Thinking about changing your hair color from the comfort of your own bathroom? You’re not alone. Coloring your hair at home can be a fun, rewarding, and budget-friendly way to refresh your look. While it might seem a little intimidating at first, with the right preparation and a bit of know-how, you can achieve beautiful results that make you feel fantastic.
The key to a successful at-home color session lies in the planning. Rushing in without a plan is where mistakes can happen. Taking your time to choose the perfect shade, gather your tools, and protect your skin and clothes will set you up for a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Choosing Your Perfect Shade
This is the most exciting part! When selecting a color, consider your skin’s undertones. If you have warm undertones (your veins look greenish), shades like golden blonde, caramel, or rich chocolate brown will look lovely. If you have cool undertones (your veins look bluish), ash blondes, espresso browns, or burgundy might be more flattering. A good rule of thumb is to stay within two shades of your natural color for a subtle change, or go for a bold, pre-lightened shade if you’re feeling adventurous.
Gathering Your At-Home Salon Kit
Before you even open the dye box, make sure you have everything you need. You’ll have the kit itself, but it’s smart to also have an old button-down shirt, towels you don’t mind staining, hair clips, a timer, and petroleum jelly to protect your hairline and ears from stains. Wearing the gloves provided in the kit is non-negotiable for protecting your hands.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Application
Start with hair that is unwashed for 24-48 hours; the natural oils will protect your scalp. Do a patch test 48 hours prior to check for allergies. Section your dry hair into four parts. Apply the color to your roots first, as they need the most processing time. Once your roots are covered, work the remaining mixture through to the ends of your hair. Set your timer for the duration listed on the box—don’t guess!
Caring for Your New Color
Once your time is up, rinse your hair with lukewarm water until the water runs clear, then use the conditioner that came in the box. To make your color last longer, wash your hair less frequently and use a shampoo and conditioner formulated for color-treated hair. Hot tools can also fade color faster, so using a heat protectant spray is a great habit.
With a little patience and these helpful tips, you can confidently create a beautiful new look right at home. Remember, hair color is a fun way to express yourself, so enjoy the process and your gorgeous results!