The Galaxy Hair Color Trend Will Make Your Locks Out Of This World
Sometimes you just need to switch up your look, and one of the boldest changes you can make is playing around with your hair color. Sure, it may be routine to get highlights or lowlights as the seasons change, but if you really want to stand out or take a risk, we recommend adding in a little unconventional color (you know, something outside of the brunette, blonde, red-head realm).
Galaxy hair is a trend that requires one part courage, one part fun, and one part stardust. It’s the hair color trend that mixes blue, purple, and magenta colors to create a seriously galactic look. If you’re looking for a way to stand out or just have some fun at home creating a new look, this DIY guide from New York City experts will help you take the plunge.
Meet the Expert
Lucille Javier is a color specialist at Mark Ryan Salon in New York City.
Stephanie Brown is a master colorist at IGK Salon in New York City.
How To Get the Galaxy Hair Look At Home
1. Make the big bleach decision.
When thinking about dying hair a bright or bold color, you also have to think about bleaching. Although colorists Lucille Javier and Stephanie Brown recommend sticking with a professional when it comes to bleaching your hair (breakage, accidents, or errr trauma may occur), if you are already blonde, you’re good to go. If you’re not, you’ll have to weigh your options.
“Unfortunately you have to bleach your hair first,” says Brown. “I do not recommend doing this, but if you have done this before and are comfortable doing this then go for it.” But, Brown adds, lightening your hair even a little bit will help the galaxy colors shine through. “Luckily with galaxy hair there can still be a little warmth in your hair since the fashion colors are a little darker, so you don’t have to bleach to white, but you still want to be close to white,” she says. “Take small sections and try not to overlap already bleached ends to minimize breakage.”
2. Choose your galaxy colors.
“I like to think more on the lines of jewel tones, such as lavender and turquoise,” says Javier, who makes sure the color palette complements your skin tone. Hold up those colors around your face (grab a shirt, a book, a piece of paper, whatever!) to get a better idea of your ideal tones. Brown adds that galaxy hair is typically made up of blues, purples, and purple-pink colors, so any shade you want to use is entirely up to you—and part of the fun.
3. Dry your hair.
Brown notes that while you can start applying color right after you bleach your hair, just make sure your hair is completely dry before you start applying color, so that it lasts longer. But don’t worry, there’s no need to achieve a smooth blow-out. A solid rough-dry will 100 percent work.
4. Have a game plan.
“Make sure you have enough color,” says Brown. In general, short, fine hair requires less dye than longer, thicker hair, but it’s always better to have a little too much than not enough. Brown also likes to think about whether you’re trying to do a full head color or more of an ombre look. “Ombré would be good for a beginner,” says Brown. “How many sections you do is up to you, but have a plan and know where you want to place the colors before you start.”
5. Lighter colors should be at the front.
Brown says you should think about placing lighter colors towards the front of your face and working to darker colors as you go. This helps frame the face and looks more cohesive and put together. It may be helpful however, to start at the back with darker colors, according to Javier. “When doing a unique blend of galaxy colors, I tend to start with the darkest tones first then blend in with the lighter hues that accent,” she says.
All the galaxy hair ideas you need:
1. Meet in the Middle
The purples and pinks blend seamlessly together in this look created by Joseph Huckabee at the Mark Ryan Salon. With galaxy hair, you can choose just two colors if you wish and blend them together in the middle.
2. Hidden Stars
If you want to hide a surprise in your hair or just aren’t ready to commit to a full head of galaxy hair, try this peekaboo galaxy melt.
3. Go for Three
This look blends purple, pink, and turquoise for a look that’s out of this world. Sure the upkeep might be a nightmare, but think of the photos you’ll get out of it for a few weeks.
4. Subtle Hues
Pink and purple are more closely related, so if you want to leave out blue, this is the perfect way to get a more subtle galaxy look.
5. Au Natural
If you want to only bleach part of your hair, this look still incorporates some natural dark hues so you won’t have to stress about upkeep. As it grows out, you’ll still be able to enjoy fun pops of color.
6. Lead with Blue
If you already have blue hair or just want blue to be the dominant color, treat the purple and pink portions of galaxy hair as subtle highlights for a fun blend of color.
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