Over the years I've dyed my hair, used colored hair extensions, and read articles about crazy colored hair trends. But I had never researched what exactly hair chalk is made of. According to Yahoo, the look has really become popular over the past few years after appearing on the runways of designers like Prabal Gurung, Jean Paul Gaultier and Prada. Kristen Perrotta told the publication, "The chalk trend really comes down to one person: Lauren Conrad." LC talks about having chalky hair on her blog , this incident caused an uproar on the Internet.
That being said, I've never been clear on how hair chalk differs from regular chalk. Why can't I use existing chalk to line my hair?
According to the Department of Beauty, the simple answer is that hair pencils are made from soft pastels. Pastel artist Thaneeya McArdle explains in Art is Fun, "Pastels are made by mixing together dry pigments, some chalk, and a binder."
Artist Sheila Evans explains on her pastel FAQ page, "[c]alcose is made from calcium carbonate mixed with silt and clay. It is white or usually lighter in color than Pastels are much harder, but there are chalks that can be used with pigments to create lighter, pastel colors."
Pastel Hair Chalk Set, $20, Claire's
So while the sticks may look like sidewalk chalk or the chalk used in middle school art class, the properties of the pomade are essentially different. Also, you should remember the brand of chalk you are using. In 2013, the FDA issued a statement warning that "products may contain dyes or colorants, chemicals, preservatives and other impermissible ingredients that may cause allergies and adverse reactions to the scalp, head, eyes and skin."
But if you're ready to go and know you have the right products, there are a few extra steps you need to take before you apply chalk to your hair like LeBron James. According to SELF magazine, you should prep your hair with a product like dry shampoo and keep the chalk "more than two inches from your hairline, otherwise the color will run like crazy." If you find you're lacking color, the publication recommends using a white base beforehand. Finally, lock in the color with hairspray.
Now that you know about chalk paint, here are some cool chalk looks to inspire your DIY.
1. Dip dye styling
This dip dye look is so classic and easy to copy!
2. Root appearance
This is especially helpful for those who haven’t colored in a while!
3. Little Mermaid look
You can become Aquamarine super easily!
4. Summer Chalk Look
I love these looks, but the one with the raven braid is perfect for summer ’16.
5. Chalk Bun Style
Princess Leia gets ready for Coachella with these colorful buns.
6. Gradient color appearance
I love the dark two-tone ombre color.
7. Heated Chalk Styling
This will show you how to apply light chalk color on dark hair!
Image: LaurDIY/YouTube, Claires
