Coloring for the very first time at home? The process of getting your best color begins even before you open your pack. Here are a few questions we need to answer before you start. Shall we?
QUESTION #1
Does hair length affect the amount of color?
Yes. If your hair is longer than shoulder length or very thick, you may need two packs to fully saturate your hair. Also, keep in mind that the ends of long hair tend to absorb more color, so the processing timing may be different for your ends.
QUESTION #2
Does my hair type make a difference?
The hair type makes a huge difference to the timing required for the coloring process. An important consideration is hair's texture – when the individual strands are coarse (large in diameter) or fine (small in diameter). Coarse hair generally takes more time to absorb color, so it requires longer processing time. Fine hair usually takes less time to absorb color, so it requires shorter processing time. Hair that's dry or permed may absorb color quickly as well. Because several factors affect timing, we recommend a strand test – it's an excellent way to confirm the coloring time.
QUESTION #3
Should I cut or perm before I color?
When coloring at home, you should generally color your hair first before cutting – primarily because most hair is best cut wet. You shouldn’t shampoo hair straight before coloring, as it will remove the natural oils on your scalp, that protect it during the coloring process. However, with perming – it’s best to perm first to ensure that the perming process will not interfere with your newly applied color. If you're using a permanent hair color (lasts until your hair grows out or you recolor), wait 7-10 days and shampoo at least once before coloring.
Non-permanent hair color that lasts up to 8 shampoos (if the product does not contain either ammonia or peroxide) can be used the same day as your perm – as long as your scalp is not irritated and is in good condition. Check the instructions inside the box to be sure – as types of non-permanent hair color that lasts up to 24 shampoos and contains peroxide should be left 7-10 days after perming. Either way, make sure you do a strand test before coloring your hair. Perms and relaxers can leave hair more porous and allow the color to be absorbed faster.
QUESTION #4
What is the best time to shampoo before coloring?
You generally shouldn't shampoo immediately before coloring because this will remove the natural oils that protect your scalp during the coloring process. It's best to shampoo 12-24 hours before coloring with a non-permanent product, and 24 hours before using permanent color (lasts until your hair grows out or you recolor). But be sure to check the instructions inside the box because it can vary by product.
QUESTION #5
Can I mix and match shades?
No, we would not recommend customizing your hair color shades at home by mixing shades together – as this is best left to a professional hair colorist to ensure a proper color result. Koleston has 44 shades of permanent colors to choose from – so there’ll be just the right shade for you, to give you a beautiful natural-looking color result that’s right for you. Check on your Wella page to see how many shades are available in your country!
QUESTION #6
When should I start my timer?
Set your timer as soon as you’ve finished applying the hair color. Set it to the time indicated in the pack instructions and your strand test.
QUESTION #7
Should I condition after coloring?
Yes. It's best to use the conditioner that comes with your hair color. We give this hair advice because the conditioner that comes in the coloring package has been specifically designed for use with that hair color to help create softness and shine.
QUESTION #8
When should I recolor?
Non-permanent hair color will last from 8 to 24 shampoos depending on the specific product you use – if you wash your hair every day, that's up to about 4 weeks. Permanent (lasts until your hair grows out or you recolor) hair color should be refreshed when your roots start to show – approximately 4-6 weeks.
