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Show Your True Colors - the Shade of Hair Color that is Right for You

One of the single most dramatic actions you can take to change your look is to color your hair. Your hair color is one of the foundations for your overall look, and so it becomes the stage for your makeup and fashion choices. There are limitless color options out there, so how you to choose the shade of hair color that is right for you?

In order to choose a good hair color for you, you must first understand how hair color actually works. Whether you are going to a salon to have the coloring done, or doing it at home with a kit, understand that your new hair color will be a mixture of your natural color and the color shade you add. For example, if you have medium brown hair, and you choose a medium red color to add, your new color will be auburn not a medium red.

Therefore, when working on a home color, do not look at the picture on the front of the box and imagine that is the color your hair will be after use. Instead, flip the package over and look at the shade selector on the back. Find your "starting color" and the chart should be able to show you the approximate color you will get if you use the color you are holding. If you are still unable to find the color you want, mix shades to create a custom color. If you are going to mix, however, make sure the colors are from the same product line and only two shades either lighter or darker than each other.

Secondly, you need to be aware of the depths and tones, and before you choose the hair color that is right for you, find the right ones. Depths are, for example, light brown, medium brown, or dark brown. The depth descriptors on the packages should help you choose the depth you want. As for tones, all colors are available in warm tones, such as red and gold, and cool tones, such as ash and neutral shades. The depth and tone of the hair color will add dimension to your hair color.

As for the selection of the actual hair color that is right for you, keep in mind your skin tones and eye color. Hair color that complements your natural skin tones will help you to look your best. If you have an olive, reddish brown, light or rosy skin tone and eyes that are hazel, blue-gray, green, or blue, for example, choose cool colors. For you, hair colors of complimentary tone will generally contain the word "neutral" or "ash in the description.

You will want a warmer depth to your hair color if you have medium golden, golden brown or darker hair. In addition, warmer colors will compliment you if you have eyes that are deep brown, brown, or hazel. You will want to check the hair color packages you are going to use for words like "warm" or "reddish" on the descriptors.

Perhaps you do not wish to make a dramatic change. If that is the case, there are still rules for making your selections. For instance, if you are coloring merely to highlight your natural hair color, choose the shade you can find that is closest to your natural hair color. If you want to subtly lighten your hair, look for a shade that is approximately two levels lighter than your natural color, which will provide subtle and natural change. If you want to cover gray, consider, once again, a shade close to your own natural hair color. Your other option is to use a color that is one shade lighter than your hair to turn the gray into highlights.

Hair coloring can be valuable and fun. Use it to hide gray, give yourself a makeover, or just go with a whole new look. Be sure, though, before making the plunge, to find the proper color for you. Use your skin tone, natural hair color, and eyes to make a decision that will have you looking your very best. With proper care and color selection, you can create a new look that is natural and complimentary