Ask any hair colorist for the requests they get most often and you’ll undoubtably hear “natural” and “sun-kissed.” It makes sense considering the notion incites a sexy narrative — like you just spent a two week vacation relaxing on a white-sand beach in Grand Cayman — and hits on the tone of YHCBB (your hair color, but better). But for the general public, especially those with dark hair, the whole concept of au naturale highlights can feel like a pipe dream. Luckily, that’s where professional colorists come into play.
We recently sat down with Cassondra Kaeding, the L.A.-based colorist behind some of the most requested hair in Hollywood, from Kendall and Kylie Jenner to Natalie Portman and Olivia Munn, for her secret to these enviable hues. Click ahead for her five simple tricks to make dreamy, sun-kissed highlights a reality.
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Always Bring Visuals
Kaeding’s first tip is to compile research before your appointment, like a Pinterest board or a few saved images on Instagram. “There’s chemistry and nuance to hair color, so it’s important to bring images that clarify exactly what you’re looking for,” Kaeding explains. “Your hair color is unique to you — your skin tone and eye color, too — so when all those factors are also taken into consideration at the consultation, the end result is usually super natural.”
Try Non-Permanent Dye
In terms of natural-looking results and lower-maintenance costs, Kaeding says that semi-permanent dyes and glosses are the answer. “I use Redken Shades EQ formula on every single client,” Kaeding says (she’s also an ambassador for the brand). “I just love the way the formula fades. For example, I just did Olivia Munn’s highlights and before that I hadn’t seen her in about a year. Because the non-permeant formula is gentle on the hair and grows out so well, I know I can trust it.”
Gloss, Gloss, Gloss
Kaeding’s top color-maintenance tip: Book a routine, in-salon gloss. “We’re all busy, and it’s hard scheduling a full color, so I think a quick gloss, which sits in your hair for 20 minutes, makes a huge difference in keeping your color looking new,” she says. “In my experience, once people see the shine they get from a gloss, they’re not only hooked, but they can go longer between color appointments.”
