Whether you go to a pro or DIY, there are certain things you need to know before taking the plunge and colouring your hair. Celebrities such as Nandi Madida and Somizi have been experimenting with colour for a while.
If you’re ready to join them, then these tips will be useful. To give you more information, we asked Dark and Lovely national field and education manager Hanson Ndabeni to answer some of the questions you might have.
Here’s everything you need to know before colouring your hair.
Image: Pexels
How safe is it to colour your hair at home?
It can be safe, as long as you carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep the integrity of your hair in check. If it is not in good condition (dry, brittle or breaking), rather treat it until it has improved before dyeing it.
SEE ALSO: 8 steps to safely colour your hair
Is it important to do a strand test first?
Yes, it is; this will act as a guide to show you the result and ensure that you don’t end up with a different colour. Other factors why this could happen include the state of your hair, previous chemical treatments as well as any colour applied prior that could alter the desired result. Strand tests will also prevent potential breakage due to chemical treatments, and act as an allergy test.
How long should you wait before changing colours?
Just make sure that your hair is in perfect condition and health beforehand. Additionally, wait for regrowth as it will give your hair a deserve rest before another chemical treatment.
SEE ALSO: 4 hair trends that are ruining your hair
Tips for hair colouring:
1. Avoid resorcinol. This toxic dye can cause scalp irritation, and is an allergen affecting the endocrine system.
2. If you have a light skin tone and want a bright shade, go for a hip, silvery-blonde colour. Dark skin tones are not a one size fits all, nor do they limit you to a blonde shade. You can wear light hair colours in red and silver shades.
SEE ALSO: Slay bold hair colours like Nandi Madida
3. After dyeing your hair, wait for 72 hours before washing it with shampoo. Also, use a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner. Wash with lukewarm water, and apply leave-in mask or treatment to protect your colour from heat.
