The topic of hair coloring raises many questions, “how to dye your hair with professional dye?”, “How to choose a hair color to suit your face?”, “How to care for dyed hair?”, “how to remove dye from hair?” These and many other equally interesting questions inspired us to create this article.

Read how to dye your hair with professional dyes yourself, without being a specialist. Follow the color rules described in detail below and you will flawlessly overcome the difficulties of coloring, become a real expert in this matter, dye your hair painlessly, and also save a lot.

Let's make a little introduction - Very often the concepts of “level” and “shade” are confused, remember, when we talk about the level of hair, we are talking about the degree of darkness, when we turn to shade, we are talking about color.

Before you start dyeing your hair yourself, we recommend using special tools that will help you choose the ideal hair color that will suit all parameters - skin color, eyes, hair type, face.

The main assistants for us are the color “wheel” and the color chart. These things need to be on hand when choosing a color, since we will take it from point A to point B (repaint from one color to another). They will help you understand how your chosen shade will look when applied to an existing one.

Here is the “color wheel”:

Simplified diagram:

Table of distribution of shades of natural colors:

Using this table, you can easily understand the shades of colors that are presented in the wheel.

How to understand what the numbers on the paint mean and how to choose a color based on them?

Formula: main color (first number) + shade that is added (second number) + additional shade (it is minimal, usually considered a highlight).

Color chart of natural colors:

Natural colors always have their own tone from 1 and higher (if you see, for example, a tone of 8.3, this means that the natural color will have some shade (in the palette of each brand, the shade values may differ, so when buying paint you will need to compare everything again).

1 is black
2 is a very dark chestnut
3 is dark chestnut
4 is chestnut
5 is light chestnut
6 is dark blond
7 is light brown
8 is light brown
9 is blonde
10 is light blond

To clearly explain to you how to understand the final color of paint by its number, we follow the natural diagram (it is above) and the same example 8.3 - 8 is the main color, look above we understand that it is light brown, 3 is dark chestnut, respectively general the color turns out light brown with a hint of chocolate. Usually natural shades are numbered the same for all manufacturers, but be careful.

It will look something like this, so we’ll break it down below:

It is also very important to follow simple rules for combining hair color with skin color; an incorrectly chosen shade can create the impression of a pale or tired look, which is completely unsuitable for us. So remember these simple tips:

How to choose hair color to match your skin color:

How to choose hair color to match your eye color:

Choosing a color according to the color type - winter, summer, autumn, spring:

Follow the tones indicated in the picture and you will choose the right hair color for yourself.

How to choose the right hair color according to the color of your eyes and skin?

Let's move on to the next stage of our training. Now let's talk about hair developers.

Oxidizing agents (oxidants, developers) how to choose them correctly?

“What is a developer?” answer: A developer or oxidizing agent (oxidant) is a peroxide or oxidizing component that works to develop color on the hair. The oxidizing agent removes the natural color, allowing the artificial color of our chosen paint to appear. That is, the desired color is achieved precisely thanks to the oxidizing agent.

Tip: It is better to use the same brand of paint and oxidizer.

You need to choose an oxidizer based on its power, it depends on the percentage of hydrogen peroxide contained. It is designated as volume. It’s easy to determine the power of the oxidizer; it will depend on the chosen color. Use the table below to determine the oxidant for you.

If you are still not sure that you have correctly decided on the color and oxidizer, contact the consultants at the store where you will purchase the paint for recommendations.

Tip: Professional paint should be purchased at professional cosmetics and tool stores.

At the third stage of training, we will look at specific examples of coloring.

Darkening blonde hair. How to change your color from blonde to brunette

First: we get rid of the idea that you just need to buy dye and dye your hair!

A small exam, test yourself

Having already learned the color “wheel”, answer the question: What happens if you take level 3 dark brown color and apply it to level 12 blond hair?

We look at the wheel and understand that our hair color will be gray-green-brown, or, to put it simply, terrible.

We gave this example for those who think that you can “just buy paint” in the color you want and paint it - of course, you can, but such actions will lead to you being surprised by the result, not for the better.

Let us remember that coloring is filling the hair with pigment, so the intended result will not always be achieved the first time, especially when the color is completely etched out and the hair is completely empty, as is the case with blondes.

For example, the transition from light hair that has never been bleached to dark hair occurs in two stages. The first stage is primary filling. Filling the hair means replacing the pigment, first we will nourish the hair several levels below what we want to get (a lighter shade from the one you want to get in the end).

