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On one hand, you don’t want to offend your colorist.

To settle the score, we tapped two professional colorists to give it to us straight.

woman with curly hair and gold earrings against white graphic design background

Stocksy / Design by Michela Buttignol

Ahead, get their tips on what to do if you’re totally unimpressed with your hue.

There is a fix!

Meet the Experts

Speak Up

Step one is to say something.

Easier said than done?

Sure, but the alternative of living with a hair color you hate isn’t much better.

take a stab at explain exactly what you don’t like about the color.

Is it too dark all over?

Is the tone too warm or too cool?

Are the highlights too chunky?

Is there not enough variation in the highlights?

Be specific and be polite.

Help them understand your unhappiness and move forward with ways to remedy the situation.

Don’t worryyou can still turn the situation around.

Your colorist wants you to be happy with the final result.

Byrdie Tip

Sometimes salon lighting can alter the way you perceive your hair color.

Seeing your color in natural lighting might make you change your mind about your new hue.

When you go elsewhere, be prepared to pay.

“You should never feel bad about making that decision.”

Just keep in mind that going back to your natural shade won’t always be the best resolution.

First, go home and wash your hair a few times.

Most brunette and red shades will fade a bit right after washing.

Try Some Styling Tricks

Next, try some DIY styling.

“A professional colorist can match your color more precisely than home products,” says Kandasamy.

Change Your Makeup Look

Your new hair hue may not mesh with your go-to makeup look.

Or add a swipe of bronzer if you’re feeling washed out.