Should you go with blonde, brunette or red hair?

Whether it is for a role or to simply attract attention, celebrities regularly change hair colours. The last to make a buzz was Kim Kardashian, who turned full on platinum blonde. We can’t help but wonder, what if we change our hair colours? What if we try flaming red or ice blonde?

Before we take the plunge though, Clément Pellerin, artistic director of hair salon, Lucie Saint-Clair in Paris, gives us some key tips to consider.

Think about it and think again

It seems obvious to say that girls are capricious when it comes to hair colour. Sometimes we don’t know if a certain shade would suit us and other times we simply don’t know which colour we want. In some cases, even when the colour fits you perfectly, you may be shocked and find it hard to recognise yourself. Moreover, switching from a lighter hair colour to a darker one is easy but not the other way around.

Think it through and make sure you can stick with your decision longer than just a couple of days!

Choose a do-able colour

It is important to know that you can’t have all the colours. If you already have brown or red hair, ice blonde might be a long shot. Obviously, it’s easier to start with natural hair. Whenever possible, ask your stylist to do a strand test to see if you like your colour of choice. Alternatively, try a wig.

Do not wash your hair before visiting the colourist

Contrary to popular belief, no, the colour doesn’t absorb better on unwashed hair. If the hairdresser asks you not to shampoo three days before your appointment, it’s so the scalp has time to cover itself with a layer of sebum for protection.

Proceed in several steps when going blonde

This will prevent too much damage to the hair as discolouration happens frequently.

Trust your hairdresser

How to tell if you have a good hairdresser? You should always start by evaluating them. If you ask them questions, but they go around in circles to avoid your questions and instead send you to get your hair shampooed, they’re probably not your best option. Otherwise, if you think they are professional, trust them and let them do what they do best.

“One day, a young client, pretty but rather old fashioned, came into my salon. Seeing her, I immediately thought of dyeing her hair flaming red. She was surprised but she was tempted. She had very long hair and I cut her a very striking fringe. A month later, she came back to tell me that the change had changed her life and now men were interested in her,” Clément said.

But whatever colour you go for, be fabulously confident!

Morgane Klein Forest and Natasha Gan