Bondbar 7A

As someone who’s been on a seemingly endless quest for the perfect ash blonde shade, I’ve experimented with countless brands, formulations, and techniques over the years. Through trial, error, and occasionally tears, I’ve finally found my holy grail hair color: Bondbar 7A. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about this game-changing medium ash blonde that has completely transformed my hair journey.

The Bondbar 7A Revelation: What Makes It Special?

When I first discovered Bondbar 7A, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Was this just another ash blonde that would leave me with green-tinged disappointment? Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Bondbar 7A is a salon-quality medium ash blonde hair color that neutralizes warm tones while delivering dimensional, natural-looking results that actually last.

Let’s break down what the “7A” actually means, because understanding hair color nomenclature changed my approach entirely. The “7” refers to the level or lightness of the color—level 7 is considered a medium blonde, lighter than your natural browns but not as light as a platinum blonde. The “A” stands for ash, indicating cool undertones that counteract brassiness and warmth. This simple combination of numbers and letters tells you exactly what to expect: a medium blonde with cool, ashy undertones.

What sets Bondbar 7A apart from other ash blonde shades I’ve tried is its perfect balance of pigmentation. Many ash blondes I’ve used in the past either didn’t have enough cool pigments to neutralize my stubborn brass, or they had so much that my hair looked unnaturally gray or even slightly green. Bondbar 7A strikes the perfect middle ground with its sophisticated blue-violet undertones that neutralize orange and yellow while still looking natural.

Is It Permanent or Semi-Permanent?

One question I frequently see is whether Bondbar 7A is permanent or semi-permanent. From my experience, Bondbar 7A is a permanent hair color. This means it contains ammonia (though in lower amounts than many competitors) and developer, allowing it to open the hair cuticle and deposit color molecules that remain after the coloring process is complete.

The permanent nature of Bondbar 7A is great news for those of us who want lasting results and good gray coverage. However, like all permanent colors, it will eventually fade somewhat and grow out with your natural hair. That said, I’ve found Bondbar 7A fades much more gracefully than other ash blondes I’ve tried—it tends to maintain its cool tone rather than quickly reverting to brassy territory.

The Application Process: Getting It Right

Applying Bondbar 7A correctly makes all the difference between “meh” and “magnificent” results. Here’s my step-by-step process after many applications:

1. Preparation is key: Start with unwashed hair (I wait 48 hours after my last wash). The natural oils help protect your scalp during the coloring process.
2. Mix properly: Bondbar 7A needs to be mixed with the appropriate developer. For standard application, I use a 20 volume developer at a 1:1 ratio. If I’m going lighter than my natural color, I might use 30 volume, but never higher—hair health comes first!
3. Section methodically: I divide my hair into four sections (two in front, two in back) and clip them separately. This organization prevents me from missing spots.
4. Apply strategically: I start with the back sections since they typically need more processing time, then move to the sides, and finish with the front hairline. I apply the color about 1/2 inch from my scalp first, then go back and do my roots last (roots process faster due to scalp heat).
5. Timing matters: I follow the recommended processing time of 35 minutes, but I’ve found that checking at the 25-minute mark helps me gauge how my hair is responding. Every hair type processes differently.
6. Rinse thoroughly: Once development time is complete, I rinse with lukewarm water (never hot!) until the water runs clear, then follow with the Bondbar color-protecting conditioner.

The application process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Trust me, rushing through it only leads to patchy results that you’ll be staring at in the mirror for weeks!

The Dark Hair Dilemma: Will It Work Without Bleaching?

Let’s address one of the most common questions I see: Will Bondbar 7A work on dark hair without bleaching? The honest answer is: it depends on how dark your hair is.

If you have light to medium brown hair (levels 5-6), Bondbar 7A can lift and deposit color in one step with impressive results. I’ve seen it transform mousy brown hair into beautiful medium ash blonde with one application. However, if your hair is dark brown or black (levels 1-4), you’ll need to bleach or pre-lighten your hair first.

When I first tried Bondbar 7A, my hair was a level 5 light brown with some previous highlighting. I was able to achieve a gorgeous medium ash blonde in one application with 30 volume developer. The result wasn’t as light as the box, but it was a beautiful, natural-looking ash blonde that eliminated all my brassiness.

