What should you text Esther before your appointment?
Text Esther at 561-631-6462 for a free consultation, and include a few details. It helps her plan the right color, set aside enough time and give you an honest quote:
- Two or three photos of your hair now, in daylight, from the front, side and back.
- One to three inspiration photos of color you love, and one of anything you don't want.
- Your hair history: box color, henna, keratin or other smoothing treatments, and recent highlights, with rough dates.
- Any color that was removed or corrected before.
- Any past reaction to hair color, so you can talk about it before booking.
- The days and times you prefer, and any event or trip coming up.
Why does your hair history matter so much?
Color you can no longer see is often still in your hair. Box color builds up in the lengths. Henna coats the hair and can change how color and lightener work. Keratin and smoothing treatments can change how hair takes color. Old highlights may be lighter than they look.
Being open about all of it is the most helpful thing you can do. It lets your colorist choose a careful plan and give you a realistic idea of time and cost. If your hair has been through a lot, read about corrective hair color.
Should you wash your hair before color?
It depends on the service, so ask Esther when you book. Many colorists like hair that was washed a day or two before, while some lightening work goes well on clean hair.
Either way, skip heavy oils, dry shampoo buildup, hairspray and new styling products on the day. Wear your hair the way you usually do, so your colorist can see your part, your natural texture and how you style it.
What should you wear and bring?
- A dark top with a wide neck or buttons, so nothing has to go over your head afterward.
- Your glasses, if you need them to see the mirror.
- Your photos saved on your phone, so you can look at them together.
- Time. Highlights, balayage and color correction can take a while, so don't plan a rush right after.
What happens at the consultation?
Esther listens first. She looks at your hair in good light, asks what you love and what bothers you about your color, and talks through upkeep. Then she mixes the shade for your skin, eyes and hair. Many of her clients choose color first, then highlights: color to cover gray or enrich the base, then highlights for light and dimension.
Prices depend on length, thickness and hair history. For example, L'Oréal INOA ammonia-free color is $125 and partial hi/lo lights are $175+. The consultation is free and gives you the exact quote before anything begins. Learn more about Esther as a hair colorist in Palm Beach.
What should you do after your color?
Ask your colorist how long to wait before the first wash. Then use a gentle, color-safe shampoo, cooler water and a heat protectant. Book your next visit before you leave, so your color stays on track and you get the day and time you want.
Questions clients ask
Should I wash my hair before getting it colored?
It depends on the service. Many colorists prefer hair washed a day or two before, while some lightening services work well on clean hair. Ask your colorist ahead of time. Either way, skip heavy oils and styling products on the day.
Do I need to mention box color from years ago?
Yes. Box color can stay in the lengths for a long time, even after it looks faded, and it changes how new color and lightener work. Mention any box color, henna, keratin or highlights, even if you are not sure of the dates.
How long does a color appointment take?
It varies with the service, your length and thickness, and your hair history. A single color takes less time than highlights or balayage, and corrective color usually takes the longest. Ask for a time estimate when you book, so you can plan your day.