Skunk stripe hair is a high-contrast color with a bold stripe or panel of one color against another, most often bleached blonde against black or dark brown. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Skunk stripe hair at a glance
- Type: Technique
- Tone: High contrast: blonde on black, or a vivid color on dark hair
- Lightening needed: Yes, on the stripe.
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Touch-ups: 6 to 8 weeks
What makes it different
Unlike blended highlights, the stripe is meant to be seen. It's usually placed at the front as a wide face-framing section, or along the parting.
Who it suits
Anyone who wants an edgy, graphic look. It works at every hair length.
Not sure whether you're warm or cool? See how to find your undertone and the best hair color for your skin tone, or get your full palette with the free color analysis.
What to ask your colorist
- Say where the stripe goes and how wide it should be.
- Say the two colors.
- Ask for a sharp edge, not a blend.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Tone the bleached section with purple shampoo and use a bond-building treatment.
Shades and variations
- Front skunk stripe: two bold panels at the hairline.
- Split dye: half the head one color, half another.
- Colored skunk stripe: red, pink or blue against black.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see skunk stripe hair on your own hair before you book.
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FAQ
What is skunk stripe hair?
Skunk stripe hair is a high-contrast color with a bold stripe or panel of one color against another, most often bleached blonde against black or dark brown.
Who suits skunk stripe hair?
Anyone who wants an edgy, graphic look. It works at every hair length.
Do you need bleach for skunk stripe hair?
Yes, on the stripe.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 6 to 8 weeks.
