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Is there anything better than a complete hair makeover? Even a minimal hair change can make a big difference. Of course, you can always take a bold approach and opt for something like “copper cowgirl,” but if you’re thinking about going lighter for the warmer months, we have the perfect hair color for you: teddy-bear blond.
The shade gets its name from — yep, you guessed it — the coloring of a teddy bear, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for an understated hair color switch-up. Ahead, experts break down everything to know about the teddy-bear blond hair-color trend, like who it looks best on, what to ask for at the salon, and how to maintain your color at home.
What Is the Teddy-Bear Blond Hair Color?
“Teddy-bear blond hair color is a warm blond shade with golden tones, reminiscent of the soft, warm hues found in a classic teddy bear stuffed animal,” Wella Professionals ambassador Daniel Mora Ayala tells PS. “It combines both brunette and blond tones, creating a multidimensional and natural-looking result.”
This hair color looks great on anyone. “The advantage of the teddy-bear color trend lies in its adaptability to suit any skin tone and complexion,” says Renée Valerie, R+Color’s director of color education. “Just as there’s a teddy bear for everyone, there’s a tone that can be tailored for each individual.”
If you want to try out the look for yourself, it’s important to arrive at the salon with inspiration photos in hand — especially photos that show someone with the same hair type and length as you. “It’s best to provide clear references with photos to help [your colorist] understand the exact shade you have in mind,” Wella Professionals ambassador Dereq Clark says. “You can describe it as a warm blond with golden-brown tones and ask for a customized blend that suits your skin tone.” It’s also important to note that you don’t want orange, red, or ashy tones. Instead, everything should be kept golden and warm.
Achieving the look typically involves a combination of coloring techniques like highlights, balayage, and lowlights. “Depending on your starting hair color and desired outcome, foil highlighting may be used to create dimension and depth, while balayage techniques can be employed to achieve a more natural, sun-kissed effect,” Ayala says.
How to Maintain Teddy-Bear Blond Hair
In-salon maintenance will involve regular touch-ups and toning appointments. “[It] typically involves regular touch-up appointments to maintain the desired hue and manage any root growth,” Ayala says. “Depending on your natural hair color and the level of contrast desired, touch-ups may be needed every six to eight weeks.”
When it comes to keeping your new hair looking fresh at home, you’ll want to make sure you’re using color-safe products. “Your colorist may recommend using color-safe shampoo and conditioner, like the Wella Professionals ColorMotion shampoo ($25) and Wella Invigo Brilliance conditioner ($20),” Ayala says.
Celebrity hairstylist Rita Hazan suggests shampooing just two or three times a week and using an at-home gloss to keep the blond warm. “Glosses are so important to give the hair perfect shine after coloring,” she says. “I suggest using the Rita Hazan True Color Ultimate Shine Gloss ($15) to remove any brassiness and yellow tones.”
Additionally, since coloring your hair can cause dryness, Valerie says it’s important to incorporate hydrating products into your routine. “Using the R+Co Candy Stripe Protect + Prep Detangling Spray ($34) provides an extra lightweight moisture boost.”
If you’re ready to book a salon appointment, keep scrolling for some teddy-bear blond hair-color inspiration you can bring with you to show your colorist.
