Choose the right shade
First things first, you need to find a shade that will suit your complexion. One way to do this is by using seasonal colour analysis. There are four main seasonal colour categories: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Figuring out which of these you belong to will help you uncover the hair colour that will best suit you.
Do a patch test
Once you’ve found a shade, it’s essential to do a patch test regardless of whether you’ve used hair dye in the past. This is because “many hair dyes contain ingredients that can irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction” according to the NHS.
Pop a small amount behind one of your ears around 24 to 48 hours before you plan to dye your hair. If a reaction occurs, don’t use the product.
Wear comfy clothing
Ready to get going? Make sure you’re wearing loose, comfortable clothing that you can get off easily when it’s time to hop in the shower. We recommend putting on old clothes that you don’t mind getting stained from the dye. You could also pop an old towel around your neck to minimise staining.
Protect your skin
Before applying the dye, take steps to protect your skin from unwanted staining. Always wear the protective gloves that are supplied with your box dye. You can also apply moisturiser or Vaseline on your ears and around the hairline to reduce skin stains.
Create sections
Once you’re ready to apply, split your hair into even sections so that you don’t miss any hard-to-reach areas. It’s easiest to start at the back of your head using a comb and work forward, applying the dye to the roots of the hair first.
Leave to develop
Once all your hair is covered, you need to leave the dye to develop. Make sure you read the packet instructions carefully as this will tell you how long to wait before rinsing. Pop a timer on your phone that will remind you when it’s time to hop in the shower. It’s best to leave your hair down rather than tie it up.
Use a deep conditioner
Get in the shower and rinse your hair thoroughly until the water runs clear. Then, apply a deep conditioner to increase softness and shine and help maintain the colour.
This may be supplied with your hair dye – so check this before buying additional products!
Apply a toner
It’s also worth investing in a quality hair toner to lock in the colour and reduce unwanted undertones. Blondes should opt for purple toners, while brunettes and redheads are best using green toners for optimal results. You’ll need to mix the toner with a developer and apply it to the hair before rinsing and cleansing.
Final Thoughts on 8 tips for dying your hair at home
By following these top tips, you can give your locks a fresh new look that lasts – all from the comfort of your own home!
