Whether you’re in between salon visits or trying something new, coloring your hair at home can be a fun and rewarding experience – if you do it right. Here’s how you can achieve beautiful, salon-worthy results from the comfort of your own home.

The Prep: Set Yourself Up for Success

No one has ever managed to do great work without the necessary tools. These won’t break the bank, and if you pick the right ones, you’ll have them for years to come. 

Choose the Right Products

For beginners, a color-depositing conditioner or a demi-permanent hair color is a great choice. They’re less harsh than permanent dyes and easier to apply for natural, glossy results. 

If you need to use hydrogen peroxide, make sure to start with low concentrations first, to avoid unnecessary hair and scalp damage. 

I’ve had many clients make this mistake, causing their hair to break down due to overzealous bleaching. 

Should you dye your hair clean or dirty?

Slightly dirty hair will be best, not greasy, not squeaky clean – it provides natural protection for your scalp from irritation.

Protect Your Skin and Clothes

Use a towel or a cape to protect your clothing, and apply petroleum jelly or a barrier cream around your hairline to avoid staining your skin. If you’re worried about “how to take hair dye off skin,” this step will save you a lot of trouble later!

I’ve seen my share of women coming into the salon with blue, red, or purple hairs, just to ask for the best way to clean skin stains (purple marks on your neck or forehead are no fun, let me tell you that). 

Get the Tools You Need

Have everything ready: thin and tight fitting surgical gloves, a bowl, a brush, clips, and a timer. The better organized you are, the smoother the process will be, and the less chance that something will go wrong. 

The Process: Step-by-Step Guide to At-Home Coloring

Here’s how to color your hair at home like a professional:

1. Mix the Color Correctly

Follow the instructions on your dye box carefully, especially when measuring how much developer to use with hair dye. A common mistake is over- or under-developing, which often ends in uneven results.

2. Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into four equal sections using clips. If you have a thick mane, divide into more sections, so you can control every step and segment as you go. This makes it easier to apply the dye evenly, especially if you’re going for a multi-color hair dye look or covering a lot of ground.

3. Apply the Dye

Start at the roots and work your way down. Use a brush for precise application. Be thorough, but work quickly—uneven timing can lead to patchy results.

4. Timing is Everything

Set a timer based on the product instructions. Don’t guess or leave the dye on longer than recommended. Leaving it longer WILL NOT intensify the color, but it may damage your hair. 

5. Rinse Properly

When it’s time to rinse, use lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo right after coloring unless the product specifically instructs you to.

The Aftercare: Keep That Color Fresh

Once your hair is colored, taking care of it is crucial to maintain its vibrancy. Here’s what I tell my clients at Hello Gorgeous Salon: 

Use the Right Shampoo

Opt for products specifically designed for colored hair. So, what is the best shampoo for color-treated hair? I recommend sulfate-free formulas to protect your color.

Condition Religiously

Deep conditioning treatments or color depositing conditioners can help refresh your shade and keep your hair soft and shiny.

Avoid Overwashing

Wash your hair only 2-3 times a week to prolong the life of your color.

Protect Against Heat and UV Rays: Use heat protectant sprays when styling and wear a hat in the sun to prevent fading (super important for more vibrant color choices).

Tips and Tricks You Should Know

Here are some pro tips to make your at-home coloring session a success:

Dealing with Stains

If you’re already googling “how to get hair color off skin” or “how to remove hair dye from hands,” –  let me save you some time. 

The secret lies in rubbing alcohol or a mixture of baking soda and dish soap.

Temporary Hair Dye Removal

To learn how to get temporary hair dye out of your hair, try clarifying shampoos or vinegar rinses for a gentle but effective cleanse.

Practice Patience

Coloring hair can take time. How long does it take to dye hair? 

Depending on the complexity, it may take an hour or more – but definitely don’t rush it.

Let’s Keep Your Color Gorgeous

While at-home coloring can be a great way to refresh your look, remember that it’s always okay to seek help from professionals. If you’re looking for hair coloring near or in Naples, our team at Hello Gorgeous Salon is here to help. Whether you need a color correction or a full transformation, we’re known as the best hair colorists in Naples for a reason!

Got questions or need personalized advice? Drop by or book an appointment—we’d love to help you love your hair!