9 Easy Ways To Update Your Hair For A Fresher Look

If lately, you’ve been thinking “I want to change my hairstyle” but you have no idea where to start, let’s explore some subtle options. Because while we love a drastic hair transformation, there are easy hair changes you can make without completely overhauling your colour or cut. 

When every second celebrity is trying out a pixie cut or dying their hair red, it’s understandable to feel like your hair is ‘boring’. But there are subtle ways you can update your mane that will still have a big impact. You don’t have to dive into the latest hair trends all the time. In fact, some of the below hair changes don’t even require a trip to the salon. 

So whether you want to change your hairstyle without cutting it or just need some inspiration, these ideas are a great place to start. 

9 easy ways to change your hair

Freshen up your colour

Image via: @estelanewbold

If you love your hair colour but it’s lacking some ‘oomph’, there are a few brightening options you can try before switching shades altogether. For blondes, try toning (rose gold, honey blonde, whatever you fancy really!) or bring out your icy undertones with the Provoke Touch of Silver Toning Treatment Mask ($13 at Woolworths).

For brunettes, redheads, or anyone who isn’t seeing the colour-rich results they’re used to, consider hitting the reset button before your next colour top-up. The Scott Cornwall Decolour Stripper ($20.99 at Chemist Warehouse) will help to create a blank canvas for more vivid results.

And don’t feel as though you have to wait for summer for some sun-kissed highlights. Adding some lighter strokes of colour will always brighten your look, even in the dreary depths of winter. Or even take the plunge and opt for a touch of at-home colour to really give your strands that rejuvenated top-up. The best (and natural) dye option? Color & Soin Permanent Hair Dye ($19.95 at Color & Soin). Now don’t let the ‘permanent’ scare you, these refreshing tones are here to nurture your strands while giving you the effortless ‘fresh from the salon’ look. 

Hey, if you decide you don’t love your new look, we’re here to let you know that reversing it isn’t impossible (or even damaging to your hair). Pop on down to your local chemist and pick up a box of the Colourless Max Condition ($26.99 at Priceline). In one session, remove permanent dye and return your mane to its clean, natural state. A godsend for any commitment-phobe.

Add some layers

Image via: @lucyhale

Layers can help to add movement to all kinds of cuts. It’s a particularly good option if you’re after a hair change but you don’t want to sacrifice any (or much) of your length. This way your hairdresser can add shape without anything too drastic.

If you have fine hair, use the Schwarzkopf Extra Care Styling Texture Styling Hairspray ($4.99 at Chemist Warehouse) to emphasise the texture your layers give you, or spritz some dry shampoo for some grit and hold. We’re loving the Batiste Bamboo Fibre & Gardenia Dry Shampoo ($15 at Woolworths).

Try a fringe

Image via: @jessicachastain

We know what you’re thinking, a fringe is pretty drastic. But it really doesn’t have to be. A curtain fringe, for example, is an ideal way to dip your toe in the water. And if it’s not your vibe, it’ll grow out pretty quickly. Plus, these days there are plenty of ways to tell if a fringe will suit you. Try on a filter, ask your hairdresser and be realistic about whether it’ll p*ss you off before you commit.

Change your hair part

Image via: @dimitrishair

The power of your hair part is actually pretty wild. If you’ve always parted your hair down the middle, try flipping it to one side and vice versa. For the side-part option, add a little John Frieda Volume Lift Air Whipped Foam ($14.69 at Chemist Warehouse) for some extra root lift and you’ll be surprised by the bombshell staring back at you. It’s also an excellent styling option for concealing regrowth.

Centre parts, on the other hand, will need to be more on top of their colouring schedule but you’ll have the approval of Gen Z (for now).

Master a slicked-back bun

Image via: Getty

If you’re unsure about your next hair move, add a slicked-back bun to your repertoire. This chic style isn’t going anywhere soon. And if it does, it’s likely to reappear quickly with only a slight tweak. Master it and you’ll forever have a style up your sleeve that works for weekends, the office and out on the town — regardless of whatever hair colour or cut comes next. The De Lorenzo Elements Titanium Super Strong Styling Gel ($19.15 at Oz Hair & Beauty) will be your right-hand man for a smooth, flyaway-tamed result.

Request a root stretch

Image via: @hairytaleshairsalon

If you’re a big fan of balayage, bronde, or basically anything that gives you the best of light and dark hair, ask about a root stretch at your next appointment. The technique aims to blend your natural hair colour seamlessly into your lighter ends for a very natural, very subtle ombre effect. The result is a low-maintenance, cool-girl colour that maximises your time between salon visits because you’re no longer ‘hiding’ your roots. And for those pesky greys? The Schwarzkopf Hair Mascara ($18.49 at Chemist Warehouse) will have you back.

Tweak your curling technique

Image via: @thesilverlining_1970

When you finally get your hands on a curling wand you’re comfortable using, it can be easy to get stuck in a styling rut. So if your curls and waves always turn out the same, try to actively steer away from auto-pilot and introduce a new technique. Instead of winding your hair around your straightener for curls, try an ‘s wave‘ by pinching your straightener plates down a section of hair as you hold it in an ‘s’ shape. Or if you’ve got a slight natural wave, accentuate it with something like the TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray ($9.50 at Woolworths) and scrunch as you air-dry.

There are also plenty of options nowadays for achieving an effortless ’90s blow-dry sans salon. If you’re in the market for a new hair tool, try the muk Haircare Hot Round Brush ($179.95 at Price Attack) for easy lift, volume and flicks. Or save your pennies and opt for the $4 Kmart heatless rollers — we’re big fans.

Seek the help of accessories 

Image via: @yasminechanel

Never rated your hot tools skills? Allow some key hair accessories to kickstart your reinvention. If you can do a ponytail, try adding a big bow or weaving through a scarf. Prefer your hair out? Secure a small braid with some clips or simply add some slides. The claw clip comeback is still going strong too, so it’s not too late to pick up one of the Lady Jayne Classic Claw Clips ($8.99 at Oz Hair & Beauty).

Revamp your haircare routine

Image via: @daniellepriano

Sometimes it’s not a new colour or cut that our hair needs, but some proper at-home care. Whether you feel like your hair is lacking shine, volume or is prone to breakage, assess the products you’re using. Start with the ones you’ve got in the shower; your shampoo and conditioner should always cater to your specific hair needs. For example, the Chalmers Dale Essential Basics Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner, ($45.95 at chalmersdale.com.au) is formulated with royal jelly and keratin-promoting nutrients to help smooth frizz.

Next, think about your hair goals. Is it that your hair isn’t shiny enough? Not voluminous enough? Or not long enough? Whichever the answer, hoose a treatment product to tackle it and commit to using it once a week. Our members have had great results with the GROW Longer Stronger Anti-Breakage Hair Mask ($6 at Coles) — good hair products don’t have to be expensive!

Or try some DIY methods like scalp massage and hair oiling. The Rodan + Fields Haircare Defrizz+ Oil Treatment ($86 at rodanandfields.com.au) and
Lady Jayne Restorative Scalp Brush ($11.49 at Chemist Warehouse) is an unbeatable combination for some hair self-care.

Main image credit: @estelanewbold / @jessicachastain

Is your hair in need of a fresh new look? Which of these easy hair changes would you most like to try?