Saundaryam 

When it comes to the many types of hair colour, is your brain left in a spin? We understand, we’re feeling dizzy ourselves. But don’t worry, because if you’re looking for a colour transformation, yet don’t know your ombre from you balayage, you’re in luck…

 

Below we break down the different types of hair colour with all the need-to-know deets on the various colour techniques available on the market. And to top it all off, our inspiration gallery will ensure you walk away with a clear idea of what your next hue will be. Enjoy!

Permanent Hair Shades

Permanent shades are the same as temporary colours on appearance, but whereas a temporary colour will begin to fade relatively quickly, a permanent colour fades far slower. Note: although it is called ‘permanent’, there is no ever-lasting colour, but it can remain vibrant for longer if properly cared for.

 

Most types of hair colour are available as a permanent option and it is often regarded as the most popular choice for women when it comes to trialling different types of hair colour.

 

However, if you’re thinking of colouring your hair and want a more natural finish, we suggest starting out by using a temporary colour. Then, when you’re ready to commit, stick to shades that are no more than 2 shades darker than your natural hair

Temporary Hair Colour

Just like permanent hair colours, you can’t tell whether someone has a temporary colour by the naked eye (unless you are a hair colourist maybe).

 

The huge appeal of temporary hair colours is that you can experiment with all the latest hair colour trends (like this silver hue) without the full commitment.

 

Be warned, though, that temporary hair colours tend to gradually fade after each wash, so be prepared for the colour to change throughout this time – especially if you do go for colours like pastel or opal hues.

Hair with Highlights

Can anyone remember life before highlights? The colouring technique was the original way to achieve sun-kissed tresses (before balayage that is) but that’s not all they are good for, oh no.

 

Highlights help to add a multi-dimensional effect to the hair and, if thoughts of those caps with the little holes pop into your mind, rest assured that highlights have come a long way since then – thankfully!

Lowlights

While highlights help to lighten strands of hair, lowlights do the opposite by working to darken the hair. Often used in a combination with other colouring techniques, lowlights add depth and dimension to your hair hue.

 

This colouring technique is ideal for those with lighter strands who want to test the waters with a dark hue, without getting an all over colour. Lowlights can also help hair appear thicker and more voluminous, making it a great colouring technique for ladies with fine hair.

Balayage Hair

Balayage hair has fast become the hottest, most requested colouring technique thanks to the long list of A-list stars rocking the look. This freehand colouring technique offers a natural finish that can be as heavily or lightly coloured as you like.

 

We love the balayage technique for adding a sunkissed look too brown shades or lightening blonde tresses.

Ombre Colour

Ombre is a shadowing technique used to seamlessly blend two colours, with hair generally being darker at the roots and gradually fade into a lighter shade towards the tips. While it sounds relatively similar to dip-dye, the aim of an ombre is to have no harsh lines between the two shades, making it a more elegant look.

 

From Lily Aldridge to Drew Barrymore, all the big names have been spotted with an ombre and thanks to its low-maintenance appeal, it’s the perfect colour choice for those who don’t want to be burdened by regular touch-ups.