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  • Writer's pictureLeah Massingham

The breakup shakeup: Why do we reach for hair dye?

Updated: Dec 7, 2022

Having a big appearance change can be extremely cathartic after a capsizing life change. Whether it’s to reinvent ourselves or simply revitalise our looks, we have all wanted to change our hair drastically before. The stereotype of changing your hairstyle after a breakup is one that we have all heard of before, but why is it such a popular heartache remedy, and does it really work?


Psychologists have said that the assertion of completely rebuilding your image can give you a new sense of control and individuality - two things usually lost in a toxic relationship or a messy breakup. It’s also used as a way for people to separate themselves from their former unhappier state and close that chapter of their lives. We associate so much of our self-image and self-esteem with our hair, so it’s unsurprising that it can represent such a huge part of our emotional stability.


If you find yourself relating to any of this, maybe it’s time to switch up your own look, and with 2022 drawing to a close, what better time to reinvent yourself than for the new year.

This season hair colour trends are heavily weighted with copper tones. With shades ranging from strawberry brunette to electric autumn, this winter has seen faux redheads popping up everywhere.


What’s more, this look is easily achievable at home from affordable box-dye brands. If you’re wanting a hydrating non-harsh dye to nourish your hair, hairdressers recommend ‘Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Dye, 6R Light Auburn Hair Color’ as it does not contain ammonia or any harsh chemicals. However, if you’re wanting to achieve a more intense look, ‘L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, C74 Intense Copper’ is the hairdressers’ pick for you.


Copper might not quite be your thing, and that’s okay! Blondes are also a bombshell this season with shades from platinum blonde to dirty blonde all making appearances. When going blonde, taking a trip to the salon is always safest because it’s very easy to damage or discolour your hair when doing it yourself. The splurge is definitely worth it.


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edited by Olivia Warburton


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