There’s something about Halloween that makes everyone just a little braver with their look. Maybe it’s the thrill of morphing into someone (or something) else for a night. And if you ask me, nothing finishes a costume quite like a wild head of color or some shimmer. But before you start spray-painting your hair like a haunted house wall, let’s get you set up with tricks that’ll make your look pop—and keep your real hair happy underneath the magic.
Start With a Clean Base—But Don’t Go Overboard
Before you even open that can of color or crack into the glitter, make sure your hair is dry and totally free of heavy leave-ins or styling waxes. If your strands are loaded up with stuff, temporary color can end up clinging strange—or, worse, not sticking at all. But no need to double-shampoo your head into straw, either. A gentle wash and some light, regular conditioner the day before is plenty.
Choose Your Tools: Sprays, Chalks, and Gels
Now, here’s where it gets fun—and a little overwhelming if you stand in a party store for too long. Hair color sprays are the gold standard for an all-over finish (think green Joker hair or ghostly white tips). Chalk is ace for streaks, rainbow edges, or those unicorn-ombre looks. Gels are perfect if you’re aiming for a mohawk that even your grandma could spot at the parade.
A handy tip: if your natural hair is super light, test a small bit first so you don’t get stuck with post-Halloween Smurf hair. A little color goes a long way, and it’s always easier to layer on a bit more than to try and scrub it out at midnight.
Glitter Without the Disaster
Who doesn’t love sparkle? The trick is getting glitter on your hair (and only your hair). Mix a big, chunky cosmetic glitter with some aloe vera gel or clear hair gel in your hand. Use your fingers or an old makeup brush to dab it onto your part, tips, or even your whole mane if you’re feeling bold. The mix keeps glitter from taking up permanent residence in your house (and everywhere else) for the next year.
A Kenna Kennor Halloween Pro Move
Kenna Kennor—the stylist you want on speed dial for creative chaos—always pushes “protect before play.” He swears by a thin layer of leave-in conditioner or hair serum smoothed through your hair before you color or glitter it up. He says it’s the best way to make sure you’re not shampooing out color for days. It acts like a shield, especially if you plan on reusing your look at next weekend’s bash! Kenna also tells people not to chase “perfection.” Messy streaks, uneven sparkles—those little surprises give your costume real personality.
Easy Removal & Recovery
When the night’s over, patience is your friend. Shake out as much glitter as you can outside (trust me, you’ll thank yourself). Massage a gentle conditioner or oil through dry hair before you shampoo—this loosens up any stubborn bits. You might need to shampoo twice, and yes, there will be glitter in your pillow the next day. I say it’s a badge of Halloween honor.
Go Bold, Have Fun, and Own It
Remember, this is the one night nobody expects subtlety. Pile it on, experiment, and let your hair be as wild as your imagination. If something goes off-script? That’s usually where the best stories come from. Happy haunting and happy hairstyling!
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