Last Updated on August 21, 2023 by Reiner Chase
To conceal colored hair for work (where not allowed), opt for temporary solutions. Use a natural-colored, non-permanent spray or hair wax. These products offer quick coverage and wash out easily. Be mindful of workplace policies to maintain professionalism.
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Why Should Colored Hair Not Be Allowed at Work?
There could be a few reasons why having colored hair at work might not be allowed:
- It can be seen as a distraction: If your hair is brightly colored, it might take away from the professionalism of your appearance.
- Colored hair can be seen as unprofessional or disruptive in more traditional workplaces.
- Finally, some employers have a dress code that doesn’t allow colored hair.
Regardless of your workplace, there are some things you can do to hide your colored hair. You may want to dye your hair before coming to work so that it appears natural when you arrive, and also use a dark-colored wig for formal occasions like meetings with clients.
How Should You Hide the Colored Hair at Work?
If you’re not allowed to have colored hair at work, there are a few ways you can hide it. You can try wearing it in a bun or braid if you have long hair. However, if you’re worried about getting caught, you can always dye your hair back to its natural color.
8 Ways You Can Hide Your Colored Hair at Work
1. Conceal Your Colored Hair Using Makeup
One way to conceal your colored hair is by using makeup. You can use a colorless powder or concealer to cover up your roots. You can also use a foundation that matches your skin tone. If you have darker hair, you can use a bronzer or self-tanner to cover up the hair.
Suppose your hair is light; you can use a white pencil or powder to cover up the hair. Remember not to rub it in too much so that it does not create an oily residue on your face. Concealers and powders are available at most drugstores, while foundations and tanners are available online.
2. Use Hair Dye that Matches Your Scalp’s Skin
If you have colored hair and are not allowed to show it at work, there are a few things you can do to hide it. One is to use hair dye that matches your scalp’s skin tone. This will help blend in your hair and make it less noticeable. Another option is to wear a hat or scarf. This can be an excellent way to cover up your hair and keep it from being seen (however, most workplaces don’t allow wearing hats).
Suppose you have long hair; you can try wearing it up in a bun or ponytail. Finally, if all else doesn’t work, you can always try coloring your hair with temporary dyes that wash out easily.
3. Spray with Hair Powder
Hair powder is a great way to hide your colored hair at work temporarily. Just spray it on, and it will absorb the color. Plus, it will add volume and texture to your hair. Here is how to use it;
- Pour some powder into your hand and apply it to your roots. Then, use a brush or comb to style as usual. If you need touch-ups during the day, re-apply the powder. It has a light formula that won’t clog your pores!
What to remember when using this product: Spray near the root area of your hair, not near your scalp; don’t overuse; avoid getting any powder on clothes.
4. Wear a Natural-Looking Wig
A natural-looking wig is a great way to hide your colored hair at work if it isn’t allowed. To find a wig that looks natural, start by choosing a style that is similar to your hair. Then, choose a color that closely matches your natural hair color.
If you have trouble finding a perfect match, ask a wig specialist for help. Once you’ve found the right wig, take care of it by brushing it regularly and using gentle shampoo and conditioner. With proper care, your wig will last for many years.
5. Use Hair Extensions
If you’re not allowed to color your hair at work, one way to get around it is by using hair extensions. This way, you can still have the colored hair you want without breaking any rules. Plus, extensions can be easily removed when you’re not at work, so you can switch up your look as often as you like.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using hair extensions to hide your colored hair
- Purchase hair extensions that match your natural hair color and length.
- Put them in while wet (ensure they don’t shrink after they dry).
- Wait for them to dry.
- Brush them through and style as desired.
- Remove before bedtime or before getting in the shower.
6. Use Hair Glitter
Another way to hide your colored hair at work is to use hair glitters. Hair glitters come in various colors and can be applied directly to your hair. Plus, they’re easy to remove and won’t damage your hair. Here’s how to use them;
- Pick out the suitable color glitter for your hair color.
- Put the glitter on a flat surface like the palm of your hand or any makeup palette.
- Dab it onto the desired area where you want it to show up and let it sit for about 10 seconds before brushing it off with your fingers.
