9+ Ways to Color Hair Extensions Safely & Easily


9+ Ways to Color Hair Extensions Safely & Easily

The method of altering the hue of supplemental hair items permits for personalization and mixing with one’s pure hair shade. For example, including highlights or lowlights to extensions can create depth and dimension, mimicking pure hair progress patterns.

Attaining a seamless and pure look is a main good thing about this follow. It permits people to experiment with totally different colours with out completely altering their pure hair. Traditionally, hair adornment and modification have been integral to varied cultures, and this follow is a contemporary extension of that custom. It affords flexibility and management over one’s look, contributing to self-expression and confidence.

This text will discover the varied points of altering the shade of hair additions, masking subjects reminiscent of appropriate dye sorts, correct methods, and upkeep for long-lasting shade.

1. Extension Hair Sort

The feasibility and success of coloring hair extensions are closely depending on the kind of hair used of their development. Completely different hair sorts react in another way to paint, requiring particular merchandise and methods. Understanding these variations is paramount for attaining fascinating outcomes and stopping injury.

  • Human Hair

    Extensions crafted from human hair supply essentially the most versatility in coloring. They are often handled equally to pure hair, accepting a variety of dyes, together with everlasting, semi-permanent, and momentary colours. Excessive-quality human hair, reminiscent of Remy hair, usually yields the very best outcomes and may face up to extra advanced coloring processes like bleaching or highlighting. Nonetheless, even with human hair, variations in origin and processing can affect shade uptake, making strand exams important.

  • Artificial Hair

    Artificial hair extensions, produced from varied plastic fibers, pose vital limitations in coloring. Customary hair dyes formulated for human hair are sometimes incompatible with artificial fibers. Utilizing these dyes can result in unpredictable outcomes, injury, and even full destruction of the extensions. Specialised dyes designed for artificial supplies can be found, however the shade vary is usually restricted, and the outcomes will not be as long-lasting as with human hair.

  • Warmth-Resistant Artificial Hair

    Some artificial extensions are labeled as “heat-resistant,” permitting for styling with warmth instruments. Whereas these extensions supply extra styling flexibility, their colorability stays restricted. They could tolerate low warmth dyes particularly designed for artificial fibers, however attaining vital shade adjustments or advanced shade methods stays difficult.

  • Blended Hair

    Sure extensions comprise a mix of human and artificial hair. These blends goal to mix the affordability of artificial hair with the styling and coloring versatility of human hair. Nonetheless, coloring blended extensions presents distinctive challenges. The differing responses of human and artificial fibers to dyes can lead to uneven shade distribution or injury to the artificial element. Cautious consideration of the mix ratio and acceptable dye choice are vital.

Accurately figuring out the extension hair kind is the essential first step in figuring out whether or not coloring is feasible and, if that’s the case, the suitable strategies to make use of. This information, mixed with cautious product choice and meticulous utility, considerably will increase the chance of attaining the specified shade consequence whereas preserving the integrity of the hair extensions.

2. Appropriate Dye Sorts

Dye choice is paramount for profitable hair extension coloring. The compatibility between dye kind and extension hair materials immediately influences shade uptake, longevity, and general hair well being. Using an unsuitable dye can result in uneven shade, injury, and even full destruction of the extensions. Understanding the nuances of assorted dye sorts is due to this fact important.

Everlasting dyes, containing ammonia and peroxide, elevate the hair cuticle and deposit shade molecules deep throughout the hair shaft. This ends in long-lasting shade however also can trigger extra injury, notably to processed or delicate hair. These dyes are usually appropriate for virgin human hair extensions however ought to be used cautiously on processed human hair. They’re sometimes not advisable for artificial hair extensions, as the tough chemical compounds can soften or degrade the fibers.

Semi-permanent dyes, missing ammonia and containing decrease peroxide concentrations, deposit shade onto the hair shaft with out considerably penetrating the cuticle. These dyes supply much less damaging shade alteration appropriate for beforehand coloured or extra delicate human hair extensions. They supply much less everlasting shade adjustments in comparison with everlasting dyes, progressively washing out over a number of shampoos. These dyes are usually unsuitable for artificial hair extensions.

