Frozen Blonde + Pastel Shadow Root
Brb—gazing wistfully at this insanely gorgeous frozen blonde/lavender root color creation, fresh out of Ross Michaels Salon in Bremerton, Wash. This look was created by owners and stylists Michael and Melody Lowenstein, who have both been in the biz for a while (they opened Ross Michaels in 1989), and they’ve been expertly crafting frozen blondes, vivid mermaid color melts and pretty pastel confections in every shade of the rainbow since these trends popped onto the beauty scene a few years back.
One of the hottest trends in fantasy color at the moment, says Michael, has to be the ultra icy platinum blonde with just a hint of a pastel shadow root, and to say Michael has this look down to a science…would be an understatement.
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“I believe the reason this technique has gained so much popularity is that it is a subtle, soft look that allows a client to be on trend without the full on commitment of a vivid or neon look,” he says. “When the pastel shadow root eventually fades (they all fade), the client is left with a beautiful platinum color.”
Since this look is ALL about how light you can get the hair (for true platinum, the hair really must be lifted to nearly pure white), notes Michael, it is of the utmost importance that a consultation takes place with your potential client. “You need to be completely honest with your client (and yourself) when determining whether this look will be obtainable,” he says. “I know this may seem obvious, but I can’t stress enough that your client’s base color level, current hair condition and hair history must be considered prior to a full bleach and tone.”
Finally, Michael notes, bond builders like Olaplex are essential parts of this process, but remember, no product can guarantee zero breakage.