THE 411 ON LIVED-IN COLOUR

In a world where trends come and go, there's something undeniably chic about lived-in and natural hair looks. Whether it's embracing your natural tones or adding a subtle touch of lightness to your mids, the allure of an effortless, lived-in aesthetic is unparalleled. But it should be noted that it’s sometimes not as straight forward and minimal as you’d think… today on the journal we’re unpacking some truths and must-know info about lived-in colour

Embracing Your Natural Tones

If you're not keen on adding any lightness to your hair but still crave that extra oomph, consider booking a gloss service every 6 or 8 weeks. This micro-service deposits tone, creating a subtle lip gloss effect that adds shine without damaging or altering your natural hair. Discover the magic of glosses here - however, if you start out like our picture attached below left (super light) and want to acheive something more lived-in but dimensional that compliments your natural level and tone, you will need to have lowlights (see after photo to right)

“This is where lived in colour can get a little tricky” says Mikki Auld, Owner and Creative Director of Paloma Roan. “Sometimes we see clients just booking in for a gloss but what they really need is a corrective colour filled with low-lights, subtle highs, tip outs and gloss to achieve the look they’re after. It’s best to reach out to us directly prior to your appointment but for those who are keen to book it ultimately takes a full head of highlights/balayage (which generally consists of low-lights) and a gloss to create a new canvas.”

The lived in look is usually dimensional - and so if you’re still wanting lightness around your face or a variation in tone or depth throughout, the process becomes a lot more advanced and you will need to allow at least 4 hours for your service.

Adding a Touch of Lightness

For those after a touch of lightness while maintaining a natural appearance, a 1/2 head of highlights could be your secret weapon. This technique, favoured by style icons like Suki Waterhouse, brightens your mids and ends, delivering a lived-in look that exudes effortlessness.

“If you’re 100% natural and only want to add subtle highlights, this could be a great option for you. It’s important to maintain this look every 10-12 weeks to ensure best results. Failing to do so will generally mean a bigger overhaul during your next service. However, the great thing about this colour is that it does grow out seamlessly - provided you’re working with your natural and not adding in a tint”

Maintenance Is Key

While lived-in colours are celebrated for their low maintenance, it's a fab idea to schedule a micro-service every 6-8 weeks to ensure the best results. (you can push it to 10-12 if you’ve got hair that holds colour, grows out slowly or is low in porosity.) Regular touch-up keeps your lived-in look fresh, preserving the natural beauty of your hair without compromising on style.

What can maintenance appointments look like?

1st appointment

full head of highlights with low-lights, a gloss and finishing service

2nd appointment (8 weeks later)

1/4 head highlights, gloss and finishing service

3rd appointment (10 weeks later)

1/2 head highlights, gloss and finishing service

4th appointment (10 weeks later)

1/4 head, basin balayage (to brighten mids and ends on pre-existing blonde), gloss and finishing service

etc..

• It’s important to note that some clients are able to go 12 weeks between colour services, while those who need to maintain tone will want glosses every 8 weeks if possible. Everyone is different and it’s highly recommended that you check in with your stylist. Together, you can build a hair journey that suits your lifestyle, budget and goals

Elevate Your Look with the Right Haircare

To maintain the health and vibrancy of your lived-in locks, consider incorporating the OWAY Smoothing line, Kevin Murphy Young Again range or Redken ABC line into your haircare regimen. These products are specifically formulated to enhance the texture and shine of your hair, keeping it effortlessly chic. Plus, will maintain results and in turn, mean that you can push your appointments out a little further.

The key to mastering lived-in looks lies in embracing your natural tones/base and choosing the right techniques to enhance it. Whether you opt for a gloss service or highlights, remember that regular maintenance is the secret sauce to keeping your lived-in look on point. Check in with your stylists to discuss what’s best for you and if you have any questions you’d like to ask ahead of your appointment with us, find us here