Momentary dyes, reminiscent of hair mascaras, chalks, and shade sprays, coat the hair floor with out penetration. They provide short-term shade adjustments, simply washing out with a single shampoo. These dyes can be utilized on each human hair and a few artificial hair extensions, offering a low-commitment possibility for experimentation. Nonetheless, shade payoff and longevity are considerably restricted.

Particularly formulated dyes exist for artificial hair extensions, providing restricted shade choices. These dyes sometimes require warmth utility to bind the colour to the artificial fibers. Cautious adherence to producer directions is essential to keep away from damaging the extensions.

Selecting the proper dye kind requires cautious consideration of the extension hair materials (human, artificial, or blended), the specified shade depth, and the specified longevity of the colour change. Prioritizing compatibility safeguards the integrity of the extensions and optimizes the probabilities of attaining desired outcomes.

3. Colour Choice

Colour choice is a vital element when contemplating altering the shade of hair extensions. The specified aesthetic consequence, the bottom shade of the extensions, and the traits of the hair itself all play vital roles in figuring out the suitable shade alternative. A mismatch between chosen shade and these components can result in unsatisfactory outcomes, starting from uneven shade distribution to undesirable hues. For instance, making use of a lightweight shade to darkish hair extensions typically requires pre-lightening, which may injury the hair if not carried out accurately. Trying to attain a vibrant style shade on extensions not particularly designed for such shades would possibly end in a muted or uneven ultimate shade. The interaction between chosen shade and hair kind considerably influences the end result.

Attaining a pure and cohesive look necessitates cautious shade choice. The chosen shade ought to complement pure hair shade and pores and skin tone. If the aim is to mix extensions seamlessly, shade matching is paramount. Slight variations in shade can create dimension and depth, mimicking pure hair progress patterns. Conversely, drastically totally different colours can be utilized to create daring, assertion appears. Contemplating the general aesthetic aim is prime to profitable shade choice. For instance, somebody searching for a sun-kissed impact would go for highlights just a few shades lighter than their base shade, whereas somebody searching for a vibrant, unnatural shade would possibly select a daring blue or purple. Sensible utility necessitates understanding these nuances.

Strategic shade choice considerably impacts the general look and perceived naturalness of hair extensions. Cautious consideration of the bottom shade, desired consequence, and hair kind is crucial for profitable shade utility. Understanding the interaction of those components permits for knowledgeable selections, optimizing the probabilities of attaining desired aesthetic outcomes whereas sustaining hair integrity. Overlooking shade choice can compromise the whole course of, emphasizing its significance in attaining passable and long-lasting outcomes.

4. Strand Check

A strand check is an important preliminary step within the hair coloring course of, notably for extensions. It serves as a predictive instrument, providing priceless insights into how the chosen shade will work together with the precise hair kind, revealing potential challenges and stopping undesirable outcomes. Performing a strand check minimizes the danger of irreversible injury and ensures a extra predictable and passable coloring expertise.

  • Predicting Colour End result

    The first perform of a strand check is to preview the ultimate shade end result. Making use of the chosen dye to a small, remoted part of hair permits for correct evaluation of the colour’s depth, hue, and general look on the precise hair kind. For example, a strand check can reveal whether or not a selected shade of blonde will seem ashy or golden on the extensions, permitting for changes to the colour components if vital. This predictive functionality is crucial for attaining the specified shade and avoiding surprising outcomes.

  • Assessing Hair Compatibility

    Completely different hair sorts react in another way to hair shade. A strand check helps decide the compatibility between the chosen dye and the extension hair. It will possibly reveal whether or not the hair is prone to turn out to be dry, brittle, or broken by the coloring course of. For instance, a strand check on artificial hair can point out whether or not a selected dye is appropriate or if it’s going to trigger the fibers to soften or degrade. This evaluation is important for preserving the integrity of the extensions.

  • Figuring out Processing Time

    Processing time considerably influences the ultimate shade end result. A strand check permits for optimization of the processing time required to attain the specified shade saturation. By observing the colour growth on the check strand at varied intervals, one can decide the optimum processing period, stopping over-processing or under-processing. This precision is essential for attaining the specified shade depth and minimizing injury.

  • Evaluating Colorfastness

    Colorfastness refers back to the dye’s means to withstand fading or bleeding. A strand check can present insights into the colour’s longevity by observing how the check strand reacts to washing or publicity to daylight. This data is effective for managing expectations and figuring out acceptable aftercare procedures to take care of shade vibrancy. For example, a strand check can reveal whether or not a selected crimson dye is vulnerable to fading, permitting for proactive measures to protect the colour.

