If you’ve ever walked out of the salon with a fresh color, only to feel like something is off, you’re not alone. The truth is, most people are wearing the wrong hair color—not because of bad technique, but because the shade doesn’t work well with their natural undertones, lifestyle, or personal style.
Your Undertones Matter
Your skin has either warm, cool, or neutral undertones. When your hair color clashes with that base, it can make your complexion look dull, washed out, or overly warm. For example, golden blondes can overpower cool-toned skin, while ash browns may make warm undertones look dull. Finding a colorist who can read undertones is key to a perfect match.
The Box Dye Match is a Myth
Grabbing a box of dye that looks close enough to your natural shade rarely works. Box dyes are designed with generic formulas that don’t account for your undertones, hair texture, or base color. What looks like a natural brunette on the box might turn brassy or flat once applied. Professional customization makes all the difference.
Your Natural Features Should Guide You
The right hair color enhances your eyes, brightens your skin, and even softens features. The wrong one can emphasize under-eye circles or make your skin appear uneven. If you’ve ever noticed your eye color pop more with a certain shade—or disappear with another—that’s an indication of what works.
Lifestyle is an Important Factor
High-maintenance shades can look stunning in the chair but stressful in real life. Platinum blonde, for example, requires constant toning, while rich reds fade quickly. If your schedule or budget can’t keep up, the color will rarely look its best. A great stylist factors in not just what looks good, but what will stay looking good for you.
Cover Photo by Jayson Hinrichsen
