Thinking of switching to milk_shake color? Start here.

Switching color lines is a really big decision. While your milk_shake PRO sales rep will make coloring with us as smooth as possible, we know that the road to making the switch can be a little scary. It may make you feel a little better to know that not only do we have a full range of color products to choose from, we also  pride ourselves non our top tier education and customer support.

You can learn about the color switching experience of Natalia Kalev, milk_shake Educator & Content Creator, by watching her interview on our instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqnzI6LNEl_/ 

To take the intimidation factor out of the color line switching process, we’ve broken it down into 6 simple steps. We’ve also provided some questions for you to ask yourself and your sales reps, to help you get the information you need to make the best decision for your salon.  

Timeline for a Smooth Color Transition 

Switching your salon over to a new color line doesn’t happen overnight. Depending on the size of your salon this process could take anywhere from several months to a year or more. The most important part of the whole process actually starts before you test out a single tube.  

Step 1: Identify your salon’s needs.  

• What type of color services do you perform most often? 
• What have been your biggest challenges with your current color line? What do your stylists/clients love about your current color? What would they change? 

Step 2: Do your Research. 

• What distributors are in your area?  
• What do other stylists LOVE about their color lines? 
• What are the different price points? 
• What are the unique value propositions for each color line? 

Comparing Color Companies 

A commitment to a color line doesn’t stop at the tube. The color manufacturer that you choose to partner will should provide you with all of the support that you need to create a successful color service menu in your salon.  

Benefits to partnering with milk_shake: 

• Customer Service
• Availability
• Education
• Brand Values
• Support materials 
• Pricing 

Once you’ve identified milk_shake as a potential fit for your salon, it’s time to start booking some sales calls. Don’t worry, reps are used to this process, and a good one won’t push you to make a decision on the spot. You can feel free to ask as many questions and gather as much information as you need to make the right decision for your salon.  

Step 3: Contact your local sales representative. 

• How many color lines do they represent? 
• What are their most popular lines? 
• What type of support can they offer your business? 
• Do they have Intro or Try-Me kits available? 

Ready to carry milk_shake in your salon? Get started here>> 

Comparing products 

Switching to a new color line is one of the biggest decisions that a salon can make. In most salons, color services make up the majority of salon revenue. The products that you use to provide those services need to deliver on multiple fronts, namely performance and support.  

Qualities to look for in a color line: 

• Color vibrancy 
• Grey coverage 
• Tonality / shade range 
• Longevity 
• Hair health benefits 

All of our milk_shake hair color families were designed with your clients' hair health in mind. You can find a complete guide to all of our color families, HERE>> 

Once you’ve narrowed down your option to a testable few, it’s time to break out the bowls and brushes and start mixing! If you are a salon owner, it is crucial to bring your stylists in on this phase of the process and ask for their input. 

Step 4: Test your options. 

• How is the opacity? 
• Grey coverage? 
• Processing times? 
• Are they true to tone? 
• Is there natural tonality or dimension? 

Choosing a New Color Line 

The very first thing you should do once you’ve decided on a new color line to start using in your salon is to book a class with your local educator. Every color line has it’s own quirks and unique insider tips. You’ll want to be sure you are mixing correctly and have support with your reformulating process as you start transitioning your new color line into your salon. 

Step 5: Book a class 

• What is the proper mixing ratio? 
• What developer should you be using? 
• What tips & tricks did your educator pick up in their salon? 
• How should you approach reformulating? 

Once you’ve educated yourself and your staff on how to use your new color line properly, you can start to bring it into the salon. Milk_shake PRO educator and content creator Natalia Kalev recommends starting to incorporate your new color line little by little, rather than swapping everything out right away.  

You can start with trusted clients, friends or family members until you feel 100% comfortable using your new color line. It can take a while to get used to using a new color, so don’t be discouraged if you are not able to replicate your trusted formulas right away. Invest in some good mannequins and swatches and don’t be afraid to reach out for support! 

Did you know that we have a private Facebook Group for professional stylists in North America? Our passionate family of salons and stylists swap formulas, ask for advice and have direct contact with our Technical Specialist! Already a milk_shake PRO? Join the group!! >>>