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The first step in darkening your hair it to decide whether you want a permanent color change or a color that will gradually fade with washing.
Semi-permanent color simply washes a layer of a darker color over your hair, and the dye will fade with each shampoo. Roots will be less noticeable because the color fades as your hair grows. Semi-permanent color will help blend gray hairs but won't cover them completely. If you are darkening your hair for the first time or want a subtle change in color, semi-permanent may be ideal.
Choose permanent hair color if you want a dramatically darker shade, are ready to commit to the color or have a lot of gray hair you want to cover. -
If coloring for the first time, stay within two shades of your virgin color for a natural look. For a dramatic look, go as dark as you want.
It is easy to dye your hair a darker shade if you're not happy with your first attempt, but it is much harder---and potentially damaging---to lighten hair that is too dark.
Hair colors are either warm (red tones), cool (ash tones) or neutral. Red tones are harder to maintain. If in doubt, choose a neutral tone. -
"Box colors" from the drugstore contain everything you need to mix and apply the color. Simply follow the directions in the box. Don't wash your hair first. Apply petroleum jelly or hair conditioner around the hairline and over your ears to avoid dying your skin. If you are covering a lot of gray, leave the color on 5 to 10 minutes longer than the instructions say.
Rinse the color by adding a little water, lathering the dye like you are shampooing your hair, then rinsing. Use the conditioner that came in your kit. Your color will last longer if you don't wash your hair for a day or two after coloring.
