Choose the right hair color: Master the 4 key tips!

How to choose the right hair color? Master 4 key points to find your perfect shade!

2024-12-03｜Lena

Every year-end, the global color authority Pantone announces the upcoming Color of the Year, reflecting the world's ongoing innovations and transformations through color. For 2022, the chosen shade was "Very Peri", a brand-new hue combining the tranquility and stability of blue with the energy and vibrancy of red-violet. Very Peri, also known as Periwinkle Blue, embodies calmness while inspiring creativity and passion. Amid the pandemic, Pantone encourages everyone to "embrace personal creativity." This soothing color has become a hit among Korean celebrities, who have embraced it as a trendy hair color. Here are several Very Peri-inspired hairstyles recommended by the renowned salon Met.N, along with tips from stylist Nico on maintaining this stunning hue.

Catalogue

I. What does Very Peri look like after fading, and how do you maintain it?

II. How to determine which hair color suits you best?

III. Want a change but afraid of bold colors? Here’s how to start

IV. Discover yourself through your favorite colors

V. Stylist information

What does Very Peri look like after fading, and how do you maintain it?

As mentioned, Very Peri is a combination of blue and red-violet tones. If you use regular shampoo without a color-depositing shampoo, the fading process will progress from green to grayish-green, and eventually to yellow and orange tones. So, how can you maintain this dreamy Periwinkle Blue hair color? Nico shares three methods: The first method is to let your hair fade naturally to an orange-yellow stage and then use White toning shampoo to neutralize the warm orange-yellow pigments. The second method is to start using White toning shampoo immediately after bleaching, which increases the likelihood of achieving a misty gray effect with regular washing. The third method is to use color-depositing shampoo after coloring. Combine Rose Blue and Purple shampoos to prolong the color cycle. You can adjust the ratio of the shampoos according to your preference. Nico suggests adding more blue if you prefer a stronger blue tone or more purple for a deeper violet effect.

Further Reading: Do You Need Color-Depositing Shampoo for Bleached Hair?

Soft wavy long hair paired with blue-violet tones exudes an romantic vibe, perfectly capturing the essence of Very Peri

If a full head of bold color isn’t for you, try incorporating blue-violet tones as highlights for a subtle yet striking look!

How to determine which hair color suits you best?

Have you ever struggled to choose the right outfit or hair color for your skin tone? For many Asians with yellow-toned skin, warmer shades like red and brown were traditionally preferred to create a brighter complexion. However, Nico, drawing from her experience as a stylist, highlights a shift in recent years. With more people wearing makeup, previously avoided cool tones—like blue, purple, and dark green—are now embraced. Makeup enhances these bold colors, creating stunning overall looks.

Since skin tone is no longer the primary factor in choosing hair color, how do you find the perfect shade? Nico shares four key elements she evaluates during consultations with her clients: style, makeup, habits, and profession.

1. Style and makeup

When assessing style and makeup habits, consider your usual aesthetic. For those who pay attention to their appearance, dress up frequently, and wear makeup when going out, lighter, bold colors can enhance your overall look and make it more striking. However, if you typically don’t wear makeup, choosing a bold or unique hair color might create an imbalanced appearance.

Special Hair Color: Upper layer in Milk Tea shade with Pink ends.

Special Hair Color – Bright Orange: Enhances the overall look when paired with makeup.

Special Hair Color – Light Pink: Enhances the overall look when paired with makeup.

2. Habits
Classify regular maintenance habits into two categories to determine suitable hair colors: those who visit the salon once a year for a major makeover and those who go every three months. People who visit the salon once a year should opt for versatile and fade-resistant colors to avoid the issue of noticeable roots after three months. Those who visit the salon every three months are more open to change, care about their appearance, and enjoy unique styles. They can choose bolder colors, as they are less likely to neglect their hair after bleaching or coloring.

3. Occupation

Your occupation indicates the range of colors you can try. Creative or performance-based jobs allow for a wider variety of colors. For reserved office jobs, such as banking, subtle and polished shades like black tea brown are more appropriate.

Subtle and Sophisticated Black Tea Brown Hair Color: Perfect for working women who need a low-key and professional look.

After transforming countless clients, Nico has come to a conclusion: "There’s no absolute answer to whether a color looks good or is suitable. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and familiar with it. When you think it looks great, your confidence will naturally shine through!"

Want a change but afraid of bold colors? Here’s how to start.

At different stages of life, people often find their preferences and perceptions of beauty evolving. If you’re tired of dark hair and curious about stepping into the world of unique colors but are hesitant, Nico suggests starting small with partial coloring, such as inner-layer highlights or ear-loop highlights. These options minimize visible regrowth as your natural hair grows out.

"The bleached areas are typically on the inner sections of the hair, which are less exposed to sunlight and UV rays, keeping the strands healthier. Starting with inner-layer bleaching minimizes damage and helps first-timers ease into the process without feeling overwhelmed," Nico explains. Her advice serves as a guiding light for those apprehensive about drastic changes. Once you’ve tried partial bleaching and feel confident managing it, you can gradually move on to full-head bleaching.

Further Reading: How Much Do You Know About Post-Bleach Hair Care? Little Secret Guides You Into the World of Unique Hair Colors.

Inner-Layer Dye: Hair Color – Purple Gray

Inner-Layer Dye: Hair Color – Purple Red

Inner-Layer Dye: Hair Color – Light Milk Tea

Discover yourself through your favorite colors

Nico has spent over a decade in the hairdressing industry, cultivating the role of a "color analyst" within the world of beauty and color. She believes that the colors her clients choose often reveal their inner world. With a playful tone, she shares, "Some people look quiet and reserved but end up choosing wild colors. It makes me think, ‘Wow, they’re secretly so bold!’" When asked about her favorite color, she confidently says, "I love purple the most." So, what kind of person do you think resides in Nico's inner world?