Thinking about a fun pop of color for your hair without the long-term commitment or harsh chemicals? You might be surprised to learn that a packet of Kool-Aid can be your new best friend. This colorful drink mix has been a go-to for temporary, vibrant hair color for years, offering a playful way to experiment with bold shades from the comfort of your home.
It’s a fantastic option for festival looks, costume parties, or just satisfying a whim for pink or purple strands. Before you get started, it’s important to know that this method works best on light blonde or bleached hair to achieve the true, vibrant color. On darker hair, the effect will be much more subtle or may not show at all.
Gathering Your Simple Supplies
You won’t need a trip to a specialty store for this project. Gather a few packets of unsweetened Kool-Aid in your chosen color, a small bowl, a tint brush or an old toothbrush, some clips to section your hair, and a shower cap. It’s also a good idea to have some petroleum jelly on hand to protect your skin from stains.
The Simple Coloring Process
Start by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly around your hairline and on your ears. Next, mix your Kool-Aid powder with a very small amount of hot water to create a thick paste. Section your dry, unwashed hair, as the natural oils can help the color adhere. Using your brush, carefully apply the mixture to each strand you want to color, saturating it completely.
Letting the Color Develop
Once all the sections are covered, twist your hair up and cover it with the shower cap. The heat from your head will help the color set. You’ll want to leave the mixture in for at least an hour. For a more intense color, some people leave it on for a few hours or even overnight, but always do a strand test first to check for the desired result.
Rinsing and Enjoying Your New Look
When your time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo, as this can strip the color. You can then condition the ends of your hair if needed and style as usual. The color will typically last through several washes, gradually fading each time.
Kool-Aid hair dye is a wonderfully creative and temporary way to play with color. It washes out over time, allowing you to change your look as often as you like. Remember to always perform a patch test on a small section of hair and skin first to ensure you’re happy with the color and to check for any sensitivity. Have fun with it!