FAIR MAIDEN
Need a hair update? Go lighter this spring!
Thinking of going lighter but don’t know where to start? We picked the brains of Evo’s Global Product Technician Melissa Chaplin about everything that needs to be considered before lightening your locks.
What are the main things to consider before going lighter?
It’s important to consider the history of your hair – whether the hair is natural or pre-coloured and if so when it was last coloured. The condition of the hair can also impact results so a colourist will always consider the texture (if the hair is fine, medium or coarse) and the porosity of the hair.
What options are there if you don’t want to go blonde all over?
Foils and balayage are great options because you can gradually lead up to going lighter all over or just dabble in some highlights. Plus the grow-out phase is much easier with balayage.
What does the colour process entail if you aren’t already blonde?
The process is dependent on whether there’s pre-existing colour. If the hair has been coloured before, the options for going lighter are limited. Colour on colour doesn’t lighten, so you won’t be able to use a permanent colour. If the pre-existing colour is dark, a colourist would aim to gradually lighten, moving the colour a few levels at a time. When using off-scalp lightening, such as a foil technique, a colourist can lighten n your hair by up to nine levels.
What kind of commitment needs to be made post-lightening?
It’s important to use a reparative shampoo and conditioner to lock in colour and strengthen. A hydrating treatment once a week will help replenish moisture for softer, more manageable hair. Finally, a colour boosting conditioner will eliminate any brassiness.