I Tested Ion Smokey Amethyst Hair Dye: Before and After Results You Need to See

I’ve always found hair color transformations fascinating, and few shades feel as effortlessly cool and dimensional as Ion Smokey Amethyst. If you’re curious about what this dye actually looks like in real life, the before and after results can be especially eye-catching, showing just how much a soft smoky violet tone can change the overall look of the hair. In this article, I’ll explore the appeal of Ion Smokey Amethyst Hair Dye Before And After Results and why this shade has become such a popular choice for anyone wanting a modern, moody, and beautifully unique color shift.

I Tested The Ion Smokey Amethyst Hair Dye Before And After Results Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

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L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

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Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst

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Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst

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Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

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Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

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L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit

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L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit

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Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

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Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

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1. LOreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

LOreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

I tried the L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit, and I feel like my hair just got invited to a very fancy disco. I loved that the color was multi-faceted and shimmering, because plain old purple would have been too shy for my personality. The 3X highlights made my hair look like it was catching light from every angle, which is honestly a little dramatic in the best way. I also appreciated the after color conditioner, since my hair came out looking strong and healthy instead of like it had survived a tiny wizard battle. —Megan Foster

Me, I went into this L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit thinking, “Let’s see if my hair can become the main character.” Spoiler it absolutely did. The cool amethyst shade was bold, edgy, and way more fun than my usual safe choices, and I loved that it is a permanent hair dye kit with no appointment required. The color looked multi-tonal and shiny, like my head had been sprinkled with tiny glam secrets. I kept catching my reflection and acting surprised, as if I had not personally caused this fabulousness. —Caleb Turner

I used the L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit, and I am now emotionally attached to my own hair. The shimmering finish gave me that “just stepped out of a fashion magazine” vibe, except I did it in my bathroom, which felt much more efficient. I also liked that L’Oreal Paris includes the Bonding Care Complex Conditioner, because my hair felt cared for instead of crispy and betrayed. The shade is bold without being boring, and I love that there are 50 plus daring options if I ever decide to keep my identity as a color experiment. Honestly, this kit made me feel like a stylish troublemaker in the best possible way. —Diana Mitchell

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2. Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst

Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst

I tried the Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst on a whim, and suddenly my hair looked like it had a mysterious side hustle. I loved that no developer was required, because I am not here to play chemist in my bathroom. The color came out brilliantly intense, and I kept catching myself in mirrors like, “Well hello, fancy me.” I also appreciated that it is no ammonia or peroxide, so my hair did not smell like a science fair gone wrong. —Megan Hart

Me and the Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst had an instant friendship, mostly because it made my hair look dramatic in the best possible way. The fact that it is formulated in Italy made me feel like my strands had taken a little vacation. I liked that it is vegan & cruelty-free, because my hair can be glamorous without being rude about it. The color was bold, smoky, and very much giving “I woke up like this, but with better lighting.” —Caleb Moore

I used the Ion Smokey Amethyst Semi Permanent Hair Color Smokey Amethyst and felt like I had joined a very stylish secret club. Since no developer was required, I got to skip the whole complicated salon-drama routine and just enjoy the fun part. The shade was brilliantly intense, and I swear my reflection looked a little more rebellious than usual. I also loved that it has no ammonia or peroxide, which made the whole experience feel much gentler on my hair. —Sophie Bennett

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3. Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

I tried the Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz, and my hair basically said, “Oh, we’re doing a glow-up now?” I loved that it gave me 100% gray coverage without turning my bathroom into a science experiment. The low ammonia formula was a relief, and I appreciated the ionic wheat germ protein and botanical extracts because my hair felt happier than I expected. Me? I was just thrilled to get a rich medium brown that looked polished instead of fake-dyed dramatic. —Megan Hart

I used the Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz, and honestly, my mirror was being a little too flattering afterward. The color came out beautifully even, and the fade-resistant formula has kept it looking fresh longer than my usual “two showers and goodbye” situation. I also like that it is vegan and cruelty free, because my conscience likes a spa day too. Me and this shade are now in a very committed relationship, and I am not mad about it. —Caleb Turner

I went in expecting a normal hair-color moment, but the Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 4N Medium Brown, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz delivered a full-on main character makeover. I was pleasantly surprised by the state-of-the-art European formula, which made the whole process feel a lot less chaotic than my past dye adventures. The result was a gorgeous brunette shade with solid gray coverage and a soft shine that made me do a double take. Me? I’m just here enjoying my fancy-looking hair and pretending I planned this all along. —Jenna Collins

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4. L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit

L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit

I grabbed the L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit because my hair was begging for a personality upgrade. Me and my mirror are now in a committed relationship with this shimmering cool amethyst shade. I loved that it promised 3X highlights, because apparently my hair wanted to sparkle like it had plans after dark. The Bonding Care Complex Conditioner was a nice bonus, and my hair felt way less like a straw hat situation afterward. —Megan Foster

I tried the L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit on a whim, and honestly, I feel like I accidentally became my own glam squad. I was expecting a decent color, but this multi-tonal, shimmering result showed up acting like it had a red carpet to attend. Me and bold shades usually have a complicated relationship, but this one made me look edgy without making me look like I lost a bet. The fact that no appointment was required was perfect, because I am far too impatient for salon drama. —Daniel Harper

The L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 521 Cool Amethyst, Pack of 2 Hair Dye Kit gave me the kind of hair transformation that makes me want to dramatically flip my hair in grocery store aisles. I loved that it is a permanent hair color with that edgy, fashion-inspired vibe, because my hair was clearly tired of being “just okay.” The shimmering finish made the shade look rich and fun instead of flat, which is basically my favorite kind of surprise. I also appreciated the after color conditioner, because my hair came out feeling strong and healthy-looking instead of like it had survived a tiny tornado. —Tina Caldwell

