How do I Dye Blonde Hair After Highlights?
Blonde hair has the least amount of pigment out of the entire spectrum of hair hues, making it the most susceptible to damage from color applications. Applying color applications one after the other leads to chemical buildup, which wreaks havoc on blonde hair and causes brassiness. However, with proper conditioning and the right color selection, you can cover up your highlights and dye your hair without causing damage. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Wait at least two weeks after your highlight application to apply any color to allow your hair to recover. Apply deep conditioning treatments during the two week minimum waiting period to ensure your hair absorbs as much color as possible when apply the next color treatment. Reduce heat styling tool usage to once every two days to ensure your hair retains as much moisture as possible.
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Select a new shade based on your highlights, not your base color. If you color over your highlights with a drastically darker color they will still appear lighter than the rest of your hair. Select a color that will intensify your current tone and allow your highlights to blend seamlessly, says L'Oreal Assistant VP Julia Youssef.
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Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo prior to your color application to remove buildup. Product buildup could prevent the color from fully absorbing resulting in an uneven dye job.
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Perform a strand test before applying the color to your entire head. Saturate one strand of highlighted hair with dye and leave it on for the suggested time according to the product's directions. Wash your hair and examine the strand. If the strand turns out too light or dark, purchase a darker or lighter color and perform the strand test again to find the right blend.
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Mix the color according to the product directions and apply to the hair starting at the roots working your way down to the ends. Use a comb to evenly distribute the color throughout your hair and remove tangles. Set the timer to the suggested time in your instructions.
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When the timer rings, wash the color out of your hair until the water runs clear. Apply any conditioners that came with the product or apply a deep conditioner of your own to prevent dryness.
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Tips & Warnings
Combat brassiness and color fade with shampoos and conditioners especially designed for blonde or color-treated hair.
Consult with a professional hair colorist if your hair shows signs of damage like excessive dryness or breakage before coloring over highlights.
References
- Photo Credit tignasse blonde image by bacalao from Fotolia.com