If you dye your light hair straight into a dark color, without first filling it in, it will turn out dull and will disappoint you. After we have nourished the blonde hair, we can dye it in the chosen dark tone. Between the first and second staining, take a break of 1-2 days.

What tools will you need to use and how to apply paint step by step instructions ⇒⇒⇒ Find out more

How to change from a blonde to a brunette?

If your hair was pre-lightened with blonde or after rinsing, and you want to make it darker or completely black, first of all we will eliminate the uncolored color. To do this, the first step is to tone your hair.

Tip: You will practically not harm your hair if you use 10 volume developer for a light golden color (7-8 natural tone according to the chart).

Having aligned the color to one tone, dry your hair and only then proceed to the 2nd step - apply the dye of the desired color.

Step by step:

Even out color transitions with tinting (never use “tonic”; they are not compatible with professional cosmetics). Homemade tonic recipe - 30 grams of paint (2 shades lighter) + 20 grams of shampoo + 10 grams of balm.
Wash your hair.
Dry your hair and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
Apply dye the color you want your hair to be.
Wash, style, enjoy the result.

How to go from brunette to blonde?

For brunettes, it’s also possible to become blonde in several stages, it all depends on the original color, if it was black, then you will have to lighten it at least twice, if it’s chocolate, then once may be enough.

Step by step:

Do bleaching (if the color is black, do it 2 times with a break of one week).
After the second wash, take a day off and tint your hair or dye it the desired blonde with permanent dye.
Rinse and dry.

The fourth step is to consider the issue of washing your hair.

How to bleach your hair yourself? How to wash?

Bleaching or washing hair is done in order to make hair light or to wash off a boring color to transition to a new one.

Hair bleaching, or rather the result will depend on the chosen oxidizing agent. All oxidizing agents, when mixed with blonde bleach, will lighten the hair, the only difference is in the speed of the process. For example, if we mix Blondran powder with a 40 volume oxidizing agent, the lightening effect will happen quickly, but you should not choose it if you have thin hair, it is not suitable for this type of hair. 10 volume oxidizer will give the same result, but you need to keep it on your hair a little longer, but this combination is suitable for all hair types.

Tip: The proportions of blondoran and oxidizing agent are 1: 1.5 or 1: 2 (1 measuring cup of powder to 2 or 1.5 measuring cups of oxidizing agent)

Hair bleaching steps:

Hair washing differs from bleaching in that shampoo is added to the mixture of blondoran and oxidizing agent. This is done for a gentle effect, the shampoo will envelop the hair and the rinsing mixture will be more gentle on the hair.

Hair wash recipe: Mix the oxidizing agent, blondoran powder and add shampoo (oxidizing agent and shampoo are added 1 to 1). Apply the resulting mixture evenly to the hair and leave the development time will depend on the chosen oxidizing agent. This type of wash will give the desired result and will not damage the hair.

The fifth stage of our training is tinting hair after washing or dyeing.

How to properly tone yourself?

We can tint our hair in two ways - with dye and toners; by the word toner we mean a corrector. If we need to change the color level to make it neutral or brighter, we will resort to their help. For example, after bleaching your hair, your hair turns yellow, but you want to get a real blonde. Select the toner or paint of the desired color.

When choosing a concealer, look at your hair.

Answer 2 questions for yourself: What defect do you want to get rid of? Is it slightly brassy or too yellow?

Check your color on the color wheel. So that the unwanted shade goes into the desired beautiful tonality. Choose opposing color tones. Blue and violet toners are great for eliminating gold tones. Yellow and green toners are suitable for eliminating red ones.

We remind you that shades are located in color zones

We add hair corrector to the dye, for example, 60 grams of dye, approximately 10-15 grams of corrector will do. Use the instructions, as each company will have its own rules and dosages.

A homemade toner recipe without concealer consists of shampoo, conditioner and dye. The average dosage is 60g of paint + 20g of shampoo + 10g of balm or mask. The main point is to mix well.

Extra bright colors are our sixth stage of training.

How to dye your hair bright or pastel colors?

Bright pink, blue, green, purple, orange yellow or pastel hair is the result of bleaching and colored dye. You won’t be able to get a rich color without bleaching your hair; the same goes for bed hair color. Don’t be afraid to take risks; we already know a gentle method of bleaching, and such paints will not harm. The image will be breathtaking!

