Just as we say hello to glorious spring days, Molly-Mae Hague is dishing out major hair inspo for the season. The influencer may not have known it at the time of posting, but she’s just sparked a hair trend frenzy with her latest dye job that’s set to be the hottest colour request in salons this season.
What’s the shade everyone will be asking their colourists for? It’s the dreamy ‘buttermilk’ blonde. Hair colourist Emma Vickery from Percy and Reed salon says: “This colour is exactly how it sounds – milky. It has a beige tinge combined with cool highlights to make sure the overall tone of the hair doesn’t look too warm. It’s the soft new version of the super ashy blonde we all loved five years ago.”
Sharing her fresh look on social media, Molly-Mae captioned a car selfie series: “Buttermilk blonde,” showcasing what also seems like a fresh layered cut to frame her face, reports the Mirror.
Her fans are gushing over her new hair in the comments, with predictions flying that ‘buttermilk’ blonde will be the go-to choice by the summer. One admirer posted: “Soooo many of our girls at the salon come in with your blonde pics for their inspo! Gorgeous gorgeous as always!”
Another is ready to call their stylist: “Calls my hairdresser to ask for buttermilk blonde,” and yet another keen follower inquires about her haircare secrets: “What shampoo/conditioner do you use?”
As that savvy follower pointed out, maintaining this particular shade of blonde is no easy feat, especially if you’re starting with a dark base. “You need to pick a shade that allows you to keep some of your existing colour. It’s also about working with the tone of your natural hair – if it’s warm, go with that golden theme instead of fighting against it,” advises Emma.
Our very own head of beauty Zoe embarked on her own Molly-Mae inspired blonde hair journey last year and has since spilled the tea on her experience….
Molly-Mae’s enviable blonde colour is exactly what I dream of achieving, but having a naturally warm blonde base meant her hair tended to reveal golden tones rather than the ashy or creamy hues she desired, posing a challenge to maintain Molly-Mae’s signature look without constant salon visits.
Zoe emphasises the importance of a thorough colour consultation with your stylist, confessing that despite her eagerness for an instant transformation, it’s crucial to understand what’s achievable based on your natural hair. If your hair is dark or resistant to lightening, a good colourist will set realistic expectations and suggest alternatives that flatter both your hair and skin tone.
Moreover, Zoe insists on regular salon appointments when bleach is involved to ensure the health of your hair. She admits that had her colourist warned her about potential breakage, she might have reconsidered her request.
I should also mention that Molly-Mae’s hair looks fabulous for two reasons: A) she maintains the colour regularly, and anyone considering going blonde should be ready both financially and in terms of time commitment to do the same. and B) she often uses extensions to achieve those creamy-coloured and thick ends. Extensions can be pricey and aren’t for everyone, so you might have to compromise on length.
Blonde hair toolkit
Like any chemical treatment, it’s crucial to care for your hair before, during, and after bleaching or colouring to minimise breakage and damage. The Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector is a fantastic treatment to help mend any broken bonds and leave your hair healthier and stronger.
Invest in a quality shampoo. I’ve been able to extend the life of my hair colour like never before by incorporating L’Oréal Metal Detox Shampoo into my weekly wash routine. It’s formulated to eliminate metal particles (like copper) that build up in the hair from water, which can lead to breakage, dullness and colour fading. Its technology neutralises these metals, making it perfect for colour-treated, bleached or highlighted hair by preserving vibrancy and preventing uneven tones.
If you’re keen to maintain that fresh colour, it’s worth investing in some home toning products. I personally swear by Pureology Color Fanatic Top Coat and Tone Purple. It’s perfect for medium to light blondes, this toner effectively neutralises brassy tones without leaving a blue or purple residue. Packed with oat milk and camellia oil, it also moisturises and repairs hair, leaving it looking shiny and healthy.