There’s always a trove of prospects enshrouded with every fresh dye job. Despite the long arduous hours huddled in the salon chair, what usually comes out at the end of it is a refreshing transformation evocative of a brand new self. Whether subtle or unabashedly bold, one might find themselves itching for a change. Call it the Y2K throwback or perhaps a spunky update to the usual mane, but of late, hair dyes and bleach placements have been breaching out of the normal and venturing into creative territory.
Korean hairstylist Yuhi Kim offers: “I live in Asia and I think balayage is a very common style seen on the streets these days. Some people add blonde highlights or vivid colours to their black hair for a stylish, avant-garde look. Recently, a lot of people have been mixing different highlighting techniques to create looks that suit them perfectly.” With regards to the colours that come into play, beyond fun choices, Kim too advises that those with round faces or prominent jawlines could benefit from having the area around the face take on a darker hue.
More than ever, she stresses on aftercare. “Highlights usually involve bleach, which can be damaging, but since they are applied to just specific sections rather than all over, they tend to be less damaging. However, it’s important to take good care of colored hair. If you want to minimize colour fading, use a color-protecting shampoo once or twice a week. For daily care, use a shampoo and conditioner designed for colored hair. When drying your hair, apply a hair serum or your favorite leave-in treatment from the ends to the middle of your hair.”
Below, as recommended by Kim, see the trending dye styles that one can tack on colour.
1 / 5
The peek-a-boo
For a unique touch, add highlights that start from the nape of your neck. This also adds an element of illusion and mystery with the option of concealing your secondary hue.
2 / 5
Chunky highlights
If you’re contemplating switching up your usual highlights, try expanding the width to make more of a statement.
3 / 5
Balayage
Signature and breezy, the fail-safe balayage lends a natural, sun-kissed effect with a more gradual fade from dark to light.
4 / 5
The ombré
For a more experimental approach, consider adopting bolder, neon hues via the ombré style. Where the tips of your mane appears to be dipped in dye.
5 / 5
The money piece
The money piece adds highlights near the roots around the front of your hair. The result is a striking effect that frames the face.