By offering a preview of the colour consequence, assessing hair compatibility, figuring out processing time, and evaluating colorfastness, the strand check minimizes dangers and maximizes the chance of attaining the specified shade outcomes when coloring hair extensions. This seemingly easy step performs a vital function in attaining a profitable and satisfying coloring expertise, preserving the integrity of the extensions, and attaining the specified aesthetic consequence.

5. Utility Approach

Utility method performs a pivotal function in attaining uniform and fascinating shade outcomes when coloring hair extensions. Exact and methodical utility ensures even product distribution, minimizing the danger of patchiness, streaks, or undesirable shade variations. Completely different methods could also be employed relying on the specified consequence, the kind of dye used, and the hair extension materials. A radical understanding of those methods is crucial for profitable shade utility.

  • Sectioning and Saturation

    Correct sectioning is prime for even shade distribution. Dividing the hair extensions into smaller, manageable sections ensures that the dye reaches each strand, minimizing the danger of missed spots or uneven saturation. Thorough saturation of every part with the dye combination is essential for constant shade uptake. Insufficient saturation can result in patchy or uneven outcomes. For instance, when highlighting extensions, exact sectioning and saturation are essential for creating outlined highlights with out bleeding or overlapping.

  • Root Utility vs. Full Protection

    The appliance method varies relying on the specified consequence. For root touch-ups or mixing new progress, the dye is utilized solely to the basis space. For full protection or vital shade adjustments, the dye is utilized to the whole size of the extensions. Understanding this distinction is crucial for attaining the specified shade impact. For example, making use of dye to the whole size when solely a root touch-up is required can lead to pointless product utilization and potential over-processing.

  • Product Distribution and Mixing

    Even product distribution and thorough mixing are important for stopping streaks or traces of demarcation. Utilizing a tint brush or applicator bottle permits for exact product placement and managed distribution. Cautious mixing ensures seamless transitions between colours, notably when making use of a number of shades or highlights. Failure to mix correctly can result in seen traces or streaks, compromising the pure look of the extensions.

  • Warmth Utility (For Particular Dyes)

    Sure dye sorts, notably these formulated for artificial hair extensions, require warmth utility for optimum shade penetration and bonding. This sometimes includes making use of warmth utilizing a hair dryer or different warmth supply after the dye has been utilized. Exact adherence to producer directions relating to warmth utility is essential to keep away from damaging the extensions. Incorrect warmth utility can soften artificial fibers or trigger discoloration in human hair extensions.

Mastering acceptable utility methods, from sectioning and saturation to product distribution and warmth utility, immediately influences the success of the hair extension coloring course of. Exact and methodical utility minimizes the danger of undesirable outcomes, making certain uniform shade saturation and a professional-looking end result. The selection of method ought to align with the chosen dye, the hair extension materials, and the specified aesthetic aim. This consideration to element is crucial for attaining passable and long-lasting shade outcomes.

6. Processing Time

Processing time is a vital issue influencing the end result when altering the shade of hair extensions. It immediately impacts the depth, longevity, and general well being of the processed hair. Inadequate processing might end in weak or uneven shade, whereas extreme processing can result in dryness, breakage, and irreversible injury. The optimum processing period is dependent upon a number of variables, together with the precise dye used, the preliminary hair shade, the specified ultimate shade, and the porosity of the hair extensions. For example, lightening darkish hair extensions to a a lot lighter shade sometimes requires an extended processing time in comparison with merely including a darker shade to mild hair. Equally, porous hair tends to soak up shade extra shortly than non-porous hair, necessitating cautious monitoring to keep away from over-processing.

The connection between processing time and the chemical processes occurring throughout the hair shaft is crucial to know. Hair dyes work by both depositing shade molecules onto the hair shaft or by lifting the pure pigment and changing it with synthetic shade. These chemical reactions require particular durations to finish successfully. Prematurely rinsing the dye can interrupt these processes, resulting in suboptimal shade outcomes. Conversely, leaving the dye on for too lengthy can over-process the hair, inflicting injury to the cuticle and underlying cortex. Understanding these chemical processes underscores the significance of adhering to manufacturer-recommended processing occasions and conducting strand exams to find out optimum period for particular person hair sorts and desired shade outcomes. For instance, a everlasting hair dye might require 30-45 minutes to completely develop, whereas a semi-permanent dye would possibly solely want 20-Half-hour. Ignoring these pointers can compromise the ultimate shade and the well being of the extensions.

