If you're considering changing your hair colour but don't know where to start, you've come to the right place. Choosing the right hair colour can be tricky, but with the right guidance, you can find the perfect shade that complements your skin tone and features. In this guide, we'll take you through the steps on how to determine what hair colour would suit you most, as well as provide some tips and hair care advice to maintain your new look.
How to Determine Your Skin Tone
The first step to choosing the right hair colour is determining your skin tone. There are three main types of skin tones: warm, cool, and neutral. Warm skin tones have a yellow or golden undertone, while cool skin tones have a pink or blue undertone. Neutral skin tones have a mix of both cool and warm undertones. Here's how to determine your skin tone:
1. Check Your Veins
Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue, you have cool undertones. If they appear green, you have warm undertones. If you can't tell if they're blue or green, you have neutral undertones.
2. Look at Your Skin in Natural Light
Stand in front of a window or outside in natural light and look at your skin. If your skin looks more yellow, you have warm undertones. If your skin looks more pink, you have cool undertones. If you can't tell, you have neutral undertones.
3. Consider Your Eye and Hair Colour
If you have blue, gray or green eyes with blonde, brown or black hair, you most likely have cool undertones. If you have brown, amber or hazel eyes with strawberry blonde, red, brown or black hair, you most likely have warm undertones.
Choosing the Right Hair Colour Based on Your Skin Tone
Now that you know your skin tone, it's time to choose the right hair colour. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Warm Skin Tones
If you have warm undertones, opt for hair colours with golden or caramel tones. Shades like honey blonde, copper, and auburn are great choices. Avoid colours with blue or violet undertones, as they can wash you out.
Cool Skin Tones
If you have cool undertones, go for hair colours with ash or platinum tones. Shades like icy blonde, silver, and black with blue undertones are great choices. Avoid colours with golden or copper undertones, as they can clash with your skin tone.
Neutral Skin Tones
If you have neutral undertones, you can pretty much pull off any hair colour. Consider yourself lucky! However, if you want to play it safe, opt for natural-looking colours like medium brown, soft black, or caramel highlights.
Tips for Maintaining Your New Hair Colour
Once you've found your perfect hair colour, you'll want to take care of it to make it last as long as possible. Here are some tips:
1. Use Colour-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Regular shampoo and conditioner can strip your hair colour. Use products specifically designed for coloured hair to maintain your shade.
2. Avoid Hot Tools
Heat can damage your hair and fade your hair colour. If you must use hot tools, use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low.
3. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
The sun can bleach your hair and fade your colour. Wear a hat or use a UV-protecting spray when you're outside for an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I dye my hair a lighter colour than my natural hair?
A: Yes, you can dye your hair a lighter colour than your natural hair. However, it may take multiple sessions to achieve the desired shade, and you'll need to bleach your hair first.
Q: Can I dye my hair a darker colour than my natural hair?
A: Yes, you can dye your hair a darker colour than your natural hair. However, it's essential to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and features.
Q: Can I dye my hair if I have sensitive skin?
A: Yes, you can dye your hair if you have sensitive skin. Look for hair dye specifically designed for sensitive skin and do a patch test beforehand to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hair colour is all about understanding your skin tone and choosing a shade that complements it. Follow the guidelines in this guide, and you'll find your perfect hair colour in no time. Remember to take care of your new hair colour with colour-safe products and protect it from heat and the sun to make it last as long as possible.