For those with very dark hair, I recommend consulting a professional or using a bleach kit to lift your hair to at least a level 6 before applying Bondbar 7A. Working with a pro for the initial lightening can save you from a potential color correction disaster later.

Sensitive Scalp Concerns: Is Bondbar 7A Gentle?

Having a sensitive scalp myself, I approach any hair color with caution. What impressed me about Bondbar 7A is its remarkably gentle formula compared to many other permanent colors I’ve tried. The company has formulated it with lower ammonia content and added bond-protecting technology (hence the name “Bondbar”) that helps maintain hair integrity during the coloring process.

That said, no permanent hair color is completely free of potential irritants. I always recommend doing a patch test 48 hours before full application, especially if you have known sensitivities. Apply a small amount of the mixed color behind your ear and wait to see if any reaction occurs.

To further protect my sensitive scalp, I take a few precautions when using Bondbar 7A:

• I avoid washing my hair for 48 hours before coloring
• I apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly along my hairline and on my ears
• I never use higher than necessary developer volume
• I ensure the room is well-ventilated during application

With these precautions, I’ve found Bondbar 7A to be one of the gentler permanent colors available, causing minimal scalp irritation even on my reactive skin.

Gray Coverage: Does It Deliver?

Gray hair can be notoriously resistant to color, so effective coverage is a major concern for many. In my experience and based on feedback from friends with significant gray, Bondbar 7A provides excellent gray coverage, particularly when used correctly with the right developer and timing.

For the best gray coverage with Bondbar 7A, I recommend these tips:

• Use 20 volume developer, not 10 (which may not open the cuticle enough for stubborn grays)
• Apply the color to gray areas first and let them process longer
• Ensure thorough saturation of gray strands, which tend to be more resistant
• Consider extending the processing time by 5-10 minutes, but monitor carefully
• For very resistant grays, mixing in a small amount (10%) of Bondbar 7N (neutral) can enhance coverage

What I appreciate about Bondbar 7A on gray hair is that it doesn’t result in that stark, artificial look that many colors create. Instead, it seems to integrate the grays into the overall color, creating natural-looking dimension that’s much more flattering.

The Ingredient Breakdown: What’s In The Bottle?

Understanding what’s in your hair color is empowering, so let’s look at what makes Bondbar 7A tick. The formula contains:

• PPD/PTD (color molecules) at lower levels than many competitors
• Ammonia (to open the hair cuticle)
• Resorcinol (a coupler that helps create the color)
• Hydrogen peroxide (in the developer)
• Bond-building technology (to protect hair structure)
• Conditioning agents including argan oil and keratin proteins
• Blue-violet pigments (to neutralize orange and yellow tones)

What’s notably absent from Bondbar 7A are some of the harsher ingredients found in cheaper hair colors, like excessive metallic salts or high levels of ammonia. The bond-building technology is particularly impressive, as it helps to minimize damage during the coloring process by protecting the disulfide bonds in your hair.

While no permanent hair color is 100% “natural” (that’s the trade-off for lasting results), Bondbar has made efforts to create a formula that balances effectiveness with hair health.

Longevity: How Long Does Bondbar 7A Last?

Based on my experience and feedback from other users, Bondbar 7A typically lasts 6-8 weeks before noticeable fading begins. This is impressive for an ash shade, which typically fades faster than warmer tones due to the nature of cool pigments.

Several factors affect how long your color will last:

• Hair porosity (more porous hair tends to fade faster)
• Washing frequency and water temperature
• Exposure to sun and chlorine
• Product choices (sulfate-free is best)
• Initial application technique

I’ve discovered that the fade pattern of Bondbar 7A is one of its best features. Unlike many ash blondes that quickly turn brassy, it tends to fade gradually to a slightly softer ash tone, maintaining its coolness even as it lightens. This means less panic between coloring sessions and a more consistent overall look.

To maximize longevity, I wash my Bondbar 7A-colored hair no more than 2-3 times per week using cool water and sulfate-free products specifically designed for color-treated hair. I also use a purple shampoo once weekly to refresh the ash tones and counter any emerging warmth.

