Coloring hair at home is often much more economical and convenient than a trip to the hair stylist. With a little preparation, a new hair color can be yours in 15 to 20 minutes. The duration of the process will vary depending on your choice of hair coloring product. The choices include permanent, non-permanent (washes out gradually), highlights or spot color. If your hair is very damaged or discolored from exposure to other chemicals, contact a hair professional before attempting color change on your own.
Step 1
Open the hair color kit and check its contents. The kit should contain instructions, gloves, color mixes and hair conditioner. Do not proceed if there are any missing items.
Step 2
Read the instructions. Many manufacturers recommend that you mix a small amount of color and apply to a test area 24 to 48 hours before coloring your hair. Not only will you be able to see the final color, but a test area will also minimize the potential for an allergic or chemical reaction.
Step 3
Gather all necessary items in one place. Once beginning the color process, it may not be possible to go look for a towel or T-shirt without staining the carpet or furniture.
Step 4
Put on gloves and protective clothing. An old T-shirt or smock should suffice. You may wish to drape an old towel on the chair to protect it from possible drips.
Step 5
Mix hair color product according to the instructions.
Step 6
Apply color mix to hair. Start at the roots and work towards the end of the hair. Most hair-coloring products require the hair to be dry prior to application of the color mixture. However, some non-permanent color mixes require damp hair, so if instructed, wet hair before applying the mixture.
Step 7
Set the timer for the required number of minutes. Depending on the type of hair color, the process will likely run from 10 to 20 minutes. Do not move about during this process, as the hair dye may come in contact with furniture or clothing and leave a stain.
Step 8
Rinse hair color from hair until the rinse water runs clear. Lukewarm or cool water is best.
Step 9
Apply conditioner to the hair. Hair conditioner is a part of the color kit, and should remain on the hair for two or more minutes.
Step 10
Rinse the conditioner from your hair and style as desired.
Tips and Warnings
- In subsequent washings, use shampoo and conditioner designed for color-treated hair. If color stains your skin, dab a cotton ball containing lemon juice or toner on the area to remove the color.
- Do not wash hair for at least 24 hours after it has been colored. Do not reuse any of the color mix containers. Dispose of them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Things You'll Need
- Hair color kit
- Towel
- Smock or old T-shirt
- Timer
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