Get your doctorate in dyeing

16 Feb 2010 12:30 PM | Posted by Editor

If DIY dye disasters are all too common around your neck of the woods then it’s time to study up and rise to the head of the class.

We chat to Grant Withnell, National Technical Educator for Schwarzkopf, about how to master the art of home-job hair colour.


BH: How do you ensure you pick the right hue for your hair?

GW: When picking your colour it’s important you refer to the guide on the back of the pack as it will give you an indication of the end results, dependent on your natural colour. For best results, choose a hue that’s within two shades (either darker or lighter) of your natural hair colour. If you have a lot of grey hair, we recommend going a shade lighter so that the result is more natural.


BH: What’s the best way to apply the colour so that you get a good even coverage?

GW: Firstly, follow the instructions (you’d be surprised at how many people don’t!) as they will give you the best application advice depending on whether you want to achieve highlights or a block colour. As a general rule, I’d recommend applying the product to the roots first and then massaging it through to the ends. It will give you a more even result.


BH: Uh-oh, I’ve stained my skin – what do I do?

GW: If you do get a little staining, it can be easily removed with alcohol wipes or a tissue moistened with cologne (don't waste your expensive one though!). The best advice I can give here is if you get product on your skin wipe it away immediately.
(Note from bh: Applying some Vaseline around your hairline before you start your dye job will also help keep any drips from sinking into your skin).


BH: Right, my colour is applied. What now?

GW: Keep a timer handy to ensure you stick to the proper developing time (make sure you read the instructions in advance so that you’re not caught short!), then sit back with a book or take some time out to do something relaxing while the dye does all the work.
If you’re getting a bit antsy or worried about your new hue, you can wipe off some of the dye and check the progress of your colour.

Teacher’s tips:

 - To ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions to the dye (it can occur even if you’ve used the product previously), always complete a sensitivity test before you begin. Simply place a small amount of product on the skin at the back of your neck and wait 10 minutes to see if it becomes red or irritated.

 - Do a strand test (run the dye through a small section of your hair and allow it to develop) to make sure you are happy with the final result before applying to your entire head.

 - Once your hair is dyed switch your regular shampoo and conditioner for something specifically formulated for colour treated locks to help prolong the hue in your hair and prevent fading.

Deb x
If you could dye your hair any colour, what would it be?