To put it plainly, I started getting my hair dyed bright, funky colors.
So if you’ve been thinking about taking the purple plunge, buckle up and let’s get started.
What makes vivid hair color different?
It isn’t just the lightening that makes vivid colors different.
Liz explained, “Vivid colors are semi-permanent, which means they sit on top of the hair.
Because you will be washing your hair color down the drain if you don’t!”
The time it takes to apply vivid colors is longer and takes expertise.
“Lightening properly takes time and care,” Liz said.
“Placement takes thought and precision.”
If your hair is already light, the lightening process could be skipped.
Seriously, leave it to the pros.
She also recommends what she calls a conditioning regimen to her clients to help their colors last.
She added that when you do shampoo, see to it to use one that is sulfate free.
I asked Liz and it turns out I’m not crazy!
“It all depends on the base of the color,” she said.
I would say deeper colors always last longer."
“This all depends on the health of the hair,” Liz cautioned.
“And includes every time you rinse and do a conditioning cleanse.”
Calderon also noted that the way you’ve treated your hair in the past can impact fading.
One of the things I never anticipated was how much impact the sun would have on my hair!
This is, luckily, another one that’s not totally in my head.
Just like your hair will fade in the sun and water, it will rub off over time.
Trust me, it happens.
“If you treat your hair nicely at home, use the right products, etc.
Not to belabor the point, but this is why seeing a professional is so useful.
“Higher quality salon brands use the best dyes,” Liz told me.
“They don’t stain the hair as much and are more naturally derived.
They also are removed more easily and last longer.
Why does removal matter?
“With vivids it’s what you see is what you get.
That’s why it’s important to choose a stylist who is continuing to learn.
“I attend formal education through my salon and the color brand we use.
I also attend classes and seminars on my own, thrown through independent stylists.”
Or by going to a huge show where there was little to no interaction with the artists.
Now most of the classes I attend have 20 or fewer attendees, which makes for an intimate environment.
They just share their personal experience.
It’s really amazing.”
Jamie DiGrazia, a Redken certified colorist and salon owner in Chicago agreed that this expertise is invaluable.
It’s why I keep going back for more (and trying new colors).
And I’m not the only person who has become addicted to fun, bright colored hair.
Liz said, “It’s super addictive.
And many of these guests are now full heads of vivids and have been for years.”
“I have had clients as young as 10 and my oldest was 83,” she told me.
It can be so beautiful on people, the way the tones look against there eyes and skin.
Trying on all different shades can be empowering and beautiful!
Go for it!”
Each session really is like creating a work of art together.
Plus, it’s a lot less permanent than getting a tattoo.
So go ahead, join the unicorn club.
It’s a lot of fun over here.