Managing processing time successfully is essential for attaining desired shade outcomes and preserving the integrity of hair extensions. Cautious consideration of things influencing processing time, coupled with adherence to product directions and utilization of strand exams, minimizes the danger of harm and maximizes the chance of attaining desired shade outcomes. This cautious method underscores the importance of processing time as an integral element of profitable hair extension coloring, emphasizing the fragile steadiness between attaining the specified shade and sustaining hair well being.

7. Aftercare Procedures

Aftercare procedures are important for sustaining the vibrancy, longevity, and general well being of coloured hair extensions. The coloring course of, no matter how mild, inherently stresses the hair, making it extra prone to wreck and shade fading. Applicable aftercare mitigates these results, preserving the funding made in coloring and increasing the lifespan of the extensions. Neglecting aftercare can result in speedy shade fading, dryness, brittleness, and elevated tangling, in the end shortening the lifespan of the extensions. For instance, utilizing harsh shampoos or extreme warmth styling on freshly coloured extensions can strip the colour and trigger injury, negating the advantages of the coloring course of.

Particular aftercare practices are advisable to maximise shade retention and hair well being. These embrace utilizing color-safe shampoos and conditioners formulated to reduce shade stripping, avoiding extreme warmth styling, and minimizing publicity to harsh environmental parts like chlorine and extended daylight. Common deep conditioning remedies assist replenish moisture misplaced in the course of the coloring course of, sustaining hair elasticity and stopping breakage. For example, incorporating a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner into the hair care routine helps protect shade vibrancy, whereas making use of a leave-in conditioner earlier than warmth styling offers thermal safety and minimizes injury. Moreover, utilizing a UV protectant spray earlier than solar publicity helps forestall shade fading attributable to UV radiation.

Diligent aftercare is inextricably linked to the success and longevity of coloured hair extensions. It represents an ongoing dedication to preserving the specified shade and sustaining hair well being, maximizing the return on funding. Constant adherence to advisable aftercare practices safeguards the colour vibrancy, minimizes injury, and extends the lifespan of the extensions, making certain long-lasting, lovely outcomes. Failing to prioritize aftercare undermines the whole coloring course of, highlighting its essential function in attaining and sustaining desired outcomes.

8. Upkeep Routine

A complete upkeep routine is essential for preserving the colour and general high quality of coloured hair extensions. This routine extends past fundamental hair care and encompasses particular practices tailor-made to the distinctive wants of coloured extensions. The coloring course of, notably lightening or utilizing vibrant shades, could make extensions extra prone to dryness, breakage, and shade fading. A devoted upkeep routine mitigates these dangers, making certain the longevity of each the colour and the extensions themselves. For example, neglecting common deep conditioning remedies can result in dry, brittle extensions vulnerable to breakage, whereas failing to make use of color-safe merchandise can speed up shade fading, requiring extra frequent re-coloring and additional stressing the hair.

Particular upkeep practices contribute considerably to the long-term well being and vibrancy of coloured extensions. Common washing with sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos and conditioners helps protect shade vibrancy and stop untimely fading. Limiting warmth styling and utilizing thermal protectants when warmth is critical minimizes injury and maintains hair integrity. Moreover, incorporating deep conditioning remedies replenishes moisture and strengthens the hair, lowering breakage and selling a wholesome shine. For instance, utilizing a leave-in conditioner with UV safety earlier than solar publicity may also help forestall shade fading attributable to UV rays. Equally, storing extensions correctly, reminiscent of in a satin bag or on a wig stand, prevents tangling and minimizes friction, which may result in breakage and shade degradation.

Constant adherence to a tailor-made upkeep routine is an funding within the long-term look and lifespan of coloured hair extensions. This proactive method preserves the vibrancy of the colour, minimizes injury, and in the end reduces the frequency of re-coloring, saving each money and time. Neglecting correct upkeep not solely compromises the aesthetic outcomes but in addition shortens the lifespan of the extensions, highlighting the integral function of a devoted upkeep routine in maximizing the funding in coloured hair extensions. Finally, constant upkeep is vital to having fun with vibrant, healthy-looking extensions for an prolonged interval.

