The Scandinavian Hairline Trend: A Hair Color Innovation You Shouldn't Miss

While Scandinavia is renowned for its minimalist and nature-inspired architecture, it’s now making waves for something entirely unexpected: hair color. The “Scandi hairline” trend has taken social media by storm, offering a look reminiscent of naturally sun-kissed strands. Here’s everything you need to know about this trend, including how to achieve it with advice from top hairstylists.

Understanding the Scandinavian Hairline

The trending Scandinavian hairline, also known as Scandi hairline, is a hair coloring method designed to mimic the naturally bright, sunlit highlights often seen in Scandinavian hair. This technique involves lightening the hairline and baby hairs, creating a radiant, halo-like effect around the face.

“To achieve this style, colorists brighten the baby hairs and hairline slightly more than the rest of the hair, giving a soft, sun-kissed effect,” says celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons. “By keeping the lightening just a few shades brighter, it’s a subtle yet effective way to enhance your roots for a summer-ready look.”

Why is this trend specifically tied to Scandinavia? Residents of Nordic regions naturally have light blonde roots that become even brighter with sun exposure. This effect is also noticeable in other areas, especially during summer when longer days and outdoor activities lead to natural lightening.

Steps to Achieve the Scandinavian Hairline

For the best results, book a salon appointment. Skilled stylists and colorists can expertly create the Scandinavian hairline look, ensuring it appears natural and effortless.

“To achieve this look, colorists isolate a small section of hair at the hairline and apply bleach directly to the strands without using foils,” Fitzsimons explains. “This hand-painting method allows for precision, creating a seamless and strikingly bright effect.”

Fitzsimons emphasizes the need to consult a professional colorist for this technique rather than trying it at home. The application of hair bleach or dye near the hairline can risk eye irritation if done incorrectly. Additionally, the delicate baby hairs around the face are fragile and more susceptible to damage or breakage when handled by someone inexperienced.

Which Hair Colors Suit the Scandinavian Hairline Best?

The Scandi hairline is particularly stunning on blondes with highlighted hair, as it amplifies their brightness. However, the trend can be tailored to suit any hair color and skin tone.

“This trend is adaptable and works well on red, brown, and even darker hair,” Fitzsimons notes. “While the effect varies by hair color, lightening the hairline a few shades creates a flattering and natural appearance for everyone.”

For brunettes, lightening the hairline and adding face-framing highlights can add depth and dimension, while strawberry blonde tones can beautifully complement redheads. Those with darker hair can achieve a natural, sun-kissed effect with caramel or chocolate hues around the face.

Hair colorist George Papanikolas advises, “When applying this technique to darker hair, incorporating a shadow root helps reduce the contrast between the base color and the highlights, creating a softer transition.”

How to Maintain a Scandinavian Hairline

The Scandi hairline trend is an exciting option for anyone to experiment with. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before heading to the salon to request this look.

“Because the lightening is done directly on the hairline, it’s essential to handle heat styling with care, as the hair may be more delicate,” says celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt. “Additionally, as the color grows out, the contrast may appear more pronounced than with other techniques due to its bold nature.”

This means you’ll need to maintain the Scandi hairline look, manage noticeable regrowth, or consult your colorist to blend the highlights as they grow out. Fortunately, certain hair products and treatments can help preserve the Scandinavian hairline effect between salon visits.

Recommended Products for the Scandinavian Hairline

Fitzsimons recommends using a purple or blue shampoo to counteract brassy tones. Purple shampoo neutralizes yellow hues, while blue shampoo works to eliminate orange tones in brown or dark hair. Consider Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo (olaplex.com) or the budget-friendly Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo (amazon.com).

Additionally, switching to a color-safe hair care routine is essential to maintain vibrancy. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments to keep bleached or dyed hair healthy and glossy. Use shampoos designed for color-treated hair and always apply a heat protectant before using styling tools.