How to Dye Your Hair a Shade of Brown

Brown hair shades tend to look natural many different skin tones and eye colors.

Brown is one of the easiest and most forgiving shades to dye hair, especially when considering home dying. Even a person with very light blond or dark black hair can dye their hair a shade of brown with a home dye kit. Kits can be easily purchased in the beauty section of a pharmacy, grocery store or discount retailer.

Things You'll Need

• Timer or alarm
• Wide toothed comb
• Old shirt
• Old or dark towel
• 1 Brown hair color kit
• Most Kits Include:
• Gloves
• Colorant
• Activator Fluid
• Creme Rinse or Conditioner

Instructions

Coloring Hair

1. 

   Hair dye does not come out in the wash.

   Wear old or previously stained clothing. Even semi-permanent hair dye will stain any cloth surface that it comes in contact with, and drips are common when coloring your hair. Brush your hair thoroughly, but do not wash your hair. The natural oil in your hair will help to protect it from damage.

2. 

   Latex gloves keeps dye from staining fingers and nails.

   Add the activator to the colorant. Snap off the tip of the colorant applicator. Put on your gloves and shake the container well.

3. 

   Make sure to use a plastic comb, as a wooden one will stain.

   Use a comb to part your hair down the center. Apply color to your part line, from the front to the back. Separate another section, about an inch or two away, and apply color again. Repeat the process on the other side. Next begin applying the dye horizontally, and make two or three lines across your head.

4. 

   Women with very long or thick hair may need to use an additional bottle of colorant.

   Use gloved fingers to gently rub your hair and scalp. Look for any bare spots, and apply additional color if needed. Tip your head forward, and apply horizontally to the back of your head while rubbing it in.

5. 

   An ordinary bathroom is all that's need to color hair.

   Gather the rest of your longer hair together, and apply the rest of the color liberally. Use a scrunching motion to work the dye into your hair strands, as if shampooing.

6. 

   A kitchen timer works well for coloring hair.

   Twist your hair together, and pile on top of your head. Secure with a plastic clip if desired. At this point, set a timer or alarm for the recommended waiting time, usually 25 minutes.

7. 

   Deep conditioning after hair dying prevents breakage and hair loss.

   Rinse your hair in the shower or sink when time is up. Start at your scalp, moving downwards, and massage gently to remove the dye. When the water begins to run relatively clear, add conditioner or cream rinse to your hair. Use a comb or brush to de-tangle your hair and work the conditioner all the way through. Allow to sit for three to five minutes and then rinse until water runs clear. Towel or blow dry your hair.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe away any drips or spills as soon as possible to prevent staining of skin or surfaces.

• Vaseline or petroleum jelly can be applied to your hairline to prevent staining.

• Even after rinsing, a small residue of color may rub off on clothing or towel.

• Color during application may appear a different shade than desired. This is normal.

• Some individuals may have skin sensitivities to hair color.

References

• Women's Day: Guide to At Home Hair Dying