The Dos and Don'ts of Coloring Your Hair at Home

The Dos and Don'ts of Coloring Your Hair at Home

Hair coloring at home is fun and can save you a lot of money. However, it can also go awry if you're not careful. Here are some tips on what to do and what not to do when you're coloring your hair at home.

1. Do Invest in Good Quality Dye

When doing something as drastic as coloring your hair, you want to make sure you're using a good quality dye. After all, you don't want to end up with a bad hair dye job. Invest in a good quality dye from a well-known brand. This ensures that you're getting a high-quality product that's going to last longer and look better than a cheap dye.

2. Don't Forget to Do a Patch Test

Before you start coloring your hair, it's important to do a patch test. A patch test is a way to make sure that your body won't react badly to the hair dye. To do a patch test, mix a small amount of the dye and apply it to a small area of your skin, usually behind your ear. Wait for 24-48 hours to see if there's any reaction. If there is, don't use the dye.

3. Do Read the Instructions Carefully

When using a hair dye kit, it's important to read the instructions carefully. Make sure you understand the instructions before you start using the product. If you're not sure about something, don't hesitate to ask the customer service or consult the instructions again. Following the instructions carefully will help you achieve the desired result.

4. Don't Leave the Dye on Longer Than the Recommended Time

One mistake that many people make when coloring their hair at home is leaving the dye on for too long. Leaving the dye on longer than the recommended time can cause your hair to dry out and become brittle, and the color may end up looking too dark or unnatural. It's important to follow the recommended amount of time, which is usually around 20-30 minutes depending on the brand and color.

5. Do Protect Your Skin and Clothes

Hair dye can easily stain your skin and clothes, so it's important to protect them. Use petroleum jelly or a thick lotion around your hairline and on your ears to prevent the dye from staining your skin. Use an old t-shirt or a towel to cover your clothes during the process. Make sure you're wearing gloves while applying the dye to avoid staining your hands.

6. Don't Wash Your Hair Right Before Coloring

It's best not to wash your hair right before you start coloring it. Washing your hair right before applying dye can cause your scalp to be more sensitive to the chemicals in the hair dye. It's best to wait a day or two after washing your hair to start coloring it. This will also help the dye to stick better to your hair and last longer.

7. Do Consider Your Hair Type and Color

When choosing a hair dye, it's important to consider your hair type and natural color. If you have fine hair, you may want to choose a dye that's designed for fine hair. If you have dark hair, you may need to use a stronger developer to achieve the desired color. It's also important to choose a color that complements your natural skin tone.

8. Don't Overdo It

Remember, less is more when it comes to hair dye. It's better to apply the dye in small sections and build up the color gradually. Applying too much dye all at once can lead to a patchy and uneven result. If you're looking to go lighter, it's best to do it in stages and over a longer period of time.

9. Do Deep Condition Your Hair

Coloring your hair can be drying, so it's important to deep condition your hair afterwards. This will help to restore moisture and prevent the color from fading too quickly. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.

10. Don't Panic If It Doesn't Turn Out As Planned

If your hair color doesn't turn out as planned, don't panic. There are things you can do to fix it. If the color is too dark, you can use a clarifying shampoo to lighten it up a bit. If the color is too light, you can use a toning shampoo or a semi-permanent color to darken it. And if all else fails, you can go to a professional hair stylist who can help you fix it.

In conclusion, coloring your hair at home can be a fun and easy process if you follow the tips above. Remember to invest in a good quality dye, read the instructions carefully, protect your skin and clothes, and deep condition your hair afterwards. Follow these dos and don'ts, and you'll have beautiful, vibrant hair in no time.