We’re long-standing fans of ombre hair. Lucky for us, it’s a trend that’s stuck around (unlike hair mascara and zig zag partings – maybe one day). A dreamy dye job that finishes your locks with a light burst of blonde, this one’s perfect if you’re not quite ready to commit to full-blown colour. Since we’re all for trying it first, and will take any excuse for a hair wash and head massage, we sent Sarina to London’s 100% organic salon, Scissorhands. She was keen to give her blonde ‘fade’ a boost, and (unsurprisingly) had her eye on the ombre style. So here it is, fade to ombre in a few simple steps.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Consult it first
It’s good to know what you’re going in for. Essential, in fact. So, before kicking off the colour comes the consultation. Sarina chatted with the stylist on exactly how she wanted hair to look. You could do this before your appointment, or on the day (but factor it into your time slot, as it could take around 15 minutes). Sarina’s objective: ombre. A mighty-fine ombre.
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2 Let's go
First up, Olaplex. Step 1 (of three), is the Bond Multiplier. This can be used as a standalone treatment, or mixed into bleach. It’ll help to maintain the healthy condition of hair, and is a hugely popular addition to hair colouring – got to protect those locks, no need for bleaching to be sacrificial. The stylist seperates Sarina’s hair to make sure the product is applied evenly.
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3 Colour on
Foil out, because it’s time for bleaching. For that familiar ombre gradient, Sarina’s hair needs to be lightened. To take the ends from brunette to blonde, the stylist used Tierra Colorganic bleach&colour: it’s applied to the hair, then wrapped in foils. This takes around 45-90 minutes to get to work (which amounts to catching yourself awkwardly in the mirror at least 45 times). The results are worth it, get comfy.
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4 Wash, wash
The nice bit (we’re all in it for the head massage really). The bleach is washed from the hair revealing a, sort of, orange-tinged blonde. This is normal when switching up colour from brunette to blonde, and will soon be recitifed by the almighty toner. FYI, to maintain ‘cooler’ toned blonde at home, silver shampoo is your saviour.
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5 Next round Olaplex
Toner, it’s always involved. This miracle in a bottle (not cheesy, true), works to neutralise brassy shades of yellow or orange. If you’re lifting your hair from brunette to blonde, this product will definitely feature in the process to ‘manipulate’ the blonde. Olaplex number 2 is the Bond Perfector, and it’s applied to the hair once the bleach is rinsed out. This is left on for around 20 minutes to work its healing magic.
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6 Blow dry, of course
Sarina’s hair is blow dried, showing off that colour in all its gradient glory. A quick trim neatens up the ends, and her naturally curly hair is straightened. Mmm smooth.
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7 Yep, she's happy
Ta-da. Quite the change. Sarina's hair was kept cooler in tone, to work with her natural brown shade. If you're debating heading for blonde, this is a good look to try first. Easing you in gently, gradually, with a gradient. Looks like she's pretty happy with it. We'll take one ombre please.
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FAQs
How long does an ombre hair appointment usually take?
You should expect your ombre hair appointment to take around 45 to 90 minutes for the bleaching process alone. Additional steps like consultation, washing, toning and styling mean you may spend extra time in the salon, so factor this into your schedule.
What happens during a consultation for ombre hair?
During your consultation, you discuss exactly how you want your hair to look with the stylist. This can take around 15 minutes and can be done either before your appointment or on the day itself, making sure your goals are clear together.
Why do you need toner after bleaching ombre hair?
Toner is used to neutralise any brassy yellow or orange tones left after bleaching. If you’re lifting your hair from brunette to blonde, this step ensures your ombre colour looks cool and natural, matching your goals and existing shade.
How does Olaplex help during the ombre hair process?
Olaplex is applied in two steps during the ombre process: first as a Bond Multiplier with or before bleaching, and later as a Bond Perfector after rinsing the bleach out. It helps maintain the healthy condition of your hair, protecting it from damage and promoting smooth, strong results.
What can you do to maintain cooler toned ombre hair at home?
To keep your ombre looking cool-toned, use a silver shampoo at home. This helps maintain the ashy or icy shades and counteracts any yellow or orange tones that may appear in blonde hair between salon visits.