THE ART OF LIGHT AND DARK
With Joico Guest Artist, Samantha Harmon
When it comes to blonding, dimension is everything. And knowing how much light vs dark, warm vs cool, and bold vs subtle placement makes all the difference in the world. Joico Guest Artist, Samantha Harmon, nails the differences with this super helpful cheat sheet – check it out, and you’ll never have to play the guessing game again!
♣ SAMANTHA’S PRO TIP:
“I always consider the client’s natural base. I like to keep more dimension on those with darker natural levels for a softer grow out.”
Hack #1: Minimal Dimension
The goal: Create a bright, blonde look.
Who it’s perfect for: The client who’s willing to come in every 6 to 8 weeks.
How to nail it: Create a combination of babylights and teasylights. For a more natural result, increase the size of the subsections as you work towards the back of the head.
Product rec: Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo and Conditioner alternating with Blonde Life Violet Shampoo and Conditioner to stay “nice and icy.”
Hack #2: Medium Dimension
The goal: Create a more natural blonde look with easy grow-out.
Who it’s perfect for: The client who wants to go longer between salon visits – typically, 8 – 12 weeks.
How to nail it: Focus on the hairline, the top (off the natural part), and the ends; this is going to deliver the most impact, because it’s what the client sees when they look in the mirror. “Be mindful of your placement and embrace the client’s natural depth, especially throughout the back,” advises Samantha.
Product rec: Colorful Anti-Fade Shampoo and Conditioner, alternating with Color Balance Purple Shampoo and Conditioner.
Hack #3: Max Dimension
The goal: Create a bold play between light and dark
Who it’s perfect for: The low-maintenance client (visits the salon every 3 to 4 months) with a darker base, who wants to see pops of blonde.
How to nail it: Go with a partial highlight only here – it’s all you need. On the sides, apply lightener on a diagonal (the brightest pieces should be closest to the face); at the crown, paint the lightener in a V shape to maintain depth and dimension.
Product rec: K-PAK Color Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner, alternating with Color Balance Blue Shampoo and Conditioner to “keep the hair brass free.”
Check out Samantha’s incredible work on Instagram: @samanthasbeautyconfessions
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