Let’s face it, beach-inspired styles are no longer reserved just for warmer months, they’re acceptable and requested year-round. Although you may have already been rocking this trend, we’re entering the season of beach-kissed highlights and we have a few tips to get (or keep) you there this season.
Tip #1: Have a plan
Before you even book your appointment, you should have a loose idea of what you’re looking for. By showing up to your consultation or an appointment knowing what you want, with photos in hand, you’ll help ease the process. Always remember that everyone’s hair takes color differently, and what looks natural on someone else may look very different with your shade, so be open to working toward a happy medium. One of the most important things you can do to ensure happy and healthy color is to inform your colorist about your hair history (i.e. recent processing, chemical treatments, etc.) to ensure that you are able to achieve the look you’re after.
Tip #2: Take baby steps if needed
Achieving a beach-kissed look naturally takes time, which is why the process in the salon should follow much of the same suit. Be aware that it may take 2-3 appointments to get to the desired finish and this is ok! Don’t aim for a headful of perfectly golden highlights in one sitting. Instead, concentrate on highlighting over time with tones that are gradual to achieve the most natural finish.
Tip #3: Don’t forget dimension
When it comes to achieving a beach-kissed look, a single global color is a no-no. Instead, opt for an array of light, medium and dark tones that complement each other. This will mimic the look naturally lightened locks create. At a minimum, your colorist should use at least two shades to create a natural blend with your base color.
Tip #4: Think about upkeep
Chances are if you’re looking for a beach-kissed color that you’re not looking to have standing salon appointments every 3-4 weeks. Many of us gravitate toward this look because it is one of the most low-maintenance color options available. This route will allow you to go longer between appointments, and the color will naturally fade, providing you with a seamless transition as your hair grows out. Another option? Opt for a “lived-in," smokey root created with semi or demi-permanent color. You’ll still have brightness and dimension, but you won’t have to worry about harsh lines of demarcation if you miss an appointment.
Tip #5: Location, location, location
If you think about it, the sun doesn’t lighten your hair in perfect sections, which is why your highlights shouldn’t be perfectly placed either. Instead, opt for pieces spread efficiently with a touch of randomly throughout your head to achieve a true “beach-kissed” effect.
Tip #6: Never forget the gloss
To help you extend the life of your highlights and keep them looking as fresh as possible, incorporate a glossing treatment, like Redken Shades EQ, into your beauty routine. Not only will a gloss help you go longer in between touch-ups, but it will also add insane shine and enhance your color. If you’re looking for an at-home option, try Wella Professionals Color Fresh Masks to combat brassiness or add a slight tone between salon appointments.
