Lived-in Hair Colour // What Does ‘Lived-in’ Actually Mean?

Lived-in Hair Colour is the Most Requested Colour Service Right Now – But What Does ‘Lived-in’ Actually Mean?

Lived-in colour isn’t as obvious as a balayage or ombré; it’s blended and subtle. It involves blending natural tones to create depth at the root, with a soft transition into different (usually lighter) tones. The main aim of those seeking a lived-in hair colour is to create a low-maintenance style, allowing for a natural grow-out with no harsh stripes or lines.

It’s a fully customisable colour, so your stylist can adjust the transition. For example, they can keep it high, allowing the hair to stay lighter throughout with just a slight, soft shadow at the root, or keep it deeper and darker with just hints of additional colour through the ends. By using different depths of colour and various colouring techniques, your stylist can create colours that mimic natural sun-kissed highlights, or even more defined ribbons of colour. But they will all share one common feature: a soft, seamless transition from root to tip.

Lived-in colour is ideal for clients who want to keep their hair colour low-maintenance, without the pressure of regular touch-ups to address obvious regrowth. So, if you’re short on time or have work or family commitments that mean you can’t always get to the salon regularly, a lived-in colour could really suit your lifestyle.

It is also great for anyone wanting to transition between colours. For example, it can gently ease blondes into brunettes or brunettes into blondes, without the shock of a dramatic change.

Lived-in colour is also effective for blending natural tones, which makes it especially good for those looking to blend and disguise grey or white hairs, rather than opting for an all-over tint. This technique will keep the regrowth subtle, avoiding any noticeable shade differences between treated and natural hair.

There are so many options with a lived-in colour, which is why it is quickly becoming a favourite colouring technique. Face-framing panels can be added to create a bright impact at the front, while maintaining a blended colour throughout the rest of the hair. This look is particularly popular with clients who like to feel blonde but don’t want the upkeep.

Lived-in colour can be as bright, dark, or tonal as you wish, but will always blend seamlessly from the root to the ends.

However, like every hair colour trend, lived-in colour isn’t for everyone. If you’re a blonde who loves the impact of a bright, platinum colour, we wouldn’t advise a lived-in colour. Adding depth would make your hair feel darker and could detract from the impact of the blonde.

Clients who require full grey coverage would need a permanent tint, which will always require regular maintenance to cover the regrowth. Therefore, a lived-in colour wouldn’t be suitable for this need.

With a thorough consultation, you and your stylist will be able to determine exactly whether a lived-in colour is right for you.

Visit our booking page to arrange a complimentary consultation.