Is the Queen of Hearts tinted balm damaging to hair, and does it work like a conditioner? — Balm shade Bad Girl (150 ml) - Base Queen of hearts, red

This tinted balm is ammonia-free and works through direct pigments. Unlike oxidative colour, it does not change the pigment deep inside the hair; it coats the outer layer instead. That means it is not a bleach and does not lighten the hair. It is still a cosmetic colouring product, so it is not the same as a repair treatment.

The formula includes a creatine complex, vitamin E and flaxseed oil. The creatine complex is meant to help the hair surface feel smoother after colouring, vitamin E is included for its antioxidant role in hair cosmetics, and flaxseed oil helps soften the hair and add gloss. So the balm is designed to deposit colour and at the same time leave the lengths looking sleeker and more polished.

If your hair is damaged or very dry, this product does not replace your regular shampoo, conditioner or masks. Use it as a colouring step and keep your usual care routine alongside it. Extra attention is useful on very light, damaged or porous lengths, because these areas can absorb more colour than expected and may end up more saturated. If you have a sensitive scalp, apply with caution and avoid use on irritated skin. A hidden strand test before the first full application is a sensible precaution.