Cool vs. Warm: The Tone Breakdown

Bondbar 7A is definitively a cool-toned blonde. On the cool-warm spectrum, it leans significantly toward the cool end with its blue-violet base. This makes it ideal for neutralizing warmth and creating that sought-after ashy finish.

What’s interesting about Bondbar 7A is that despite being decidedly cool, it doesn’t look flat or one-dimensional when applied correctly. I’ve found it creates a multifaceted result that has depth and movement rather than the stark, sometimes artificial look that extremely cool tones can create.

For those wondering if it might be too cool, here’s my take: If you have naturally warm undertones in your skin (yellow, peach, or golden), very cool ash tones like Bondbar 7A might create a contrast that not everyone loves. However, if you have neutral or cool undertones (pink, red, or blue), this ash blonde can be incredibly flattering and enhance your natural coloring.

I personally have neutral-to-cool undertones, and Bondbar 7A complements my skin tone beautifully. If you’re uncertain about how it will work with your coloring, consider consulting with a colorist or starting with a test strand.

The Toning Superpower: Neutralizing Brassiness

One of Bondbar 7A’s greatest strengths is its ability to tone down brassy or orange tones in previously colored hair. I’ve actually used it as a toner on highlighted hair that had gone brassy, and the results were remarkable.

For effective brass-fighting, I recommend:

• If your hair is very orange (level 6-7), leave Bondbar 7A on for the full development time
• If your hair is yellow (level 8+), you can dilute Bondbar 7A with conditioner or use it for a shorter time
• For precision toning, you can mix it with 10 volume developer instead of 20
• Focus application on the brassiest areas first

What makes Bondbar 7A particularly effective as a toner is its balanced blue-violet base. Blue pigments neutralize orange, while violet pigments counteract yellow. This dual-action approach addresses multiple types of brassiness in one application.

I’ve found that when used as a toner on already-lightened hair, Bondbar 7A can transform brassy disasters into sophisticated ash blonde in just 15-20 minutes. Just be careful not to leave it on too long on very light hair, or you might end up with a slight gray or lavender cast (though some people actually love that effect!).

The Verdict: What Do Reviews Say?

The reviews for Bondbar 7A are overwhelmingly positive across platforms, and my experience aligns with this consensus. Most users praise its:

• Natural-looking ash results without green undertones
• Superior gray coverage compared to other ash blondes
• Gentler formula that doesn’t leave hair feeling damaged
• Consistent results across different hair types
• Long-lasting cool tone that resists turning brassy

The few negative reviews I’ve seen typically relate to:

• Not achieving light enough results on dark hair without pre-lightening
• Some users with very warm skin tones finding it too ashy
• Occasional packaging issues (leaking boxes, etc.)

When comparing my experience with the broader review landscape, I find that realistic expectations are key. Bondbar 7A delivers exactly what it promises—a beautiful medium ash blonde—but it isn’t magic. It won’t turn level 3 dark brown hair to ash blonde without pre-lightening, and it won’t work for everyone’s coloring preferences.

Comparison Shopping: How Does It Stack Up?

I’ve tried numerous medium ash blonde shades before settling on Bondbar 7A as my favorite. Here’s how it compares to other popular options:

Vs. L’Oréal Excellence 7.1:

• Bondbar offers better gray coverage
• Bondbar has more sophisticated ash tones (less green)
• L’Oréal is more widely available
• Bondbar causes less scalp irritation

Vs. Wella Color Charm 7A/671:

• Wella requires separate purchase of developer
• Bondbar has better conditioning properties
• Wella is more potent for toning extremely brassy hair
• Bondbar fades more gracefully

Vs. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color 7.1:

• Both have good bond-protecting technology
• Bondbar has a truer ash tone (less muddy)
• Schwarzkopf has a stronger fragrance
• Bondbar provides more dimensional results

What gives Bondbar 7A the edge, in my opinion, is its balanced formulation. It’s powerful enough to deliver true ash results but gentle enough to leave hair feeling healthy. The color has depth and dimension rather than the flat, sometimes artificial look that many ash blondes can create.

Mixing Masterclass: Can You Combine It With Other Shades?

