Anyone out there considering a haircolor change for spring? If we had to guess, there are more than a few of you. And whether you just want to take your highlights a few shades lighter or are considering a dramatic transformation, you probably have a few questions. Chief among them: “will it look good on me?!” It’s hard to give one-size-fits-all advice in regards to something as personal as haircolor, so we went straight to an expert—Kelly Bowen, Moroccanoil Artistic Team member—to find out how she advises clients seeking a color change. As we’ve covered here before, the advice and experience of a professional colorist is worth its weight in gold. Read on for a behind the scenes look at how they help you figure out what haircolor is going to work best for you—and look best on you. And if you’re seeking someone to guide you through your own color change, head to our Salon Locator to find a stylist near you!
How often do clients request a haircolor change?
Most of my clients will request a color change every season.
When one of your clients tells you they want to change their haircolor, what’s the first thing you ask them?
My first question is, “What is your dream haircolor?” It gives me an idea of how daring or conservative they are and opens a dialogue to either give them their dream hair or bring in an element of their dream hair or work a plan toward it.
What’s the best way to decide what haircolor is right for you?
a) Evaluate the current condition of the hair. Example: Is the hair healthy enough to withstand lightener?
b) Evaluate previous chemical treatments. Example: If the hair has been previously colored and the client wants to go lighter, lightener is the only option, as color won’t lift color.
c) Evaluate desired maintenance. Example: Demi-permanent color is going to have a softer grow-out than permanent color, which is going to need to be retouched more often.
d) Evaluate the desired result. Example: Highlights, gray coverage, tint-back, double process?
If a client is on the fence about a haircolor change, how do you advise them?
I give my professional opinion about what I think will look best and work with their hair and lifestyle. If they are asking for a change, I know they want change even if they are on the fence, so I always encourage some type of change in this situation, even if it is a baby step. I reassure them that we can always go back.
What lifestyle factors might make one color a better choice for someone than another?
Career, family life, swimming, working out, hairstyle, time spent styling, frequency of shampooing. Examples: Some careers may not allow fashion colors such as blue or green. Someone who swims and shampoos everyday might not be able to maintain a vibrant red.
How do you decide what shade of a color is the right one for you?
Consider eye color, skin tone and natural hair color/eyebrows.
What would say if, for instance, a client requested a cool blonde, you think a warm blonde might be more flattering?
I believe honesty is the best policy, with some grace, of course. I would sincerely point out the reasons the warm blonde would be more flattering and ask what it is they like about the cool blonde so I can see how I can incorporate that into the overall look. For example, I could add in some cooler lowlights with warmer highlights.
What questions should you ask yourself before making a color change?
a) Is this realistic?
b) Can I maintain this look?
c) Will it work on me?
What questions should you ask your colorist before making a color change?
a) Will this work with my current hair? Is it possible?!
b) What is the maintenance?
c) What is the process?
d) What is the cost investment?
e) Will this affect my future color options?