Hair Colour – What To Ask For?

Changing Your Hair Colour? Find Out What To Ask Your Hairdresser When You Visit Martin and Phelps Hair Salon in Cheltenham

There are many reasons that you may want to change your hair colour. Perhaps you feel like you're stuck in a rut, maybe you want to reinvent your look for a special occasion, or it could be that you feel your hair shade simply does not suit you now that you've become a little older and wiser.

Whatever the reason, rest assured that our hair colour experts at Martin and Phelps Hair Salon in Cheltenham are here to help.  Your first step in your journey towards beautiful hair is to book in for complimentary consultation so that our colour specialists can help you find a hair colour that really suits you. But before you make that step, why not read on to find out some of our Frequently Asked Questions about hair colour.   

Which Hair Colour Will Suit Me?

Our hair colour specialists can help you find a hair colour that suits you and enhances your look.  We will take into consideration a number of factors including your skin tone and eye colour. For example, people with light skin tones may find their skin looks washed out by a darker hair colour, whilst darker complexions look gorgeous with chestnut and auburn shades or even pastel toned hair colours. 

How Can I Explain The Hair Colour I Want To My Stylist?

If you want a specific hair colour then your best option is to show your Martin and Phelps colourist a photograph. If that is not possible, do not worry if you are unsure of how to describe the colour. During your complimentary hair colour consultation, we will ask you the right questions and show you some colour samples to help us work it out together! 

What Is A Patch Test & Why Do I Need It?

Thankfully, allergic reactions to hair dye are quite rare, but they can happen at any time and for a variety of reasons including a change in medication, illness or hormonal imbalances.  It is, therefore, important to follow our guidelines when it comes to patch testing. Other names for a patch testing include skin testing and allergy alert testing.

If you haven't had a colour service at Martin and Phelps or it's been more than six months since your last colour service with us then we will need to carry out an Allergy Alert Test 48 hours prior to your service, this only takes a few moments. After we have performed a skin test, provided that there is no reaction, we will be able to book your colour service appointment. 

Which Comes First? Hair Cut Or Hair Colour?

We would usually recommend having your hair colour service before you have your hair cut and styled. We can then make sure the colour enhances the haircut you have so you end up with the look you desire. 

What’s The Difference Between Highlights and Balayage?

We understand it can be difficult keeping up with the latest hair trends and terminology, the Martin & Phelps team work to stay ahead of trends and up to date with the latest techniques. One of the most sought-after hair colours in recent times is balayage, but it can cause confusion, so let us explain a little more about the difference between balayage and highlights. 

With a full head of highlights, we carefully select strands of hair evenly across the entire head, cover these in hair colour and wrap them in foils to help the colour to develop. The results are structure and can give you either a very natural lighter look or a dramatic look, depending on the intensity of the highlights you choose.  

Balayage highlights are usually hand-painted in vertical sections throughout your hair. A balayage hair colour creates a natural sun-kissed look as your skilled colourist will apply the highlights to those areas which would naturally be lifted in colour if you’d been sitting in sun. We will blend different shades to give a more natural look which is subtly darker at the roots than the ends. This means there will be a less obvious root regrowth when your hair begins to grow again, making this a popular low maintenance hair colour option. 

Can I Have My Hair Coloured Whilst Pregnant?

According to the NHS, most research into colouring your hair during pregnancy and breastfeeding indicates that it is safe to colour your hair whilst pregnant as the level of chemical coming into contact with your scalp is low.  However, many pregnant women wait until after the first trimester to have their hair coloured but please read the official NHS guidelines for colouring your hair when pregnant here.

If you decide to colour your hair during pregnancy why not consider a balayage hair colour, highlights or even semi permanent dyes rather than a full head of hair colour?  These hair colour options will have less contact with your skin and create fewer chemical fumes. 

Can I Have Hair Colour If I'm Under 16?  

We do not offer hair colour for clients under the age of 16. 

How Much Will My Hair Colour Appointment Cost? 

Our stylists have different skill levels and are graded according to the amount of experience & expertise they have had in the hairdressing industry this is reflected in the price of each service. During your hair colour consultation we will be able to quote for your hair colour service and advise accordingly. You can view our price list for ladies here.

I Have Dark Hair, Can I Go Blonde?

Please be aware that a major hair colour transformation, such as a blonde hair colour for very dark hair, takes skill, experience and time.  If you want to go from brunette to blonde overnight, you may need to book in for two or more appointments. We will pre-lighten your hair before applying your desired blonde tone. During your hair colour consultation we will assess the condition of your hair to make sure it is healthy enough to cope with a radical colour change. 

Can I Change My Hair Colour From Blonde to Red?

The most important thing to assess when you want to change your hair colour is the base shade and how healthy your hair is, which your Martin & Phelps stylist will do during your colour consultation. We may suggest a deep conditioning treatment to improve the condition of your hair and we may need to lighten your hair colour before applying red tones.

Red hair colour can be high maintenance to ensure the vibrancy of the shade between salon visits. Sometimes a gradual colour change is the best option - perhaps some red lowlights or red balayage. This gives you the chance to get used to your new hair colour before deciding whether to go for the bright red, shiny copper shade or dusky auburn colour you desire.

Do You Offer Pastel Hair Colours & Fashion Shades? 

Yes! We offer all the colours under the rainbow here at Martin and Phelps Hair Salon in Cheltenham! We can create pastel hair shades such as pretty pinks, lilacs and blues, as well as vibrant reds, greens and magentas. We can even create stunning colour effects such as hidden panels of rainbow tones, bright colour melts and beyond - simply show your colourist the look you are going for and we'll make it work for you.

How Do I Book In For My New Hair Colour At Martin and Phelps Hair Salon in Cheltenham?

Whether you want balayage, babylights, or a stunning pastel hair colour, make sure to book an appointment at the best salon in Cheltenham! Just call us on 01242 523 568 or book online today.