Masterclass Monday: How to Color Your Hair Like a Pro

STEP 3: DO IT DIRTY

Daniel suggests dying unwashed hair because a freshly washed scalp may be more prone to irritation. The only exception: If you use root touch up sprays or powders (like L’Oreal Paris Root Cover Up), you’ll need to wash first. Those products may block color absorption, Daniel says.

STEP 4: DON’T SKIP THE STRAND TEST

Especially if you’re not sure if you picked the right shade. The strand test will give you an idea of how the color will look before you take the plunge and dye your whole head. “Picking an inconspicuous piece of hair at the back of your head is the best,” says Daniel. 

STEP 5: LUBE UP

Nothing gives away an at-home color job faster than ring-around-the-forehead -- dye stains around the hairline that take days to come off. Before you apply the color, rub some petroleum jelly around your hairline. The slick stuff can help prevent the hair color from staining skin.

STEP 6: TAKE IT FROM THE TOP

Prepare your color as directed from the box instructions. Then start applying with on roots and hairline. This area, especially if you have greys, needs the most time to develop, so you want to get the formula on there right away. Your ends, which tend to be more damaged and therefore porous, can soak up color faster. Apply color there last.

STEP 7: CHECK ALL ANGLES

“The back of the hair is usually where most professionals see the most mistakes with home hair color,” says Daniel. That’s because it’s tricky to see if you’ve applied it evenly back there. Use a hand mirror to check. Or, enlist the help of a friend.

STEP 8: SPOT TREAT, IF NEEDED

If you’re just doing a root touch-up (using L’Oreal Paris Root Rescue), don’t pull the color through the rest of your hair, warns Daniel. “It may build up, look inky, and over processed,” she says. “It's a dead give away for bad box dye.” 

STEP 9: NOW RINSE AND CONDITION LIKE CRAZY 

That little tube of conditioner is your secret weapon -- it’s not optional. The conditioner helps to moisturize your strands so your color is vibrant.