Wash (possibly several times).
Feel free to dye your hair, pastels will work the first time, and bright colors will work twice.

Hair in pastel colors:

Fashionable gray colors for gray hair

It is logical to move from pastel colors to the seventh and final stage of coloring gray hair.

What oxidizing agent should I use when coloring gray hair?

Gray hair is more difficult to saturate with pigment, but it is quite possible. Remember a simple rule: to dye gray hair, use an oxidizer of at least 20 volume.

If there is a lot of gray hair, and for example, you want a cool white color, you need to use a neutral or golden shade to compensate for the natural color that is missing. If the gray hair does not go away, then we increase the power of the oxidizer to 30 volume to help the hair absorb the new color.

And the most important final stage of training, we won’t number it, you need to remember it in any case!

Caring for colored hair

The healthier your hair is, the easier and faster it will absorb the dye. Love them and take full care of them.

Maintaining colored hair healthy and rich is not difficult, do not use shampoo to preserve the color, it does not help, but rather washes out the color. Instead, try a cleansing cream that will cleanse your hair and keep it in good condition.
Comb your hair, do it correctly by choosing a comb for your hair type.
If your hair does not respond to coloring, drink protein preparations and return to coloring, focus on moisturizing your hair, without this there is no way - moisturizing is the basis of hair care.

Use conditioners and masks. Pamper your hair with masks made from natural ingredients - organic.

"Griva Studio" provides a wide range of services that allow you to change your appearance without resorting to the services of plastic surgeons or cosmetologists. The Studio's highly qualified and experienced masters are capable of high-quality production of the most complex colorings, such as shatush, ombre, hair bronding, balayage, babylights and much more. All types of coloring are carried out by trained craftsmen using special technologies developed for each individual method.

For coloring procedures, Griva Studio colorists use professional products from the FarmaVita brand. The Italian manufacturer carefully monitors quality and develops cosmetic compositions that allow you to achieve the best results without harming your hair. Farmavita paints are soft and gentle, do not cause allergic reactions and are made on the basis of argan oil. There are many options and methods of hair coloring. In order to choose the right one for you, you should familiarize yourself with the most popular ones and understand the main differences.

Dyeing in one tone (classic method) is one of the most common, the meaning of which is to uniformly color the hair from the roots to the very ends. Confirmation of the high-quality implementation of this procedure is the uniformity of the resulting color, without any transitions. In order to achieve an ideal result, you need to contact the experts. A professional colorist will correctly select the required color tone, depending on the desired color and condition of the hair, and will perform high-quality dyeing.

Highlighting is a fairly well-known option for updating and giving a “fresh” look. This procedure has a number of advantages compared to the classic hair coloring method:

“refreshes” the hairstyle without a radical change in color

Is a great way to cover gray hair without the need for regular coloring.

No frequent updates required

After a certain period of time, it is necessary to carry out root highlighting to eliminate the effect of regrown hair.

Hair tinting is dyeing with light, gentle products with a very low percentage of ammonia in the composition, which allows you to change the shade of your hair or saturate your color. The procedure has a delicate effect, evens out the structure and provides unsurpassed shine. Toning is suitable for both brunettes and blondes. The most effective results can be achieved by highlighting and tinting at the same time. This procedure will allow you to get beautiful tints and color transitions, which will visually add volume, shine and freshness to your hair.

Ombre coloring is a smooth stretch of color, originally from the USA. The essence of the procedure is to achieve a soft transition from dark roots to light ends, which is achieved through smooth shading of color. For each client, shades are selected individually, based on wishes and original hair color. An indicator of the high quality and professionalism of the master performing ombre is an even color gradient, made in a strict ratio: dark - 60%, light - 40%.

Bronzing hair is one of the complex methods of coloring, which is based on the desire to achieve shimmer, reminiscent of the “play of sun rays.” This procedure involves mixing dark and light shades. Hair is dyed along the entire length. As a result of dyeing, the curls differ from the main color by only 2-3 tones, and the transition itself looks more veiled and easy. Bronding visually increases volume and makes hair thicker.

Balayage - translated from French means “balayage”, which exactly characterizes this coloring technique. In this case, the master performing the procedure “sweeps” the paint from the strands towards the ends. The main goal is to give the hairstyle the effect of sun-bleached hair based on two different shades. The main work is done on the ends so that the result looks most natural.

