Coloring Hair At Home

Getting the right hair color at home doesn't have to be a tearful experience. While most dye jobs can be done in your own bathroom, there are a few that should be left to the pros. Follow these easy tips to get the perfect shade and then see the experts for everything else.

Single Process
Single process jobs are usually the easiest. If you're going darker for the first time, try a semipermanent formula, that way if you hate the color it should fade rather quickly. If you love the color, use a permanent one the next time you need a touch up. Another great tip: always dye your hair back to front. The front pieces of your hair are more porous due to regular styling.

If you've had a single process before, "Whether you've lightened or darkened your hair, you should apply color to the regrowth only (the part closest to your scalp) so you don't overprocess your locks or end up with an uneven hue," advises Marie Robinson, own of the Marie Robinson Salon, in NYC.

Semipermanent
Semipermanent colors are great for first time at-home dyers because they'll typically only last 12 shampoos and will give your current color a boost. Budget-friendly tip: these are great to use between salon appointments—they won't change your color drastically and can keep you out of the salon for a few extra months.

Going Lighter
Highlights are best left to the pros, but if you want to go lighter at home, pick a permanent shade that won't give you a brassy effect. Ash tones will help prevent brassy hair colors by neutralizing red tones. Neutral or neutral beige tones are best to use when covering greys. But, be careful: If you're trying to lighten your hair more than two shades, you should see a professional.

Gloss Treatments
You should take care of your newly dyed locks so you won't need to touch up as often. Gloss treatments are the easiest to do at home because they just add shine. They keep your hair looking healthy—like you've just had a salon treatment—and can extend the life of your color.