lilac hair -pastel hair - lulus blog
Image via @ashley_chloe
2019 is about to look lilac–at least from the neck up. According to Pinterest’s annual report on the top trends, searches for lilac hair spiked 1,077% (yowza) in 2018, meaning the likelihood that you’ll spot this pastel hair hue this year is pretty darn good.  You may even want to take the trend for a spin yourself and we don’t blame you–it’s super dreamy. But if you are looking to turn your locks lilac, there are a few things you should keep in mind. We turned to Lulus’ resident hair and makeup artist, Markie Sheffield, to break down the basics you need to know to get–and keep–healthy lilac hair.

  1. Lighten up. If you’re not already rocking light blonde hair you’ll need to get there first–before you attempt to go lilac. According to Sheffield, “Hair should be pre-lightened to very pale yellow or lighter (the lighter the better), while still maintaining the integrity of the hair.” 
  2. Go pro.  Maybe don’t try this at home. “Healthy hair holds color better and looks better in general,” Sheffield advises. “A professional should always be used when going lighter.”
  3. Be patient. “Lightening hair (especially dark hair) to the palest blonde, takes multiple appointments,” cautions Sheffield. “Like I said, we don’t want the hair fried or else it won’t look good no matter what color it is.” Be ready to commit to the journey and not just the destination.
  4. Come prepared. Lilac hair can vary, depending on everything from undertones to hair type. “Most definitely have an inspo pic that of the color you want,” says Sheffield. “Try and find examples that resemble your own hair type and texture.”
  5. Put in the maintenance. Achieving the perfect lilac hair takes time and effort–don’t throw that all away by skimping on the in-between requirements. “There are a ton of great toning shampoos and conditioners out there for general color maintenance,” says Sheffield. “Leaving a toning shampoo or conditioner on towel dried hair for a few minutes and then rinsing in cool water will also maximize the toning potential of the product. If you’re looking for something that is a little more pigmented you’ll want to schedule for a toner in between appointments.”

Are you rocking lilac hair? Show us on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus!