Dyeing Your Hair For The First Time – What You Need To Know
From subtle highlights to all-out transformation, color is certainly the most exciting hair trend to play around with. 90s chunky highlights, statement blonde, and “Rihanna Red” are some of the biggest hair color trends for 2023, Glamour reveals. Yet, for those with virgin hair — defined as hair that’s untouched, undamaged, and chemically unprocessed — you likely won’t have a clue what to expect when it comes to dyeing your hair for the first time. By taking time to read up on what you should know before visiting the salon, you can make the right dye decision for you.
Know what you do and don’t want
Maybe you’re lucky enough to already have a good idea of the color you want — in this case, it’s useful to bring an inspiration photo along to the salon with you to show the stylist. You can also look at their Instagram feed or portfolio for ideas. Keep in mind, colors can be subjective and open to individual interpretation. Vague terms like red or light brown may mean something completely different to the stylist — which means there’s a real possibility of ending up with a color you don’t want if you’re not specific enough. So, again, that’s why showing photos is so important here. Being able to provide the stylist with a clear visual can help them understand what exactly you want to achieve. It’ll make the process a lot quicker and smoother. And, rest assured, you can ask for input from the stylist and leave part of the decision up to them if you’re simply not sure what will look good.
However, just as it’s important to figure out what colors you do like, it’s equally important to figure out what colors you don’t like. So, even if you’re not sure what you want, definitely hone in what you don’t want. You can even show the stylist photos of colors you hate; this will give them a clear picture of what they need to steer clear of.
Choose a color that complements your complexion
Just like eye color, hair color is determined by genes. And, some of the genes associated with hair color also influence skin complexion, pigmentation, and freckles. If you have any complexion issues, dyeing your hair the right color can be an instant fix. So, it’s important to choose a color that compliments and uplifts your skin tone. Again, your stylist can advise you here, and help you make a decision that suits your complexion and features. For example, if you’re prone to blushing and flushing, lowlights in cooler shades like beige blonde and sandy brown can help minimize the redness. Alternatively, if you have a sallow complexion — one that’s typically green or yellow in color — you can add subtle, face-framing rose gold highlights. The rose gold works to offset the pale yellow tones in your skin. Think of it like blushing your hair, rather than your cheeks. It has a similar effect.
Be prepared for multiple appointments
You may need multiple appointments to achieve your desired color — particularly if you have naturally dark hair and want to go drastically lighter — which means you may have to spend more time at the salon than you initially realized. Big changes need to be made gradually so as not to damage the hair. Similarly, you’ll also have to take upkeep into account. Regular touch-ups can get expensive fast, so you’ll need to know this is something you can budget for. In fact, making a just slight change to your natural color is much easier and more affordable for dye-newbies to maintain. But, if you’re desperate for a total hair makeover, you can try something like balayage — subtle, natural-looking highlights. Balayage is easier to maintain than traditional hair coloring, and doesn’t require continual root touch-ups.
Dyeing your hair for the first time is a big step, and you may not know what you expect. By taking time to figure out what colors you do and don’t want, and preparing for multiple appointments, you’ll be able to make the process as smooth and successful as possible.
Photo by Maksim Chernishev on Unsplash
