How to Get an Ocean-Inspired Teal Hair Color

Missing the beach this winter? So are we! While you may not want to head to the seaside during the chilly season, you can bring the ocean vibes to you with a sea-inspired teal hair color. There are plenty of rainbow hair colors that are trending—including quite a few shades of blue (we see you, denim hair!). But one of our favorites at the moment is definitely this beautiful, turquoise hair hue as it reminds us so much of the ocean. Of course, as with all bright hair colors, getting teal hair will take some work. Want to give this trend a try? Below, learn all about coloring your hair an ocean-esque shade—with the help of some teal hair dye—and caring for your new, color-treated ‘do.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING A TEAL HAIR COLOR

When it comes to dyeing your hair teal, there are a few things you should know. For starters, if you’re starting with a dark base color, you’ll need to bleach your hair first. And the darker your base, the more sessions it may take to reach your desired level of teal. Whenever you’re making a drastic hair color change, visiting a professional colorist is always a good idea, as they can help guide you through the process with their expert skill.

Also, keep in mind that root regrowth will be very visible—so if you’d like to maintain your teal hue, regular touch-ups will be necessary. That being said, it is possible to get a teal hair color at home—and we’ve got instructions for you coming right up!

HOW TO USE TEAL HAIR DYE

Want to color your hair a beautiful teal shade from the comfort of your own home? Try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Teal, which is designed for dark to light brown hair and requires no bleaching beforehand.

If you don’t want all-over teal color, consider applying it just to your ends for a mermaid-approved ombré look.

HOW TO CARE FOR TEAL OR TURQUOISE HAIR

Color-treated hair requires special care. That means that once you have a teal hair color, you’ll want to switch up your regular hair care routine. Follow our tips below for showing your teal hair some love.

TIP #1: USE A HAIR CARE SYSTEM FOR COLOR-TREATED HAIR

After going teal, it’s important to cleanse and condition with products formulated for color-treated hair. Try the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Repair and Protect Balm. Swap out the conditioner for the hair mask once or twice a week.

TIP #2: EMBRACE YOUR HAIR’S NATURAL TEXTURE

Mimic the ocean’s waves by rocking wavy hair. Create beach-inspired waves by spritzing a wave spray onto towel-dried hair. Put your hair into a braid, then unweave your hair once it's dry for gorgeous-looking, beachy waves.

TIP #3: SHOW OFF YOUR OMBRÉ IN A BRAID

If you’ve opted to color only your ends with teal hair dye, show off the color by wearing a braid. You’ve got plenty of braiding techniques to choose from—although we’re partial to the fishtail. Simply split your hair into two sections, then alternate crossing tiny sections of hair over your main sections until you reach your ends and can tie things off with a mini clear elastic.

Editor’s note: Rusty on your braiding skills? Check out How to Do a Fishtail Braid.

TIP #4: STOCK UP ON HEAT PROTECTANT

If you’d like to pair your teal hair with a smooth style, make sure to apply a heat protectant first. Use the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BLOW DRY IT Quick Dry Primer Spray before blow-drying or the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray before flat ironing.

Want more hair color inspiration? Here are 26 Cute Hair Color Ideas for 2020 and Beyond.