10 Tips for Coloring Hair the Right Way

Hair coloring is a great way to make your hair look trendy. This will help boost your confidence level and grab the attention of your peer group as well as help you stand out in a crowd. However, when opting for self coloring, extra care should be taken to protect your hair from any damage, at the same time choosing something that is most appropriate for your skin and eye color.

Here are ten tips for coloring your hair the right way:

1. Know the Nuances of Coloring: A prominent myth that prevails is that people assume hair colors to be hair paints. But, as a matter of fact, it is the colored pigment which creates the shades of color in different combinations that reflect according to the light. Usually, hair colors look different in natural light compared to fluorescent lighting. Therefore, choose an appropriate color for your hair, keeping in mind the place and the time of the day you would be spending the majority of your time.
2. Levels of Coloring: Similar to sun screen lotions or fairness creams, hair colors have a rating that is referred to as 'levels' that range from 1 to 10. In ascending order, the first level stands for the darkest shade while the tenth one is the lightest. The color thickness varies according to brands; therefore, it a good idea to try sample coatings to know which brand gives you the desired color output.
3. Choosing the Type of Dye: There are different types of colors available in the market:
   • Single-process Color: Ideal for amateurs to start off with and experiment using different colors.
   • Deposit-only Color: Good for home usage and for newbies, as it deposits color only one step at a time. These are considered to be 'user friendly' by experts.
   • Semi-permanent: As the name suggests, it lasts for a short span of time and can be used to darken the shades; however, this is not so effective with lighter shades.
   • Permanent: Strictly reserved for professional usage and should never be tried at home, as regaining your original hair color will become a tedious process if things go wrong!
   Some hair coloring experts are of the opinion that home colorists should stick to single-process or deposit-only colors as these can be removed easily at any point in time.
4. Merge Skin and Hair Tone: Choose a color that would suit your skin tone aptly. Red will be attractive, yet it will look absolutely punk-ish if you are a fair person while blonde hair is a bad choice for an olive tone. Go for a strand test and experiment with different colors before making a choice.
5. Pre-preparation: Before you hop in to apply your favorite color, wash your hair. A clean hair absorbs colors more easily and it is important to use a shampoo that you have already been using to get rid of the pollutants. Avoid using conditioners or shampoo-conditioner combos as these will not allow the dye to set in properly.
6. Rules to Stick on to While Applying Color:
   • Read the instructions on the back panel carefully.
   • Never apply more than the prescribed amount.
   • Using protective gloves and towels is advisable for first timers.
   • Apply Vaseline in your front and back neck so that the dye doesn't stick on to your skin.
7. After Care Instructions:
   • For the hair color to effectively blend with your hair, rinse your hair in water to which lemon juice is added immediately after coloring your hair. This will give long-lasting results. It will not only give a glossy look but will also strengthen the color.
   • For achieving long-lasting result of coloring, add two spoons of the dye to your conditioner and condition your hair with this after every subsequent shampooing. Leave the conditioner on for 3 to 5 minutes, and then wash it off with warm water. This will replenish the dye that was washed off.
   • After shampooing, bleach your hair roots for better results.
8. Natural Hair Replenishing: The following tips will perk up your colored hair.
   • Espresso: Apply dark, strong ground coffee or espresso if black or brown is your hair color. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes before shampooing.
   • Tea: For the best dark tone results, give a final rinse after shampooing with strong dark tea brew.
   • Walnuts: Walnuts give a shine to dark hair. Boil one cup of water to which 1 cup of walnuts has been added. When it cools down, strain it and pour the liquid on your hair. Shampoo it off after about 30 minutes.
   • Chamomile: For light brown or blonde hair, spray some strong chamomile tea. Let it stay for 20 minutes and then shampoo your hair.
9. Do's After Hair Coloring
   • Maintenance of colored hair matters a lot for healthy results. Use shampoos and conditioners designed for treated hair as they will prevent early fading besides moisturizing the scalp.
   • Use a shower cap while swimming.
10. Don'ts After Hair Coloring
    • Avoid engaging in strenuous physical activities that could make your scalp drench in sweat, for the first few days after coloring your hair.
    • If you are not confident enough to color your hair, it is better to go to a salon instead of trying and then seeking expert advice after the damage is done.

Colored hair makes quite an impressive fashion statement. However, it is essential to keep the hair healthy while attempting to make it look cool. This can be achieved by choosing the right color combo, proper pre- and post-care, and the basic knowledge on different areas of hair coloring.