Using permanent hair color cream involves several steps to ensure even color distribution and minimize damage. Here's a comprehensive guide:
1. Preparation is Key
- Protect Your Clothes: Drape an old towel around your shoulders and wear an old t-shirt to protect your clothing from stains.
- Perform a Patch Test: At least 48 hours before coloring, apply a small amount of the hair color to a discreet area of your skin (like behind your ear) to check for any allergic reactions.
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions included with your specific hair color cream. Instructions can vary between brands.
- Gather Your Supplies: Make sure you have everything you need readily available:
- Permanent hair color cream kit
- Gloves (usually included in the kit)
- Applicator brush or bottle (depending on the kit)
- Non-metallic mixing bowl (if needed)
- Hair clips
- Old towel
- Petroleum jelly (to protect your hairline)
- Timer
2. Mixing the Color
- Wear Gloves: Always wear the gloves provided in the kit to protect your hands from staining.
- Mix According to Instructions: In the applicator bottle or non-metallic bowl (as indicated by the kit's instructions), combine the color cream and developer. Follow the specific mixing ratios outlined in the instructions.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir or shake the mixture until it's completely smooth and consistent.
3. Application Technique
- Protect Your Hairline: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into four sections (or more, depending on its thickness) using hair clips. This will help ensure even coverage.
- Apply the Color: Starting at the roots, apply the color mixture evenly to each section, working your way down to the ends. Focus on saturating the roots, as this is where the color is most noticeable. For root touch-ups, only apply the color to the new growth.
- Ensure Even Coverage: Use your gloved fingers or an applicator brush to distribute the color evenly throughout your hair.
4. Processing Time
- Follow Instructions: Check the product instructions for the recommended processing time. This is crucial for achieving the desired color result.
- Set a Timer: Use a timer to ensure you don't leave the color on for too long or too short a period.
- Monitor: While the color is processing, you can periodically check a strand of your hair to see how the color is developing. Do not exceed the recommended processing time.
5. Rinsing and Conditioning
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. This is important to remove all traces of the color.
- Condition Your Hair: Apply the conditioner that's usually included in the hair color kit. Leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse again. This will help to moisturize and protect your hair.
6. Post-Color Care
- Use Color-Safe Products: Use shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to help maintain your color and prevent fading.
- Avoid Excessive Heat Styling: Excessive heat can damage your hair and cause your color to fade faster. Try to limit your use of heat styling tools like hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners.
- Protect Your Hair from the Sun: The sun can also cause your hair color to fade. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
By following these steps, you can effectively use permanent hair color cream to achieve beautiful and long-lasting results.
