Christopher Crenshaw of Salon Seraglio in New York City says you can liven up existing highlights by adding a semi-permanent shade of intense plum, burgundy, red or wine. We like Redken Color Extend Shampoo ($13, redken.com for locations) to keep the mood bright.
To add more dimension to golden brown shades, Carol Benn, a colorist at the Giannillo Salon in New York City, mixes honey highlights with caramel and brown lowlights. Or she uses a technique called balayage, where she hand paints the color onto the hair to mimic a sun-kissed effect.
Choose a shade that accentuates your haircut but also takes your lifestyle into account. “The lighter you go, the more often you’ll have to go to the salon,” says Crenshaw. “And if you have a relaxer, you need to add moisture back to the hair.” Crenshaw recommends Alter Ego Hot Oil Treatment with Garlic ($46, alteregoamerica.com).
If you have natural hair and warm undertones, Dede Ford of the West of Heaven Salon in Culver City, CA, advises “sticking with shades like rich browns, auburns and reds. Natural hair has a tendency to be dry, and high-lift color will create even more dryness.” Hydrate with Nexxus Keraphix Restorative Strengthening Conditioner ($18, drugstores).
