17 Hacks For Stunning Hair Color

Roughly 43 million women in the U.S. have dyed their hair in the past six months, studies show. Whether you’re a salon regular or a DIY devotee, we have GH Beauty Lab and pro secrets for getting (and keeping) the head-turning hair color of your dreams

- April Franzino

1 Update your shade.

Freshen up your go-to hair color for fall with personalized advice from Rita Hazan, a celebrity colorist in New York City who’s created custom hues for icons like J.Lo and Madonna. GH Beauty Lab tip: To find your best shade at the store, eye those close to your current one. Boxed dyes are usually displayed in color order on a shelf: Hold a section of your hair up to a box to find a close match, then choose from the next two shades on either side.

FOR REDHEADS

Try: Muted auburn

In a Salon: Ask your pro for a toned-down copper to go lighter or auburn for a darker hue.

At Home: Opt for a color kit with keywords on the box like “medium auburn,” “dark auburn,” “copper” or “natural” in the name of the shade.

FOR DARK HAIR

Try: A rich gloss or a warm chocolate tone

In a Salon: Ask for a clear shine glaze or lowlights with a deep brown undertone.

At Home: Choose a “gloss” treatment, add depth by painting on thin lowlights a shade darker than your base or look for a color like “caramel” or “chestnut.”

FOR BLONDES

Try: Buttery hints

In a Salon: Request warm-toned highlights rather than more summery champagne or platinum.

At Home: Add ribbons of highlights using a color kit no more than two shades lighter than your base; look for terms like “warm,” “golden,” “honey,” “butter” and “buttery” in the shade name.

FOR GRAY HAIR

Try: Icy silver

In a Salon: Ask your colorist for a cool toner or gloss to neutralize any brassiness.