Shatush or “French highlighting” implies an original and unusual method of coloring, which creates the natural effect of individual strands bleached by the sun. The technique involves stretching the color. Only a qualified and experienced colorist can achieve an ideal result.

Babylights, or as the masters warmly call “kiss of the sun,” is a unique method of coloring, which is based on the principle of natural fading of children’s hair under the rays of the sun, which is reflected in the name of the technique. The strands reach natural light shades with the effect of shimmer and shimmer. When done professionally, Babylights gives the impression that the hair was worked on by an ideal colorist named “the sun.” To achieve the most natural and beautiful effect, the strands that are located closer to the face and ends are processed. Whatever coloring method you choose, the qualified and experienced masters of Studio Griva will help you achieve the desired result with high quality and without harm to your hair. Washing and styling are included in the cost of coloring.

After dyeing your hair, it is recommended to carry out one of the following hair care procedures:
reconstruction, creatine restoration or hair botox, which will allow maximum
preserve the effect obtained from coloring for a long time. What procedure will be necessary specifically for
Your master will tell you in detail.

Trends in the fashion world: colored hair. Anthocyanin staining.

Advantages

A huge palette of natural and “bright” colors.
FarmaVita dye, based on argan oil, very gently colors hair.

Hair tinting

Additional tube of Matrix or FarmaVita paint +600₽; Additional tube of L’Oreal paint +1500₽; Adding a portion of Olaplex, Smartbond +1500₽; The service includes: washing, hair styling, moisturizing hair mask, styling products, oil for hair ends. The duration of the procedure is indicated approximately and can vary both up and down. Short hair - to the middle of the ear. Medium hair - shoulder length. Long hair - up to the shoulder blades. Further the price does not change, only for extra. dye.

Hair highlights

Root lightening (+toning)

L'Oreal paint is included in the price; Additional tube of Matrix or FarmaVita paint +600₽; Additional tube of L’Oreal paint +1500₽; Adding a portion of Olaplex, Smartbond +1500₽; The service includes: washing, hair styling, moisturizing hair mask, styling products, oil for hair ends. The duration of the procedure is indicated approximately and can vary both up and down. Short hair - to the middle of the ear. Medium hair - shoulder length. Long hair - up to the shoulder blades. Further the price does not change, only for extra. dye.

OLAPLEX™ care

Short hair - to the middle of the ear. Medium hair - shoulder length. Long hair - up to the shoulder blades. Further the price does not change, only for extra. dye.

Our principles

Professionals
Quality result
Affordable prices

Home dyeing is, first of all, simple dyeing (oddly enough, there are many “simple” options, and you can dye your hair well without a salon). Simple dyeing is dyeing one color. But look how much this concept contains:

update the color on the roots and along the length (that is, repeat the color);
dye your hair tone-on-tone for shine, richness and coverage of the first gray hair;
dye your natural hair 1-2 shades lighter;
make hair darker;
restore color to dyed, bleached and highlighted hair;
cover a large percentage of gray hair (more than 50%).
etc.

Which paint should I choose?

Use good professional paint - it is less aggressive. Please note that you cannot buy such paints in supermarkets or just nearby stores, only in professional ones. In the article “” I wrote in more detail about how professional paints differ from household paints.

Among the professional ones, you can choose a classic permanent dye with ammonia (it can color lighter). Hydrogen peroxide content in OXidante should not be higher than 6%. Less is possible, more at home is dangerous. A 6% oxidant allows you to lighten natural hair by 1-2 tones and only it can cover more than 50% of gray hair. I mean dyes of this type:

Matrix Sokolor.beauty and oxidant 6%; Redken Color Fusion and oxidizer 6%. In order to dye your hair with professional dye, you need to buy the chosen color and the oxidant that suits you.

I will not tire of repeating that a very good solution for home coloring are tone-on-tone dyes without ammonia. They do not lighten (the type of coloring itself is called tone-on-tone). Not so long ago, more powerful developers appeared - when mixed with them, ammonia-free paints lighten just a little, as if they highlight.

How to dye your hair safely?

If you never dyed your hair- be sure to do the test that all paint manufacturers require. On the elbow or behind the ear. Avoid dyeing if you see an allergic reaction. You can try changing the selected color and/or brand of dye.

