There was good news for hairdressers up and down the country as salons reopened from April 12th, meaning thousands of businesses were able to welcome customers back into the chair. The enforced closures created a huge backlog, which means many salons will be working long hours in order to satisfy their clients.
However, not everyone has the time or money to go to a salon and if you’re thinking about changing up your look with a new colour then you might decide on a DIY approach. Whether you’re opting for a slightly different shade, covering up some greys or going for something more radical, it’s important not to be put off by some of the horror stories we see on social media. There are, of course, plenty of success stories too – and following this guide will help you achieve the look you’re aiming for.
Buy two boxes
One box of dye might look enough – especially if your hair is on the shorter side – but it makes sense to buy a second as a back-up. The last thing you need is to be halfway through the process and realise you’ve run out, creating a wholly unintentional two-tone effect.
Do a skin test
There are many ingredients in hair dye that can cause irritation or an allergic reaction, so it’s absolutely vital that you are aware of these risks. You should always carry out a patch test by placing a small amount of the dye on your skin – perhaps behind your ear or on the inside of your elbow. If you have an adverse reaction of any kind, do not use the dye.
Do a strand test
If you’re planning on going a few shades lighter, it might be helpful to do a quick strand test to see if the colour will actually sit on your hair.
Brush your hair first
Removing the tangles will make it much easier to dye as your hair will be nicely separated, allowing for a consistent, even colour change.
Protect your hairline
If you’re using a particularly bright colour, you might want to spread Vaseline around your hairline in order to prevent any staining on your skin. Remember, you’re dying your hair, not your head!
Wear gloves
As well as your head, you should also protect your hands by wearing gloves at all times during the process. Hair dye is often extremely difficult to remove, especially when it becomes soaked into your hands, and it can takes weeks for it to fade.
Start from the top
Begin with your roots and work your way down, rather than up from the tips. The roots need more time to develop the colour.
Wash it out
When you’re done, wash with water only and avoid shampoo. A lot of box dyes also come with conditioner that you can use to protect your hair and its new colour.
Make sure you take your time and follow the instructions on the box. Don’t leave the dye on longer than it needs and your hair will look good as new in no time.
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