So, there I was, just minding my own business on a coffee run when I saw it—a flash of color peeking out from under the hair of the girl in front of me in line.
It was like a rainbow had decided to play hide-and-seek in her hair, and let me tell you, I was obsessed.
The top layer of her hair was all business, a sleek brown, but underneath? It was a party—vibrant streaks of pink, blue, and purple that made me want to whip out my phone and book a salon appointment right then and there.
Peekaboo hair is the ultimate “keep them guessing” move, and it’s perfect for adding a pop of color without going all-out.
Ready for some inspo to show your stylist? Here are 12 peekaboo hair colors that’ll have you flipping your hair just for the fun of it.
12 Show-Stopping Peekaboo Hair Color Ideas.
Here are some of the most on-trend peek a boo hair color ideas of the moment to help you get started on your hair-color journey.
Expert Insights
“The key to a standout peekaboo hair color is customization. It’s not just about picking a bold shade but ensuring that the hidden color complements your natural hair and skin tone. For example, cooler shades like blues and purples can enhance cooler skin undertones, while warm tones like reds and oranges can really make golden or olive skin pop.”
#1 Black hair with white underneath
Black and white is a great option for those with very dark hair who want to add a touch of lightness and fun to their look!
To achieve this style, simply dye the bottom layer of your hair white and leave the top black. You can use a temporary dye so that you can change up your look as often as you like without damaging your hair.
Blonde and black also works delightfully if you go for platinum light blonde contrast against a jet black base.
#2 Black hair with green underneath
If you’re feeling extra bold, why not try adding a pop of color to your black hair? Green and black is a great option if you want something that really stands out.
To get this look, start by bleaching the underside of your hair and then dyeing it over a light emerald green or neon shade. You can also add a few green peekaboo hair highlights throughout for an extra dose of color.
We also love this color combo in peekaboo braids.
#3 Brown hair with blonde peekaboo highlights
This is a classic combo that always looks chic and stylish. For a more subtle take on the trend, go for a sandy blonde or golden hue instead of an icy platinum shade.
Just dye the underneath layer of your hair in platinum blonde highlights and leave the top a warmer chestnut or ashy brown – easy peasy!
#4 Dark hair with red peekaboo highlights
This is such a fun and unique hair color combo and black and red peekaboo hair is one of the most popular ways to wear the look.
You can work red underlayer hair dye effortlessly with dark brown hair or black base color. The best part about it is that you can use any shade of red highlights that you like – from a bold and vibrant hue to a more subdued burgundy shade.
#5 Blonde hair with purple peekaboo highlights
If you’re looking for a hair color that’s both fun and unique, try blonde with purple highlights underneath. This look is achieved by adding a pop of color to blonde hair.
Go for lavender peekaboo highlights or mauve hair dye on a caramel base for a softer and more blended underlayer hue.
#6 Blonde hair with pink underneath
For a fun and flirty look, try blonde with pink highlights underneath. This is a great way to add some personality to your look.
If you want a subtler take on this trend, opt for a pastel pink shade or try flamingo pink hair for a more vibrant, lasting color. Cool tones can go for rose gold peekaboo highlights to create depth and dimension.
#7 Blue and pink peekaboo highlights
This is a fun and unique way to add some color to your hair. To get this look, start with blue highlights and then add in pink peekaboo highlights for an extra pop of color.
Fantasy colors like pink and blue peekaboo hair colors work great for this look and if you don’t want to dye your hair, colored hair extensions are the way to go!
#8 Rainbow peekaboo
This is a unique and colorful way to add some personality to your hair. To get this look, start with a light base color and then add in peekaboo highlights in all the colors of the rainbow.
This is a great way to show off your personality and it’s also a great way to experiment with different hair colors. It looks particularly striking on light blonde hair.
#9 Silver hair with blue underneath
Silver hair is all the rage right now and this is a modern and trendy way to add some color to your hair.