The necessary equipment you will need is a good wide brush (down with old toothbrushes, the result is important to us), a comb with a tail for precise parting and a non-metallic bowl. There should be a lot of paint. This is very important especially when applied independently and/or unprofessionally. The amount of paint compensates for the quality of application, which cannot be achieved without experience. By the way, and therefore also, gel paint or gel cream is better than cream paint. Gel-based dyes have a lighter texture and are easier to distribute evenly.

For additional confidence in the result, do not be lazy to do a color test. Make the smallest volume of the mixture: 1-2 strands (you can do it by eye). The strand for the test should be near the face: to see the combination with the skin and eyes. But this should not be the top or edge strand (along the hairline). This way, if you fail, it won’t ruin your hairstyle.

How to take the test

Pin up the “extra” hair with “crabs” or special clips. Prepare a piece of foil that is suitable in length and width.

Separate a horizontal strand 5-6 cm wide and 0.5-0.8 cm thick.

Apply the mixture thoroughly to the roots. Spread some of the mixture onto the foil.

Place foil under the strand. Apply paint to length*. The foil will not fall off - the mixture will act as glue. Don't comb your hair! They will still be useful to you. Do not cover the test strand with anything, this may distort the color.

Take the right amount of time. Rinse and dry. Only see the results on completely dry hair. See the color in different lighting by holding a strand to your eyes and skin.

*Add-ons:

if the hair is natural, apply the mixture to the roots and lengths immediately (that is, as described in the test);

if your hair is dyed, then reduce the exposure time on the length so as not to overload the hair with artificial pigment (this makes the color darken) and so as not to further injure it.

Looking attractive, being well-groomed, pleasing yourself and others is the natural desire of any woman. Efforts are made to achieve this and a lot of money is spent. Clothes, shoes, cosmetics and, of course, hair care are what create the desired image.

Hair coloring, among other things, is included in the mandatory list of caring for women's beauty. Going to the salon for the purpose of transformation becomes a monthly ritual of any self-respecting woman. Revitalize your hair color, give it a new shade, cover up gray hair, radically change the color or, finally, do a creative coloring.
And if you managed to find an excellent master stylist, knowledgeable, understanding, intelligent, then consider yourself lucky. Then you go to the salon with easy confidence, and this trip will not be overshadowed by anything. Everything is as it should be: natural hair color, shine, restored structure and approving and sometimes admiring glances.

But the opposite happens when visiting beauty salons.

Reading reviews from beauty salon clients on forums, you are convinced that visiting such establishments does not provide a 100% guarantee that the procedure itself and its result will be satisfactory.
One of the clients writes that when she tried to dye her hair a light blonde with a cool tint, she received an unwanted yellowness. Another indignantly describes her story about how the girl’s light brown hair was dyed bright copper when she wanted to add a little golden tint. We also read one sad story of “turning into Malvina” if you want to get an ashy tone.

Long-lasting spoiled mood, wasted money...
And the search for a new master or an alternative to salon coloring.

Professionally dye your hair at home

It’s probably already clear why professional hair pigmentation at home is becoming more and more popular.
“Is it even possible to talk about professional home painting? – a question involuntarily arises among inexperienced readers. “Maybe it’s not worth taking such risks?”
However, professional painting at home is a reality.

Before coloring your hair, gain knowledge

Learn techniques for doing print work.
Learn the basic rules that seasoned professionals openly share online.
Watch a few tutorial videos or instructional videos. Here, for example, is this video:

Now we will conduct a short educational program.

How to dye your hair at home

Hair coloring products

Hair dye can be more or less aggressive.

Ammonia dyes are considered the most harmful to the hair structure. Experts recommend choosing them for coloring gray hair or lightening natural hair.
Semi-resistant ones contain a lower percentage of ammonia. You can use it once a month or a month and a half.
Tint products are the most gentle. The depth of penetration is small. Can be used once every 2-3 weeks.
Colored hair lamination. In addition to coloring, the laminating agent gives extraordinary shine to your hair. In addition, in most products (almost any lamination except the Lebel brand, which is also intended for gray hair), the dye is slowly and imperceptibly washed away, allowing you to avoid unsightly regrown roots.

The beauty industry offers many products for caring for colored hair. These are special shampoos, balms, masks. Dyed hair has changed its structure and requires the use of products containing vitamins and oils.

On the site you will find shampoos for colored hair. Experts recommend brands of shampoo:

How often can and should you dye your hair?

