"I tried TikTok’s viral colour analysis technique to find my perfect hair shade, and this is what happened…"

The author underwent a personal color analysis in South Korea, a beauty trend popularized on TikTok and within Korean pop culture. The consultation cost $75 and aimed to identify the colors that best suit an individual's complexion and undertones. The trend gained significant traction during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea, as people sought to understand themselves better, including their personal styling preferences. The author booked a one-hour session with Cocory Personal Color in Seoul, choosing a branch conveniently located near her hotel. The personal color analysis concept is rooted in the four-season color theory developed by Swiss color and art theorist Johan Itten. This theory classifies colors into four seasons—winter, summer (cool tones), spring, and autumn (warm tones)—which are further divided into three groups based on complexion and undertones. A typical consultation extends beyond identifying seasonal colors to recommending makeup palettes, foundation shades, hair colors, and even jewelry types. The author's consultation began with an introduction to these basic principles by a trained color analyst, who emphasized that personal color isn't fixed but changes with skin tone and image over time, illustrating this with the example of South Korean celebrity Song Hye-kyo. Initially, the author believed herself to be warm-toned and was drawn to autumn palettes. However, a skin spectrometer was used to objectively analyze her undertones. This device breaks down skin color into L, A, and B values, where L represents lightness, A the green-magenta chromatic axis, and B the blue-yellow chromatic axis. The scan, performed on the 'apple zone' (under-eye to cheek area) with and without foundation, revealed a surprising result: the author was classified as a "summer pale" tone, characterized by cool, pastel hues, which contrasted sharply with her self-perceived warm tones. Following the skin analysis, a 35-minute color-draping process was conducted by a different consultant. This involved holding various fabric swatches and color palettes against the author's face to observe how they affected her complexion, specifically her 'apple zone.' The consultant would identify the most flattering options, sometimes asking for the author's input on similar choices. At the conclusion of this session, the author received a comprehensive report outlining her daily "summer pale" palette, seasonal palettes suitable for special occasions (including "spring light," "autumn deep," and "winter vivid"), as well as recommendations for makeup, jewelry, and hair colors. For makeup, "spring pale" tones were suggested for a fresh look, while "summer pale" colors were advised for a sophisticated image, along with specific lip shades. Despite the detailed and enlightening results, which confirmed that the recommended cool tones brightened her complexion and made her appear more spirited, the author ultimately decided against fully adopting the new palette. She expressed her intention to continue dressing in her preferred autumn tones, indicating that while the analysis was informative, it did not alter her personal styling preferences. The experience highlighted the objective scientific aspect of personal color analysis but also the subjective nature of personal style. #PersonalColorAnalysis #SouthKorea #TikTokViral #BeautyTrend #ColorTheory #FashionStyling #BeautyConsultation #KoreanPopCulture #CocoryPersonalColor

The article discusses the advancements in at-home hair color products over the last decade, emphasizing improvements in formulations, customization options, and post-treatment haircare. These advancements aim to provide professional-level results, offering a convenient and cost-effective alternative to salon visits. Good Housekeeping Institute's Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab conducted extensive testing to identify the best products on the market. The testing process involved both laboratory evaluations and consumer feedback. In the lab, scientists dyed human hair samples of various shades (black, brown, red, and blonde) and assessed color vibrancy and gray coverage using technical instruments. They also measured color retention after repeated washing and exposure to UV light, simulating four weeks of wear. Additionally, 136 consumer testers evaluated products for ease of use, scent, application, and overall results, including hair feel, shine, and color accuracy compared to the packaging. The testing involved 400 hours of hands-on lab work, 800 hours of UVA light exposure for hair samples, and collected 2,712 consumer survey responses. The article highlights several top-tested at-home hair color products across different categories. The 'Best Overall' was Phytocolor Permanent Hair Color, an ammonia-free formula with plant-derived pigments and oils, noted for rich, even, and long-lasting color, and leaving hair soft. Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex Permanent Hair Dye was recognized as the 'Best Value' for its performance in various categories despite its low cost, praised for ease of use, minimal aroma, and leaving hair smooth and shiny. Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Permanent Hair Color was recommended as the 'Best for Redheads' due to its strong fade resistance and accurate color matching. ESalon Custom Hair Color Set earned 'Best Professional' for its personalized color formulations and accessories, though it showed average gray coverage and fade resistance. Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Color was chosen as 'Best Demi-Permanent' for its even coverage, shine, and fade resistance on dark hair, but performed less effectively on blonde hair for gray coverage. Clairol Nice 'n Easy Permanent Haircolor was identified as the 'Best for Blondes' for its full coverage, natural look, and conditioning properties, despite average gray coverage. dpHUE Color Boosting GLOSS+ Deep Conditioning Treatment was selected as 'Best Semi-Permanent' for its fast-acting, color-enhancing, and conditioning effects, though it does not cover grays. Garnier Olia Oil-Powered Permanent Hair Color was recommended as 'Best for Damaged Hair' due to its ammonia-free, oil-powered formula that is gentle on treated or thinning hair. Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask was noted as 'Best Temporary' for quick color changes and deep conditioning. Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit was recognized as 'Best Personalized' for its custom shade matching and consultations, excelling in ease of use, non-messiness, non-irritating formula, and fade resistance among personalized dyes. L'Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Triple Care Hair Color was named 'Best to Cover Gray' for its effective gray coverage and non-messy application, providing lasting color according to consumer testers. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color was highlighted as 'Best for Dark Hair' for its true-to-packaging color, superior gray coverage, and fade resistance in deep shades. Finally, Clairol Colorblend Permanent Root Touch-Up was recommended as the 'Best Root Touch-Up' for its ability to cover regrowth and blend seamlessly with existing color, while L'Oréal Paris Couleur Experte Color + Highlights in a Flash was chosen as 'Best for Highlights' for its specialized tools, and Lime Crime Unicorn Hair Full Coverage was selected as 'Best Bold' for its vibrant shades and ease of use, though some users noted it washed out quickly. The article also provides a guide on what to look for in at-home hair color kits, including hair color, developer, instructions, gloves, applicators, and extras like color-protecting products and stain removers. It differentiates between permanent, demi-permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary hair dyes based on their chemical composition, longevity, and effectiveness for gray coverage. The experts from GH Beauty Lab confirm that high-quality at-home hair dyes can achieve results comparable to salon treatments for overall color and gray coverage, but recommend salon visits for intricate techniques like balayage or drastic color changes. Tips for extending the life of at-home hair color include reducing hair washing, using color-treated hair products, and applying at-home hair glosses or glazes. The article is authored by April Franzino, with expert consultation from Danusia Wnek and testing by Sabina Wizemann, all experienced professionals in beauty and chemistry. #HairCare #HairDye #AtHomeBeauty #BeautyLabTesting #GrayCoverage #HairColorProducts #BeautyProducts #ProductReview

The Color Muse colorimeter offers a modern solution to the challenge of matching paint colors, moving beyond traditional physical fan decks. This compact, handheld device is designed to scan the color of any surface and identify its precise hue, making it easy to replicate desired colors found in various environments. The tool operates in conjunction with a dedicated smartphone application, transforming visual colors into shoppable paint options. This functionality is particularly useful for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who wish to match existing paint, replicate colors seen in different settings like a friend's home or a restaurant, or even extract colors from natural elements such as flower petals. The Color Muse colorimeter is a portable device that connects wirelessly to a smartphone app. Upon scanning a surface, it cross-references the detected color with an extensive database of paint colors to find the closest matches. Beyond simple color identification, the accompanying app includes an "inspire" feature, which allows users to visualize how scanned colors might look in different room settings and integrated into various color palettes. This feature