Whether you’re doing it yourself or going to a salon, coloring your hair for the first time is a big deal — but it doesn't have to be a scary one.
Trust me. I’ve had every hair color on earth, from pastel purple to strawberry blonde, so I’m something of a dye connoisseur. And I’m here to share all of my hard-won knowledge with you.
Here are 8 things to know before you dye your hair for the first time.
1. You can get a consultation!
This is a lifesaver, and it’s something very few people know you can do! If you’re making a big hair change — or even if you’re just nervous about a smaller one — you can book a color consultation at your salon. This way, you’ll be able to talk through your hair dye dreams with the professionals BEFORE they slap dye on your head. You’ll rest easy, knowing you’ll get exactly what you want — and your colorist will be able to prepare for your hair, and give you an idea of what to expect at your appointment.
2. It might not happen instantly.
Blame the Kardashians if you must, but it's easy to have VERY skewed ideas about how much time it will actually take to color your hair. If you have dark brown hair and platinum dreams, it’s possible — but you may need to make a few trips to the salon.
If you want to keep your hair in good condition, keep your expectations reasonable — you can expect to go three shades lighter (or darker) per appointment.
3. It *might* hurt.
Whether you’re bleaching your hair or depositing color, if you’re a dye newbie, your scalp might hurt as the color processes. A little bit of discomfort is normal — a LOT is not. Tell your colorist if you feel like your head is itching and burning too much, and please, do not be shy about speaking up. I have had chemical burns on my scalp! They are not fun!
4. Time vs. Damage.
When it comes to dyeing your hair, you often need to decide what matters most: speed or the health of your lovely locks. Bleaching your hair, for example, can be done relatively quickly… if you don’t mind your hair feeling like straw afterwards. Protective treatments like Olaplex mean that your newly-blondes hair will feel much better afterwards, but it can add hours to the processing time. Pick your color battle.
5. It will feel different afterwards.
Lightened hair may feel “softer” after coloring, especially when it’s wet. Darkened hair may feel “slipperier” — this is something that always surprises me, no matter how many tubs of black dye I go through. Unless your hair is stretching or breaking off, this is totally normal… and if you’re in doubt, consult your colorist.
6. You'll need new products.
Your standard shampoo might not work for you once you’ve dyed your hair. If you want your color to last, look for a dye-safe shampoo (this will be something sulfate-free and hydrating). Avoid any products with “clarifying” on the bottle — literally NOTHING will pull your new color out faster than a clarifying shampoo. I’ve learned that the hard way.
If you’ve gone blonde — and sometimes even if you’re embracing blue-black dye — consider a purple shampoo. It’ll deposit some cool tones and stop you getting brassy. Which brings me to…
7. You may end up with a minor haircut.
Dramatic color changes, especially those involving bleach, sometimes mean that you have to lose a few inches of length. This is ok! Better to have healthy-looking hair that’s a wee bit shorter than damaged, stribbly-looking split ends.
8. You'll love it.
Seriously. There’s nothing better than making a hair change — and color is the perfect thing to play with. After all, if you don’t LOVE it, you can always dye it back.
