If the goal is to learn how to dye your hair at home, doubts arise. Sometimes, the final result can be anything but what you hoped for. Will we ever achieve a satisfactory result with materials found at the supermarket? The answer is: Yes! But first, listen to the experts.
The truth is, applying hair dye at home isn’t as simple as spending an afternoon at your favorite stylist’s while flipping through Vogue or catching up on social media. However, if you follow the right steps and avoid making extreme changes to your hair (that’s key), things don’t have to go wrong.
But be warned: before buying hair dye to apply at home, you need to understand that this is a chemical and technical process, and if you don’t have the proper knowledge from a professional, you shouldn’t risk it.
What does this mean? Simply put, if you have no prior experience, don’t try to go from a very dark color to an extremely blonde one or do effects like balayage or highlights. The best advice we can give you is: stay within your color range.
How To Color Hair At Home?
‘The most important thing to consider when choosing a hair dye is the brand and also whether your current shade is recommended for the dye you want to apply.
8 Things You Should Know Before Dyeing Your Hair at Home
#1) Does hair length change the amount of dye required?
Yes. If your hair is longer than shoulder-length or very thick, you may need two packs to dye all of it. Also, keep in mind that the ends tend to absorb more dye, so the processing time may vary.
#2) Does hair type matter?
Hair type makes a big difference in the processing time required for hair coloring. One important factor to consider is hair texture; for example, whether individual hairs are thick (wide diameter) or thin (small diameter).
Thick hair generally takes longer to absorb color, so the dye needs to be left on longer. Thin hair usually needs less time to absorb color, so the processing time is shorter.
Dry or permed hair may also absorb dye faster. Since several factors affect processing time, we recommend doing a strand test, which is an excellent way to confirm the processing time required for your dye.
#3) Can I get a haircut or a perm before dyeing my hair?
When you dye your hair at home, you should generally do it before cutting it, especially since hair is usually easier to cut when wet. You shouldn’t shampoo right before dyeing your hair, as this will strip the natural oils from your scalp, which protect it during the dyeing process.
However, in the case of a perm, it’s best to get it done first to ensure it won’t interfere with the new color you’re applying.
If you’re using a permanent color (one that lasts until your hair grows out or until you dye it again), wait 7 to 10 days and shampoo your hair at least once before dyeing it.
A temporary hair color that lasts up to 8 shampoos (if the product doesn’t contain ammonia or peroxide) can be used on the same day as a perm, provided your scalp isn’t irritated and is in good condition.
Check the instructions on the box to be sure, as some temporary colors that last up to 24 shampoos and contain peroxide require you to wait 7 to 10 days after your perm before applying them.
In any case, be sure to do a strand test before applying the color. Perms or straightening treatments can make hair more porous and cause the color to be absorbed more quickly.
#4) How far in advance can I wash my hair with shampoo before dyeing it?
Generally, you shouldn’t shampoo right before applying hair color, as this will strip away the natural oils that protect your scalp during the dyeing process.
Ideally, you should shampoo 12 to 24 hours before using a temporary color, and 24 hours before using a permanent color (which lasts until your hair grows out or you dye it again).
Be sure to read the instructions inside the dye box, as these guidelines may vary depending on the product.
#5) Can I mix different shades?
No, mixing dyes of different shades to achieve your desired color at home is not recommended. It’s best to have a professional colorist mix the dyes to ensure a suitable result.
Koleston offers 44 permanent hair color shades to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect shade that will give you a natural-looking color.
#6) How far in advance should I set an alarm?
Set an alarm as soon as you finish applying the dye so that it goes off after the time period indicated in the instructions and according to your strand test.
#7) Can I use conditioner after dyeing my hair?
Yes. Ideally, use the conditioner that comes with the hair dye. We recommend this because this conditioner has been specifically designed for use with that dye to provide shine and softness.
#8) When should I dye my hair again?
Temporary color will last between 8 and 24 shampoo washes, depending on the specific product you use. If you wash your hair daily, it will last approximately 4 weeks.
Permanent color (which lasts until your hair grows out or you dye it again) should be reapplied as soon as the roots start to show (approximately after 4 to 6 weeks).
How long does it take to dye your hair?
‘The best advice is to always consult the instructions that come with the products, as the dyeing time varies depending on the brand and, above all, on the condition of your hair (whether it’s a new look, a touch-up, or you’ve never dyed it before).
Just so you know, the application time could vary between 20 and 60 minutes. Also, don’t forget to always do an allergy test 48 hours before applying the product,’ says the expert.
What products are needed to dye gray hair at home?
“Among the specialized products for at-home hair coloring, we recommend L’Oréal Paris Imédia Excellence, which offers 100% gray coverage and incorporates all the expertise of salon routines, with triple protection care.
What does this mean? We are committed to providing the best hair care before, during, and after coloring. It features a coloring cream enriched with Pro-Keratin that protects your hair during the coloring process, as well as a special shampoo (based on the best salon shampoos) that will help add shine and care to your hair while removing any remaining dye residue.
Finally, there is the conditioner, which lasts up to four weeks. Applied once a week, it provides softness and shine while protecting the color for longer-lasting, radiant results,” says Labastida.
Is it possible to make radical hair color changes at home?
‘We don’t recommend making radical changes when going from a dark base to a light base, since one dye can’t lighten another dye; it only helps lighten up to three shades.
However, it is very easy to make changes when going from a lighter shade to a darker one. If you have any doubts about the result, each box of dye has a color guide on the back depending on your current shade,’ says the colorist.
What are the care instructions for dyed hair?
‘The treatment/conditioner included with the product should be used weekly. We recommend a full hair touch-up every month to ensure you always have radiant hair,’ she says.
What products does freshly dyed hair need?
We recommend using products that help prolong the life of your hair color, nourish it, and protect it from external aggressors.
Elvive Color Vive has a formula with a Nutri-UV filter that extends the duration and enhances the shine of the color, Jo Labastida tells Vogue.
How often should you wash dyed hair?
This will depend on your lifestyle and needs; you can wash your hair daily if you wish,’ the expert concludes.
How to dye your hair at home? Here’s how:
- Try to make sure your hair isn’t completely clean, but that it’s free of product residue. If you wash your hair every other day, it’s best to color it on the day you don’t wash it. This way, your hair is a little more protected by the natural oils you’ve produced since the previous day.
- Brush your hair and remove any knots you find, so the application of the dye will be more even.
- Protect your forehead, ears, sideburns, and nape of your neck with a little petroleum jelly or moisturizing cream so that, in case you get dye on your skin, it can be removed quickly thanks to the barrier you put in place beforehand.
- Divide the hair on your head into four sections and begin treating each section independently.
- Start with your preferred section and divide it into small horizontal sections of hair. Begin distributing the product mixture with a special brush. Always remember to wear gloves and capes to protect your skin and clothing from the chemicals.
- Finish with all sections and allow the time indicated in the product instructions to elapse.
- Finally, rinse with cold water and apply moisturizer or color fixative.