Are You Truly Ready to Make the Plunge?
Dyeing your hair can feel like pressing a refresh button on your entire personality, which is both delightful and slightly dangerous. Whether you’re going for subtle dimension or a color that loudly announces itself, a few pre-dye missteps can turn excitement into regret.
1. Don’t Skip The Patch Test Because You’re “Pretty Sure”
Hair dye allergies are rarely dramatic in theory, but they can be very dramatic on your scalp. Even if you’ve colored before, formulas change, your skin changes, and your immune system doesn’t care about your plans. A quick patch test is the least glamorous step, but it’s also the one that can save you from days of itching and swelling.
2. Don’t Deep-Clean Your Hair Right Before You Color
Scrubbing your scalp squeaky-clean might feel responsible, but it can leave your skin more sensitive than usual. Natural oils aren’t just there for shine; they create a mild buffer that can make dyeing more comfortable. Washing the night before is usually plenty, and your scalp will thank you.
3. Don’t Pretend Your Hair’s History Doesn’t Matter
Old color, bleach, heat damage, and chemical treatments don’t disappear. If you ignore what’s already in your hair, you’re more likely to end up with uneven results. A realistic assessment is far cheaper than a corrective appointment later.
4. Don’t Use Heavy Oils Or Styling Products As “Prep”
Loading up on leave-ins can interfere with how dye penetrates hair. You might get patchiness or color that fades faster than your motivation to do your roots again. Keep it simple beforehand so the dye can actually do its job.
5. Don’t Make a Last-Minute Decision
Choosing a shade while you’re stressed or bored is a classic setup for an identity crisis. Your bathroom mirror isn’t always an honest consultant, so give yourself a little time to compare options.“Impulse auburn” sounds charming until it clashes with everything you own.
