hair color tutorials How to DIY a Trendy Silver Hair Color

Shades of silver hair have been popular these days — from your local salon to the fashion week runways, it seems to be everywhere. Whether you’re contemplating trying this trendy shade or ready to embrace going gray naturally, this hair color is stylish at any age. 

With a little know-how, you can get the perfect smokey silver strands, including without the hands of a professional. Keep reading as we share the secrets to achieving a silver hair color and how to care for your new hue once you do. 

How To Get A Fresh Silver Hair Color

Changing your hair color isn’t always a simple decision, but once you’ve settled on a new shade, there are a few hair dye logistics you’ll want to consider. Some hair colors require more work to achieve and more upkeep — silver being one of them.

Anytime you decide to opt for a lighter hair color, you’ll need to bleach your hair first. And if you’re starting with a dark base, it could take multiple sessions to achieve your desired level of silver. 

Before you go all the way gray, it might be best to consult with a professional colorist who can guide you through the process and skillfully manage your transition to silver hair. If you plan to DIY, the L’Oréal Paris Haircolor Concierge is available with live experts who can help you color with confidence and ensure your desired result.

3 Best At Home Silver Hair Dyes

If you’re seasoned at using at-home hair dye and want to embrace the silver hair look on your own, here are three options you can choose from:

L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Soft Silver Blonde

This at-home hair coloring kit is special because it delivers a super shiny, luminous hair color that’s guaranteed for up to eight weeks. It’s made with a fade-resistant formula, so your strands won’t look dull or brassy.

L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Silver

This hair coloring kit will give you an intense, brilliant silver hair color. It has a multi-dimensional formula that will give you shimmering highlights for bold color that’s never flat.

L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray in Silver

This temporary hair color is perfect for those who want to try out the silver hair color trend without fully committing to the change. It washes out in just one shampoo, so you can go right back to your natural color when you want. 

How To Take Care Of Silver Hair

Once your strands are your favorite shade of silver, it’s important to care for them properly. Follow these three tips to ensure you’re treating your silver hair the right way.

1. Use Hair Care Products Formulated For Bleached Hair

In order to keep your silver strands looking their very best, it’s important to use a hair care system that’s made to boost and protect color-treated hair. Try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Color Care Shampoo, along with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Color Care Conditioner. This hair care duo is formulated to strengthen color-treated hair — especially bleached hair — from the inside out by reinforcing weak hair bonds. They both also work to condition and fortify your hair while remaining gentle on your color.

Whenever your hair needs a little extra hydration, add the L’Oréal Paris Sulfate-Free Signature Color Care Hair Mask to the mix. This conditioning treatment can be used as a hair mask to nourish color treated hair so that your hair looks shiny and healthy.

Editor’s tip: You’ll also want to keep a purple shampoo and conditioner handy to protect your color and prevent brassiness, which can turn your silver strands to an unwanted shade of yellow or orange. We love the L’Oréal Paris Ever Pure Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris Ever Pure Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple Conditioner because they keep your color bright while moisturizing. 

2. Shampoo In Lukewarm Water

While showering with hot water might feel soothing, hot water can actually strip your hair of essential oils, which can lead to dryness and frizz. So, the next time you get ready for a shampoo session, turn down the dial and rinse your hair in lukewarm temps instead. 

3. Boost Color With A Hair Gloss

If your silver strands are starting to look a little less than sterling, try using an at-home hair gloss to revive your color and refresh your hair in between touch-ups. The L'Oréal Paris Le Color Gloss One Step In-Shower Toning Gloss is formulated with a coconut oil-infused deep-conditioning base that works to enhance your hair color and tone, while also moisturizing your strands. 

Simply add it to your wash day routine by applying to clean hair and letting it sit for five to 15 minutes for a boost of silver shine without a trip to the salon.

Next: How to Get a Beige Blonde Hair Color

Edited by: Shannon Stubbs, Photo Credit: Mariah Monsanto, @mariahthestylistt