One of Bondbar 7A’s versatile features is its mixability with other shades in the Bondbar line. I’ve experimented with various combinations to customize my perfect shade, and the results have been impressive.

Some effective combinations I’ve tried:

• 7A + 7N (1:1) – Maintains the ash tone but softens it slightly for a more neutral result that’s still cool
• 7A + 8A (1:1) – Creates a lighter ash blonde while maintaining the cool undertone
• 7A + 6A (3:1) – Deepens the color slightly while keeping the ashy quality
• 7A + purple additive (10:1) – Enhances the violet undertones for maximum brass-fighting power

When mixing, I maintain the same overall ratio with the developer (1:1), just dividing the color portion between the shades I’m using. The consistent formula across the Bondbar line means the colors blend seamlessly without patchiness.

What’s particularly valuable about this mixability is the ability to adjust your color as the seasons change. I often go slightly darker in winter (more 6A in the mix) and lighter in summer (adding 8A), creating a natural evolution of my color throughout the year.

Developer Details: Getting The Chemistry Right

The choice of developer significantly impacts your final results with Bondbar 7A. The developer contains hydrogen peroxide, which activates the color and opens the hair cuticle to allow pigment penetration.

Here’s my guide to choosing the right developer volume:

• 10 volume (3%) – Deposit-only, minimal lift; good for refreshing color or toning already-lightened hair
• 20 volume (6%) – Standard choice for Bondbar 7A; provides 1-2 levels of lift with good deposit
• 30 volume (9%) – For more lift (2-3 levels); I use this when coloring my natural level 5 hair
• 40 volume (12%) – Not recommended for full-head application due to potential damage

I typically use 20 volume for root touch-ups and 30 volume when doing my whole head after significant regrowth. The 1:1 mixing ratio is straightforward—equal parts color and developer—though I sometimes adjust slightly (adding a bit more developer) for very thick or resistant hair.

One tip I’ve learned is to mix the color and developer thoroughly but not aggressively. I use a plastic tint brush to fold them together until completely blended, avoiding excessive whipping that can incorporate too much air into the mixture.

The Fade Factor: How It Evolves Over Time

All hair color fades—it’s just a question of how quickly and in what direction. What I appreciate about Bondbar 7A is its predictable and relatively graceful fade pattern.

In my experience, here’s the typical evolution:

• Weeks 1-2: Vibrant, cool ash blonde exactly as intended
• Weeks 3-4: Slight softening but still distinctly ash
• Weeks 5-6: More noticeable fading but maintains cool undertone
• Weeks 7-8: Begins showing warmer undertones, especially in previously brassy areas
• Beyond week 8: Depending on your natural color, you’ll see more distinct regrowth and continued warming

What’s notable about Bondbar 7A compared to other ash blondes I’ve tried is how long it maintains its cool tone. Many ash colors quickly revert to brass, but Bondbar’s blue-violet pigments seem to have staying power.

To minimize fading, I’ve developed a maintenance routine that includes:

• Washing no more than 2-3 times weekly with cool water
• Using sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner
• Applying a weekly purple toning mask
• Limiting heat styling and always using heat protectant
• Wearing a hat during extended sun exposure
• Wetting hair with fresh water before swimming in chlorinated pools

These simple habits have extended the life of my color by at least 2-3 weeks between applications.

Hair Type Compatibility: Who Should Use It?

Bondbar 7A works beautifully on most hair types, but there are some variations in results depending on your starting point.

Fine hair: Tends to take the color quickly and evenly. Monitor processing time carefully, as fine hair can over-process easily. The bond-building technology in Bondbar helps minimize damage to delicate fine strands.

Thick hair: May require more product and slightly longer processing time. I recommend sectioning meticulously to ensure complete saturation. The formula penetrates well even through thick strands.

Curly hair: Works well on curly textures, though color can appear slightly different across the curl pattern due to how light reflects. The conditioning agents in Bondbar help maintain curl definition and prevent excessive dryness.

Previously colored hair: Results can vary based on your color history. Areas with color buildup may take the ash tone differently than virgin hair. I recommend clarifying treatments before application if you have significant color buildup.

Damaged hair: Approach with caution. While Bondbar’s bond-building technology helps protect hair integrity, severely damaged hair can take color unevenly. Consider a series of protein treatments before coloring.

