Pastel Hues: Achieve and Maintain Pastel-Colored Hair

Hey Diva dressing fans! When the items we love coincide with brands we work with, Diva dressing will use Paid Links in our articles. If you decide to click on these links and purchase the product, we get a small commission. Our Opinions Are Our Own, but we do add Paid Links as a way to offer these products at no added cost to our readers. Want to know more? Click Here to check out our Terms of Use anytime!

Pastel hair colors are a stunning way to express individuality and creativity. Soft shades like lavender, mint green, peach, and baby blue can bring a whimsical touch to your look. However, achieving and maintaining pastel hair requires careful consideration and effort.

Preparing Your Hair

Assess Hair Condition: Before diving into the world of pastels, evaluate the health of your hair. If your hair is damaged or overly processed, consider a deep conditioning treatment or trim to ensure it can handle the dyeing process.

Lightening Your Hair: Pastel colors work best on light or pre-lightened hair. If your hair is dark, you’ll likely need to bleach it to a pale blonde. This step is crucial for achieving the desired pastel effect. Consider seeking the help of a professional stylist for this process, as bleaching can cause significant damage if not done correctly.

Choosing the Right Shade

Color Selection: Select a pastel shade that complements your skin tone. Cool pastels like lavender and mint can enhance fair skin, while warmer pastels like peach or light pink might suit medium to deeper skin tones better.

Quality Products: Invest in high-quality hair dye specifically formulated for pastel shades. Brands like Manic Panic, Arctic Fox, and Pravana offer a variety of pastel colors with good pigmentation and longevity.

Applying the Dye

Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This will help you gauge the final color and ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.

Application Process: Follow the instructions on the dye packaging carefully. Section your hair and apply the dye evenly to ensure consistent color. Use gloves to protect your hands and avoid staining your skin.

Setting Time: Allow the dye to set for the recommended time. For pastel colors, shorter processing times can often yield better results, as over-bleaching can wash out the pigment.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Use Color-Safe Products: Invest in sulfate-free and color-safe shampoos and conditioners designed for dyed hair. These products help preserve your color and prevent fading.

Wash Less Frequently: To maintain vibrancy, try to wash your hair less often. When you do wash, use cool or lukewarm water to help retain the color.

Deep Conditioning: Incorporate regular deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. This will keep your hair hydrated and healthy, minimizing damage from dye and styling.

Touch-Ups and Fading

Regular Touch-Ups: Depending on how quickly your hair fades and your hair’s growth rate, you may need to touch up your color every 4-6 weeks. Keep an eye on your roots and the vibrancy of your pastel shades.

DIY Refreshing Treatments: To prolong the life of your color, consider using color-depositing conditioners or toners between dyeing sessions. These products can help refresh your pastel hue without the commitment of a full dye job.

Protecting Your Color

Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize the use of heat styling tools like curling irons and straighteners, as they can cause color to fade more quickly. When using heat, always apply a heat protectant spray.

Sun Protection: UV rays can also cause pastel colors to fade. Wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection when spending extended time outdoors.

Making the Decision

Know What to Expect: Understand that pastel hair requires commitment and maintenance. If you’re ready to embrace this fun and colorful style, prepare for the care and upkeep it demands.

Professional Help: If you’re unsure about the process or want the best results, consider visiting a professional stylist. They can help with color selection, application, and provide tips tailored to your hair type.

Here are some products you can try

Bare Home Poly Satin Pillowcase Set for Hair $12.59