Follow these home hair coloring tips for dying hair and making the color last as long as possible. Avoid mess and difficulty with these tips and tricks. It is best to avoid coloring hair more than one shade lighter than the current color. These tips work best for coloring hair a shade or more darker than it already is. It will take less than an hour from start to finish.
Preparing Hair for Coloring
Make sure that hair is well-conditioned a few days before hand, but the day of the coloring only shampoo hair without using conditioner. This will help the color adhere to the hair. Also, have the hair completely dry and de-tangled. Brush hair right before applying color to get rid of any tangles or loose hair. Wrap a towel around the shoulders to prevent clothing from becoming stained and wipe a bit of conditioner on skin around the hairline to prevent skin from staining.
Applying the Dye/Hair Color
Prepare the dye solution according to package directions. Keep in mind that longer and/or thicker hair may require two boxes of color. Apply to hair at the roots first, working through with gloved fingers. Work dye to the ends of the hair, making sure to evenly coat each strand. Don’t be afraid to use a lot of product. Work it into the hair in a similar manner to the way shampoo is applied.
Waiting for the Color to Set
Use a hair clip to wrap hair so that it is secure. Leave dye in for the time directed. Be careful not to let the dye drip, as it will stain carpet, clothing, and furniture. There is no need to apply heat or to do anything but wait at this time.
Rinsing and Aftercare of Home Colored Hair
When the time is up, carefully rinse hair in as cold of water as possible. When the water is running clear, shampoo hair completely, again using cool water. Condition the hair and dry and style as usual. Do not wash hair for three days to allow the color to be as long-lasting as possible. To prevent hair color from fading, wash in lukewarm water and do not wash daily. Also, try to keep hair out of sunlight for long periods of time or use a protecting serum when in the sun.
Coloring hair at home will save time and money. It is not difficult or complicated and takes less than an hour. Hair will generally have to be re-colored every 4-6 weeks, which is the same amount of time as with salon coloring. Following these tips will give the best and longest-lasting results.
Jill Weatherwax - I am a Middle School Science Teacher at a NASA Explorer School in Michigan. My favorite Science topics are Astronomy, Ecology, and ...
