Hair is the one style statement you can’t just take it off. Which means it’s worth ensuring your hair are sending all the right signals.
To help you get the best dye job possible, we consulted the colouring cognoscenti for their advice on everything from hiding greys to a complete overhaul. Colour yourself informed.
Skin Tone
Having the right hair colour can make a big difference to how you look, which makes finding the right shade for your skin tone so important. As a general rule, you want a hair colour that’s the opposite of your skin’s undertones. To find out which camp you fall into, check the underside of your arm. Those with cool skin tones have blue or purple veins and suit warmer colours, while warm skin tones have more greenish-looking veins and suit cooler colours.
Hair Type & Colour
Unfortunately for some, switching up your hair isn’t a level dyeing field. Generally, the darker, thicker or curlier your hair, the harder it will be to bleach.
That’s not to say a new ‘do is off the table. However, it may take several treatments to get the desired effect, which can cause damage to your hair. If you aren’t the owner of fine, light natural hair, consider leaving this one to the experts.
Age
For most men, it’s the tell-tale signs of ageing that gets them reaching for the dye dispenser. However, even if you’re looking to make the change earlier in life, the number of candles on your cake still matter. Far from us to put a limit on what guys should do, some looks are better left to the youth. Past your late 30s, sidestep neon pink in favour of something a little more classic.
Personal Style
You can take all the ‘what colour should I dye my hair’ quizzes the internet can muster, but no matter what your star sign/spirit animal/favourite Disney princess leads you to an answer, it won’t be the right one if it doesn’t suit your personal style.
Consider factors such as your job (and the dress code it requires) as well as everything already hanging in your wardrobe before even picking up a colour swatch.
Maintenance
Like with all parts of your grooming routine, the biggest barrier to effectiveness is complication. If it adds too long to your morning routine, you simply won’t do it. When it comes to maintaining dyed hair, that can be seriously bad news for your barnet. The chemicals used in bleach strip away essential natural oils, meaning that, without a little TLC, your hair can become extremely dry and brittle. If you aren’t committed to the upkeep, step away from the bottle.
While men with shorter locks that are still growing won’t need to worry much about colour-retention (your grey will start to show again in a matter of weeks), guys with long hair, as well as regular swimmers, can take steps to slow the fade.