How to Choose a Hair Color That Suits You

Changing your hair color is a fast and simple way to freshen up your look. Choosing a hair color that suits you is easy if you know a few simple, key rules. Most mistakes happen because people rush and don't take the time to learn the basics of hair coloring.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand that hair color is divided into 10 different levels based on shade--the darkest being, black, which is considered number 1, and 10 being the lightest, platinum blond. According to L'Oreal Paris, when you use a classic, permanent hair color you can make your hair go two levels lighter or darker at a time. You can also maintain a hair color and stay at the same level.

2. Pick a hair color that compliments your skin tone. If you have a pink skin tone, try ash and light blond haircolors and avoid strawberry or golden blonds. Most people who started off blond as a child will look good blond as an adult. People with olive skin tend to look good in dark colors, deep reds and rich browns. If you have pale skin, avoid going too dark; it can make you appear washed out and even paler.

3. Try a semi-permanent color when you're coloring your hair for the first time or trying a different color/shade. Semi-permanent haircolor usually contains some ammonia, so it will last longer than a temporary hair color. But it will fade over time and usually last between 12 to 18 washes.

4. Start with a color that is only a few shades darker than your natural hair color. It is much easier to go darker than to go lighter. Perform a strand test before applying haircolor all over. Directions for a strand test are usually in the haircolor box.

5. Consider the amount of maintenance and up keep you are willing to deal with for your new hair color. Unless you are exceptionally blond, brunette is the easiest color to maintain and the least likely to mess up with a home hair coloring kit. Brad Johns, color director for Clairol says, "Think of blonde hair as the ultimate accessory--the one you never take off! You must keep it in excellent shape with regular touch ups and proper products."

6. Try highlights in the summer or spring to add some texture to black or brown monochromatic hair or just to liven up your old look. Many stylists feel that women with shorter hair look better with no highlights, but it really a personal preference.

7. Prepare yourself for the reaction your new hair color might provoke. Hair colors tend to have stigmas attached to them and some colors, like a vibrant red, are more eye catching then others. Don't choose a color that is going to draw attention to you if you want to remain a wallflower.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk with your stylist about haircolor and what colors will suit you and your lifestyle. If you are nervous about haircoloring, it is far better to work with a stylist the first few times. They will also be able to help you if you are unhappy with the way your new hair color turned out.
• If you have very long hair, it may require two boxes to color to completely cover your hair when using home kits.
• Apply conditioner to your hair a few days before doing the actual coloring; some stylists recommend rubbing Vaseline into your roots two days before.

Who Can Help:

• Are you tired of cakey makeup? Try RawMinerals Free.

Resources

• An in-depth guide about choosing a new hair color—brunette, red and blond
• Hair coloring tips, ideas and techniques
• A step-by-step guide by L'Oreal Paris on finding the perfect hair color

[littlesue]

on 12/14/2008 i had my hair coloure on saturday all over colour the coloure is very dark brown how do i lighten it my self

thnaks