- Use hairspray so that the glitter doesn’t fall off during the day.
7. Use Cotton Swabs
You can also use cotton swaps to hide your colored hair at work. Here is how:
- Begin by dipping a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol.
- Gently run the cotton swab over any area where you have applied hair color. This will help to remove any excess color that may be on your skin.
- Repeat this process until all hair color has been removed from your skin.
- Once you have removed the hair color from your skin, apply a generous amount of conditioner to your hair.
- Rinse the hair with cool water after letting the conditioner sit there for a few minutes.
- Wrap the hair using a towel and let it air or blow dry on a low setting. Make sure not to touch your newly dyed hair too much as it could cause the color to rub off onto other areas of your body!
If you feel like some color is still left on your skin after the above steps, try using an exfoliating scrub to buff away any remaining hairspray or residue.
8. Use a Temporary Root Touch-Up Spray
A temporary root touch-up spray is an excellent option if you’re trying to cover up your colored hair at work. This spray can help blend your roots with the rest of your hair, making it less noticeable that you have colored hair. Plus, it’s a quick and easy way to cover up your roots between colorings.
Here’s how to use a temporary root touch-up spray;
- First, comb through your wet or dry hair and ensure it has no tangles.
- Then, shake the spray container well before spraying a small amount at the base of your scalp, where your natural hair meets the dyed sections.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes, then brush through thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout all strands.
Don’t worry about washing this out because most temporary root touch-ups won’t stain as the permanent dye will. This is an effective way to hide your color from coworkers and works well for holidays or events when you want to change your look temporarily!
What hair colors are acceptable for work?
Navigating the labyrinthine rules regarding professional appearances is often tricky, and hair color is one sub-area where lines can become blurred. However, professional norms and expectations significantly vary between industries and companies. To help you decide your next hair color while maintaining a professional image, here is a list of hair colors typically accepted in most workplaces:
1. Natural Hair Colors
Natural hair colors are always a safe choice as they don’t deviate significantly from traditional workplace norms. These colors include:
- Black: Widespread amongst all ethnicities and universally accepted in all working environments.
- Brown: It offers many shades from light to dark and is universally acceptable.
- Blonde: A trendy choice for many individuals that maintains professionalism.
- Red/Auburn: While these tones can be bold, natural red or auburn shades are generally accepted.
| Hair Color | Acceptable Shades |
|---|---|
| Black | All shades except unnatural blue-black |
| Brown | All shades |
| Blonde | All shades from platinum to dirty blonde |
| Red/Auburn | Natural shades |
2. Subtle Highlights
Moderate highlights often enhance one’s look without drawing unnecessary attention. Subtle highlights in blonde, brown, or burgundy are commonly accepted in most workplaces.
3. Balayage
Subtle balayage, where hair color gradually transitions from dark at the roots to light at the ends, can be deemed professional. The key here lies in the subtlety of the color transition.
4. Grey
Safety largely depends on your profession, but as society becomes more accepting of aging, grey is often seen as distinguished and professional.
5. Pastel Undertones
While bold pastels may not pass the professional test in many workplaces, softer undertones or pastel highlights can be acceptable. However, tread lightly with this trend and consider your specific work environment.
In many workplaces today, especially creative or modern sectors, there is a growing acceptance of unique personal expression, providing the freedom to explore a wider range of hair colors. However, it’s crucial to gauge your specific workplace culture and regulations before making drastic changes. After all, a professional demeanor is still of primary importance. Therefore, if making an unconventional choice, it’s recommended to maintain your hair health and upkeep the color regularly to present a well-groomed appearance.
Conclusion
If you’re stuck working at a job that doesn’t allow colored hair, there are a few things you can do to hide it. First, try wearing a hat or scarf. If that’s not possible, try styling your hair in a way that covers the color. You can also try using color-safe shampoo and conditioner to tone down the color. If all else fails, you can always dye your hair back to its natural color.
Reference 1: https://tuhisbeauty.com/hide-colored-hair-at-work/
Reference 2: https://www.wikihow.com/Hide-Dyed-Hair-from-Your-Parents
