The latest hair colour trend that does wonders for your complexion

Metallic makeup has a magical way of making our complexion beam with health and radiance. The same principles apply to metallic hair, which is why it’s no surprise that it’s taking off big time as 2018’s hottest hair trend. Just take a look at Dannii Minogue’s latest hair colour of choice – silvery blue metallic perfection.

Stemming from the pastels and vibrantly coloured hair trend that has been huge in recent years, a metallic colour doesn’t just look striking – it does wonders for your complexion, too. The subtle shimmer undertones glisten in the light, which in turn brightens up your whole face. No more dull matte tones. It’s all about a high-gloss finish.

For those keen to get in on the metallic action, we spoke to three hair colour experts for their top tips for navigating the trend: Wendy Gunn from Ink For Hair who won the coveted L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2018; Deeann Watt from Watt Style, marie claire’s L’Oréal Colour Trophy Readers Choice Award winner; and Cordell from Rakis On Collins, L’Oréal Colour Trophy’s Rising Star winner.

Picking a metallic hair colour

Rather than going the eeny-meeny route when picking a colour, let your hairdresser steer you in the right direction. “Consult your hairdresser – they know what suits you best!” Gunn advises. “They will take into consideration your eye colour and skin tones when helping you choose your perfect shade.” Watts recommends L'Oréal Professionnel’s new Majirel Metals range of glossy metallic shades, which include Silver Star, Crystal Ash, Pink Ash and Hi.Lilac.

Easing your way in

If this sounds like a trend you’re hesitant to dip your strands into, the good news is there are various ways you can embrace it. Gunn recommends subtle pastel metallic highlights for beginners, or a high-fashion heavy metal all-over colour for those who want to make a mammoth statement. “Metallic hair colour doesn't have to be alternative; it can now be soft yet a little edgy,” adds Watt. Another option is to go for a demi-permanent metallic colour – L’Oréal Professionnel have two, a Silver and Rose Gold shade – where you can trial the trend for eight to 12 weeks, then if you fall in love with it you can go for a permanent colour, or get a demi-permanent top-up.

The colouring process

“Almost any major hair change can affect the hair, therefore in-salon treatments and home maintenance is key to ensure you still have beautiful hair,” advises Cordell. For smooth sailing when going metallic, Gunn talks us through the vital steps they take at her salon: “For those who are a little colour shy, or afraid of damaging their hair, we offer a no-damage service using INOA, an ammonia-free colour. We also add Smartbond to all our mixes to protect and strengthen hair while colouring. Maintaining the hair integrity is a priority for me.”

In your maintenance kit

The products you need to care for your newly coloured hair differ from your everyday routine, so you may require a complete overhaul of your haircare approach to keep your metallic hue looking on point. Gunn recommends L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Silver Shampoo and Serie Expert CC Crème (Blonde or Brunette) to keep your new metallic colour fresh between visits. Cordell adds, “Regular treatments are key. You can never over-treat your hair!”

Celebs to copy

Looking for some metallic inspo to take in to your hairdresser? Our experts’ top picks are Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga, Cara Delevingne and Dannii Minogue.

Looking for your nearest L’Oréal Professionnel salon? Head to the salon locator here

Main image credit: L’Oréal Professionnel