How to Color Hair With JELL-O

Looking for a sweet punk-rock look for just a little money? Feel like sticking it to the man? Jell-O hair dye may be for you. While using Jell-O as a hair product is certainly not sanctioned or recommended by its manufacturers, that hasn't stopped many people from creating a makeshift dye with the brightly-colored powder. You can rock a brightly colored mane without having to shell out for the hairdresser or for more conventional products.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jell-O powder
• Hair conditioner
• Shower cap

1. Pour 3 to 5 tablespoons of hair conditioner into a cup or mixing dish. The conditioner will serve as the base for the hair dye, so it is best to use a moisture-rich conditioner if you have it.

2. Gently stir in Jell-O. It is important to add the powder as you are stirring to prevent clumps of powder from forming. A smooth Jell-O powder mixture will ensure a smooth dye job, so make sure to pour and stir carefully.

3. Apply mixture to your hair. Start at the roots and gently massage conditioner all the way to the tips, making sure every strand of hair is coated. Hair that has not been coated with the mixture won't be dyed.

4. Gather your hair and put it in a shower cap (preferably one you won't mind discarding). Set a timer for 30 minutes. This time will allow the dye to set.

5. After 30 minutes, shower and rinse out the conditioner. The dye is semi-permanent and will last between two and four weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Results from using Jell-O for hair dye can vary widely, especially depending on your natural hair color. If you are naturally blonde, the color will be closer to the Jell-O color. However, if you have brunette or red hair, the color may end up being closer to brown. If you have black hair, Jell-O will not work as a hair dye.

References

• Wicked Hair Dyeing Page
• Hair Dye Salon Easy Red Hair Dye