Mixing professional hair color at home can be a rewarding way to achieve salon-quality results without the high costs. To ensure success, it’s essential to follow a few key steps and use the right products. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you mix and apply professional hair color at home effectively.

What Do You Need to Mix Professional Hair Color at Home?

Before you start, gather all necessary tools and products to ensure a smooth coloring process. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Professional hair color: Choose the right shade for your desired look.
• Developer: Typically available in volumes 10, 20, 30, or 40, depending on the level of lift you need.
• Mixing bowl and brush: Use a non-metallic bowl to avoid chemical reactions.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from staining and irritation.
• Sectioning clips: Keep your hair organized during application.
• Old towel or cape: Protect your clothing from stains.
• Timer: Ensure precise timing for color development.

How to Choose the Right Hair Color and Developer?

Selecting the appropriate hair color and developer is crucial for achieving your desired results. Here’s how to make the right choice:

• Determine Your Natural Hair Color: Identify your current shade to choose a complementary color.
• Decide on the Level of Lift or Deposit: Use a higher volume developer for more lift (lightening) or a lower volume for depositing color.
• Consider Your Hair Type and Condition: Fine or damaged hair may require a gentler approach.

Developer Options and Their Uses

Developer Volume	Use Case	Hair Type
10 Volume	Darkening or toning	Fine, fragile hair
20 Volume	Standard lift, gray coverage	Normal hair
30 Volume	Lifting 2-3 levels	Resistant hair
40 Volume	Maximum lift, lightening	Very resistant hair

How to Mix Professional Hair Color?

Mixing hair color involves combining the color with the developer in the right ratio. Generally, the mixing ratio is 1:1 or 1:2, depending on the product instructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Read the Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
2. Measure the Color and Developer: Use a measuring cup or scale for accuracy.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Combine the color and developer in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Example Mixing Ratio

For a standard application:

• 1 part color: 50g of hair color
• 1 part developer: 50g of developer (for a 1:1 ratio)

How to Apply Professional Hair Color at Home?

Once your color is mixed, follow these steps to apply it effectively:

1. Prepare Your Hair: Start with dry, unwashed hair to allow natural oils to protect your scalp.
2. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into four sections using clips for easier application.
3. Apply the Color: Using a brush, start applying the color at the roots, working your way down to the ends.
4. Ensure Even Coverage: Use a comb to distribute the color evenly through each section.
5. Set a Timer: Follow the recommended processing time to prevent over-processing.
6. Rinse and Condition: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and use a color-safe conditioner.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

• Perform a Patch Test: Test the color on a small area of skin to check for allergic reactions.
• Strand Test: Apply color to a small section of hair to preview the result.
• Maintain Your Color: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to prolong color vibrancy.

People Also Ask

How Often Should You Color Your Hair at Home?

It’s generally safe to color your hair every 4-6 weeks. This timeframe allows for healthy hair growth and minimizes damage.

Can You Mix Different Hair Color Brands?

Mixing different brands is not recommended, as formulations vary and can lead to unpredictable results. Stick to one brand for consistency.

What If the Color Turns Out Too Dark?

If your color is too dark, try washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo or a mixture of baking soda and shampoo to fade the color slightly.

How Can You Correct Uneven Hair Color?

If your color is uneven, apply a color-correcting treatment or consult with a professional for advice on corrective coloring techniques.

Is It Safe to Use Professional Hair Color at Home?

Yes, it’s safe when instructions are followed carefully. Always perform patch and strand tests to ensure safety and desired outcomes.

Conclusion

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully mix and apply professional hair color at home, achieving salon-quality results. Remember to choose the right products, follow instructions closely, and take care of your hair post-coloring to maintain its health and vibrancy. For more hair care tips and DIY beauty guides, explore related topics on our website.