Everything You Need to Know About Geode Hair

It’s time to break out the rock collection you started that one time—probably for a long-forgotten school project. Yep, it turns out they finally have a purpose. ICYMI, geodes—those super-sparkly rocks lined with crystals—are taking over the internet. These fashion-forward rocks have made their way into everything from home décor to nail art—and now they’re inspiring a new hair color trend. It’s crystal clear: Geode hair is a thing in 2017. Keep reading to learn all about this captivating hair color idea.

What Exactly Is Geode Hair?

You might be wondering how exactly a bunch of sparkly rocks can be translated into the coolest new hair color of the moment. Well, geode hair isn’t just any old color—rather, it’s a way to incorporate a touch of rainbow into your hair. Instead of coloring your entire head, hair is dyed starting at the bottom and fading upwards into your natural color. A few sparkling shades, typically in tones of purple and blue, are used to mimic the inside of a geode. Have brown hair? Keep in mind that your strands will need to be lightened with bleach before color is applied to your midsections and another shade applied just to the tips.

How Can You Get a Crystal-Inspired Hair Color?

Since geode hair features different rainbow hues that fade into one another, this is one trend that’s best left to the professionals. A trained colorist will be able to bleach and brush on color to get you the dye job you desire. If you’re starting with a very dark base, it may even take multiple sessions to get the look you want. That’s why it’s a good idea to set up a consultation with your colorist before jumping into the dyeing process—he or she will be able to give you an estimate of how long it’ll take for you to get geode hair.

What’s more, despite being totally trendy, geode hair is still relatively new. That means your colorist may not understand exactly what you want based on the name alone. Play it safe by showing up to your appointment with pictures in hand, showing the style and shades you have in mind.

What’s the Best Way to Care for Geode Hair?

Any time you color your mane, switching up your hair care routine is key. Follow these steps to help keep your geode hair looking and feeling its best. Now go forth and rock your rock-inspired hair hue!

1. Use a color-safe system of shampoo and conditioner. Say bye, bye to your regular ‘poo and conditioner! Try the L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Conditioner.

2. Add a mask to your weekly routine. You may find that your color-treated hair needs a little extra conditioning from time to time. In that case, swap out your conditioner for a hair mask, like the L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Ultra Recovery Mask, once or twice a week.

3. Spritz on a glossing mist. Part of what makes geode hair stand out from other colorful styles is the crystal-like shimmer and shine, so go ahead and using a glossing mist, like the L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Nutri-Gloss High Shine Glossing Mist, before styling your strands. Spray it evenly through dry hair, then style.

4. Book touch-ups. Since geode hair doesn’t color all the way to your roots, there’s no reason you won’t have to worry about super-frequent touch-ups. Still, you’ll want to set up follow-up appointments with your colorist to help spruce up your look as your color fades.

5. Style into plaits. Try a braided look to draw attention to your geode hair color. By weaving sections of your hair together, you’ll create a beautiful blending of all the different shades incorporated into your new ‘do. Play with the possibilities: Fishtail, French, or waterfall braids are great options.

6. Create effortless waves. Adding shape and body is a good look on every color. Tease your hair at the crown, then follow with a curling wand to make waves. Finger comb through strands before they’ve completely cooled to help loosen spirals for a more natural style.