Katlin Starks (@hairbykatlin), a master stylist and co-owner of M&K Studio Salon in Albuquerque, NM, shares the details for this gorgeous makeover that we found on her Instagram page. "My client had virgin hair except for the old brassy ombré on her ends," says Starks. "She is a natural level 4. Her hair was very dry, and she had not had a haircut in over 6 months. I started by smoothing out her hair with my round brush then went in with a dry cut. I cut about 3 inches off her length and cleaned up her layers. I then texturized her hair and took a little bit of bulk out since it was so thick and I wanted it to lay nicely for her soon to be ombré."

COLOR HOW TO:

FORMULA:

A- 1 1/2 scoops Wella Freelights with 20 vol developer (back sections).
B- 1 scoop Wella Freelights with 30 vol developer (front sections).
C- Matrix ColorSync - 2oz 6N + 1oz 8P + 1oz 8V (toner).

APPLICATION:

Step 1: Separate into 3 sections, 2 front and one in the back. Angle partings in a downward triangle in the back using Formula A. Free hand paint the higher sections, creating 3 feathered balayage highlights. Paint in between, foiling each section as you go. Then paint a low V on each side within foils. Continue throughout the back applying color in this manner.

Step 2: In the front sections angle upward toward the face, using the same pattern as the back, high-low using Formula B. For the front, paint higher around the 3 main points of the face to frame the face when curled, pulled back or straight.

Step 3: Process for 40 minutes, lifting to level 8. (Note: Check foils every 10 minutes to ensure even lift and to maintain the integrity of the hair.) Rinse and shampoo. Towel dry.

Step 4: Tone with Formula C for 10 minutes at the bowl. Rinse with cool water and condition the ends. (Note: Advise client to not wash her hair for 24 hours to let the toner set in the hair.)

Step 5: Blow dry the hair 80% then add Aquage Silkening Oil Treatment serum mixed with BioMega Behave smoothing balm for a polished blow out.