It is advisable to paint no more than once every 2 months.
To dye less often, you need to take care of your hair in the interval between dyeing.
Dye your hair in a tone close to natural. The difference between colored and regrown ones will not be very noticeable.
Diseased, lifeless hair must first be treated (for example, with a hair keraplasty procedure), and then exposed to chemicals.

10 common mistakes when dyeing hair

Wrong choice of shade. Do not rely on the photo on the packaging or the name of the shade. More complete information will be provided by the digital color designation and palette. A qualified store consultant will give you comprehensive advice.
Ignoring an allergy test.
Failure to comply with the time interval for exposure of the coloring composition to the hair.
Refusal to prepare hair for upcoming coloring (healing and moisturizing hair mask, refusal 1-2 days before shampooing, rinsing with conditioner, using curling irons, tongs and hair dryers).
Applying coloring composition to tangled or varnished hair.
Applying one paint to another. Such an “experiment” can give the most unpredictable effect: unwanted green, red or purple shades)
Using hair product to tint eyebrows and eyelashes.
Refusal to use cream to protect the skin from spots on the forehead and temples.
Using anti-dandruff shampoo on colored hair.
Ignoring the use of gloves and protective covering in the form of a towel on the shoulders or a polyethylene cape during work.

There has long been an opinion among people that a pregnant woman should not dye her hair. Gynecologists also take this position: this harms the health of the expectant mother and her unborn child. Main reasons:
an allergic reaction to the ingredients that make up dyes, the harmfulness of ammonia vapor that is part of many paints.

Let's dispel your doubts. You can dye your hair while pregnant. There are special preparations without oxides for this purpose.
On the site you will find such products from
These are laminating agents that do not require oxides. Manufacturers assure the safety of using such products for pregnant and lactating women.

How to choose the right hair color

With a huge range of professional products, the choice of drug should be strictly individual. This means there are a few key points to consider:

natural hair color
number of gray hairs as a percentage of healthy ones
length of hair grown from the roots
scalp reaction to the drug
shade compatibility “before” and “after”
facial skin color

How to get rid of gray hair and dye gray hair

Gray hair does not suit all women. Most often, a woman with gray hair on her head or overgrown gray roots gives the impression of being unkempt or simply looking older than her age.

Of course, getting rid of gray hair is difficult, but it is possible.
When we talk about gray hair, we mean the structure of hair that is devoid of pigment. Saturating such hair with a dye and “holding” the color for as long as possible is a difficult task. Difficult, but solvable.

Follow the instructions for coloring gray hair:

Determine the degree of graying (25%, 50% or 100%) Depending on the amount of gray hair, the formula of the dye is determined.
Before coloring, do pre-pigmentation. This is the treatment of gray hair with a dye of a natural shade to saturate it with pigment. It is carried out before the main staining.
Get acquainted with the recommendations of an experienced colorist by watching the video:

Even in ancient times, women changed their hair color using plants, ashes, animal blood and many other sources of natural dyes. Modern beauties rarely use natural ingredients, preferring persistent chemical compounds. Moreover, many girls regularly apply makeup on their own, finding many advantages of a home procedure over a salon service. If you also decide to change the color of your curls at home, rather than at the hairdresser, find out how to dye your hair correctly. A competent approach and adherence to technology will allow you to get the desired result without disappointment or error.

How to dye your hair at home

The main advantage of the salon procedure is that the master will perform it professionally. He will advise you on the optimal shade, ensure even color distribution, and talk about the basics of caring for colored hair. However, you will have to pay a lot for this, and sometimes you will also have to wait in a long line to see a good stylist.

Of course, the cost of painting in Elektrostal or another regional city cannot be compared with Moscow or St. Petersburg prices, but to some girls even such an amount seems impressive. With this in mind, they are making bold attempts to paint themselves at home.

Preparation for self-staining can be divided into the following episodes:

Purchase of paint and additional materials and tools.
Skin and curl testing.
Carrying out the procedure.

When planning to change the natural color of their hair, women often act radically: blondes buy brown or black dye, and brown-haired and brunette women desperately lighten their curls. This is where the first surprises appear. Hair bleaching is already a strong stress for the hair, and if you apply an additional tone after that, long-term treatment and restoration of the structure of the strands cannot be avoided.

In addition, a new shade may simply not suit you and highlight flaws in your appearance. To avoid having to urgently correct the results of unsuccessful coloring, you should listen to the recommendations of specialists.

The principle of color selection is based on determining the color type of appearance. There are 4 of them in total, and they are named after the seasons.

