Guide to Hair Color

Gals, as you know, there are many different types of hair color out there...it helps to know "the code" before stepping into a salon and attempting to clearly communicate with a stylist. If he or she starts talking about ambiguous "high lift tint," you should know whether or not that is something you really want or need. Here are a few basics every gal ought to know. Consider it hair coloring 101.

Before taking the plunge, color your own hair in our virtual hairstyle studio.

Temporary Hair Color

The least damaging of hair color types, temporary formulas are safe and no-fail to use because the color does not penetrate the hair and washes away. The drawback to temporary color, however, is that it does not impart much shine and does not last. Consider a temporary hair color for a special occasion like Halloween.

Semi-Permanent Hair Color

Semi-permanent hair color typically lasts from 6 to 8 shampoos and gradually fades over time. Less of a "color" and more of a "tint," this type of hair color stains the cuticle but does not penetrate the hair. Semi-permanent hair color is great for blending away grey and ideal for anyone who doesn't like commitment. Try a semi-permanent hair color if you aren't quite sure you're ready for a change...it allows you to try out a hair color before committing whole heartedly.

High Lift Tint Hair Color

Most permanent hair colors contain peroxide and can damage the hair...they are often used with a "high lift tint," which does not cause too much damage to the hair because it lifts the cuticle, deposits the color, and puts the cuticle back into place. High lift tint is an "alkaline substance" that balances the acidity of peroxide.

Highlights

Highlights are lighter streaks of hair used to give the illusion of movement and depth...they are typically a combination of bleach and high lift tint that is applied to strategic strands of hair. Try them in the front to frame your face or in back to blend in gray hairs. Try on highlights and lowlights of every color in our virtual makeover studio.

Lowlights

Unlike highlights, lowlights do not strip the hair, but deposit deeper color (like brown and red) to certain strands of hair. Most lowlights are permanent and help to impart shine. Try on a few to add beauty to lackluster locks.