The reader
Jennifer writes:
I’m desperately seeking hair advice. I’m a 40-year-old mama of six. My hair is blonde, straight and fairly fine, but I have lots of it. Currently, I have a couple of purple streaks under the blonde, and some blonde highlights. It’s been more than six months since I’ve done anything to my hair—aside from just hacking the heck outta my bangs. (Oops… growing them now.)
I am really leaning toward changing my hair colour to red. My question is what tone of red will best suit my complexion? And secondly, can you tell me what kind of upkeep will I have in order to maintain red?
Am also open to suggestions regarding a new hairstyle/shape. Thanks a bunch!
The consultation
Bill Angst says:
Jennifer, I know your primary question is about your colour, and that is a long story—so if I may… here is the cut I have chosen for you as well as your first foray into a new colour. I agree with you; your bangs work, but it’s time to grow them out for a new, fresh look.
In order for red colour to take properly, the underlying pigments need to be in place. Start with gold to begin layering and filling your hair. Then you build to the next level, which is copper.
From here, you could take it to the next level and add some natural pigment.
Or you can brighten with a more orange copper.
Keep taking it deeper and deeper until you reach your desired shade. Packing all of this pigment into your hair helps it hold on to the red colour best.
Another tip to get the best longevity out of your red is not to use an ammonia-based colour. Ammonia swells the hair cuticle, which makes it easy for the small red colour molecules to escape. Use non-ammonia colour.
After you achieve the shade you want, maintenance will depend on the heat, sun, swimming, etc. I would want it to stay fresh, so go no longer than four to six weeks between colourings.
I think any of these colours would be perfect for you. Please note the different lipstick shades! With a new hair colour comes a new lipstick colour…
billyxoxo
Want your own hair consultation?
Send at least TWO well-lit, preferably hi-res photos of you (one close-up, one full-body) with a brief description of your hair texture, colour and main hair challenges to INFO (AT) BEAUTYEDITOR (DOT) CA with “Bill Angst Hair Consultation” in the subject line.
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