Lighter hues can also affect the outcome of a dye job. For example, if you are yellowish-blonde and try for a shade of red, your hair may come out orange. Go for blue, and you may end up with green instead. [3] X Research source White or grey hair can also make dye much brighter than it actually is. A blue-black shade, for example, could become bright blue. [4] X Research source To prevent these mishaps, it would be best to do a test strand before coloring your entire head because it will give you an idea about how the color will turn out.
Some shades may not work with your skin tone. If you have a tendency to blush, for example, you may want to avoid going with any pink or red tones. If you have pale skin, bright greens, and yellows could make you appear to be glowing. To see how shades look on you, visit a Halloween store and try on a few wigs to see how the colors look.
Plastic hair clips: These are useful for holding large sections of hair out of the way. [6] X Research source Rubber gloves: Hair dyes can contain some pretty harsh chemicals. Wear gloves to keep your hands safe. They’ll also protect your skin from taking on the same color as your hair. [7] X Research source Vaseline: Spread a thin layer on your hairline and on your ears. Put it anywhere the dye might come in contact with your skin. Vaseline prevents the dye from staining your skin. [8] X Research source Old clothes and towels: Dyeing hair gets messy. It’s always a good idea to use materials you don’t mind ruining. Other items such as a kitchen timer, q-tips, spare gloves, and extra dyeing brushes are also good. [9] X Research source
If you need to bleach your hair multiple times, it’s best to wait a week or so between applications. [11] X Research source Too many bleach jobs can also damage your hair, leaving it brittle and prone to breakage. If you’re feeling at all uncertain, enlist the help of a professional. It may be expensive, but having a bad bleach job fixed could cost you much more. [12] X Research source
Dye can get everywhere. If you want to keep your bathroom from getting dyed as well, clean it beforehand, and lay some towels down. [15] X Research source
Once you’ve applied all the dye, run the dye brush through your hair a few more times to ensure even coverage. While your hair processes, cover it with a shower cap. The cap will allow your body heat to aide the processing of your color. [18] X Research source You may have to wait 30-45 minutes for the dye to set in. The length of time will vary depending on the brand of dye and the color.
The best way to rinse your hair is to get in the shower and lean back. Try to avoid letting any of the dye rinse onto your skin as it can stain you. [19] X Research source
Always wash your hair in cool water. By avoiding a hot rinse, you may be able to decrease color fading. [20] X Research source
