This was the first time I have ever colored my hair. I wanted to try something very subtle, to make sure I could do it, before I tried something too bold. I have dark blonde hair, and I used a light-medium blonde shade of color. The application process wasn't too complicated, but the other reviewers are right...this stuff smells nasty and chemically, and you can't shampoo afterward, so you're left with this really rank smell in your hair all day (that's why I gave it a 4 instead of a 5). The conditioner that comes with it was WONDERFUL, and it left my hair baby soft (still stinky, though).
I would say it lightened my hair about 10-15%. I did it about a week ago, so I can't say how long it will last. It was great for the price, and I would use it again, though next time I might try something a little bit stronger.