How to Get the Perfect Pastel Hair Color

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Pastel hair colors have been the hottest trend in the beauty world for quite some time now. From candy-like pink to lavender and baby blue, pastel hair shades inject a playful yet bold flair to your overall look.

However, achieving the perfect pastel color requires proper preparation, application, and maintenance to keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy. In this article, we've rounded up the best tips and tricks on how to get the perfect pastel hair color.

Preparation is Key

Before setting out to dye your hair a pastel shade, there are several important things to take note of:

1. Choose a Shade that Complements Your Skin Tone

One of the most essential things in choosing a pastel hair color is to select a shade that complements your skin tone. As a rule of thumb, warm skin tones beautifully pair with warm pastel shades, such as peachy pink or golden blonde, while cool skin tones look best with cooler pastels, such as baby blue or lilac.

2. Bleach Your Hair

To get a vibrant pastel color, bleach your hair first to remove the natural pigment and make it a blank canvas. If your hair is already light blonde or completely white, you can skip this step and proceed straight to coloring. But if you're starting with dark hair, we recommend relying on a professional colorist to get the best and safest results.

3. Do a Strand Test

Whenever you're trying out a new hair color, it's always wise to do a strand test first. This will help you to know how the color will look on your hair type and density, and how long it should process to achieve your desired shade.

4. Gather the Necessary Tools

To ensure a smooth and successful dyeing process, prepare all the necessary tools beforehand, including a dye brush, gloves, mixing bowl, hair clips, a shower cap, and a gentle shampoo and conditioner formulated for colored hair.

Application Tips

Now that you've prepped your hair, it's time to apply the pastel dye with these foolproof tips:

1. Mix the Dye Properly

Mix the pastel color with the correct developer as per the instructions, and be sure to mix it thoroughly until you get a really smooth consistency. A few lumps may show up on your hair, and you'll have to spend extra time blending them out.

2. Apply the Dye Evenly

Divide your hair into sections using clips, and distribute the dye evenly on each section with the dye brush. Avoid applying too much dye at once, as this can lead to splotchy or uneven coloring. If you're working with a semi-permanent dye, leave the color on for at least 30 minutes to allow it to process.

3. Use a Shower Cap

Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap after applying the dye. This helps prevent the dye from drying out before it processes and also helps you to keep the dye in place and avoid spreading all over your clothes and home.

4. Rinse with Lukewarm Water

It's vital to wash out all the excess dye once the recommended processing time is up. Rinse your hair with lukewarm water until the runoff is clear, and try not to use any hot water, as it can cause the color to fade more quickly.

5. Apply a Moisturizing Hair Mask

After rinsing out the dye, finish by applying a moisturizing hair mask to prevent your hair from drying out and looking dull. This will help keep your pastel shade looking shiny and soft.

Maintenance Tips

Now that you've perfected your pastel hair shade, it's important to keep it looking vibrant for as long as possible. The following tips will help you maintain and extend the life of your pastel hair color:

1. Wash Your Hair Less Frequently

As with any hair color, washing your hair less frequently will help your pastel color last longer and stay vibrant. Try washing your hair every other day, or as little as possible if you have a dry scalp.

2. Use Color-Safe Products

Use shampoo and conditioner formulated for colored hair, as they're less likely to strip off the dye and leave your hair looking dull. If possible, opt for products specifically formulated for pastel hair, as they often contain nourishing ingredients that help to preserve your color.

3. Avoid Heat Styling

Heat styling, such as straightening and curling, can cause pastel colors to fade faster than usual. It's best to avoid such styling tools unless you absolutely need to use them and do so with a thermal protectant spray beforehand.

4. Protect Your Hair When Swimming

Chlorine and saltwater can strip hair color quickly, so always protect your pastel hair when swimming. Wear a swimming cap or tie your hair in a dummy bun and rinse your hair immediately after your swim.

In conclusion, achieving a perfect pastel hair color requires proper preparation, application, and maintenance to keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy. Follow the tips and tricks outlined in this article, and flaunt your stunning, Instagram-worthy pastel hair with confidence!