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29 Best Rainbow Hair Ideas to Try in 2023

BRB, heading to the salon.

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rainbow curly hair, rainbow swirly buzzcut hair
Instagram: @glitter_artist | @cotyplecieszrybnik

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Truth: It’s really hard for me to switch up my hair color. Seriously—I cling to my dark brunette like a security blanket. But the rainbow hair trend that’s been circulating (read: consuming) my Insta feed lately might actually convert me. There’s just something so liberating about going with something outside of your typical spring hair trend, you know? So if you're bored with brunette, blonde, and red shades, it might be time to look outside the dye box (figuratively speaking—pls don't attempt rainbow hair dye at home, see a colorist IRL instead), and choose something totally unique like rainbow hair. Luckily for you, I found the best rainbow hair ideas, like peek-a-boo underlights to a swirly buzzcut, that are truly mind-blowing. High risk, high reward, bb. Just keep scrolling for all the inspo.

1

These Pastel-Colored Rainbow Waves

Not only does this colorful hairstyle look like straight-up cotton candy (s/o to the very talented colorist who created this magic), the pastel shades are somehow bright and soft at the same time. Maintaining this color is all about keeping it shiny and vibrant, so pick up a nourishing hair oil before your appointment.

2

This Ombré Sorbet Rainbow Hair

NGL, this pink-root rainbow hair is in my screenshots for my colorist appointment. If there was ever a way to show how ridiculously pretty ombré hair looks, this would be it, and the waves give this color so much dimension.

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3

This Vivid Rainbow Underlight

Play up your platinum blonde style by adding a peek-a-boo rainbow hair underlight. This hidden rainbow color looks so good whether it's in a straight, curly, or wavy hairstyle.

4

This Peekaboo Pastel Rainbow Highlight

Warmer weather is right around the corner, and IMO, rainbow hair would make en excellent spring hair idea. Since spring is all about color, these pretty under-lights of rainbow color will give you the zhush you're looking for.

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5

This Purple, Green, and Blue Rainbow Idea

If your hair is on the drier or brittler side, you 100 percent need to prioritize moisture to maintain the vibrant color like this, since the dyeing process adds more damage. Spritz a leave-in conditioner generously through your damp hair after the shower—and if you're going to be heat styling, don't forget to use a heat protectant.

6

This Deep Purple Rainbow Idea

Feeling bold? Combine bright rainbow hair with a deep shade of purple for a big impact. This type of rainbow hair packs a huuuge punch. Also: Make sure you grab a hair gloss to maintain shine.

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7

These Bright Pink Rainbow Curls

So I know this technically isn’t the full rainbow, but there's no rule saying you have to get the full spectrum. Instead, ask your colorist for one or two colors, like this hot pink summer hair color. Make sure your arsenal of curly hair products is stocked and ready to take care of your dyed hair (think: deep conditioners, hair masks, and moisturizing leave-in conditioners).

8

This Pastel, Blonde Curly Rainbow Hair

I definitely, 100 percent have this rainbow hair on my mood board—it’s the perfect mix of soft-hued and rainbow. To take care of your rainbow curls, try these shampoos for curly hair for maximum protection.

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9

This Dip-Dyed Rainbow Pixie

This rainbow pixie hairstyle is the ultimate way to play with short hair. I'm obsessed with how the rainbow is just sprinkled into the platinum blonde—it's such a fun way to add some dimension to a short hairstyle.

10

This Peekaboo Purple Rainbow Highlight

There’s something so ~secret agent~ about this rainbow hair as a peek-a-boo strand. If you love color but you’re not sure you want to have "ROYGBIV" painted across your hair, this mostly purple hair with just a lil slice of rainbow is for you. BTW, if this color placement isn't for you, try it as money-piece highlight, which frames your face instead.

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11

These Neon Rainbow Waves

If neon is your jam, look no further than this rainbow hair. Only the top half of the hair is dyed, and the bottom half stays your natural color (or any color, TBH), which gives it a ton of depth. I mean, how cute would this look in a ponytail or half-up style?

12

This Saturated Rainbow Hair

Rainbow hair can be hella intimidating to anyone who rarely or never dyes their hair. TBH, I totally get it, I only ever dye my hair black. Remember, to keep color like in this saturated rainbow and blonde hair and make sure your dye lasts, apply a color-safe texture spray to boost volume (this one doubles as a heat protectant.

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13

These Sorbet Rainbow Curls

Using fun and bold orange and pink is a fun way to add some bright colors without going full-rainbow. Want this level of volume? Stock up on hair thickener and texture spray to add volume to your curls.

14

These Prismatic Rainbow Curls

What goes better with ombré hair than rainbow hair? Exhibit A: This long, curly hairstyle. To get these bouncy, defined curls, try adding a mousse for curly hair in your styling routine.

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15

This Lisa Frank Shoulder Length Rainbow Idea

NGL, this rainbow hair makes me super nostalgic for my ~youth~. The baby pink base combined with the greens, oranges, and blues is giving me major Lisa Frank vibes, and I'm here for it. Pro tip: you’ll want to use a gentle conditioner made for color-treated hair to preserve the bright color for as long as possible.

16

This Crimped Rainbow Hair

The ‘90s are still here, so I suggest you emulate one of the coolest eras of '90s beauty: the crimp. I’m in love with the way this crimped rainbow hair looks almost holographic. And to avoid any brassiness, make sure you grab a purple shampoo ahead of time.

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17

These Holographic Rainbow Waves

Two words: Suicide Squad. This rainbow hair is definitely giving me Margot Robbie vibes. Since you'll most likely need to have your hair bleached so the color will stick, pick up a deep conditioner and repairing hair mask to keep your hair healthy and repair any damage.

18

This Rainbow Lob

This rainbow hair is a tad richer and darker than the usual pastels or technicolor styles I’m seeing on my IG feed lately, and that’s honestly what I love about it. If you’re wondering how to take care of this color, opt for a shampoo for color-treated hair. Since they're made without sulfates, your color won't get stripped away in the shower.

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19

This Long, Subtle Rainbow Idea

These rainbow waves are truly all my hair goals. While this hair isn’t all the shades of the rainbow, picking three or more colors definitely leans into the rainbow vibe. If you’re going to be heat-styling your hair and want your color to last (and, like, who doesn't?), use a heat protectant every time you style.

20

This Swirly Rainbow Buzzcut

I can only dream of having rainbow hair this immaculate. To create this rainbow hair color trend, this colorist started with a bleached, shaved head, and then soaked sponges in the dye to create these rainbow shapes. I mean, talk about artistry.

Headshot of Valeriya Chupinina

Valeriya Chupinina is a freelance beauty and wellness writer exploring the multifaceted connection between the aesthetic and internal. You can find her work in outlets like Coveteur, HYPEBAE, and NBGA. In addition to her editorial work, she consults on social media strategies for brands. You can keep up with her on Instagram @valeriyaliyevna

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