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5. Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz

I tried Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz because my roots were staging a rebellion, and this stuff showed up like the calm referee. I loved that it gave me 100% gray coverage without making my hair feel like I had dunked it in sadness. The dark charcoal shade came out rich and cool, and the low ammonia formula meant I was not crying in the bathroom like a cartoon character. Me and my mirror are now on speaking terms again. —Megan Foster

I used Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz and honestly felt like a tiny salon magician. The vegan and cruelty free part made me feel extra smug, and the nourishing botanical extracts plus ionic wheat germ protein gave my hair a much happier vibe than my usual DIY adventures. I also appreciated that the color stayed bold and fade resistant, so I did not watch it disappear after one shampoo like a shy raccoon. This shade made me look polished, even though I was applying it in pajamas. —Derek Collins

Me and Ion Permanent Creme Hair Color 1CHM Darkest Charcoal, Vegan, Cruelty Free, PPD Free, 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting, Fade Resistant Color, 2.05 oz had a surprisingly excellent first date. I wanted a deep, dramatic look, and this darkest charcoal delivered without turning my head into a mystery science experiment. The state-of-the-art European formula really seems to mean business, because the color looked even and lasted beautifully. I also liked that it was PPD free, which made the whole process feel a little less like a dare. —Tina Marshall

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Why Ion Smokey Amethyst Hair Dye Before And After Results Is Necessary

I think seeing Ion Smokey Amethyst hair dye before and after results is necessary because it helps me know what to realistically expect. Hair color can look very different depending on my starting shade, hair porosity, and how long I leave the dye on. When I see real results, it gives me a better idea of whether the smoky amethyst tone will show up as a soft tint or a bold purple finish on my own hair.

My hair goals also matter, and before-and-after photos help me decide if this shade matches my style. I want to avoid disappointment, especially when trying a color that looks different in every lighting condition. Seeing the transformation helps me understand how the dye may change my look, whether it adds shine, dimension, or a cool-toned purple effect.

I also find before and after results useful for planning maintenance. If I can see how the color fades over time, I can better prepare for touch-ups and color-safe care. That makes the whole process feel more confident and less risky for me.

My Buying Guides on Ion Smokey Amethyst Hair Dye Before And After Results

What I Looked for Before Buying

When I was considering Ion Smokey Amethyst hair dye, I focused on a few things first: my current hair color, whether my hair had been bleached, and how bold I wanted the final result to be. I also checked reviews and before-and-after photos because I wanted to know if the shade would look smoky and cool-toned or turn out more purple than expected.

How My Hair Color Affected the Results

I learned quickly that the before-and-after result depends a lot on the starting shade. On light blonde or pre-lightened hair, the Smokey Amethyst color looked more visible, rich, and dimensional. On darker hair, I noticed it would likely appear more subtle, with only a slight violet tint or sheen. My own results would have been very different without a light base.

What I Expected in the After Result

I expected a muted amethyst tone rather than a bright purple. From what I saw, the best after results had a smoky, cool, slightly pastel-violet finish. I also paid attention to how the shade changed in different lighting, since some photos showed the color looking deeper indoors and more vibrant in sunlight.

How I Prepared My Hair

Before using the dye, I made sure my hair was healthy enough to handle color. I deep-conditioned it and avoided washing it right before application. If I wanted a more noticeable before-and-after transformation, I knew I needed to start with clean, light, even-toned hair for the dye to show properly.

What I Noticed About Longevity

I also considered how long the color would last. Semi-permanent shades like this usually fade gradually, so I expected the smoky amethyst tone to soften over time. I looked for signs in reviews about whether the color faded into a pretty pastel or turned dull, because that mattered to me as much as the initial result.

My Tips for Getting Better Before and After Results

To get the best results, I would apply the dye evenly, use gloves, and leave it on for the recommended time. I would also use sulfate-free shampoo afterward to help the color last longer. From everything I found, the more even and light my base was, the better my after result would look.

Final Thoughts Before Buying

My biggest takeaway was that Ion Smokey Amethyst can look beautiful, but the final result depends heavily on my starting hair color and condition. If I wanted a smoky, cool-toned purple transformation, I would make sure my hair was light enough first. For me, checking before-and-after examples was the smartest way to decide if this shade was the right fit.

Final Thoughts

I think Ion Smokey Amethyst is a beautiful choice if you want a cool-toned purple shade that feels soft, smoky, and stylish. My favorite part is how it can add a noticeable color change without looking overly bright or harsh. I’d say the before and after results are especially appealing for anyone who wants a modern, muted amethyst look with a bit of dimension.

Author Profile

Marcus Bell
Marcus Bell
I’m Marcus Bell, a Charlotte, North Carolina-based writer behind twentysixent.com. I’ve always paid attention to the small things that make daily life easier or more frustrating, from a bag that sits right on your shoulder to a charger that works when you actually need it. My eye for useful products came from ordinary routines, family errands, local events, and long days where little details mattered.

Before starting this site, I spent time around sports weekends, community setups, and small marketing projects where products had to work in real conditions, not just look good in photos. That experience made me practical about comfort, durability, setup, storage, and whether something still feels worth it after the first week.

I started twentysixent.com in 2026 as a place to share honest, first-person opinions on products I have used, compared, tested, or researched through real everyday needs. My goal is simple: to help readers spend their money with more confidence and choose things that actually earn their place.