aids in the planning and visualization phase of a renovation or decorating project, enabling users to conceptualize their space before committing to paint purchases. The app also supports the creation and saving of custom color palettes, which can then be shared with others via email, text, or social media, facilitating collaborative design efforts. Operating the Color Muse colorimeter involves a straightforward process. Users first download the Color Muse app and establish a connection with their device. A calibration step is required, performed using a sensor located under the screw cap of the device. Once connected and calibrated, the colorimeter is ready for use. To scan a color, the device is simply pressed against any surface, and the "scan" button is activated within the app. The app then displays the scanned hue along with a list of matching paint colors. Users can refine their search results by applying filters such as paint brand and collection. The application also provides tools for comparing similar paint colors, saving preferred colors in organized folders with notes, and exporting these palettes for sharing. User testimonials highlight the practicality and accuracy of the Color Muse. James Adams, a general contractor, praises its compactness, ease of use, and precision, describing it as his "coolest tool." Another verified Amazon purchaser, John Lacrosse, notes its utility in matching paint for clients during remodels, especially when original paint cans are unavailable. He commends its ability to find correct colors repeatedly and its presentation of matches from multiple manufacturers, ranked by accuracy. The Color Muse colorimeter is available for purchase on Amazon for approximately $70. It serves as a valuable tool for anyone undertaking painting or DIY projects, ensuring confidence, accuracy, and ease in color matching, thereby helping to avoid color mismatches and painting errors. #PaintMatching #Colorimeter #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #PaintSelection #SmartHomeTools

This article highlights the vibrant and personality-filled Brooklyn home of creative director Dan Pelosi, offering a glimpse into his design philosophy centered around color, houseplants, and creating a space conducive to entertaining. Pelosi, who initially lived in the West Village, relocated to Brooklyn driven by the desire for a larger space, specifically a dining room, to host friends and pursue his passion for cooking. He discovered his current apartment, the upper two levels of a brownstone, through a friend's social media post and quickly secured the lease, recognizing it as the ideal setting for his vision. A central feature of Pelosi's home is a custom-designed dining table, built in collaboration with Brad Miller of Bronx Woodworks. Pelosi's design prioritized functionality, with inset legs to accommodate up to 14 guests comfortably, reflecting his love for communal dining. He intentionally collected various pairs of chairs, allowing guests to choose seating that best suits their comfort, fostering a democratic and inclusive dining experience. The dining area is further enhanced by a gallery wall showcasing a diverse collection of art, predominantly from friends and former classmates from the Rhode Island School of Design, emphasizing personal connection over anonymous aesthetics. Pelosi's approach to art placement is intuitive, creating a relaxed and imperfect arrangement that aligns with his personal style. The home's comfortable and colorful atmosphere extends throughout. The living room serves as a serene retreat, furnished with a well-loved leather sofa, layered rugs, and an abundance of houseplants, creating a jungle-like ambiance. Pelosi's deliberate layering of rugs adds a tactile and luxurious feel to the space. The kitchen, a fresh remodel when Pelosi moved in, has been infused with color through additions like stools by Eric Trine and a vintage turquoise dome light fixture. It also features a "prop library" of color-coded serving ware and a wet bar setup, reflecting Pelosi's dedication to culinary arts and entertaining. The bathroom stands out as the only non-white room, painted a blush color that Pelosi notes creates a flattering glow. Pelosi's design ethos rejects the notion of a single "pop of color," instead embracing an entire home filled with vibrant hues and personal touches. His bedroom features a bench serving as a long nightstand, and a wall adorned with an inspiring collection of emotionally significant items, reminiscent of design school "swipe" walls. The guest bedroom, a cherished space, displays a quilt made by his mother, highlighting the sentimental value placed on personal items. Overall, Pelosi's home is a testament to his belief that a living space should be inspiring, relaxing, and a reflection of one's personal aesthetic and passions, especially in a world that can often feel isolating. He aims for his home to be a sanctuary where he and his friends feel comfortable and connected. #BrooklynHome #CreativeDirector #ColorInDesign #Houseplants #EntertainingSpace #CustomFurniture #ArtCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