There are several signs and tests, thanks to which every girl can understand who she is: autumn, winter, spring or summer. After this, it will not be difficult to choose the appropriate shade before dyeing your hair at home:

pale-skinned women with gray or blue eyes Cool shades are suitable: light brown, ash, platinum. If the skin has a yellowish color, you should not paint yourself in golden tones;
spring women, which belong to the warm color type, it is worth choosing red, copper, golden brown. It is not recommended to change your appearance radically;
cold winter type requires a contrasting black, ash or dark brown color. You need to focus on the color of your eyes and skin (can be light or dark);
golden skin and dark curls- a sign of the autumn type of appearance. Chestnut, chocolate, brown, copper, light brown would be appropriate here.

Attention! If you want to figure out how to properly dye your hair at home, remember: cold shades suit winter and summer color types, and warm shades suit spring and autumn color types.

Dye selection

All modern chemical compositions for hair coloring are conventionally divided into 3 groups: blond, chestnut, black. There is even a special scale for this from 1 to 10 points, where 1 is rich black, 10 is the lightest blonde. Of course, each of these colors has shades.

On paint packages, they are usually indicated by three numbers: the first - belonging to one of three groups, and the remaining two (after the dot) - color nuances. As a rule, manufacturers of professional painting compositions have their own palettes where you can see what a particular color scheme looks like.

Attention! Markings “1000”, “12” and “SS” indicate that the product is intended for strong hair lightening.

According to the duration of the effect, chemical preparations for coloring are:

temporary - mascara, gels that are washed off upon contact with water;
unstable - these are tinted shampoos and balms;
semi-permanent - ammonia-free paints;
persistent - permanent dyes with ammonia.

The last two categories allow you to get the most lasting results. The differences between them will help you decide how to properly dye your hair at home and what exactly you need.

Semi-permanent paints:

they wash out gradually, so they are optimal if you do not change the color radically;
help lighten the color by 1-2 tones, no more. On blondes, such shades do not last long;
require regular color updates;
may not cover heavy gray hair or previously tinted hair (if a permanent composition was used);
examples of semi-permanent coloring preparations are Casting Crème Gloss from L’oreal, Estel Professional De Luxe Sense and others.

Sometimes, instead of ammonia, semi-permanent paints contain amines - also very toxic substances.

Features of permanent dyes:

make it possible to radically change the original color;
can lighten curls even without prior bleaching;
the color does not fade;
even completely gray hair is covered;
forced to periodically tint the roots;
can damage the scalp and cause allergic reactions;
cause difficulties if you need to change a dark tone to a light one;
examples of such drugs are Syoss, Londa Professional, Palette, L'Oreal Excellence and others.

Advice. If you are not ready to spoil your curls with permanent or semi-permanent dye, take a closer look at temporary or unstable, as well as natural preparations (henna, basma) and folk remedies. You can make hair dye at home from lemon juice, honey, chamomile and other products.

check the expiration date;
do not buy dyes that are too cheap. They may contain harmful impurities;
remember that smooth strands lose color faster than curly ones;
Thick, dense curls require more time to dye.

To dye your hair roots at home or lighten the ends you will need 1 package of the composition. The same amount is enough to fully color short and medium hair. Long-haired beauties need to buy 2-3 packs.

Mistakes when dyeing hair

No. 1. Expect that after the procedure you will look the same as the girl from the paint package.

Natural light and dark hair have different textures, which affects the final result. Natural blonde curls are very porous, so they retain pigment well. For this reason, the new color on your hair most often matches what you see in the photo from the box.

Natural chestnut and black strands are highly dense. This means that the shade will be deeper and more saturated. Of course, dark hair can be pre-bleached to get a brighter color, but this will greatly affect its health.

Advice. Pre-dye a small strand at the back of your head and see what color comes out.

No. 2. Try to lighten black locks at one time.

Apply lighter shades gradually: first dark chestnut, then dark blond, blond. Take breaks between coloring your hair at home, use restorative and moisturizing products. This way you will protect yourself from unpleasant lightening results. You will find details on lightening dark hair using folk and chemical means on our website.

No. 3. Don't do an allergy test.

1-2 days before the intended staining, apply a small amount of the product to the area behind the ear or the bend of the elbow. Make sure that there is no itching or redness in this area. Ignoring this rule is fraught with dermatological problems and even hair loss.