To get this look, start with a silver base color and then add in blue peekaboo highlights for an extra pop of color. Pastel blues work well with the silver-gray tone.
#10 Mermaid peekaboo
Sea and ocean colors are all the rage this season, so why not add a little bit of that ocean magic to your hair?
Teal and turquoise highlights blended with your natural hair color is a great way to add a touch of fun and intrigue.
This is a look that’s best achieved with the help of a professional hairstylist, as it can be difficult to get the right amount of contrast without overdoing it!
#11 Peekaboo unicorn hair
Peekaboo unicorn hair color is a playful and whimsical way to add some color to your locks.
We love it because it’s not limited to just one specific color. You can choose from a range of pastel shades like baby pink, lavender, and mint green to create your own unique unicorn-inspired look.
#12 Peekaboo pastel rainbow hair
Pastel rainbow peekaboo highlights are a subtle twist on the more vibrant rainbow colors.
Instead of going all out with bold, bright hues, peekaboo pastel rainbow hair incorporates soft, delicate shades of color – think mauve, baby blue, lavender purple, and minty green.
Related post: What Are Peekaboo Braids? 8 Trending Ideas for an Edgy Look.
Can I do peekaboo hair at home?
It can be easy to do peekaboo hair yourself at home, but you’ll need a pal to help you out.
That’s because the underneath of your hair is round the back of your head and tricky to reach and dye by yourself.
Once you’ve picked your chosen color, the results will depend on what color your hair is now.
If your hair is dark – you may need to lighten your hair first before applying your color. This means using bleach to get the right, light base to make the hair dye color really pop.
If your hair is light – you have a good base for most colors. If your heart is set on pastel hair dye, you may also need to lighten your hair first to get the right base.
ALWAYS do a strand test first to check what color you’ll end up with and avoid any hair dye mishaps.
How Long Will Peekaboo Hair Last?
Alright, let’s talk longevity—how long will those peekaboo highlights stay looking fresh?
The lifespan of your color really depends on a few factors: the shade you choose, how often you wash your hair, and the type of dye used.
Typically, vibrant colors like blues, pinks, and purples are more prone to fading and might last around 4-6 weeks before they start to lose their intensity.
Pastels and lighter shades can fade even quicker, sometimes within 2-4 weeks.
If your stylist used a semi-permanent dye, you’re looking at a shorter lifespan, while a permanent dye might hang on a bit longer.
But don’t fret—there are ways to stretch out the life of your peekaboo color. With proper care (hello, sulfate-free shampoo and cool water rinses), you can keep that pop of color looking salon-fresh for as long as possible.
How to Care for Peekaboo Hair
Do how do you keep it looking fresh and fabulous? Don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds.
First up, sulfate-free shampoo is your new best friend. Sulfates can strip away color faster than you can say “touch-up,” so look for gentle, color-safe formulas.
Also, keep the water cool when you wash—hot water might feel amazing, but it can fade that gorgeous hue faster than you’d like.
Next, deep conditioning is key.
Bleaching (which is usually necessary for those vibrant colors to show up) can be a bit harsh on your hair, so treat it to a hydrating mask once a week.
And let’s not forget about heat protection. If you’re addicted to your flat iron or curling wand, make sure you’re using a good heat protectant spray to prevent any extra damage.
Lastly, limit the washes. I know, I know—oily roots are nobody’s favorite, but washing less often will keep your color looking fresh for longer.
When in doubt, reach for dry shampoo to keep things looking and feeling clean.
Parting Words
Peekaboo hair is like your little secret weapon—a hidden splash of personality that pops out when you least expect it. It’s the perfect way to add some fun to your look without committing to a full head of color.
So, whether you’re going for a subtle pastel or a bold neon, these under-hair hues are sure to make you feel like the trendsetter you are.
So go on, flip that hair with confidence! You’ve got this peekaboo game on lock. Now, excuse me while I book my next salon appointment—I’m feeling some peekaboo inspiration coming on!
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair dye success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
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