Should You Shake Up Your Hair Color?

Hair Scared

Change doesn't come often or easily to you. So perhaps starting out with a subtle color change, with a demi-permanent dye, will be the best way to get you out of your same-old-same-old shell. Demi-permanents — a longer-lasting alternative for women who want the benefits of semi-permanent color — are great because they subtly fade out, rather than grow out, so you won't have to deal with upkeep and you can easily let the color fade back to your natural color if you hate it. But we're betting you won't.

Pretty Basic

You change your hair, but often do so with minimal cost and thought. It might be worthwhile to step up your hair game by getting a consultation with a professional hairstylist who can help pick out the correct color for your skin tone and recommend the right type of dye for your lifestyle. Remember: Splurging on professional dye once could save you on having to repair your hair after a home box dye job goes horribly wrong.

Looking for an Edge

You're comfortable with changing it up, but we think you should — in good taste, of course — push the boundaries of your comfort zone. That might mean adding some outrageous highlights, or foils, or taking your color from chocolate brown to honey blonde or strawberry blonde to crimson red (if it works with your skin tone, that is). One tip, follow the seasons. If it's spring or summer, go lighter, and if it's fall or winter, go darker.

Color Chameleon

We're giving you a dare that'll be helpful to you hair, too. We double — no, triple — dog dare you to give your hair a break by leaving it alone. Rather than dye it seven colors and bleach it until it's fried, really shock everyone by going back to a normal, more natural shade for a bit. It might take some time and even a few visits to the salon to make for a smooth transition, but trust us: Your hair will thank you for it.