Changing your hair colour is one of the quickest ways to refresh your appearance and experiment with your style. Whether you want to cover greys or try something bold and trendy, choosing the right hair colour for men and applying it correctly can make all the difference.
While hair colouring is often associated with women’s beauty routines, it’s quickly becoming a key part of the modern man’s grooming arsenal. Like other men grooming products, colouring your hair requires the right technique, timing, and aftercare to ensure great results.
1. Choose the Right Shade
Before anything else, selecting a shade that complements your personality and lifestyle is essential. If you’re new to hair colour, start with a shade close to your natural tone—this offers a subtle change and is easier to maintain. On the other hand, if you’re confident and willing to experiment, hues like ash brown, burgundy, or even silver have gained popularity in men’s fashion circles.
2. Know the Type of Hair Colour
Hair dyes come in several forms—permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary. Permanent dyes offer long-lasting results but require a commitment to upkeep. Semi-permanent colours fade gradually and are a great way to test a shade before going long-term. Temporary colours, like hair chalks and sprays, are ideal for short-term events or occasions.
3. Prep Your Hair Before Colouring
Good hair prep is crucial for even colour application. Wash your hair 24–48 hours before colouring to remove excess oil and product buildup while allowing natural oils to protect the scalp. Avoid using strong styling products or harsh shampoos right before dyeing your hair.
4. Don’t Skip the Strand Test
Always perform a strand test before committing to full application. This not only helps you preview the result but also ensures you’re not allergic to the dye. Even the best men hair care products can’t reverse an allergic reaction, so it’s best to stay cautious.
5. Follow Instructions Precisely
It may sound obvious, but many hair colour fails result from not following the packet instructions. Timing, application, and mixing ratios should be done exactly as recommended. If it’s your first time, you could consider getting it done professionally or at least consulting a stylist for tips.
6. Use Colour-Safe Products
Once your hair is coloured, switch to colour-safe shampoos and conditioners. These are specially formulated to maintain the vibrancy of your hair colour while keeping it healthy. Regular shampoos may strip the colour faster, leading to dullness and uneven fading.
7. Minimise Heat Styling
Heat styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling wands can fade your hair colour more quickly. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray. Just as you would use quality men grooming products for your skin, opt for professional-grade tools and protective sprays for your hair too.
8. Hydration is Key
Coloured hair tends to get dry, so keeping it moisturised is crucial. Invest in hydrating men hair care products such as leave-in conditioners, hair serums, and oil treatments. Weekly deep conditioning treatments can also help maintain shine and softness.
9. Touch-Up Smartly
Hair grows, and roots will start to show in a few weeks. Use a root touch-up product or schedule regular appointments to keep your colour looking fresh. Avoid reapplying dye to the full length each time, as over-processing can damage your hair.
Final Thoughts
Hair colouring doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right preparation, application, and maintenance routine, any man can enjoy a fresh new look that reflects his personal style. Just like with skincare or shaving, hair colour deserves its own space in your grooming regimen.
Whether you’re going for a subtle enhancement or a daring transformation, follow these tips to make sure your colour stays bold and your hair remains healthy.
