Go blonde if you don’t mind being the center of attention — this color isn’t for introverts! When first going blonde, ease yourself in by staying within a few shades of your natural color.
Platinum can be fab against mocha skin, but for a natural look, try these tips: For light skin, to for an ash blonde. For medium skin, try strawberry blonde. For dark skin, go caramel or ombre.
Dark hair is the trickiest to lighten to blonde. “It tends to go orange and brassy,” says George Papanikolas for Joico products. Natural hair can be DIY, but relaxed hair needs a pro colorist.
Ombre (dark roots, light ends) is the hottest new trend in haircolor, especially blonde. “The deeper color at the root looks natural next to dark skin,” says Papanikolas.
Bed Head Dumb Blonde Leave-in, Ted Gibson Glimmering Gold Shampoo, Alterna Caviar Blonde Conditioner, Creme of Nature Permanent Hair Color, Pureology Perfect4Platinum Repair
Go red if you feel the need to set the world on fire! Red has just the right kind of spark. “It’s a huge style statement,” says David Stanko, Redken haircolor consultant.
“In general, the darker your skin tone, the deeper the red should be,” says Stanko. Dark-skinned beauties look hot in primary reds and cooler shades like cranberry or chestnut.
Medium skin tones with yellow undertones can carry off practically any crimson hair color. Just make sure to use color conditioners to extend the life of your hue.
If you have a light complexion, add color with red pieces or try highlights, a la Tamyra Gray.
Moisturizing is a top priority for red hair, says Shannon King, director of education at Soft Sheen-Carson. If it gets too dry, your red can fade faster.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Conditioner, Davines Alchemic Shampoo in Copper, Ojon Gloss Finishing Spray, Luster’s ColorLaxer Kit in Passion Red, L’Anza Healing ColorCare Trauma Treatment
Choose brown if you want to give your current shade a subtle lift! Dark brown gives the effect of black hair, but reflects more light and is shinier, richer and more believable.
Those with medium to dark skin tones look great in natural brown hues sprinkled with a few medium brown highlights.
Brunettes should color their hair every twelve to fourteen weeks if permanent, and six to eight weeks for semi and temporary dyes.
Each week, apply a deep conditioner to keep your brown hue healthy and prevent fading between coloring sessions, says Marie Robinson, Clairol’s color director.
Both light and dark brown shades enhance medium skin tones. For an extra boost, ask your stylist to weave in thick, chunky highlights in a vibrant, honey hue.
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Shampoo, Dark and Lovely Color Confidence Haircolor, Frederic Fekkai Salon Glaze Shine Rinse, Suave Professionals Color Protection Conditioner
Gray works for women of a certain age who embrace their salt-and-pepper strands. Try adding lowlights in the same shade as your natural hue, adding a shine gloss, or do a double process.
Matrix Total Results Color Care So Silver Shampoo, Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Blonde & Silver Shampoo, Pantene Color Nourishing Treatment, Aveda Blue Malva Color Conditoner
