There’s nothing like starting the new year with a new look. And changing your hair color is one of the easiest ways to give yourself a gorgeous style reboot. We asked stylist Oluchi Zelda of Prana for Hair Salon in Chicago to share her tips on how to walk into 2021 with hair color that is sure to turn heads. According to Zelda, you never need a reason to change your hair color, but events like a graduation, a 30th birthday, or a breakup are always great excuses to update your do. 

When it comes to color, don’t be afraid to go bold. And according to Zelda, brighter is better. “If you’ve been thinking about getting that silver or green, now is the time,” she says. You can’t go wrong with pops of pink, like a soft, feminine rose quartz or a dusty mauve. Or play with a variety of vivids to create an eye-popping holographic look. But if you’re strictly going for gray coverage, Zelda recommends trying deeper colors like chocolate, cinnamon, or eggplant. She says the only rule is that there are no rules. So don’t let things like your age or complexion limit the colors you’re willing to try. “I have a client who’s 67-years-old and has sky blue hair. Anything you can rock with confidence looks good on you.” 

Before you commit to your color, Zelda stresses the importance of a consultation appointment with your stylist. Use this time to ask questions and check out pictures to find hair colors that inspire you. If you don’t want to have to return to the salon too often, choose colors that blend well with your natural hair as it grows out, which should give you 3 to 6 months between touch-ups. Those with more vivid color may find themselves coming back every 4 to 6 weeks. “It all depends on how much grow-out you can stand,” she says. 

“Stylists are finding creative ways to work with clients, so there is no excuse to have bad hair.” 

Between color treatments, Zelda advises her clients to maintain the health of their hair at home. She recommends regular deep conditioning treatments with a protein component and adds that oils should be used sparingly on the scalp only. Heat styling should be kept to a minimum on color-treated hair. But Zelda says a general rule of thumb is that darker hair handles heat better. Highlight blondes should do their best to avoid direct heat altogether and opt for a roller set instead. “I don’t allow my clients to go past 275 [degrees] on the flat iron,” Zelda says. 

Color treatments can be pricey, but Zelda says she discourages her clients from attempting a DIY dye job. “I always tell people that for chemical, cut, or color, you should rely on a professional,” Zelda stresses that box hair colors aren’t traditionally formulated for natural or highly textured hair. Instead, she recommends letting a professional mix a color that is right for your hair type. She warns that using box color products at home can potentially leave your hair damaged beyond repair. 

Budget-conscious beauties can follow their favorite hairstylists on Instagram or YouTube to get expert color tips. She adds that some stylists will allow you to schedule Zoom appointments. For less than the cost of an in-person visit, the stylist will walk you through mixing and applying your color virtually. “Stylists are finding creative ways to work with clients, so there is no excuse to have bad hair,” Zelda says.