Answers to your top color questions
Here’s some of the top questions we’re asked.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know, just message us on Instagram.
How do I know if I might react to color?
You should always do an allergy test (even if you’ve colored your hair before). It’s easy to do.
- 1. Mix a spoonful of color (and the same amount of the developer) in a bowl
- 2. Put some on a cotton bud and dab it on the inside of your elbow
- 3. Leave it on for 48 hours (make sure you don’t wash it off!)
If you don’t have any redness, itching, burning or rashes, you’re okay to color.
What do I need to think about before I color?
Our top three recommendations are
- 1. Always read the instructions on the box (and don’t forget to wear gloves!)
- 2. Do a strand test
- 3. Stick to the recommended timings
How do I know if I’ll like the color I’ve chosen?
You can try the color out by doing a strand test and…
- • Cutting ¼ inch wide strand of hair from your roots (ideally from the back of head) and taping the strands together
- • Completely covering it with the mixture remaining from your allergy test
- • Leaving the color on for the recommended time
- • Rinsing it off and leaving it to dry
This will give you a good indication how the color will look on your hair.
How many boxes of color should I buy?
If your hair is longer than shoulder length or very thick (and if you’re doing an all-over application), you may need two boxes to fully saturate your hair. Also, keep in mind that the ends of long hair tend to absorb more color, so you may need to reduce your processing time to prevent your color from going too dark.
Do different hair types need different time to color?
Always read the instructions carefully. In general, thicker/coarser hair takes more time to absorb color, so it requires more time; fine hair generally takes less time to absorb color, so it needs less time.
Also, hair that's dry or permed may absorb color quickly, so it’s worth regularly checking your color as it develops.
Before you color your hair, we always recommend a strand test.
Should I have my hair cut before I color it?
Ideally...Cut first, color later so you’re able to see the full effect of your color.
Can I have my hair keratin straightened and color it?
It’s advisable to check with a professional hairdresser. As a general rule, you should wait at least two weeks after a keratin treatment to color your hair.
Can I shampoo my hair before I color it?
Where possible, you shouldn't shampoo immediately before coloring, because this will remove the natural oils that help protect your scalp during the coloring process.
It's best to shampoo 12 - 24 hours before coloring when using a non-permanent hair color; shampoo 24 hours prior to using permanent color.
I would like to perm and color my hair. Can I do both on the same day?
If you’re going with a permanent color, wait 7-10 days and at least one shampoo. Also do a strand test first as permed hair can be more porous so your color may absorb faster.
Can I use any conditioner after color?
It's best to use a conditioner specifically designed for colored hair.
How long will my color last?
Demi-permanent hair color will last up to 28 shampoos - if you wash your hair every day, that's about 4 weeks. Permanent hair color lasts until your hair grows out and should be refreshed when your roots start to show, after about 4 - 6 weeks.
My color has turned out too light
If your color is too light, you can get a box of the same brand one shade darker and re-color. HOWEVER…. when you are re-coloring, keep the color on for HALF of the recommended time, check your color every 5 minutes and rinse when you think the color is dark enough.
My color has turned out too dark
If you don’t want to wait for your color to fade naturally (or grow out), try a clarifying shampoo (NOT one meant for color-treated hair) the day after you color. It will help to wash out some of the color.
My color looks patchy
Color your hair one more time, focusing on the blotchy bits. Next time, opt for two boxes of color instead of one to make sure every strand is covered.
Can I mix shades?
Yes, just keep in mind that for the best results you should mix shades no more than 2-3 shades lighter or darker than each other. Also, make sure the amount of color you mix matches the same amount of developer.
When should I start timing my hair color application?
Set your timer as soon as you've finished applying your hair color.
How long can I keep a box of hair color before using it?
If you don't open the bottle, your hair color products will generally last up to three years.