No. 4. Do not wear gloves or a cape to protect your clothing.

The dye can leave stains on your favorite T-shirt or the skin of your hands, so it is better to carefully prepare your hair at home.

No. 5. Immediately before coloring, wash your hair with conditioner or use styling products.

To prevent the chemical components of the dye from causing too much damage to your hair, you should wash your hair 2-3 days before the procedure. In this case, it is advisable not to use additional products: balm, conditioner. It is also better to exclude styling products. Hair should be clean, but in moderation.

No. 6. Keep the paint on longer than the manufacturer recommends.

This is one of the most common mistakes and the fastest way to ruin the structure of the hair shafts. It is better to repeat the coloring at home after 2-3 weeks to make the color more saturated, but do not violate the exposure time.

No. 7. Dye your hair with a shade that is more than 2-3 shades lighter or darker than the natural color of your curls.

Any color should be in harmony with the color type of appearance, so it is better to avoid drastic experiments.

No. 8. Ignore precautions when painting:

do not mix different formulations in one container;
rinse your hair well with water;
make sure that the composition does not get into your eyes;
do not paint eyebrows and eyelashes with hair preparation;
Carefully follow the instructions included in the package.

Advice. If you dye your hair regularly, try to use products from the same manufacturer. Even a slight difference in composition can cause unexpected results.

Necessary tools and preparations

Properly selected tools and materials will be a good help in your work and will help you get the desired result. It is important that all painting tools are not metal, as they can react chemically with the dye and change its shade.

To prepare the solution, take a plastic, glass or porcelain container. The same recommendation applies to other hair coloring devices at home.

Brush

Determines the quality and speed of application of the solution. All brushes are divided into classic ones and those equipped with a comb. The latter are convenient if you use semi-permanent products or tint long hair. However, they are recommended for use by professionals. For home use it is better to choose classics.

The optimal brush width for uniform coloring is 4–5 centimeters. Narrower specimens are suitable for tinting individual strands, while wider ones are suitable for hair of considerable length. The brush can be replaced with a sponge or curling applicator, especially when it comes to toners and semi-permanent products.

By the way. Hard brushes are convenient for painting long curls, if you do not need to tint the roots. In other cases, it is better to choose soft bristles.

Thermal paper

It is an alternative to foil. It is used for wrapping individual strands during highlights, ombre, balayage and other complex hair coloring techniques at home or in the salon, as well as for dyeing ends. Unlike foil paper, thermal paper washes well without losing its qualities.

Spatula

It looks like a device for picking berries: a wide plane with a curved comb end. Separate parts of hair are placed on the shoulder blade. The device is smoothly moved from roots to ends, as if combing a curl from bottom to top, and at the same time dye is applied to this strand.

The tool is indispensable if you need to do bronzing, California highlighting at home, or create the effect of washed-out paint on your hair, which looks quite natural. If your goal is complete hair coloring at home, changing color, then you won’t need a spatula.

Oxide for hair coloring

The purpose of the oxidizing agent (developer, activator) is to consolidate the painting result. It is used only in combination with permanent or semi-permanent formulations. It is important to choose the correct concentration of oxide, otherwise you can burn your hair.

This indicator is expressed as a percentage, which is deciphered as the amount of hydrogen peroxide per 1 liter of product (3% oxygen - 3% peroxide per liter, and so on).

Information on how to properly dye your hair at home will be incomplete if you don’t know about developer concentration options:

1,2–2,5% - suitable for gentle painting and tinting;
3% - for darkening by 1 tone or coloring color to color;
6% - to disguise gray hair and lighten it by 1–2 tones;
9% - if you need to become 3 shades lighter;
12% - used with lightening dyes, it makes it possible to immediately whiten hair by 3-4 tones.

Foil

Just like thermal paper, when coloring hair at home or in a salon, it serves to separate strands. Foil is used for closed and hidden dyeing methods, when it is necessary that the tinted curls do not come into contact with the rest of the hair. The advantage over paper is its high plasticity.

Gloves

Protect your hands from exposure to chemicals. Usually they come in a set with paint. You can replace them with more durable rubber gloves.

Comb

You will need a fine-toothed comb to shape the strands. It can be with a ponytail to make it convenient to separate partings when distributing the composition.

There are also special brushes for coloring (stripper or with hooks) that help to effectively highlight or lighten curls at home. A wide-tooth comb will come in handy at the final stage of dyeing your hair at home.