HERE is our take on first-time-coloring, safety concerns and coloring for hair without grays— hence, for the young.
We remember the days when women didn’t color their hair until, horror of horrors, the first white hair(s) appeared. Only then would mom or auntie go to the parlor to be introduced to hair color, probably dark brown or even black.
Nowadays, girls start early.
Hair color is a way to customize your look, to have fun, stand out (and it’s not about dark brown!). Think Ombré, a Balayage or some colorful strands of peek-a-boos. Understandably, the moms and aunts don’t know about this and neither do their parlors.
So, what’s a girl to do?
What’s the best tip for DIY color at home?
Our advice? Don’t do it! You may think you saved money when you buy it in the store or, worse, market. But apart from the mess and stains in your clothes, linens and the bathroom, the color kits from the box work only in brown and black. Fashion colors come out uneven, with bright roots, and they never look like the picture on the box. Often, you end up unhappy with the result and have to go to a salon for a correction—that’s where it gets expensive.
So, research on a salon with a good reputation and go for a consultation. Tell them you’re on a budget and ask what they could offer to put some sparkle in your hair.
It won’t be a Balayage, as that’s a very work- and product-intensive technique and thus does not come at a bargain. Some salons offer model rates for their staff in training.
How safe is hair coloring?
There are studies conducted over 30 years, determining that hair color from reputed brands (US and Europe) are completely safe. However, some people may have allergic reactions that can result to redness, swelling and stinging sensations.
Do an allergy test before coloring for the first time. This test should be done at least two days before the full head color and is free of charge.
Don’t shampoo your hair for 24 to 36 hours prior to applying hair color. Why? Because the scalp produces its own protection called the “acid mantle” which is optimally effective after 24 hours. No oils or waxes should be applied.
How often should you color your hair?
Obviously, if you have white hair, you need to color again when the newly grown white hair is visible. Every month hair grows by 1 cm
or ½ inch. If you have a lot of whites, you may want to color your hair as often as every three weeks, or with fewer whites only every other month.
Have you noticed how many younger women have colors that show their dark roots growing out? It often does not look nice. It’s much better to choose a coloring technique that grows out gracefully. Yes, there is such a thing. Many of our clients live abroad and may visit us just once or twice a year. Our expert designs color so that it will look good for six or even eight months. It costs a little more but lasts much, much longer.
Why does a colorist cost more?
Ultimately, a colorist’s job is to find a solution for you, to guide you in choosing the most suitable level and tone, to inform you about the scope of work and about its effect on your hair quality. And finally, your colorist should give you tips, day-to-day care for your hair, when traveling and at the beach.
It takes many years of practice, research and experience to become a good colorist who can translate your dream color into reality, or can correct a terrible mistake, whether from a salon or your home. If you find that person you can trust your hair with, you’ll never want to take a big risk again for the sake of saving a little money.
As they say, because you’re worth it!
