MOONSTONE MELT FORMULA

Ever look at the moon and think, “D*mn, I wonder what toner she uses.” Well, we found out. This insane moonstone melt by Sam Tarini (@deathbycouture) has us drooling so we asked her everything we need to know about recreating this look. Scroll through for formulas, pricing, and timing!

Total chair time: 3 to 4 hours

Pricing: $400 to $500

1. Who is the ideal candidate for this look?

“In this particular case, this client had to go back to blonde from vivids for a new job. We all know, especially in this current climate, that the job comes first. She’s a longtime vivid girl and she was pretty bummed so to keep her wanderlust heart happy, we have been playing with different tones each time she comes in,” says Sam.

“I’d say the ideal candidate is a vivid lover at heart who can’t necessarily go all out, someone who wants to try out a fun shade without being drastic or a blonde who loves to live on the edge a little. Light to medium natural starting levels are the best and no previous artificial colors to pull out,” explains Sam.

2. What at-home and in-salon maintenance are required for this look?

“I usually explain that home care for these looks is the same as home care for pastels. They essentially behave the same and require cold water, not washing often, very specific shampoos and conditioners and heat protectant. When using heat tools to style, be sure to keep heat temperatures as low as possible. High temperatures will fade and discolor the hair,” explains Sam.

“When hair is this light, make sure to look at the color of every product you’re using as it can stain your hair. No yellow oils! Remember to let your client know that these colors will fade, but that if the base was done right, what it fades to will be pretty as well. It’s part of the game,” says Sam.

“Salon maintenance for this look requires a toner refresh at the salon every three to four weeks and a full touch-up every six weeks. Most of my clients like to do a conditioning treatment every few times, as well,” she adds.

3. Does this look come with any specific challenges?

“A client with extremely dark natural hair may have a hard time getting light enough for this, though every head of hair is different so I wouldn’t rule them out immediately. I would just consult with your client and be honest with them about possible challenges as well as urging them to have a Plan B in case their hair doesn’t get light enough for this particular look,” suggests Sam.

“At the end of the day, it’s about hair integrity. As for who I would flat out tell no? Anyone with artificial color on their hair. This is just not a realistic first goal when pulling artificial pigment out,” explains Sam.