Finding the perfect hair color can be tough—especially if you’re trying salon color for the first time! Between your hair type, skin tone, and eye color, there are so many things to consider before you sit in your colorist’s chair. Luckily, there a few fool-proof ways to ensure the color is exactly what you want before you take the plunge!
Edging into salon color for the first time and not sure where to begin? Whether you’re looking to try fashion color for the first time or transition from brunette to blonde, we’re breaking down how to figure out which hair color looks best before you commit.
The Best Ways To Try Hair Color Without Committing
Hair Color Apps
Finding hair color inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram is great, and all, but what if we told you about a phone app that lets you test them out? These hair color changing apps are user-friendly, free (with certain colors available for purchase on some apps), and let you see what a hair color may look like on you before heading to your appointment.
The way it works is simple: Open your front-facing camera, snap a selfie, then scroll through the color options until you find one that’s right for you!
Searching for a hair color app to download? Check out our guide to the best hair color change apps available now.
Good hair day by @mandaharsche.
Temporary Hair Color
Contrary to popular belief, temporary hair color isn’t just for Halloween costumes and music festivals. These products are formulated to wash out with shampoo—so you can rinse the faux-hue from your strands after one or several washes. If you’re looking to try temporary hair color, however, there are a few different formulas you should know about:
Hair makeup
For the commitment-phobes out there, hair makeup is perfect for you. Like the foundation you apply to your face and wash off at the end of the day, hair makeup is formulated to last until your next shampoo—meaning they’re maintenance and risk-free.
Semi-permanent color
If you’ve spent any time at the salon, you’ve probably heard about semi-permanent color before. Unlike permanent hair color, semi-permanent hues don’t contain peroxide or ammonia and only deposit color onto the hair—which means if you’re looking for a subtle change that will gradually fade over time, semi-permanent color may be best for you.
Good hair day by @mariactmtx.
Wigs
If you’re looking to try out a different hair color for the day (and maybe even a different hairstyle), opt for a wig. Wigs come in a variety of colors and styles from synthetic to human hair.
Whether you’re on a budget or looking to invest in a high-quality wig, check out our favorite wigs under $100.
Interested in more hair color ideas? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.