9. Skilled Session

In search of skilled session earlier than coloring hair extensions can considerably impression the end result, particularly for advanced shade adjustments or when working with high-quality extensions. A skilled stylist possesses in-depth data of hair coloring methods, product compatibility, and potential challenges related to totally different hair sorts and textures. This experience proves invaluable in minimizing dangers and maximizing the chance of attaining desired outcomes whereas preserving hair integrity.

  • Experience in Colour Matching and Choice

    Skilled stylists possess a skilled eye for shade and may precisely assess the prevailing shade of the extensions and suggest acceptable shade selections to attain desired outcomes. They perceive the nuances of undertones, shade ranges, and the way totally different shades work together, making certain a seamless mix with pure hair or making a desired distinction. This experience is especially priceless when aiming for advanced shade methods like balayage or ombre, the place exact shade choice and placement are essential.

  • Data of Hair Sorts and Dye Compatibility

    Completely different hair sorts, whether or not human hair or artificial, react in another way to varied dyes and coloring processes. Knowledgeable stylist can establish the hair kind of the extensions and suggest appropriate dye sorts and utility methods. This information is essential for stopping injury, making certain even shade distribution, and attaining optimum shade payoff. For example, a stylist would know which dyes are protected to be used on Remy human hair extensions versus artificial heat-resistant extensions.

  • Evaluation of Hair Well being and Situation

    The well being and situation of the extensions considerably affect how they are going to react to the coloring course of. Knowledgeable stylist can assess the present state of the extensions, figuring out any pre-existing injury or dryness which may have an effect on shade uptake or enhance the danger of additional injury in the course of the coloring course of. Based mostly on this evaluation, they’ll suggest acceptable pre-coloring remedies or changes to the coloring course of to reduce dangers and obtain optimum outcomes.

  • Steerage on Aftercare and Upkeep

    Correct aftercare is essential for sustaining the colour vibrancy and general well being of coloured extensions. Knowledgeable stylist can present customized suggestions for aftercare merchandise and practices, tailor-made to the precise hair kind and shade therapy. This steerage ensures the longevity of the colour, minimizes fading, and helps preserve the general well being and look of the extensions over time. This would possibly embrace recommendation on utilizing color-safe shampoos and conditioners, avoiding extreme warmth styling, and scheduling common deep conditioning remedies.

Investing in skilled session previous to coloring hair extensions can considerably enhance the general consequence and decrease potential dangers. A stylist’s experience in shade choice, product data, and hair well being evaluation ensures that the chosen shade enhances the person’s pure hair, the dye is suitable with the extension kind, and the method is carried out safely and successfully, maximizing the funding and making certain long-lasting, lovely outcomes. This proactive method not solely produces superior aesthetic outcomes but in addition helps preserve the integrity and longevity of the hair extensions.

Ceaselessly Requested Questions

Addressing frequent inquiries relating to the alteration of hair extension shade offers readability and facilitates knowledgeable decision-making.

Query 1: What forms of hair extensions might be coloured?

Human hair extensions supply the best versatility in coloring, accepting most dye sorts. Artificial hair extensions, nevertheless, have limitations. Whereas some artificial fibers might tolerate specialised dyes, attaining fascinating outcomes might be difficult. Blended hair extensions, comprising each human and artificial hair, pose additional complexities as a result of differing responses of every hair kind to paint.

Query 2: Are there particular dyes advisable for coloring extensions?

Dye choice hinges on the extension hair kind. Everlasting and semi-permanent dyes are usually appropriate for human hair extensions. Artificial hair extensions require specialised dyes, typically with restricted shade choices. Utilizing incompatible dyes can result in unpredictable outcomes and injury.

Query 3: How does one forestall uneven shade when coloring extensions?

Even shade distribution depends closely on correct utility method. Sectioning the hair into smaller, manageable parts and making certain thorough saturation with the dye combination are essential. A strand check beforehand helps decide optimum processing time and predict the ultimate shade consequence.

Query 4: Can extensions be lightened?

Lightening extensions, notably darker shades, requires cautious consideration. Whereas human hair extensions might be lightened, the method might be damaging if not carried out accurately. Artificial hair extensions are usually not appropriate for lightening. Skilled session is advisable, particularly for vital shade adjustments.