The most compatible candidates for Bondbar 7A are those with:

• Level.4-7 natural hair (light brown to dark blonde)
• Minimal damage or moderate damage with proper preparation
• Cool or neutral skin undertones
• Desire for a true ash result without warmth

Where to Buy: Finding Authentic Bondbar 7A

Bondbar has expanded its distribution channels significantly, making 7A more accessible than when I first discovered it. You can purchase it from:

• Bondbar’s official website (often has the freshest stock)
• Select beauty supply stores catering to professionals
• Some larger drug store chains in their premium hair color section
• Authorized online retailers

I strongly recommend avoiding unauthorized resellers or extremely discounted offers, as you might receive expired or counterfeit product. Since hair color contains active chemicals that degrade over time, freshness matters significantly for predictable results.

When purchasing, check the batch code on the box to ensure you’re getting fresh product. Most Bondbar colors maintain optimal efficacy for about 3 years unopened, but for best results, I try to use products manufactured within the last year.

Price-wise, Bondbar 7A typically costs $12-18 per box depending on the retailer and any promotions. While this is more expensive than many drug store brands, the superior formulation and results make it worth the investment in my experience.

Maintenance Magic: Keeping Your Ash Blonde Beautiful

Achieving gorgeous Bondbar 7A color is just the beginning—maintaining it requires a thoughtful approach. Here’s my complete maintenance routine that has helped me extend my color’s life and keep it looking salon-fresh:

1. Delayed first wash: I wait at least 72 hours after coloring before washing my hair. This allows the cuticle to fully close and the color molecules to set properly.

2. Color-safe products: I exclusively use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair. My current favorites contain bond-building technology to continue strengthening my hair between colorings.

3. Strategic washing: I wash my hair only 2-3 times per week, using dry shampoo between washes. When I do wash, I use lukewarm water (never hot) and focus shampoo on the roots rather than the lengths.

4. Weekly toning: Once weekly, I use a purple shampoo or mask to refresh the ash tones and neutralize any emerging brassiness. I leave it on for 3-5 minutes, adjusting based on how cool I want my color to look.

5. Protective styling: I minimize heat styling, and when I do use heat, I apply a heat protectant spray first. I also incorporate more air-dried styles into my routine.

6. UV protection: Hair color, especially ash tones, is vulnerable to sun damage. I use UV-protective sprays and wear hats during extended outdoor activities.

7. Pre-color preparation: About two weeks before I plan to recolor, I start doing weekly protein treatments to strengthen my hair. One week before coloring, I do a clarifying treatment to remove product buildup.

8. Touch-up strategy: Instead of coloring my whole head each time, I often do strategic root touch-ups, only bringing the color through to the ends every third application. This minimizes damage and color buildup.

9. Professional treatments: Every few months, I treat myself to a professional gloss treatment at a salon. This refreshes my color, adds shine, and helps maintain tone between colorings.

With this maintenance routine, I’ve been able to keep my Bondbar 7A looking beautiful for 8+ weeks between applications, significantly longer than with previous brands I’ve used.

Final Thoughts: Is Bondbar 7A Right For You?

After extensive experience with Bondbar 7A and countless conversations with fellow color enthusiasts, I can confidently say it’s one of the best medium ash blondes on the market for home use. Its sophisticated cool tone, gentle yet effective formulation, and impressive staying power make it a standout in a crowded field.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you have very dark hair and aren’t willing to pre-lighten, or if you have very warm skin that’s complemented better by golden tones, other options might serve you better.

For those seeking a true, dimensional ash blonde that fights brass effectively without excessive damage, Bondbar 7A deserves a place in your hair color arsenal. It’s been my go-to for years now, and my only regret is not discovering it sooner.

Remember that achieving your perfect ash blonde is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with the process, adjust your approach based on your hair’s response, and don’t be afraid to consult a professional if you’re making a dramatic change. With the right technique and maintenance, Bondbar 7A can transform your look while keeping your hair healthy and vibrant.

What’s your experience with ash blonde hair colors? Have you tried Bondbar 7A or are you considering it? I’d love to hear about your hair color journey in the comments below!