The article delves into the viral TikTok trend known as the ‘unexpected red’ theory, which posits that adding any red item, regardless of size or context, can instantly enhance a room's aesthetic. This theory, popularized by interior designer Taylor Migliazzo Simon, quickly gained traction, accumulating nearly a million views since its posting in January. However, the simplicity of this theory has sparked considerable debate among design professionals. Interior designers like Samantha Stathis Lynch express skepticism, stating that merely adding a red pillow does not guarantee a perfect room, emphasizing the importance of correct application. Conversely, Kishani Perera highlights that using a 'pop of red' is a long-standing practice in good design, making the term 'theory' somewhat amusing to her. The comment section of Migliazzo Simon’s video often references color theory, to which she playfully acknowledges the late arrival to a well-established concept. Color experts, including Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, generally dismiss the idea that red universally improves a room. Eiseman asserts that no research supports such a sweeping generalization, suggesting red can be used as an accent but not as a guaranteed enhancer. Sheri Peterson, president of the North American chapter of the International Association of Color Consultants (IACC), explains that the effectiveness of red, or any color, relies on understanding hue, value, and chroma. She notes that the successful examples seen in the video likely employ red with correct color theory relationships, such as complementary or analogous combinations, and appropriate value and chroma. Peterson further clarifies that while red can be uplifting, similar effects can be achieved with other colors if color theory principles are applied correctly. Massimo Caiazzo, vice president of the Italian chapter of the IACC, advises caution when using red due to its physiological impact, which includes a slight acceleration of heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and respiratory rate, indicating that the body expends more energy to process red. This physiological response can influence behavior, leading some designers, like Alexandra Gater and Carrie Moore, to find bright red accents jarring or polarizing, resulting in its less frequent use in their work. Regan Baker suggests using red sparingly in small doses, such as skinny furniture pieces, small accents, or single items like sconces or frames, given its boldness and intensity. Some experts, like Maria Killam, propose that the theory's popularity stems from red's underutilization in recent design trends, contrasting with the prevalence of white or monotone spaces. Drew Scott welcomes the reintroduction of color, particularly red, as an 'unexpected' element that adds fun and intentionality to a room. Migliazzo Simon clarifies that her intention was to highlight the purposeful and enjoyable incorporation of red in items typically neutral, reinforcing that while a 'pop of red' is not new, the 'unexpected red' theory serves as a rule of thumb rather than a fleeting trend. #UnexpectedRedTheory #InteriorDesign #ColorTheory #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #RedAccents #TikTokTrend #ColorPsychology

The article delves into the resurgence of colour analysis, a fashion trend from the 1980s that has found new life through platforms like TikTok. Fashion expert Orla Dempsey explores whether this method of determining one's optimal colour palette, based on individual skin tones and undertones, genuinely enhances personal style and wardrobe longevity. The discussion highlights the shift away from fleeting micro trends and 'it' colours towards a more personalized and enduring approach to dressing. Stylist, personal shopper, and colour analysis expert Isabel Gleeson provides insights into the practice. She explains that while many individuals perceive themselves as having a 'typical' Irish skin tone, subtle differences in rosiness or cooler undertones necessitate a tailored approach. Gleeson emphasizes that a professional colour consultation is a worthwhile investment, helping individuals identify the specific colour palette that best complements their unique skin tone. This personalized understanding can lead to more effective clothing choices and a wardrobe that stands the test of time. Gleeson also addresses the prevalence of online tools, specifically mentioning TikTok filters that claim to perform colour analysis. She expresses skepticism regarding their accuracy, noting that neither she nor her clients have found these digital filters to be reliable. Instead, she suggests that individuals seeking guidance on their ideal colour palette might find it more effective to observe celebrities