Hair Coloring Havoc

Hair salon client choosing a new hair color — Photo: Shutterstock

You head to your local Target or Walmart, make a beeline for the hair coloring section, and spend the next hour or so grappling with decisions: which color to choose, what technique to employ, or what texture you prefer - crème, mousse, gel, or liquid? You name it, they've got it. It's practically a miracle, and let me explain why.

Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, we hadn't yet encountered anything resembling today's mousse or non-drip cream products! In the 1960s, the introduction of hair coloring shampoo was revolutionary. Before that, popular options included sprays and henna. Henna hair coloring also experienced a resurgence during this time.

In the 1970s, coloring one's hair was an all-day event. It was a rare occurrence for young children or teenagers, typically reserved for mothers, favorite aunts, or perhaps the neighbor down the street. This was largely due to its expense and the fact that it was nothing short of a messy, ammonia-laden, drippy nightmare—not something to be taken lightly.

By the 1980s, the range of hair coloring options expanded to include temporary, permanent, semi-permanent, and now demi-permanent color, which blends the semi-permanent qualities with the fade-resistant properties of permanent color. It was during this period that a surge in hair coloring occurred, giving rise to some truly eccentric hair colors and styles.

Gone were the days of simply aiming to look like oneself. Brunettes might aspire to be blondes, while blondes might seek out highlights of gold, purple, or green. Whatever your preference, the shelves of stores offered a plethora of choices at minimal cost. For those inclined towards nature and a more organic style, even vegetable-based dyes became available.

Hairdresser wearing gloves and mixing hair dye — Photo: Getty Images Pro via Canva

Hair coloring isn't just for women anymore. In the 1990s, men began to recognize the benefits of coloring their hair, and now they're pioneering some of the most sophisticated "tipping" styles around. One moment you might see Bruce Willis sporting a bald look, and the next, he's a blonde with a questionable haircut. Men also turn to hair coloring to transform their entire appearance, from eyebrows to beards and mustaches, aiming for a more youthful look and reducing the appearance of gray in middle age.

With all these exciting hair color options available, the only question now is, "What's right for me?" While the temptation to go for a rebellious or outrageous color might be strong, it's wise to consider something more neutral that complements your eye and skin tone - like ash for cool tones or reds for warm tones. Opting for a color that harmonizes with your natural features will likely leave you more satisfied with your choice.

By Penny | Updated May 23, 2024 | ©Hairfinder.com