It’s just a mane thing

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We, as women, need no excuse to go to the hairdresser’s. But with Valentine’s Day round the corner, it’s as good an excuse as any to give those tresses some extra attention, a few strands of colour that goes by the name of dip-dyeing. From Christina Aguilera to Lady Gaga to our very own Begum of Pataudi, Kareena Kapoor, everyone seems to be dyeing their hair in various hues.

The colours in vogue are reds, blues and pink, says Mohd Shuaib Khan, trainer at the Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy, Chennai. “The trend is catching really fast — and with Valentine’s Day round the corner, this seems to be the best form of make-over.”
Sure, but there is a caveat. Colours for the hair need to be carefully chosen as it is a reflection of one’s personality, it’s not a one-size-fits-all choice. Or as Shuaib says, “Opting to dip-dye your hair is also a lifestyle choice. If you are a professional who requires to look presentable all the time, choose lighter shades, like ombres and golds. And for all those who are young enough to go ahead and experiment, go for reds, blues, greens and pink.”
Senior stylist from Naturals, Madhu Subba stresses the need to have a professional treat your hear. “It is very important to balance the colour when you dip-dye your hair. If you don’t want to be too bold, just highlight a few layers. And for all those who have short hair, especially bob cut, opt to colour the longer tips first.” Madhu also points out that it is imperative to keep one’s own hair colour in mind. “The base of your hair should pair the colour. For someone who has light brown hair, blondes, ombres and gold are best suited. For someone whose locks are a little reddish (burgundy) you could go for red. One also has to keep the skin tone in mind before zeroing down on a colour.”
Those averse to experimenting with one’s locks, hair extensions are the best way to go. Model Sahithya Jagannathan finds them an easier option. “Being in the fashion industry I have experimented with my looks a lot. But being in an industry where I keep getting different projects, dip-dyeing my hair is not an option. This is where extensions come into place. I don’t have to dye my hair and worry about damaging it, but still be fashionable by just clipping them on or getting them coloured according to my needs.”
Celebrity stylist Rachel Singh corroborates that not many actresses go in for dip-dyeing as their projects are too various and their look varies from film to film. But the trend is popular amongst the fashion frat, among models and stylists, in particular. “And it’s important to add a dash of colour to your life,” she adds.