Celebrities and regular people alike are getting creative with their hair color, especially whenexperimenting with pink. Stars likeFlorence Pugh, Marion Cotillard, Megan Fox, andJennifer Lopezall embraced one of the biggest trends of the season — so what's stopping you?
If you're someone looking to take on a new 'do, pink might be the color for you. However, while there's a pink shade to flatter every skin tone, having pink hair isn't always a journey seen through rose-colored glasses. In fact, the buzzy shade can be damaging to strands and require constant upkeep. So, to learn more, we turned to colorist Chezney Schulz.
Meet the expert
Chezney Schulzis a New York City-based hair colorist atCutler Salon.
Ahead, we share everything you should consider before committing to pink hair.
Set Expectations with Your Natural Hair Color
Getting pink hair is slightly more complicated if you aren't starting with a light base. Those with blonde strands have it easy and can dye their hair pink in one sitting (maybe even from home), but for natural brunettes, the process is much more intense and requires professional help. Schulz said if you don't have blonde hair, it will probably require some bleaching, but it all depends on the pink you're going for.
"If you are wanting to be a pastel pink, you will need to get your hair to the lightest blonde possible, otherwise the pale pink will turn out a dingy orange-ish color," said Schulz. "For a hot pink, you still need to bleach the hair, but it isn't necessary to get it as light."
If you're starting with a dark base, find a salon that specializes in color, as the natural pigment in your hair must be completely bleached and stripped before the pink dye is applied. Salons that emphasize creative color, in particular, should be able to lift your natural tone with minimal damage correctly.
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Be Prepared for the Process
Because a colorist may need to completely strip your hair of pigment, it can be a pretty drying and taxing process on your hair. If you're naturally light, Schulz suggested you can probably have this service done in one session in the chair. However, if your color requires going from dark to light, it may take a few visits to the salon.
Schulz added that while the best results come from a salon, if you already have blonde hair, you can get experimental at home. She recommendedManic PanicorArctic Foxfor at-home dye kits.
11 Tips to Keep in Mind Before Dyeing Your Own Hair at Home
Keep Your Undertones in Mind
The warm flamingo hue you saw on Instagram may be less flattering IRL if you have a cooler complexion. Just as you would determine a natural-looking hair color based on your cool or warm undertones, picking a pink shade should follow the same format. Those with warm skin tones should choose warm pinks with hints of orange or yellow, whereas cool skin is flattered by equally cool fuchsia and magenta hues with a violet or blue base.
Schulz also recommended aiming for a darker pink if you already have dark strands, whereas blondes should aim for a pastel. These respective colors will probably be the most complementary.
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Understand the Upkeep
Unfortunately, pink hair fades fast, so you will need to stay on top of the upkeep. Schulz recommended having at-home products that can keep the color looking fresh, such as theViral Color-Intense Conditioner, which will refresh and moisturize your hair while maintaining the color. You'll also want to remove any conditioners or shampoos that contain sulfates from your routine, as they could strip the color.
Schulz advised trying a weekly hair mask, like theOlaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask, to prevent dryness. She also said to be prepared to be at the salon more than usual.
"Pink is a high-maintenance color; you will probably be making more frequent trips to the salon to keep the pink looking the best," Schulz told us.
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Think About Your Work Environment
If you work from home, you may not need to worry about this, aside from the occasional Zoom meeting. If you work in an office, it's definitely something to think about. In a creative environment, working with a bold carnation color is nothing out of the ordinary, but if your office is more corporate, consider going for a more subtle effect to prevent breaking any dress codes put in place by HR. In a buttoned-up work environment, asoft rose gold ombréor even a temporary stripe of pink aptly situated in your top knot just might fly.
