If social media has anything to say about it, we’re all starting to wonder what the best at-home hair color is. Call it self-care or feeling stir crazy, but with hair salons closed for the time being because of the coronavirus pandemic, learning how to dye your hair at home is suddenly sounding better by the minute.
Luckily, it’s easier than ever, as both salon and drugstore hair dye brands have stepped up their game, and there are tons of options for tinting, dyeing, and refreshing your hair in the comfort of your own bathroom. To really get it right, colorist Lauren Grummel says the first thing you should do is reach out to your stylist, since they can help recommend a touch-up option (thank them by Venmo’ing a consultation fee or buying a gift card to use for your next appointment). Some stylists are also offering video consultations, or they can help you over the phone or email.
If you want something drastic, your best bet is waiting until you can make it to the salon. When coloring your hair at home, it’s best to stay close to your natural shade, and Grummel recommends only going either two or three shades lighter or darker. She also says to consider the tone of your hair (cool, warm, neutral) and stick with dye in the same shade family. Another thing to consider? “It’s typically easier to go darker at home, as long as your only going about two to three shades darker,” says Grummel. “You can’t go from platinum to dark brown—it will look very flat and murky.”
She also recommends sticking to glosses and tints at home, since it will be much easier (and cheaper) for your salon to fix if something goes wrong. Another way to avoid a costly fix is only touching up the color around your hairline, and one inch on either side of your part. Two things you should either leave to the pros or attempt with serious caution? Doing your own highlights or going platinum. “Whether its breakage or brassiness, so much can go wrong here,” Grummel strongly warns. If you’re considering it, just keep in mind how much it will cost to fix if things go south.
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, read on for the best at-home hair color, from full-on dyes to tinted shampoos, and check out our full guide to dyeing your hair at home for more tips and tricks.
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