In the ever-evolving landscape of beauty trends, the last three years have witnessed a rapid whirlwind of changes. From hairstylists sharing DIY haircut tutorials during the isolation period to the resurgence of glamorous Farrah Fawcett curls as the world cautiously reopened, the realm of hair, in particular, has experienced a swift consumption of trends. Presently, it seems that people have found a unique sweet spot in almost every aspect of beauty, except for one: hair color. In fact, lately, the spotlight has been firmly on shades that are vivid, daring, and impossible to ignore. This phenomenon is known as “dopamine hair.”
A nod to the chemical released in our brains when we experience joy, “dopamine hair” is a vibrant TikTok trend that’s an instant mood lifter, as explained by hairstylist Kee Taylor. “The trend involves adding pops of bright color to the hair to embrace creativity through both color and style.” Much like other dopamine-infused trends in fashion and home goods, dopamine hair places color at the forefront of one’s ensemble, effectively making the individual stand out in any crowd. Taylor notes, “The psychology behind dopamine beauty is that certain bright colors elevate our happiness levels.”
Celebrities have joined the ranks of those experimenting with bolder hair hues, with Megan Fox showcasing her new red shade, Jada Pinkett-Smith embracing a rose-gold hue, and Hayden Panettiere opting for a striking two-toned look, to name a few. This surge in colorful hair transformations is timely, considering the tumultuous events of recent years; people are understandably clinging to joy in any way possible.
If you’re curious about trying out the trend yourself, Taylor offers a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Why is Dopamine Hair All the Rage?
The dopamine hair trend aligns with significant cultural moments, notably the excitement surrounding a certain doll’s life story in a forthcoming movie adaptation. “The Barbiecore trend has encouraged many to be more adventurous with their color choices in glam,” explains Taylor. “Now, it’s translating into a broader appreciation for the role that color can play in everyday beauty.” Additionally, thanks to a generation that is increasingly open about mental health, dopamine hair seems to carry a distinct message compared to previous hair-color trends. Taylor points out, “This hair trend is centered around how the colors make you feel on the inside, rather than solely focusing on outward appearance. It not only captivates the beauty community but also sparks important discussions about happiness, mental health, and how our beauty routines can bridge the two.”
How to Achieve Dopamine Hair?
As with any significant hair-color transformation, it’s essential to consult with a professional before diving into the trend. “The first step is working with your hairstylist to discuss the colors you desire, the number of appointments needed to achieve your desired look, and the products necessary to maintain both the vibrancy of the colors and the health of your hair,” advises Taylor.
For those with textured hair, a different approach may be needed. “Permanent dyes can be more drying on the hair and may particularly damage coily and curly hair types,” Taylor cautions. To mitigate these effects while embracing the dopamine hair trend, she recommends using semi-permanent formulas.
Dopamine Hair Inspiration
If you’re eager to embark on your dopamine hair transformation journey, we’ve compiled some standout celebrity examples of the trend:
1. Megan Fox’s Red Dopamine Hair Color: Recently spotted in New York City sporting a crimson bob, Megan Fox’s new shade is deeper than her previous copper tone, creating a striking contrast against her gray suit.
2. Bailee Madison’s Pink Dopamine Hair Color: Bailee Madison unveiled her pink hair transformation in August, sharing a simple Instagram photo captioned, “We went pink šššš.”
3. Hayden Panettiere’s Watermelon Dopamine Hair Color: Hayden Panettiere made a colorful comeback with a stunning green-and-pink gradient look, complete with curtain bangs.
In Hollywood and beyond, the dopamine hair trend is sweeping through, offering a vibrant and joyful expression of personal style. So, if you’re seeking a way to infuse your life with a burst of color and positivity, dopamine hair might be your next bold move. Remember to collaborate closely with your hairstylist to make your hair dreams a reality.
