Winter is a great time to switch up your hair color. You could go darker for the season, add a few brighter pieces for a sun-kissed effect or embrace both with reverse halo contouring. The trending technique blends deeper tones with strategic brightness to create a dimensional, high-contrast finish. Unlike a single-process shade, it delivers depth and impact in one appointment.
Ahead, two colorists explain what it is and how to get the look.
Featured Experts
What Is Reverse Halo Contouring?
Traditionally, halo contouring brightens the hair around the face—namely, the entire hairline, including the front and nape. Reverse halo contouring does the opposite. “Instead of lightening the area, it uses darker shades to create depth,” says NYC-based colorist Tiffanie Richards. That doesn’t mean the overall result is darker, though. As hairstylist and Redken artistic ambassador Bradley Leake explains, brighter tones are placed throughout the interior of the hair. “This creates soft dimension and a sculpted look that grows out effortlessly,” he says, similar to a natural contoured effect.
The technique works best on deeper bases. Brunettes and brondes are ideal candidates since they already have natural depth, but blondes can benefit, too, especially if they want a more lived-in finish. “The goal is to add dimension without obvious highlights and to soften the transition away from heavy face-framing pieces,” says Leake.
What to Ask for at the Salon
Bringing reference photos is always helpful when trying a new hair color, but with reverse halo contouring, it’s especially important. “Reverse contouring is a specialized technique that creates a very specific look,” says Richards. Even if your stylist is familiar with the method, your interpretations may differ. Clear visuals help ensure you’re aligned on the end result.
During the consultation, Leake recommends being specific about how much contrast you want. “The best combination is an illuminating interior with soft depth around the hairline and edges. It’s also important to stress that the final look should be blended and natural,” he says.
How to Maintain the Look
Keeping the contrast crisp takes some upkeep, especially if you’re starting from a blond base. As Richards explains, deeper tones can fade faster with regular washing. To preserve the balance, she recommends adjusting your routine and sticking with color-safe formulations. “This will guarantee that the blond portion stays bright and maintains the contrasted look,” she says.
Glossing treatments also help maintain tone and shine. Leake suggests booking a refresh every six to eight weeks and opting for a gentle demi-permanent gloss, such as Redken’s Shades EQ.
