Best At-Home Hair Colour, According to Experts
Can't Resist Colouring Your Hair at Home? At Least Consider These 6 Expert Tips First
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"We're about three weeks away from seeing everyone's natural hair colour," reads a new meme circulating on Instagram and Twitter. In the midst of quarantine and social distancing, this level of lighthearted #relatablecontent is equal parts true and hilarious. It might make you want to order a few box dyes and root touch-up creams ASAP — but not so fast. Although salons are temporarily closed, hairstylists are still urging you to proceed with caution.
If you already have colour-treated hair, their first recommendation is to maintain what you have as best you can. Special shampoos, temporary sprays, and masks can all help you do that. But if you absolutely must opt for DIY hair dye, at least take a few suggestions from colourist Karissa Schaudt of Chicago's Maxine Salon.
Ahead, she's sharing six helpful tips that will ensure the health of your hair remains a top priority until you can book your next appointment.
Tip #1: Ensure Your Developer Is Ammonia-Free
If you've just gotta pick up that brush and bowl, at least make safety a priority. The first (and arguably most important) tip, according to Schaudt: "In my professional opinion, I would avoid any colour that contains ammonia in the developer." Although this is an extremely common ingredient in the hair-dye industry — it's effective, no doubt — using it is ultimately a tradeoff; the powerful chemical damages your hair in the process.
What to Try: Josh Wood Colour Hair Dye (£10)
Tip #2: Opt For Semi- or Demipermanent Dyes
On the subject of ammonia, Schaudt provides another helpful tip: "Look for a semi- or demipermanent coverage," she told POPSUGAR. "These are typically ammonia-free, meaning the colour penetrates under the outer cuticle of your hair." And should things not go according to plan — whether you change your mind about the shade or miss a tiny spot — these formulas also give you a little more wiggle room, as they're not permanent.
What to Try: L'Oréal Casting Creme Gloss Semi Permanent Hair Dye (£7)
Tip #3: Pick a Shade Similar to Your Natural Colour
Whether you're stuck in the house or just unable to fit a trip to the salon into your upcoming schedule, consider erring on the conservative side when choosing a shade. "To avoid going too dark, pick a shade that matches your natural tone," Schaudt said. "Going too dark can be difficult to fix, while too light reveals unwanted warmth." If you aren't feeling too experimental but want to add a bit of oomph back into your hair try a shade mask.
What to Try: Christophe Robin Shade Variation Mask Ash Brown (£37)
Tip #4: Only Apply on the Regrowth
If you're dealing with previously coloured hair and concerned about your roots, now might be the right time to experiment with at-home touch-ups — but cap things there. "I suggest applying [colouring products] only on the new regrowth that you can see (part and hairline) and waiting for a professional to colour the interior." While a full-blown hair transformation may not be your best option, you can at least maintain what you already have.
What to Try: Clairol Root Touch Up Hair Dye (£6)
Tip #5: Don't Overlap or Pull Colour Through the Mids and Ends of Your Hair
In a similar vein to root touch-ups, Schaudt suggests that anyone with preexisting highlights or dyes keep their DIY colour concentrated in one area. "Don't overlap or pull any colour through the mids or ends," she said. "This will create unwanted banding or cover any highlights you wish to keep." Although these issues are both fixable in the salon, they'll add time and money to your visit.
What to Try: John Frieda Precision Foam (£10)
Tip #6: When in Doubt, Try Men's Colour
Yes, you read that right, but while salons are closed, hear Schaudt out. "For the time being, I highly recommend men's hair colour," she said. "They're usually demipermanent and help stain hair, meaning it covers the regrowth but can quickly be removed."
Still, she emphasises picking the right colour. "Whatever you do, don't pick shades that are too dark. Aim to pick a shade that matches your hairline's natural tone or slightly lighter."
What to Try: Just For Men Men's Hair Colour (£6)
