Hair Colour – Your Commonly Asked Questions

Changing Your Hair Colour? Find Out What To Ask Your Hairdresser When You Visit Karen Wright Salon in Thornton Heath, Croydon

There are many reasons that you may want to change your hair colour. Perhaps you feel like you're stuck in a rut, maybe you want to reinvent your look for a special occasion, or it could be that you feel your hair shade simply does not suit you now.

Whatever the reason, our hair colour experts at Karen Wright Salon in Thornton Heath, Croydon are here to help.  Your first step in your journey towards beautiful hair is to book in for complimentary consultation so that our colour specialists can help you find a hair colour that you love.

Before you make that step, why not read on to find out some of our Frequently Asked Questions about hair colour.   

Which Hair Colour Should I Choose?

Our hair colour specialists can help you find a hair colour that suits you and makes you feel great. We will take into consideration factors including your skin tone and eye colour. For example, people with light skin tones may find that they look washed out by a darker hair colour, whilst darker complexions look stunning with chestnut and auburn shades or even pastel hair colours. 

How Can I Explain The Hair Colour I Want To My Colourist?

If you want a specific hair colour then your best option is to show your Karen Wright colourist your Pinterest board or any other inspirations you've seen. Do not worry if you are unsure of how to describe the colour. During your complimentary hair colour consultation, we will ask you the right questions and show you some colour samples to help us find your dream colour together.

What Is A Patch Test & Why Do I Need One?

Thankfully, allergic reactions to hair dye are quite rare, but they can happen at any time and for a variety of reasons which could include a change in medication, illness or hormonal imbalances.  It is, therefore, important to follow our guidelines when it comes to patch testing. Other names for a patch testing include skin testing and allergy alert testing.

If you haven't visited our Croydon salon before, or it's been more than six months since your last colour service with us then we will need to carry out a simple patch test 48 hours prior to your service. 

Which Comes First, The Hair Cut Or The Hair Colour?

We would usually recommend having your hair colour service before you have your hair cut and styled. Your Karen Wright stylist can then make sure the colour enhances the haircut you have so you end up with the overall look you desire. 

What’s The Difference Between Balayage and Highlights?

It can be difficult keeping up with the latest hair trends and terminology, our team work to stay ahead of trends and up to date with the latest techniques so you don't have to! One of the most sought-after hair colours in recent times is balayage, and this term can cause confusion for our clients! Let us explain the difference between highlights and balayage.

With highlights, we carefully select strands of hair evenly where the hair colour is required, cover these in hair colour and wrap them in foils to help the colour to develop. The results are structured and can give you a subtle or dramatic look, depending on your requirements.

Balayage highlights are hand painted through your hair where the sun would naturally highlight your hair, giving a more natural sun-kissed look which is subtly darker at the roots than the ends. This means there will be a less obvious root regrowth when your hair begins to grow again, making this a popular low maintenance hair colour option. 

I'm Pregnant, Can I Still Have My Hair Coloured?

Firstly, congratulations! According to the NHS, most research into colouring your hair during pregnancy and breastfeeding indicates that it is safe to colour your hair as the level of chemical coming into contact with your scalp is low.  If you decide to colour your hair during pregnancy why not consider a balayage hair colour, highlights or even semi permanent dyes, which will have less contact with your skin and create fewer chemical fumes. 

Many pregnant women wait until after the first trimester to have their hair coloured but please read the official NHS guidelines for colouring your hair when pregnant here.

Can I Have My Hair Coloured If I'm Under 16?  

We do not offer hair colour for clients under the age of 16. 

How Much Will My Hair Colour Appointment Cost? 

Our stylists have different skill levels and are graded according to the amount of experience & expertise they have had in the hairdressing industry which is reflected in the price of each service. During your hair colour consultation we will be able to quote for your hair colour service. You can view our price list here.

Can I Go Blonde From Dark Hair?

Please be aware that a major hair colour transformation, such as transitioning from brunette to a bright blonde, takes time, patience and money. We will pre-lighten your hair before applying your desired blonde tone, but we may not be able to lift the colour in only one appointment. During your hair colour consultation we will assess the condition of your hair to make sure it is healthy enough to cope with a dramatic colour change. 

Do You Offer Pastel Hair Shades & Fashion Colours? 

Yes! We offer all the colours under the rainbow here at Karen Wright Salon in Thornton Heath! We can create pastel hair shades such as pretty pinks, lilacs and blues, as well as vibrant reds, greens and magentas. We can even create stunning colour effects such as hidden panels of rainbow tones, bright colour melts and beyond - simply show your Karen Wright colourist the look you are going for and we'll make it work for you.

How Do I Book In For My New Hair Colour At Karen Wright Salon in Thornton Heath, Croydon?

Whether you want balayage, lowlights, or a stunning pastel hair colour, make sure to book an appointment at the best salon in Croydon! Just call us on 0208 664 3872 or book online today.