Query 5: How does one preserve the colour of extensions after coloring?

Sustaining shade vibrancy requires particular aftercare procedures. Using color-safe shampoos and conditioners, minimizing warmth styling, and limiting publicity to harsh environmental components assist protect shade longevity. Common deep conditioning remedies additionally contribute to sustaining hair well being and shade vibrancy.

Query 6: When ought to skilled help be hunted for coloring extensions?

Skilled session is especially helpful for advanced shade adjustments, corrective shade conditions, or when working with high-quality extensions. A stylist’s experience minimizes dangers, optimizes shade choice, and ensures correct utility methods, maximizing the chance of attaining desired outcomes whereas preserving hair integrity.

Prioritizing correct method, product choice, and aftercare are important for attaining and sustaining desired shade outcomes whereas preserving the integrity of hair extensions.

The following part will delve into particular shade methods and tendencies appropriate for hair extensions.

Suggestions for Coloring Hair Extensions

Profitable shade alteration of hair extensions requires cautious consideration of a number of components. The next ideas present steerage for attaining desired outcomes whereas sustaining hair integrity.

Tip 1: Correct Hair Sort Identification

Exact identification of the extension hair kind (human, artificial, mix) is paramount earlier than initiating any coloring course of. This determines appropriate dye sorts and methods, stopping irreversible injury. Misidentification can result in unsuitable product use and unsatisfactory outcomes.

Tip 2: Prioritize Strand Assessments

Conducting a strand check is non-negotiable. This preliminary step predicts shade consequence, assesses hair compatibility with the chosen dye, and determines optimum processing time. It minimizes the danger of undesirable outcomes and safeguards in opposition to potential injury.

Tip 3: Meticulous Product Choice

Cautious dye choice is essential. Compatibility between dye and hair kind is paramount. Utilizing unsuitable dyes can compromise shade outcomes and injury extensions. Choosing high-quality, particularly formulated dyes yields optimum outcomes.

Tip 4: Exact Utility

Methodical utility methods guarantee even shade distribution. Correct sectioning, saturation, and mixing forestall patchiness, streaks, or traces of demarcation. Adhering to advisable utility methods ensures professional-looking outcomes.

Tip 5: Managed Processing Time

Managing processing time is crucial. Adhering to producer pointers and outcomes from the strand check prevents over-processing or under-processing. Cautious monitoring all through the processing period ensures optimum shade growth and minimizes injury.

Tip 6: Diligent Aftercare

Implementing a devoted aftercare routine preserves shade vibrancy and hair well being. Utilizing color-safe merchandise, minimizing warmth styling, and common deep conditioning remedies preserve shade longevity and stop dryness and breakage.

Tip 7: Constant Upkeep

Common upkeep is essential for long-term shade and hair well being. Constant use of color-safe merchandise, minimizing warmth publicity, and common deep conditioning remedies protect shade vibrancy and stop injury.

Adhering to those ideas maximizes the chance of attaining fascinating, long-lasting shade outcomes whereas preserving the integrity of hair extensions. This proactive method ensures a satisfying coloring expertise and extends the lifespan of the extensions.

The next conclusion summarizes key takeaways and affords ultimate suggestions.

Conclusion

The exploration of altering the shade of hair extensions reveals a multifaceted course of requiring cautious consideration of a number of key components. Hair kind dictates appropriate dye selections and methods. Human hair extensions supply better versatility in comparison with artificial options. Meticulous utility, together with correct sectioning and saturation, ensures even shade distribution. Strand exams are essential for predicting outcomes and stopping undesirable outcomes. Applicable processing time, dictated by dye kind and hair traits, immediately impacts shade depth and hair well being. Diligent aftercare and constant upkeep, utilizing color-safe merchandise and minimizing warmth publicity, protect shade vibrancy and prolong the lifespan of extensions. Skilled session offers priceless experience, notably for advanced shade adjustments or when working with high-quality extensions.

Profitable shade alteration requires a holistic method, integrating product data, technical ability, and ongoing upkeep. Knowledgeable decision-making, coupled with meticulous execution, empowers one to attain desired aesthetic outcomes whereas preserving the integrity of hair extensions. This empowers people to precise private model and improve their look with confidence.