How to Dye Your Hair

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By WordWhizKid
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Pick out your hair color at the drug store or beauty supply store.

If you want to save money on hair care, try coloring your hair at home for a quick beauty boost without a high price tag. Going to the salon can cost hundreds of dollars and in these tough economic times, who has money to spare? Follow these quick tips for a beautiful hair color without going broke:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Hair color kit, including gloves
Old T-shirt
Old towel
Hair clips for long hair

Step 1

First, go to the drug store or beauty supply store and pick out the color of hair dye that you think would best match your complexion and goals. Decide if you want something dramatic or natural looking and be sure to read the back of the box to see if the color is recommended for your hair color. Be aware of basic coloring rules such as black hair will need to be bleached first to achieve a different color and it's very difficult to go a lot lighter than your natural hair color, but easy to go darker.
Step 2

When you've picked out a color and are ready to dye your hair, make sure to put on some old clothes that you don't mind getting stained. I usually wear an old T-shirt and shorts. Then find an old towel or wash cloths that you can bleach if they get hair color on them.
Step 3

Put on your gloves and read the hair coloring instructions carefully. Be sure to have your hair clips, towel and coloring tools handy. Usually it's best to color your hair at least 12 hours after you've washed it, so the natural oils will be there to protect it frrm the color.
Step 4

Saturate your hair with the dye, starting at the roots. If you just need a root touch-up, place color on the roots for half of the time on the instructions and then add the rest of the color to your other hair for the remainder of the time. Be sure you don't leave your hair color in longer than instructed, especially if using bleach, as this will cause hair loss. Massage the dye into your hair like shampoo.
Step 5

Make sure you get all your roots covered.

Once your hair is thoroughly saturated, twist it up on your head and secure with clips. Be sure to use a wash cloth to wipe any hair color off your head, face and neck. Now set a timer and relax while your dye soaks in. Read, talk to a friend or family member or watch TV, but whatever you do, be careful not to touch any furniture, etc.
Step 6

Once the time is up, it's easiest to jump in the shower to rinse out all the dye. Use the special conditioner provided in your hair coloring kit and completely saturate your hair. Wait for the instructed time, usually at least two minutes, then rinse.
Step 7

Blow dry your hair to see the dazzling new color. Enjoy! Don't shampoo for 24 hours.