with similar skin tones and draw inspiration from their wardrobe choices. The article offers general advice on colour selection for individuals with 'typical' Irish skin tones. Gleeson suggests that colours like teal and medium purple are often complimentary, despite purple being a colour many tend to avoid. She recommends opting for navy over black for a softer aesthetic. For those with darker complexions, deeper teal tones are advised for a striking look, along with stark white and deep black, which fall within the winter palette. Individuals with golden features are encouraged to wear gold, as it can enhance the golden flecks in their brown eyes, aligning with warm tone recommendations. A specific example of colour analysis is provided for Galway actress Nicola Coughlan. Isabel Gleeson identifies Coughlan as a 'light summer,' characterized by a cool-neutral, light, and delicate seasonal palette. This categorization implies a blend of the cool, soft qualities of summer with the brightness and freshness of spring. For Coughlan, Gleeson suggests a preference for low-to-medium contrast colours, favoring softer shades over harsh, darker ones. Recommended colours for Nicola Coughlan include primrose yellow, soft teal, rose pink, periwinkle, and clear blue. The article also touches upon a specific fashion item, "The Chloe" dress by Sinead Keary, and personifies its wearer as a romantic, classic, and demure individual who appreciates timeless styles and soft pastels, with a fondness for bows. Overall, the article promotes colour analysis as a method for informed wardrobe decisions, moving beyond temporary trends to cultivate a style that is both personal and sustainable. It underscores the importance of professional guidance in identifying suitable colour palettes and offers practical advice for various skin tones, exemplified through celebrity analysis. #ColourAnalysis #FashionTrends #TikTok #PersonalStyle #IsabelGleeson #NicolaCoughlan #WardrobeLongevity #StylingTips

The article reviews Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment, a skincare-meets-makeup product that has gained significant popularity on TikTok. This product is designed to neutralize redness and soothe inflammation using tiger grass (cica) as its key ingredient. The formula is green, which helps to counteract red tones in the skin, making it effective for addressing issues like acne scars and rosacea flare-ups. Unlike traditional color correctors, this product is applied with fingertips like a moisturizer and transforms into a beige tone that adapts to the user's skin. The author, Jacqueline Kilikita, details her personal experience with the product. She notes that while the cream initially appears thick and chalky, its lightweight texture blends easily like a face lotion or primer. As someone with light, olive-toned skin and concerns about redness on her cheeks and acne scarring, she was particularly interested in its redness-reducing properties. She applied the Cicapair treatment after her usual moisturizer and observed that it provided substantial hydration, enhancing the dewy finish of her existing skincare routine. Initially, her face appeared white, but with further blending, the product effectively adapted to her skin tone. Upon stepping into natural light, the author was impressed by the results. The redness on her cheeks was visibly erased, acne scars were minimized, and her skin exhibited a healthy glow. She had anticipated needing to apply concealer or foundation afterward but found it unnecessary, opting instead for just a light layer of Cicapair. A significant benefit highlighted is that the product did not cause breakouts, a common issue with many face products. However, the author did observe that the product tended to collect in her eyelid creases and fine lines under her eyes, similar to foundation and concealer, which required occasional blending with a finger. By the end of the day, the product had developed a slight pink tinge, suggesting it had oxidized, but her skin remained radiant, and the redness did not reappear. One important limitation identified is that Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment may not be suitable for all skin tones when worn alone. It can, however, be used as a base under foundation to further minimize redness. For individuals seeking color-correcting treatments that cater to a wider range of skin tones, alternative products are suggested. These include IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, which functions as a foundation-concealer hybrid with various color-correcting shades, Niod's Photography Fluid Opacity 12% for an airbrushed effect under foundation, and Stila One Step Correct Colour Corrector, a moisturizing primer effective under makeup. Overall, the author concludes that Cicapair is an effective solution for quickly addressing uneven skin tone, redness, and spots, making it ideal for situations like impromptu video calls. Its concentrated formula means that only a small amount is needed, justifying its price. Given its viral status on TikTok and potential for selling out, the author advises interested consumers to purchase it promptly. The article also includes a disclosure regarding affiliate links and potential commissions from product purchases. #Skincare #Beauty #Makeup #ColorCorrection #RednessReduction #TikTokBeauty #ProductReview #DrJart #Cica

