How to dye hair at home?
To dye your hair at home effectively and safely, follow these steps based on information from the provided sources:
Preparation:
- Wash your hair 24 to 48 hours before dyeing to allow natural oils to develop, improving dye adherence and longevity.
- Avoid conditioner beforehand; otherwise, use it daily for a week before dyeing if your hair is dry.
- Choose a color similar to your natural hair tone or within two shades darker or lighter for beginners.
- Consider temporary or semi-permanent dyes for practice.
- Protect surfaces and wear old clothing or a hair coloring gown.
Color Application:
- Mix the dye and developer according to package directions.
- Wear plastic gloves and apply the dye to your hair in sections, ensuring full coverage from root to tip.
- Work the dye through your hair with fingers or a brush.
- Leave the dye in for the recommended duration and then rinse thoroughly in the shower.
Aftercare:
- Wait at least 24 hours before washing your newly dyed hair.
- Rinse with cold water to help maintain color vibrancy.
- Deep condition immediately afterward to seal the cuticles and prevent further color processing.
- Always perform a patch test if the dye contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD) to check for potential allergies.
Tips & Tricks:
- For permanent dye, choose a color slightly darker than desired, as the strong developer may lift your hair color.
- Don't trust the model's color on the box; the swatch is a better representation.
- Leave hair down during the dyeing process to ensure even color distribution.
- Sprinkle water on your hair and mush it around before rinsing to emulsify the dye and reduce streaking.
- Use a deep conditioner after rinsing the dye to seal the cuticle and prevent further color processing.
Remember, patience is crucial, and it's best to take your time to ensure a successful and even dye job. If you're unsure, consider visiting a beauty supply store like Sally's for separate developer and color, which can provide more control over the process.