There are many reasons
women decide to color their hair at home. Maybe it's a tight
budget or a time factor. The reason I color my hair at home
is because, frankly, I've had too many "professional" hair
coloring disasters from different salons! I simply will not
trust anyone else to color my hair again.
I am not saying that
all professionals are going to botch your hair. I don't
believe that for a minute. I think there are some top-notch
pros out there who know precisely what they're doing --
finding them is the trick. If you can get a recommendation
from someone with similar hair, you'll probably be in good
hands.
I've learned how to get my
hair exactly how I want it -- you can too. If you choose to
color your hair at home, here's some basic tips and advice
to help put you on the right track.
Coloring
Your Hair
Color your hair
according to your skin type. Keep in mind that sometimes
it's not a major change you need, but just some highlights
or lowlights.
It's best to alter your
hair color only 1-2 shades.
If you're pregnant,
check with your doctor before using any chemicals.
The color on the box is
just to give you an idea. Your results may vary greatly if
your hair color is different than the model's natural hair
color.
There is a reason that
test strands are recommended. To prevent any allergic
reactions and any major hair color disasters!
Don't wash your hair
before coloring. Natural oils help protect your scalp
against skin irritation.
Don't apply permanent
hair color throughout your hair every time you color it.
This will cause uneven color. Next time, just color the
roots or use a semi-permanent color.
The color of your
eyebrows should come close to your own hair color.
You can color your
eyebrows. Just make sure you have them done professionally
for safety reasons and better results.
Don't be in a hurry.
This will increase your chances for mistakes.
Apply the color slowly,
from the roots to the ends.
Take notes on the timing,
color number and brand, so you will know next time how you
achieved the results. Keep in mind that after coloring,
you hair will become porous and will absorb the color
quickly.
Hair Color
Maintenance
Chemically treated hair
has special needs. To avoid fading, use a shampoo and
conditioner specifically designed for color treated hair.
Baby shampoo is extra
gentle and helps retain color.
Wash your hair no more
often than every other day, in tepid water, to retain your
vibrant color.
If you're trying to hide
dark roots, don't part your hair down the middle, try a
side part, a zig-zag part, or pull it straight back in a
bun or pony tail.
Wear a hat if you're
going to be in the sun for any length of time. Sunlight
exposure will fade your perfect color rapidly.
