You have to be Beautiful!

This season, the 80s revival is going straight to our heads with clean, crisp blondes being the summer shade of choice, framed by strong, funky cuts: think queens of cool, Blondie and Agyness Deyn for inspiration. If youre looking to pay homage to those looks born in the 80s – then follow these simple guidelines for at home hair colouring, courtesy of Schwarzkopfs Live colourist: As long as you are not colouring too often and the instructions are always followed correctly, colouring shouldnt damage the hair at all. Start by carrying out a skin test 48 hours before any colour application. If youre trying out a new colour do a strand test at the same time to ensure you are happy with your chosen shade. Use a deep cleansing shampoo the day before colouring to remove any barriers from the hair. Make sure your hair is completely dry before adding colour – wet hair wont absorb colour and hair thats damp can dilute the end result. It seems obvious, but do always read the instruction leaflet before colouring. Unless youre hands are surgeon-steady, its worth colour-proofing the skin around your hair line with a thin strip of petroleum jelly. Remember that when it comes to colouring, one-size doesnt fit all. If youre hair is short, dont feel compelled to use an entire bottle and thick or long hair might need an additional bottle. The same is true when youre selecting your shade, with the key being to stay true to your roots. Go just one shade lighter to minimise root re-growth. o If your natural colour is medium or dark blonde, try: 00 A Absolute Platinum, 01 Ice Blonde from Live Color XXL o Golden brown and darker brown suit warm, high gloss copper, golden or reddish tones, try: Live Unlimited Gloss in Damson Wine and Mahogany Glow Only leave the colouring product in your hair for the duration instructed and keep cool when rinsing as cool water rinses better than hotter water. Keep rinsing until the product runs clear any product left on the hair can continue to process on the hair. And before you head off into that summer sun, be sure to maintain that disco-ball reflecting shine with products designed for colour treated hair.