Just when we thought our fall 2020 hair color trend predictions were complete, we were hit with the late bloomer (quite literally) that is periwinkle hair color.
Whether you’re looking for a softer approach to the metallic trend that vibrated this past spring, a cooler take on vivid violets (also dubbed as ‘the new pink’), or a more feminine ode to Pantene’s 2020 color of the year, we’ve got you covered.
Read on for everything you need to know, including how to identify periwinkle hair color, who it’s good for, and how to care for your new periwinkle hue. Plus, be inspired by six of our favorite real-world applications of the growing trend.
What is periwinkle hair color?
Periwinkle is generally defined as having roots in, and being a cross between, the blue and purple color families. This shade is commonly identified as a soft lavender-blue and bears the same name as the flower of the same color. Which, coincidentally, has been known to crop up in the early spring months and resurface come fall.
In hair terms, you’ll see the hue will typically have a metallic element to it, a silver base, or overall wash that reads as a more subdued color., This can be a sophisticated version of the saturated strands that we’ve seen sweeping Hollywood as of late, depending on how you play it.
Who does periwinkle hair color work best for?
Similar to pastel blue or pastel purple shades, experts say those with pale skin and lighter hair make great candidates for pastel periwinkle hair color, with the added touch of color preventing them from appearing washed out.
That said, pastel periwinkle hair color also pops against darker skin tones, especially when opting for cooler versions of the shade.
Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
A gentle cleansing shampoo to care for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask for Color-Treated Hair
A mask for vibrant and long-lasting color protection.
Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer Two Day Extender Dry Shampoo
A dry shampoo that absorbs oils and adds grip to hairstyles.
Oil for All Multi Benefit Hair Oil Heat Protectant Spray
A multi benefit hair oil for all hair types and hair textures.
How to Care for Periwinkle Hair Color
To help maintain (and not strain) your periwinkle hair color formula, you’ll want to opt for a gentle, ideally sulfate-free cleansing regimen, ideally rinsing with cool water to help seal hair cuticles. Redken’s Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo and Color Extend Magnetic Conditioner are specifically formulated for colored hair and contain a special RCT protein complex for helping to nourish and strengthen hair.
Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment such as Redken’s Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask into for an added boost of nourishment and vibrancy. Just apply to clean, towel-dried hair a few times per week or whenever needed andleave on for three to five minutes to lock in the benefits.
We’d also recommend a dry shampoo like Redken’s Pillow Proof Dry Express Primer Two Day Extender Dry Shampoo) to help cut back on weekly shampoo sessions, and a heat protectant such as Redken’s Oil for All Multi Benefit Hair Oil Heat Protectant when exposing hair to high heat. This formula works overtime to combat frizz and minimize blow drying time.
Bonus tip: Try to avoid harsh brushes and accessories that could potentially lead to breakage.
If you think periwinkle hair color might be for you, keep scrolling to see six of our favorite ways you can try the hue this fall.
The Best Ways To Try Periwinkle Hair Color
Good hair day by @locksbylauryn.
Hint of Tint
Upgrade your hue with a subtle touch of color if you already have gray hair. Redken’s Color Extend Graydient Shampoo and Conditioner can help preserve and protect your color.
Good hair day by @ambermcmahen.
Overcast
Amp up your periwinkle with a more pronounced shade range. A higher concentration at the roots and pops of pastel violet add dimension to an otherwise straightforward all over color.A good volumizing spray like L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Volumetry Anti-Gravity Effect Volume Spray can also aid in your attempts to defy gravity.
Good hair day by @tiffanymhair.
Sky-ights
Take a fresh, other-worldly approach to highlights or lowlights with intergalactic peekaboo strands,woven throughout or concluding with additional shades from the blue-purple spectrum for an ombre effect.
Good hair day by @designsofcomposure.
Blue-ayage
Great for those who have textured hair or like to mix up their styles, the periwinkle hair color shade also lends itself perfectly to a cooler version of the classic balayage.
Good hair day by @laurengodwin.
Cotton Candy
Incorporate bright pops of pink and purple for a whimsical blend reminiscent of a sweet treat. We love how this style leads with periwinkle at the roots, and how the ringlets serve to amplify the various colors of the rainbow.
Good hair day by @sarahslaysallday.
Metallic Unicorn
Take an edgier approach with this muted metallic unicorn look, which relies on periwinkle to help ease the stark transition between silver, bright blue and purple shades. You can also opt for a lighter gray or pearl base for a subtler effect.
Interested in trying periwinkle hair color for yourself? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
A gentle cleansing shampoo to care for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask for Color-Treated Hair
A mask for vibrant and long-lasting color protection.
Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer Two Day Extender Dry Shampoo
A dry shampoo that absorbs oils and adds grip to hairstyles.
Oil for All Multi Benefit Hair Oil Heat Protectant Spray
A multi benefit hair oil for all hair types and hair textures.
Serie Expert Volumetry Anti-Gravity Effect Volume Spray
A volumizing spray with Intra-Cylane™ to help lift hair at the root
