Get the Look: Expert Stylist Shares Secrets to Olivia Munn’s Stunning Hair

When you think of Olivia Munn, her roles in Your Friends and Neighbors or her comedian husband John Mulaney might come to mind; however, what immediately strikes us is her stunning hair. The 44-year-old actress boasts thick, wavy, chocolate-brown hair that always appears flawlessly styled.

As long-time fans of her beautiful locks, we consulted celebrity stylist Gregory Patterson, who has worked with stars like Britney Spears and Anne Hathaway. As the DIY Expert for Sally Beauty, he shared his insights on at-home hair care. While the styling choices are yours, starting with high-quality hair products will make everything else easier.

A modern take on classic ombré featuring exceptional richness and depth.

“Olivia’s hair color is like a delightful double dip of chocolate! It’s a multi-dimensional work of art, showcasing a rich dark chocolate base that seamlessly transitions into warm milk chocolate tips — a contemporary twist on classic ombré with fabulous richness and depth,” Patterson commented.

Achieving Olivia Munn’s Hair Color with a Color Melt

To replicate Olivia Munn’s chocolatey hue, Gregory recommends using a “color melt” technique, blending two shades of brown for an ombré effect.

1. Begin with Dark Roots: For her two-toned look, Gregory suggests bringing your roots to a “level 3.” Start by applying Sally Hansen’s Bondbar 3NN at the roots, extending down to the cheekbones.
2. Add Lighter Ends: Next, apply Sally Hansen’s Bondbar 5NN where the darker shade ends. Blend them where they meet to create a smooth transition for gorgeous milk chocolate ends.

How to Achieve a Glass-Like Shine

“Olivia’s hair shines brilliantly,” Gregory says. “That remarkable, almost glass-like reflection captures light from every angle.”

1. Gloss It: Gregory recommends the ION Gloss Collection. Start with the shampoo to enhance your hair’s health. “This color-safe glossing regimen seals in color and boosts shine from root to tip,” he explains.
2. Hold It: After glossing, Gregory adds a bit of Volume Root Lift Spray at the roots. “This provides grip and light hold for styling with hot tools,” he notes.
3. Protect It: Next, apply FREEWILL Blowout Cream from mid-length to the ends. This offers heat protection, smoothness, and control.
4. Polish It: Finally, finish off with ION Gloss Serum for hydration and humidity protection. “This is essential for maintaining that polished wave throughout the day,” he advises.
5. Add Texture: Lastly, apply Eva NYC Shapeshifter Flexible Hold Hairspray for a textured hold.

Creating S Waves Is All About the Heat

“For that effortless, lived-in wave with ultra-glossy shine, I suggest using two heat tools,” Gregory recommends. “A flat iron followed by a large-barrel curling iron.”

1. Smooth It Out: Use an Ion One Stroke 1.5” Flat Iron carefully. It’s important to keep the heat low to avoid damaging your hair — you’re aiming to smooth, not fry. “This helps achieve a high-shine finish by evening the cuticle before adding waves,” Gregory explains.
2. Forming Waves: Next, use an Ion Titanium Pro Curling Iron to shape your waves. If it’s smaller than 1.5 inches, you can wrap larger sections or fluff your curls afterward. “Uniformity is vital: wrap each section in the same direction to create that consistent S-wave,” he adds. “Once curled, allow the hair to cool completely before brushing out with a wet brush or wide-tooth comb. Tip: spritz your brush with flexible hairspray to eliminate static and help lock in the wave pattern.”