How does hair color affect my hair?

Are you wondering if now is the time to start coloring your hair? You may be feeling a bit nervous especially after seeing or reading some of the horror stories out there…hair falling out or brassy orange hair, just to name a few. Or maybe you just have a lot of questions on how it affects your hair. So I have compiled a list of the top questions I hear from clients about coloring your hair and created this list.

1. Should I color my hair myself or should I go to a professional?
If you are coloring your hair for the first time you should definitely go to a professional. A professional hair stylist will be able to consult with you on what color would look best with your skin tone. Also, having a professional do a strand test is the best way to make sure you are not allergic to the products and to ensure that your hair will get the desired results you are looking for with out damaging it.

2. Will coloring my hair damage it?
If you are using a permanent hair color you have to lift the hair using a hydrogen peroxide (developer). This process raises or opens up the cuticle layer of the hair to allow the color molecules to penetrate the cortex depositing the color which could damage the hair if not done properly. If you use the wrong level of peroxide or if you constantly change your hair color (over-processing) this is what will cause the damage to your hair. However, if you use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent they will help add extra shine and condition to the hair but will only last a couple of shampoos.

3. What’s the difference between semi-permanent, demi-permanent, permanent and lightner?

• Semi-permanent hair color does not contain peroxide so it can not lift the hair, therefore it can only make the hair darker and not lighter. The color will only last about six to twelve shampoos because it only deposits the hair color on the outermost layer of the hair. This is a good choice to try if you are afraid you may not like the color. Also, semi-permanent will enhance the shine and condition of the hair since it is not lifting.

• Demi-Permanent hair color contains low amounts of peroxide which unlike semi-permanent, it can lighten the hair slightly. Demi-permanent deposits the color between the cuticle and cortex therefore making it last longer, anywhere from 12 – 26 washes.

• Permanent hair color just as the name suggests, it is a permanent hair color and will last until the colored strands grow out. Permanent hair color can light hair up to 4 levels anything more than that is not recommended as it can cause damage to the hair.

• Lightener aka bleach is the heavy hitter in the hairstylist’s tool box. When you are looking to lift your hair to a light blonde from a medium blonde or darker brown we have to use a lightener. lightener is used to lighten people's hair. The lightener reacts with the melanin in the hair, removing the color through an irreversible chemical reaction. The lightener oxidizes the melanin molecule. The melanin is still present, but the oxidized molecule is colorless. We can lift the hair up to 7 levels with lightener which is why is allows us to make the most dramatic change.

4. Will the color cover my grey hair?
Yes, hair color will cover your grey hair depending on what formula and brand you use. If you have more than 50% of grey hair it is probably best to use a permanent hair color. Demi-permanent hair color is also a great way to blend grey and creates “natural” looking highlights. This method does not fully cover grey but will blend and give the grey a sunny golden color. This is my favorite way to color darker hair and still leave loads of dimension and shine.

5. How often should I shampoo my hair after receiving a color service?
After you receive your color service wait at least 24 hours before shampooing your hair, 48 hours is even better. Try and limit your washing to 3 times a week, especially if you have a more intense color like, red.

6. How long do I have to wait before re-coloring my hair with a different color?
This all depends on the condition of your hair. It is best to consult with your hair stylist about your options. If you have damaged hair, it is probably best to wait until your hair is in better condition or until the color grows out. If you don’t like the color of your hair, talk to your stylist about a color corrective service.

7. Can I get color and hi-lights all on the same day?
Yes, as long as your hair is in good condition they can color your hair and then add hi-lights.

8. Can I lighten my hair a couple of levels without bleaching or stripping the color?
In order to lighten the hair you have to use some sort of lightener or permanent color to remove the pigment so you can create the color you are looking for, especially if your are trying to go from a shade of brown to blonde. If you have never colored your hair before you most definitely can use hair color to lighten your hair. BUT do not expect cool or ash results. Lightener partnered with a glaze or toner will be required to achieve a cool result.

Adding color to your hair allows you to achieve a variety of different looks from funky and bold to a more natural subtle look. And there are so many different techniques that are damage free to extreme looks that will require you to use professional products to maintain your hair at home.