant.

Removal: As Easy as Washing Out?

When it comes to washing the color out, it’s a simple process with standard shampoo. For most shades, one good wash will remove nearly all traces of color. However, more vibrant or layered applications may require a second shampoo to fully cleanse the hair.

Pros:

• No staining of the scalp, which is a common issue with some temporary hair dyes.
• Easy to wash out without special shampoos or harsh scrubbing.

Cons:

• Some residual color may linger on porous or bleached hair, particularly with bolder shades.

Pros and Cons: A Summary

Pros:

• Instant Color: Perfect for last-minute decisions or adding flair to an outfit.
• No Commitment: Washes out easily, allowing for frequent changes.
• Buildable Shades: Control the intensity with ease.
• Vegan and Cruelty-Free: Ethically made and suitable for conscious consumers.

Cons:

• Transfer Risk: Can rub off on clothing or skin if not fully dry.
• Heavy Application: Multiple layers can weigh down hair, especially finer textures.
• Limited Longevity: Not ideal for all-day wear in humid or wet conditions.

Who Should Use This?

The Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray is ideal for anyone who loves to experiment with hair color but doesn’t want the long-term commitment of permanent dye. It’s perfect for festivals, parties, costume events, or just a spontaneous splash of color for a day. While it’s not the best choice for all-day outdoor events or activities involving water, it’s a fantastic way to play with color without any risk.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?

If you’re looking for a quick, fun way to switch up your hair color without the commitment, the Superdrug Pick and Mix Colour Spray is a great option. It’s user-friendly, provides vibrant results, and aligns with the needs of a modern, conscious consumer. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks—such as potential transfer and the need for layering on dark hair—the ease of use and vibrant results make it a product worth trying.

Whether you’re going for a bold, all-over color or just adding some colorful streaks, this spray can transform your look in seconds. It's an excellent tool for anyone who loves to experiment and express themselves through their hair but doesn't want the hassle of traditional dyes. So, why not give it a try? You might just find your new favorite color hack!