It’s a new age, and that means we’re not living in grandma’s world of acceptable hair coloring anymore! Bold and vibrant fashion colors and every constituent variation in-between have long since become mainstream-acceptable, with celebrities and fashion icons splashing bits of neons and pastels into their look the world over. We love it! Still, there’re a few things to remember when going pastel, so here’s our quick list of pastel dos and don’ts.
Do:
Experiment: Go crazy! Whether it’s a splash of bubblegum pink, zips of green, or an all-over Easter Egg look you’re going for, remember that it’s ok to experiment to find the color combinations you like best. Use extensions to develop a new look and feel free to go off the beaten path a bit...just remember to also:
Strand Test First: Remember that the color you see on the label isn’t necessarily the color you’ll get in your hair. Also remember that all hair will accept pastel coloring in different degrees. Always test out the color on an inconspicuous section of hair beforehand so you will know for sure what it will look like before continuing and won’t get stuck with a color you weren’t planning on.
Adopt a Moisturizing Regimen: Color-treated hair needs to be maintained and moisturized. Though pastel colors may be faint, the hair will still be in desperate need of upkeep afterwards, including regular moisture treatments and brushing. Keeping hair clean and thoroughly cared for will not only keep the color looking brighter, longer, but (if the client is using extensions) will also keep the extensions in tip-top shape for much longer. Encourage a moisturizing regimen for your client, and extol the virtues of this upkeep. Knowledge is power!
Don’t:
Start with All-Over Color: It may be tempting, and it’s likely your client has seen a celebrity pull it off. We recommend that pastel first-timers start with partial pieces like peek-a-boos or streaks and work from there. If, after experiencing the transformative joy of a pastel streak, they wish for all-over color? That’s fine and good. Just know that it’s truly a transformation, so moderation is key in the beginning.
Attempt to Pastel Color Dark Hair: A bleached base creates the best pastel effect, so dark-haired clients will likely need a bleaching or lightening treatment beforehand. Attempts to color pastel directly onto dark hair will likely result in murky color combinations (if they show up at all), and won’t create the effect your client wants at all. Hair must be porous to accept color, and this is why dark hair must be bleached first, to have that color removed so it can accept new color that’s deposited onto it.
For more tips and tricks, including Dos and Don’ts for using Toner, Hair Chalk, and Semi and Demi-Permanent color on extensions, stay tuned to the Donna Bella Color Takeover Portal!