How to Get a Mermaid Hair Color

Unicorn hair isn’t your only option for a totally mythical mane; mermaid hair is one of the best ways to get your feet wet in the rainbow hair color trend. Defined by shades of blue, green, and purple, this hair color idea isn’t exactly the most low-maintenance, but if you want to turn heads (and fins), it could be a perfect way to change up your hair color for the new year. Here, learn all about what goes into getting a mermaid hair color, how to get the look at home, and how to care for your bold new color.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MERMAID HAIR

This multi-colored hair hue is positively stunning—but it can be difficult to achieve, so it’s best to manage your expectations. If you have brown hair, you’ll need to bleach it first in order for your mermaid-inspired colors to actually show up on your hair. The darker your base color, the longer it may take to achieve your desired look. Further, mermaid hair is all about blending different colors to mimic the way the sea looks—a task that requires a bit of coloring expertise. For both those reasons, it could be a good idea to visit a professional colorist to help ensure you love the way your color turns out. A pro will be able to expertly place the different shades of blue, green, and purple to create a flattering rainbow hue for you.

HOW TO GET A MERMAID HAIR COLOR AT HOME

While giving yourself a mermaid-inspired mane isn’t the easiest hair color feat, it is possible to color your hair like a merperson from the comfort of your home. Again, if you’re starting with brown hair, you’ll need to bleach it first. Try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Bleach. Once you’re done with that, use the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Purple, Blue, and Aqua to color your strands. Decide beforehand where, exactly, you’d like to place each shade. Traditionally, the mane is mostly teal or blue with smaller pops of purple and green, but it’s really up to you, so feel free to get creative!

If you want an even shorter-lived mermaid mane, try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray in Blue, Hot Pink, Pastel Blue, Pastel Lavender, Pastel Mint, and Purple or L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color in Blue, Moonstone, Lilac, Green, and Pink Violet—all of which will last for one day—or, rather, one shampoo. Like we mentioned, you’ll want to decide where you want each shade. Speaking of…

4 MORE MERMAID HAIR COLOR IDEAS

Want to mix things up and in need of inspo for exactly how you can rock mermaid hair? That’s right, you have options. Consider one of the following mermaid-inspired hair color ideas!

Mermaid Hair Color Idea #1: Seashell roots. Think of the hues that make up the most beautiful seashells on the ocean’s floor. Lilac, pastel blue, and pretty pinks likely come to mind. Seashell roots involve painting your roots with one, multiple, or all of the above shades for a colorful, rooted look.

Mermaid Hair Color Idea #2: Coral reef ends. Want to keep your fun shade on your ends instead? This is a great option for those who prefer a subtler mermaid hair look. Dip your ends in a sea-worthy coral hue to get the look.

Mermaid Hair Color Idea #3: Seaweed balayage. In case you haven’t heard, green hair is trending. Ask your colorist (or a friend) to paint green, seaweed-inspired balayage highlights throughout your mane. We particularly love this look for those with darker strands!

Mermaid Hair Color Idea #4: Ocean takeover. Want to go all in? If you prefer to make waves with your mermaid ‘do, consider an all-over ocean blue hair color! Rock a single shade or sport multiple hues mixed throughout for a dimensional look.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR MERMAID MANE

Once you’ve colored your hair, it’s important to switch up your hair care routine, as color-treated hair has different needs. Follow the tips below, and you’ll be good to go!

1. Switch to a hair care system for color-treated hair

Say bye-bye to your regular hair care products and reach for ones that are formulated for color-treated hair instead. Try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair Remedy Balm.

2. Wash your hair in lukewarm water

While it may feel relaxing to splash around in a steamy shower, super-hot water can strip your hair of essential oils. So, the next time you bathe, turn down the dial and wash off in lukewarm temps instead.

3. Rock beachy waves

Put down those heat tools and pair your mermaid hair with beachy waves—no trip to the ocean required! After stepping out of the shower, towel-dry your hair. Then, spritz on a sea salt spray. Create a braid and undo it once your hair has fully dried. For tighter waves, create multiple braids.

4. Use a heat protectant before applying heat

Want to give yourself an at-home blowout? Spritz on a heat protectant beforehand. Try the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray, which helps provide heat protection and sleek shine. After blow-drying, create loose curls with a curling iron for a totally mermaid-appropriate ‘do. 

Editor’s tip: To further protect against heat, spritz hair with the L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold with UV Filter for Color-Treated Hair. It will not only create long-lasting hold, but sun protection, too.

5. Schedule touch-ups

If you decide to go the professional route, book your first touch-up before you leave the salon so that you don’t forget. Since mermaid hair features a whole bunch of different rainbow hues, it can be pretty obvious when your roots start to grow in. If you take the at-home hair color route, keep your bathroom stocked with dye so that you have it on hand for touch-ups whenever needed.

Want to match your mermaid mane with an equally as mythical makeup look? Our article, 9 Mermaid Makeup Ideas That Won't Make You Feel Like a Fish out of Water, can help you do exactly that.