A Guide to Achieving Your Best Hair Color

We all know that a great hair color makes you look (and feel) like a better version of yourself, but how can you tell if that uber-white blond will be flattering before you hit the bleach?

To navigate the minefield of dyes, foils and purple shampoo, we've enlisted the help of Dana Ionato, a lead colorist at NYC's Sally Hershberger Downtown. You know, where Chelsea Handler goes.

Red
Red fades faster than any other hair color, so a good colorist will apply three separate formulas (to the roots, mid-length and ends) to create dimension rather than one flat hue. More tips .

Platinum
If you want to go platinum--as blond as chemically possible--be prepared for multiple visits to the salon in one week. More tips .

Ombr
The secret to Leto-worthy ombr is subtlety. Ionato uses dyes that are just a shade or two lighter than clients' natural hair color, then delicately applies highlights with a paintbrush so that strands grow out without the aid of touch-ups. More tips .

Brunette
The best shade of brown is your natural color kicked up a notch. If your hair is prone to frizzing, going just a shade or two darker can be almost as good as finding a new anti-frizz product, says Ionato. More tips .

Salt 'n' Pepper
Warmth is crucial for believable gray, so Ionato uses an array of ash and neutral tones instead of traditional black and white. More tips .

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