The Power of Colour: How to Choose the Perfect Hair Shade for You

Jo Hansford colourist with client

Your hair colour is more than just a style choice,  it’s a statement. It can brighten your complexion, enhance your features, and express your personality in a way that no other beauty decision can. But to really make that impact, your hair colour needs to work for you, not just against a trend or a magazine cover, but alongside your skin tone, eye colour, and lifestyle.

At our London salons, our expert colourists combine creativity with precision to help you find a colour that flatters you. Whether you're after a bold transformation or a subtle update, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Find Your Perfect Match: Hair Colour & Skin Tone

Choosing the right hair colour starts with understanding your skin tone. The wrong shade can make your skin look tired or washed out, but the right one? It brings your whole look to life.

And remember, your skin tone can change over time. What suited you in your 20s might feel too harsh in your 50s. So, it’s always worth reassessing as you evolve.

Here’s a quick guide to help you start thinking about what colours might work best for you:

💗 Pink Skin Tones

If you have a rosy or pink undertone, steer clear of warm shades like golden blonde, copper, or auburn, they tend to exaggerate redness.

Best tones for you:

  • Ash blonde

  • Ash brown

  • Mocha

  • Cool mink

💛 Sallow Skin (Yellow Undertones)

Sallow skin tends to clash with gold and red tones. Instead, choose medium to dark shades that bring warmth without going brassy.

Try:

  • Rich chestnut

  • Deep browns

🕊️ Pale, Creamy Skin

Lucky you, your skin tone suits a wide variety of shades. From icy blondes to dramatic brunettes and bold reds, you have plenty of beautiful options.

Top picks:

  • Platinum blonde

  • Titian or copper reds

  • Deep, dark shades (à la Nigella Lawson)

🖤 Darker Skin Tones

Rich, deep shades enhance the natural glow of darker skin tones. Generally, anything lighter than light brown can feel too stark.

Go for:

  • Burgundy

  • Deep reds

  • Rich browns

  • Even bold colours like navy or violet for a fashion-forward edge

Lifestyle Matters: Low Maintenance or Colour Chameleon?

Before you commit to a colour, consider how much upkeep fits your lifestyle.

If you prefer a low-maintenance routine, highlights, lowlights, or balayage may be the way to go. These techniques grow out softly and typically only need refreshing every 10–12 weeks.

On the other hand, full head tints and bleached styles need more frequent maintenance  expect a visit to the salon every 4–5 weeks to keep your colour vibrant and your roots in check. 

Hair Texture: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Your hair’s texture can also influence which colouring technique will suit you best:

  • Fine hair benefits from a single, all-over tone, which creates the illusion of fuller strands.

  • Thick or coarse hair tends to reflect light better after blow-drying or glossing treatments, so multi-dimensional colour (like balayage or subtle highlights) can add shine and shape.

Let’s Find Your Perfect Colour

Whether you're dreaming of a glossy brunette, a sun-kissed blonde, or something totally out of the box, our talented team is here to help you make the right choice.

We offer bespoke colour consultations both at our luxurious Mayfair salon or from the comfort of your own home.

💬 Ready to refresh your look?
Get in touch to book your personalised colour consultation with one of our top colourists.

 Your perfect shade is just an appointment away: BOOK NOW

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