Whether you’re after an Olivia Palermo-esque balayage or you just want to keep on top of your roots, there’s no denying that many of us long for a much-needed hair colour appointment.

But thanks to a handful of new innovations in home hair-dye, you can switch up your shade while we wait for lockdown restrictions to end. Plus, with all the new hair colour trends for 2021, it’s time to play around. And if you’re worried about any colour disasters, our foolproof guide to removing hair dye (that actually works) will sort anything out.

Here’s exactly how to embrace a new shade in the comfort of your own bathroom…

How to choose the right home hair-dye colour

The cinnamon highlights that look amazing on Jessica Alba’s skin tone might not have the same desired effect on you, which is why it pays to take your skin tone into consideration when cherry-picking a colour.

Those with warmer skin tones suit rich golden browns, honey blonde and caramel tones, while platinum blonde, ash blonde and jewel tones complement cooler skin – but that’s not to say that those rules strictly apply. If in doubt as to whether a colour will suit you, consider trying it on with a wig or do some social media research to find others that look like you rocking your desired hue.

Still finding it difficult? Look to the Josh Wood Colour range. Renowned colourist Josh might be unable to take your call himself, but hold the line, because he’s employed a digital consultation chatbot instead. Answer a few quick questions and within minutes you’ll get a prescriptive guide to the shades and products you need in your life. Genius. 

How to protect your scalp

Don’t make the mistake of washing your hair beforehand. Not only will your strands be too slippery for the colour to grab on to, but you’ll be eradicating any natural oils from your scalp, and they are necessary for protecting against any irritation. If you react to hair-dye, the professionals suggest rubbing a little coconut oil into your scalp before applying the colour. 

How to ace your colouring technique

Choosing the perfect shade is one half of dyeing your hair at home. The other is nailing your application technique. Roots, be gone. 

1. To make the process a little easier for yourself, clip your hair (which should be bone dry) up into sections before going on to mix your chosen colour.

2. Slip on your gloves and mix one part colour with one part developer using the bowl and brush which should be provided with the kit you choose.

3. Immediately apply the well-mixed dye directly to the parts of your hair you want coloured, using swift, firm strokes. Start at your hairline, swipe backwards and don’t forget to massage into the roots and into the hair strands for even deposition.

4. Wait the recommended time and rinse the colour off with warm water. Follow with a shampoo, a deep conditioning treatment and rinse again. Simple. 

If you want your look to last, it pays to shake up your haircare routine. We’re talking heaps of moisture to nourish your colour, to counteract any brittleness and to impart a shampoo-ad shine. 

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