The process of selecting the right paint color for a room can be daunting due to the vast array of subtle variations and the challenge of visualizing how a color will appear on a wall. Even with the emergence of new paint brands designed to simplify this choice, mistakes are common, not just in color selection but also in application. Drew Michael Scott of Lone Fox Home, a designer and paint professional, offers insights into common paint-related errors and provides practical solutions and best practices derived from his own experiences. Scott's current paint selection method involves several steps to mitigate errors. He begins by purchasing tester paint pots and swatching a large area of the wall to accurately gauge the color's appearance. After selecting a shade, he buys a single gallon for the first coat, even if more is ultimately needed. This initial coat serves as a crucial test. If the color is not satisfactory after the first coat, he advises against proceeding with a second coat of the same color. Instead, he suggests that if the desired color change is within the same general hue, such as shifting from one green tone to another, it's often possible to apply the new color directly as the second coat. This technique creates a custom shade and, importantly, eliminates the need for an additional priming step, saving both time and labor. Peel-and-stick paint samples are a convenient tool for simplifying the painting process, reducing mess and stress. However, Scott emphasizes that their utility extends beyond merely being placed on walls. He recommends using these samples on more challenging-to-paint surfaces like molding, doors, furniture, and grooved cabinets. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how the paint will appear on surfaces with varying textures and depths before committing to painting. This foresight helps confirm satisfaction with the color prior to undertaking the detailed work of painting intricate areas. A common mistake highlighted by Scott is committing to a paint color without proper testing. He recounts observing individuals select colors under the deceptive lighting of hardware stores, a practice he acknowledges he has also been guilty of, albeit in a more 'design-forward' context. For instance, he once chose a Farrow & Ball shade called Sardine for a bathroom vanity based solely on its appeal and name, without swatching it. The color proved unsuitable, leading him to switch to a more moody alternative, Aurora Brown, which dramatically improved the bathroom's aesthetic. This experience underscores the importance of testing colors in the actual space to avoid misjudgments influenced by external factors or superficial appeal. Proper preparation of the painting area is another critical step often overlooked. Scott stresses the necessity of using drop cloths, regardless of confidence in painting skills, to protect floors and other surfaces from paint drips and spills. He shares a personal anecdote where a special supergrip primer left tiny flecks on newly refinished flooring. His attempt to remove the primer using lemon juice and alcohol inadvertently damaged the floor's finish and melted the primer into it. The solution involved strategically placing a credenza over the damaged area. This incident serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that neglecting proper prep can lead to significant, unforeseen complications. When using painter's tape, especially for creating stripes, Scott offers two tips for achieving crisp, clean lines. First, after applying the tape, thoroughly massage it onto the wall with a dry washcloth. This firm pressure ensures the tape adheres securely to account for wall imperfections and prevent paint seepage. Second, apply a quick, light coat of the existing wall color over the taped edges before layering the new stripe color. The initial coat will seal any potential bleeding under the tape, allowing the subsequent coat of the new color to sit cleanly on top. Finally, Scott encourages taking risks with bold colors in less frequently used areas of the home, such as a laundry room or hallway. This approach allows homeowners to experiment and build confidence in their color choices without the pressure of it being in a primary living space. He shares his own example of using high-gloss red paint on his hallway trim and doors, transforming a transitional space often overlooked. #PaintColorSelection #InteriorPainting #DIYPaintingTips #HomeRenovationMistakes #PaintPreparation #PeelAndStickSamples #DesignerTips #LoneFoxHome