Mardi Gras is all about vibrant colors, festive energy, and bold statements—and what better way to embrace the celebration than with eye-catching, vivid hair? Whether your client is looking for deep purples, rich greens, or bright gold hues, achieving flawless Mardi Gras hair requires proper preparation and application techniques. Follow these steps from Malibu C National Educator Jessica Roth to ensure long-lasting, vivid color without compromising hair health.
Step 1: Prep the Hair for Vibrant Color
Before diving into vivid Mardi Gras hues, it's essential to prep the hair properly. Start with Malibu C Professional Corrective Color Tools to ensure a clean canvas:
Use Malibu C Color Disruptor and Color Pigment Remover (CPR), non-oxidative products, to gently remove previous semi, demi, or permanent color.
Color Disruptor has a deep-penetrating formula that helps disrupt and loosen stubborn dye molecules while preserving the hair’s natural level and integrity.
Malibu C CPR removes up to 3 levels of artificial pigment and clears out mineral and resin buildup that could interfere with the new color. Learn step-by-step on how to use this duo below.
For clients with direct dyes or stains, use Malibu C Direct Dye Lifter (DDL XL), which can be activated with water or developer to achieve your desired lift. Use De-Ox after to stop processing right at the shampoo bowl. Check out our in-depth guide on utilizing these pro tools to successfully remove unwanted artificial pigment for a marvelous Mardi Gras look!
Step 2: Sectioning for a Mardi Gras-Inspired Color Application
A well-planned sectioning technique will create a seamless, dimensional color placement. Follow the guide below for suggested color placement.
Top Panel Sectioning: Isolate the top panel from the horseshoe panel by creating a horizontal, diagonal back parting from the hairline through the parietal ridge down to the occipital bone.
Middle Horseshoe Panel Sectioning: Separate the middle horseshoe panel from the bottom panel by creating another horizontal, diagonal back parting from the mastoid process to the lower occipital bone.
Bottom Panel Application: Begin applying formula #3 at the nape panel, working from scalp to ends.
Horseshoe Panel Application: Start at the front hairline and take 1-2 inch vertical diagonal back slices. Apply formula #1 to the first section in the fringe area, then alternate with formula #2 throughout the horseshoe panel. Work one side to the center back, then mirror the application on the opposite side for a balanced, symmetrical look.
Top Panel Application: Drop the top panel and apply formula #3 from scalp to ends, ensuring full saturation.
Step 3: Isolating Sections for Maximum Impact
To maintain clean color placement, use plastic wrap to isolate sections in the horseshoe panel.
This prevents color from bleeding into unwanted areas and ensures crisp, vibrant results.
Step 4: Rinse, Treat, and Style
Once the color has fully processed, rinse thoroughly with cool water to help lock in vibrancy. Use Malibu C Hydrate Color Wellness Collection to maintain color longevity and hair health.
Style as desired, and let the Mardi Gras festivities begin!
Mardi Gras Hair That Lasts
For clients who love switching up their hair for special occasions, Malibu C ensures a safe and effective transformation. With proper preparation and vibrant color placement techniques, your clients will be rocking bold, festive Mardi Gras hair with confidence.
Ready to create show-stopping Mardi Gras looks? Start with Malibu C and give your clients the vibrant, healthy hair they deserve!