Going pastel isn’t just for teenagers anymore! Women over 60 are embracing colorful locks with stunning results. If you’ve been eyeing those cotton candy pinks or soft lavenders, now’s the perfect time to take the plunge.
These practical tips will help you rock pastel hair while keeping your mature tresses healthy and fabulous.
1. Start with a strand test
Never skip this crucial step! Apply your chosen pastel shade to a hidden section of hair first. This reveals how your gray or white hair takes color and prevents unwanted surprises when doing your entire head.
2. Consult a colorist who specializes in mature hair
Not all stylists understand the unique challenges of coloring older hair. Find someone with experience transforming mature locks into pastel dreams. Ask to see their portfolio of clients over 50 with fantasy colors.
3. Embrace your natural white as a perfect canvas
Lucky you! Pre-lightened white or silver hair takes pastel colors beautifully without harsh bleaching. Your natural shade creates the ideal base for delicate lavenders, baby blues, and soft pinks that younger folks damage their hair to achieve.
4. Choose the right pastel for your skin tone
Cool skin? Opt for lavenders or icy blues that complement your complexion. Warm-toned beauties should consider peach, rose gold, or soft coral shades. The right pastel enhances your features rather than washing them out.
5. Prep your hair with strengthening treatments
Mature hair needs extra TLC before color processing. Schedule deep conditioning treatments for two weeks prior to your pastel transformation. Strong, hydrated hair holds color better and resists damage from the coloring process.
6. Try temporary options first
Dip your toes before diving all in! Temporary pastel sprays, color-depositing conditioners, or clip-in extensions let you experiment without commitment. These low-risk options help determine which pastel shade feels most like ‘you.’
7. Go for an accent piece instead of full coverage
A strategic pastel streak framing your face creates maximum impact with minimal maintenance. Consider pastel highlights throughout or just coloring your bangs. These partial approaches make a statement while keeping most of your hair healthy.
8. Maintain moisture with specialized products
Colored hair craves hydration, especially over 60 when strands naturally become drier. Invest in sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos and weekly moisture masks. Products containing argan oil or shea butter work wonders for pastel-colored mature hair.
9. Rock a modern haircut that showcases your color
Pastel color paired with an outdated hairstyle can look accidental rather than intentional. A sleek bob, textured pixie, or fashionable shag elevates your colorful choice. Modern cuts signal that your pastel is a deliberate style statement.
10. Coordinate your makeup palette
Refresh your makeup routine to complement your new hue! Soft pastel hair pairs beautifully with neutral makeup and one bold element. Try a statement lip with lavender hair or defined eyes with pink locks.
11. Schedule regular toning sessions
Pastels fade faster than traditional colors. Plan for touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain vibrancy. Many salons offer quick toning services that refresh color without the full price of initial application.
12. Wash with cold water only
Hot water is pastel’s worst enemy! It opens hair cuticles and allows pigment to escape quickly. Train yourself to rinse with cold water exclusively. This simple habit can double the lifespan of your beautiful pastel shade.
13. Protect your investment from sun damage
UV rays fade pastel colors dramatically. Wear stylish hats during outdoor activities or apply UV-protective hair sprays before sun exposure. These protective measures prevent your gorgeous rose gold from turning to a dull beige prematurely.
14. Adjust your wardrobe colors strategically
Your favorite clothes might clash with your new hair! Neutrals like gray, black, and white make pastels pop beautifully. Complementary colors (opposite on the color wheel) create striking effects that showcase your bold hair choice.
15. Embrace the confidence factor
The most important accessory with pastel hair is confidence! Stand tall, smile bright, and own your colorful choice. When people comment (and they will), respond with pride. Your bold hair shows the world you’re vibrant at any age.