With all the talk of bringing back the 2016 aesthetic, the ideas of vivid hair start exploding. From pastel blue, rose gold, or full saturation sunset colors, 2016 was a year of expressive colors and we are fully expecting 2026 to be no different (regardless of what Pantone may think). So, if you’ve been thinking about getting fantasy colored hair but aren’t quite sure where to start, this guide will be a great resource for setting yourself up for success! _
It takes time
If you’re used to those full highlights, you know that it takes hours to get the perfect blend with lightener for a beautiful color job. Depending on the starting canvas and the desired outcome, there could be the time it takes to paint the lightener on and let it process, and then the time to fully saturate hair with the desired color and let that process. It’s basically 2 hair appointments squished into one which means it could take anywhere from 2-8 hours at the initial appointment to get you where you want to be. (But I promise it is worth it!)
Aftercare is SOOO important!
If you are going the fun color route, you’ve devoted hours to getting this amazing personalized style but this is where the true test begins! Vivid colors cannot hold onto the hair like natural pigments can and fading is much more noticeable. There are a few things that you can do to get the biggest bang for your buck and keep your fantasy hair lasting as long as possible
- Wash your hair less
If you can go a week without washing your hair that is amazing! Remember dry shampoo if your best friend in this case and use professional products designed for vivid hair maintenance.
Use cold water when washing your hair
The water doesn’t need to feel like it came straight from the arctic circle itself but if you can tolerate room-temp to cold water, your hair will fade so much less
UV protection isn’t just for your skin
The sun is quite literally a nuclear furnace that can burn your skin and fry your hair. It lightens virgin hair too and as stated, vivid pigments can fall out of your hair so easily. Using a UV protectant can help create a barrier between the elements to get your hair lasting even longer.
Work with the color wheel, not against it
It’s not easy picking what color(s) to put in your hair and chances are, if you’re wanting to try vivids for the first time, you may want to experiment with the full spectrum. It is one of the most exciting parts about having vivid hair and an amazing thing to be able to do with faded hair and doing it with the color wheel in mind will prevent added strain on your strands.
Instead of going from red to blue, try purple in between to help transition to the cooler tones.
Want to try pastels? If it’s your first time and you’re debating on going platinum after, try a pastel blue or purple as they fade into a stunning ashy blonde
Stylists will know the best route to take for every single color you want to try so don’t be afraid to ask their opinion! Chances are they have an idea that will look stunning with your skin tone and lifestyle in mind. __
Vivid colors show so much personality in a world that is continuously shifting towards the greyscale monochrome. Is it time to introduce color into your life? Schedule a consultation today!