Mastering Hair Color: Tips for Young Indians on Choosing and Maintaining Shades

The Rise of Hair Coloring Among Young Indians

As hair coloring gains traction among the youth in India, selecting the perfect shade and ensuring its upkeep has become crucial, alongside the coloring process itself.

Hair expert Shailesh Moolya emphasizes that today's consumers are more adventurous than ever, but achieving stunning results requires more than just following online trends.

During the launch of Godrej Professional's Vybe Collection in Delhi, Moolya, who serves as the National Technical Head at Godrej Professional, shared valuable insights on hair color trends, salon care, aftercare routines, and common misconceptions about hair health.

Moolya notes that the popularity of at-home hair coloring products and increased exposure to beauty trends have inspired many to experiment with their looks.

He remarked, “Gen Z is becoming increasingly experimental, which is positive. They focus on the present rather than worrying about the future, encouraging them to try new things. The younger generation is definitely bolder and more adventurous.”

Hair coloring has transitioned from merely covering greys to a form of self-expression, according to Moolya.

He observes that Indian consumers are now more discerning about what complements their skin tone, eye color, and overall appearance, rather than just imitating global beauty trends.

“We used to favor blonde shades, but now the trend is shifting back to brunette tones and glossy browns,” he explained.

While many trends originate from the West, Moolya believes Indian consumers have adapted these styles to suit their unique needs.

“We do follow Western trends, but we have localized them and learned which shades work best for Indian skin tones,” he added.

He pointed out that colors like ash blonde or champagne may not suit everyone, highlighting the importance of personalized consultations.

One common mistake people make is choosing a hair color without professional guidance.

“Finding a skilled stylist is crucial,” he stated.

Moolya likens hairstylists to family doctors, as trusted professionals understand their clients' lifestyles, preferences, skin tones, and hair histories, enabling them to provide better recommendations.

His advice is straightforward: bring inspiration images if necessary, but rely on a professional to tailor the final look to your features.

For many salon-goers, the excitement often fades after the coloring session. However, Moolya emphasizes that aftercare is vital for maintaining vibrant color and avoiding disappointing results.

“Achieving great hair color is only 60% of the job; the remaining 40% is maintenance,” he noted.

He recommends using products specifically designed for colored hair and adhering to the aftercare routine suggested by professionals. While premium products may not fit every budget, he encourages consumers to seek alternatives with similar nourishing properties.

“You may look fantastic when you leave the salon, but if you don’t use the products recommended by your stylist, the results won’t last,” he cautioned.

With social media overflowing with beauty hacks involving kitchen ingredients like curd, lemon, and banana, Moolya offered a candid critique of these viral home remedies.

“If you want real results, forget about these traditional remedies,” he advised.

He explained that many conventional treatments lack the necessary formulation and technology to deliver effective, long-lasting results.

Moolya also challenged common beliefs about oiling hair.

“Oiling is merely a lubricant,” he said.

He clarified that while oil can help reduce friction during scalp massages, the hair growth benefits often attributed to oiling stem from improved blood circulation during the massage rather than the oil itself.

“When you get injured, red blood cells rush to the area. Increased blood flow can promote faster hair growth,” he explained.

Instead of relying solely on external treatments, he advocates for a focus on nutrition and overall health.

“Your diet will yield better results than external treatments,” he added.

Looking to the future, Moolya predicts that natural-looking and personalized shades will lead upcoming trends.

“What we’re showcasing is more lived-in and natural,” he stated.

The newly launched Vybe Collection embodies this shift with three distinct moods: Chaos Mode, Soft Launch, and Main Character. This collection emphasizes personality, individuality, and self-expression rather than just color names.

For those contemplating a hair transformation, Moolya's key takeaway is clear: select colors that suit you, prioritize aftercare, and avoid relying solely on internet trends or quick-fix home remedies.

“Your hair color should reflect your vibe,” he concluded.