So You Want to Go Blonde This Summer?

Publish date: 2024-06-21

If you're thinking about going blonde, there's no better time than summer to do so. After all, nothing says "fun in the sun" more than sunkissed hair. That's probably why going a shade or two lighter and brighter with your tresses come summer is one of the top seasonal hair color trends that will never go out of style — just look at celebrities as proof. To find out more, we reached out to a handful of experts to share everything you need to know before going blonde considering your hair type, texture, and lifestyle.

Keep scrolling for our expert-approved guide to giving your hair a blonde summer.

How Should I Prep My Natural Hair Before Going Blonde?

First off, you want to ensure your hair is in a generally healthy state. So it's a good idea to do deep conditioning treatments every week leading up to your appointment.

"I have my clients strictly use the whole Olaplex line leading up to our appointment," says celebrity hairstylist and Olaplex ambassador Christin Brown. Rather than use a wide range of products, she encourages those going blonde to commit to a line that is based around strengthening and repair.

Matrix brand ambassador Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Matrix Global Artistic Director Michelle O'Connor both agree, adding that those with natural hair should clarify and detangle tresses the day of their color appointment for optimal service. Consider trying Pattern Clarifying Shampoo and Felicia Leatherwood Detangling Brush to get the job done.

Should I Go to the Salon Or DIY?

While there's a time and place for box dye, if this is your first time going blonde, it's best to see a professional to ensure you end up with the color you desire and prevent hair damage.

Plus, even if you're ready for a full head of blonde, depending on the state of your hair, it may be best to start slow — you'll have to be in the stylist's chair before deciding the best route to go.

"Highlighting is the subtle or bold entryway for getting that overall dimension that many are looking to achieve without dying their whole head," Brown explains. "Sometimes, the most subtle highlights can give a dramatic effect, so you can always start small and work your way up to something more."

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Will I Need to Revamp My Haircare Routine If I Go Blonde?

Yes and no. You'll definitely need to introduce some color-safe products into your regimen to ensure your color doesn't fade or get brassy, but much of your regular routine can remain intact.

"The Matrix So-Silver All-In-One Toning Spray is a great option for blondes for at-home maintenance," shares Sturdivant-Drew. "It neutralizes brassiness, prevents damage, and tones the hair." She also recommends using the brand's Total Results So Silver Triple Power Hair Mask for deep conditioning and color protection.

To keep hair strong, Brown says to use Olaplex's at-home collection. "It has a patented bond-building technology that repairs and strengthens hair. This not only gives them the support they need at home, but it also gives me peace of mind that the condition of their hair will be in good shape for our next session."

What Should I Expect As My Hair Starts to Grow Out?

Maintenance will vary depending on your natural hair color and hair texture. It will be most noticeable for those with naturally dark, straight hair. Some may want to embrace their grown-out roots while others would prefer a touch-up instead.

"The grow-out process for curl color is such a graceful experience due to the fact that this hair is naturally lifted off of the scalp," explains O'Connor. "It lives high, bold, and big. Maintenance should be every three to four months, making it a lower-maintenance color commitment. Where you want to focus your energy is keeping the curl moisturized and strong with consistent treatments."

Frequently Asked Questions

Will going blonde destroy my hair?
As long as you go to a professional who is trained to work with your hair type and texture, you will be in good hands. And believe it or not, color products have come a long way. "Going blonde isn't always damaging for natural hair as color and lighteners now have bonders built within the product, which offsets and minimizes damage," explains O'Connor.
Is going blonde high maintenance?
It depends on your current hair color and your desired color. "There are many options to achieving blonde that do not involve coloring your entire head of hair," says Jamie Mazzei, Creative Director for NuBest Salon & Spa. "Some of the options you might want to explore would be highlights, babylights, or balayage. You can try a placement that just frames your face to start. Of course, if you want that full head of blonde, go for that global application."
What's the best blonde hair color for summer?
That will depend on your personal preference, however, you may want to factor in your lifestyle and skin tone to find the most manageable and flattering shade for you. Some popular options include dirty blonde, expensive blonde, and blonde balayage, to name a few.