With WFH now commonplace and our appointments with our colourists under question, brands are reporting a spike in DIY home hair colour. And the experts, home hair colour is comparable to what we might get in salon.
“The results of our [at-home] colour products are definitely comparable in offering grey coverage, shine, condition and a natural colour result,” says Bronwyn Fraser, National Educations Manager at L’Oreal Australia.
We ask Fraser to tell us how to get our DIY job looking as good as when we step out of the salon.
How can we select our perfect hair colour online?
Firstly, know what your natural shade is. “The end result is determined by your natural hair colour,” says Fraser, who suggests selecting a hair dye one or two shades lighter or darker than your natural shade. Keep in mind if you already have colour in your hair. “This can alter the end result,” says Fraser.
What should we be looking out for when buying an at-home colour?
“First of all, understand what result you are after so you select the right product,” says Fraser. Much like in the hair salon, at-home colours vary when it comes to how long they last. “There are four hair colour groups: permanent, long-lasting semi-permanent, semi-permanent and temporary,” explains Fraser.
You might want to experiment with fun colours (think pink and blue) using a temporary colour, which lasts just one wash. Or, if shine and glossiness is more your vibe, a semi-permanent colour, which lasts between 5 and 20 washes, is a good option. Once you know the colour you love, you can move into permanent colours, which are permanent, and will require touch-ups at the root when your hair starts to grow out.
How can we make our DIY hair colour look professional?
It pays to be prepped, says Fraser. “Before your colour application, keep a couple of old towels on hand and wear an old/pre-loved T Shirt or button-up shirt just in case [of drips],” advises Fraser. “Also ensure you have all the components necessary such as gloves, instruction leaflet, comb, clips, water spray etc on hand before you start applying.”
You may not read the instructions on all your beauty products, but it’s important to get out that leaflet in your colour kit. “For the best colour result and professional finish be guided by the instruction leaflet as some products require roots to be coloured first while others recommend mid-lengths and ends first,” advises Fraser.
If you’re covering grey, Fraser recommends starting at the whitest area first. “To ensure an even application, part the hair into four sections (like a hot cross bun!) from front to back down the centre, and from ear to ear. Then apply the colour section by section to ensure even coverage,” she says.
Can we create highlights with home hair colour?
Even if you have a full head of foils worked into your hair at the salon, Fraser says you can emulate the look at home using a highlight or ombre kit. “Both will lighten about two shades on what’s there to begin with so it’s a soft and subtle result,” says Fraser. “These products also work on both natural and coloured hair.”
Try L’Oreal Paris Preference Glam Lights or L’Oreal Paris Preference Permanent Hair Colour – NO4 Wild Ombre
How can we keep our colour looking good?
“Coloured hair requires the care of specifically formulated shampoo’s, conditioners and treatments,” says Fraser. “These products contain ingredients such as UV filters and moisturising agents to help prevent fade, and maintain the shine and colour.”
Try Garnier Fructis Colour Last Shampoo and Conditioner
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