Help! I Dyed My Hair at Home and the Color Is Too Dark

DIY Tip 3: Only Use Permanent Color on Gray Hair

To keep your hair color from coming out too dark, only use permanent hair color to cover gray hair and on your regrowth. “Refresh the ends with a semi-permanent gloss two to four shades lighter than the root color,” advises Papanikolas. “You always want the ends to be a little lighter.” One permanent box dye that’s great for covering grays is the L'Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Hair Color.

DIY Tip 4: Use a Clarifying Shampoo to Lighten Color That’s Too Dark

“Use a clarifying shampoo, warm water, say a prayer and be patient that the color hopefully fades over several weeks,” says Papanikolas. Try the Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Hair Reset Clarifying Shampoo.

DIY Tip 5: Know When to See a Professional

“The only other way to quickly lighten the hair is by seeing a professional,” says Papanikolas. “Your colorist can strip it out, and then go back over with the desired color. The process is too complicated to do at home and can be harsh and damaging to the hair.”