How Men Can Use Hair Coloring To Effect

Western culture is in the throes of one hand being youth-obsessed and on the other being more accepting of age. One of the most interesting signs of this is hair coloring for men.

Cultivating the need for youth to create a signature look by coloring their hair in non-standard colors (such as purple and blue), men use hair coloring usually to hide the effects of aging. By matching the color of youth, hair coloring can make a man look younger, enabling the man to (at least theoretically) enjoy a much more successful life, by being able to compete with younger men on a much more level playing field.

The key to using men hair coloring as a path to success is to make sure that the color looks good on you. Matching your hair color is paramount, as a mismatch will be obvious. Try to be within a few shades of your natural hair color; some difference is acceptable, as it can create a nice subtle yet dramatic look, but any more than a few shades and the hair won’t look quite right. You can dye your hair an entirely new color, but hair coloring for men works best when it’s subtle, not when it’s a dramatic hair color change.

Seasonal variations are also important for hair coloring. As you will need to re-apply the color every so often, it helps to know what other colors your hair is (some men hair color can go from almost-blonde to deep auburn over the course of a few months) to avoid extreme mismatches. By tracking your hair color, you can use your hair coloring more to your advantage, and make it more natural (and thus avoid your natural hair looking like a toupee).

Also, use frosting and highlights in your hair coloring. Highlights can add interest to your hair, by giving it texture and avoiding the “one color” look, which is a tip-off that you are using a hair coloring (natural hair has its own highlights, which a complete dye-job drowns out). Of course, if you try to change your hair color completely, then you will need highlights in order to make your hair look natural. Frosting can add some age to your hair, but this can be a good thing, especially if you are younger. If you are older, some frosting can make you look dignified.

And don’t think that only the hair on top of your head can be dyed. Adding some color to beards and moustaches is a well-known trick, and some men do bathe in dye prior to swimming to hide greying body hair. For either option, there are specialized products available.

Of course, be aware that your own hair may be best. Some gray works, especially as some women prefer older gentlemen, and some gray adds a dignified look. Debate whether or not you need hair coloring, and keep in mind that the coloring will eventually grow out, allowing you to try new colors without any fear that your original hair color will return (for better or worse).