Brush and Section Your Hair
Before you start applying color to your hair, it’s essential to brush through it to remove any tangles. Next, you’ll want to section off your hair for easier application. Begin by parting your hair down the middle, splitting it into left and right sides.
Using your comb, create another section on each side, starting from your part to the ends of your hair. Clip these sections out of the way. By the end, you should have divided your hair into four even sections (create more sections if needed).
Color Your Hairline
Start by removing the clip from one of your front sections of hair. Hold the hair back and apply hair color directly to your hairline, using your gloved fingers to blend the dye. Move on to the remaining front section and apply the dye to your hairline and part. Ensure every inch is covered.
Pro tip: Go back to your hairline after coloring the front sections to avoid missing any spots. Gently pat the color with your fingers to ensure an even distribution.
Work on Your Part
Now, leave both front sections hanging free and begin creating sections down your part, about a quarter-inch thick. Color at the root along your part, spread the dye with your thumb, and fold that section of hair to the other side. Repeat this process until you reach your ear, then flip your hair back over and repeat on the other side.
Saturate the Back
Remove the clip from one of your back sections of hair and start coloring along the remaining half of your part. Over-squeeze the dye, as it can be challenging to see what you’re doing at the back of your head. Take a horizontal section approximately at the center of your part in the back section and color along the root, spreading the dye with your thumb. Clip the colored strands out of the way. Repeat on the other back section, alternating between the left and right sides.
Pay extra attention to the hair along the nape of your neck, massaging the dye into your roots if needed. This ensures even coverage.
Color Your Length
If you’re doing a quick root touch-up, you can skip this step. However, if you’re coloring your hair for the first time or aiming for an all-over color change, it’s time to focus on your remaining length. Work with sections that are about two inches in size and apply the color from root to tip using your fingers. Start at the front and work your way toward the back, ensuring your entire mane is saturated with the dye.
Set a Timer
Follow the instructions provided with your at-home color kit and leave the hair dye on for the recommended amount of time. Set a timer on your phone to avoid forgetting. Once the time is up, rinse out the hair color until the water runs clear.
Finish the process by using the conditioner included in your kit. Leave it on your strands for five minutes, then rinse. Finally, dry and style your hair as usual.
When washing and conditioning your newly-colored hair, opt for a sulfate-free, color-safe duo like L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Repair Shampoo and Conditioner with Citric Acid. This will help strengthen your hair and preserve the vibrant color.
Now you’re ready to rock your salon-quality hair color from the comfort of your own home!
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