Changing Your Hair Color
from Blonde to Brunette at Home
When it comes to hair color, sometimes change is necessary, and changing hair color from blonde to brunette is one of the most popular transformations. This blog post is intended for people who want to learn how to change their hair color at home without visiting a salon. In this post, we will cover the necessary steps to change hair color from blonde to brunette, including the tools and products needed. By the end of this post, readers will have a better understanding of how to safely and effectively transform their hair color at home.
Understanding hair color
In this section, we will discuss the basics of hair color and how it works. Understanding these concepts will help you achieve the desired result when changing your hair color from blonde to brunette.
First, we’ll cover the different types of hair color and how they are classified. Hair color is categorized into natural, temporary, semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent. The factors that contribute to hair color change include genetics, age, environmental factors, and chemical processes.
Next, we’ll explain how hair color works and how different colors are achieved. Hair color is determined by the amount and type of melanin in the hair shaft. Melanin is a pigment that gives hair its color. Different colors are achieved by mixing primary colors, including red, blue, and yellow, and their secondary colors.
Finally, we’ll explain how the hair color change works. When changing your hair color from blonde to brunette, the process involves lightening the hair and then depositing a darker color. The lightening process involves using bleach or other lightening products to remove the natural pigment from the hair shaft. The darker color is then applied to the hair, which may require multiple applications to achieve the desired shade. It’s important to note that this process can be damaging to hair if not done correctly, so it’s recommended to take caution and follow proper hair care techniques during the process.
Choosing the right shade of brunette
Choosing the right shade of brunette is crucial when changing your hair color from blonde. There are several shades of brunette, such as dark brown, medium brown, light brown, and ash brown. To select the right shade of brunette, it is important to consider your skin tone and eye color.
Darker skin tones tend to look better with darker shades of brunette, while lighter skin tones look better with lighter shades of brown. Similarly, eye color can also play a role in choosing the right shade of brunette. For instance, people with blue or green eyes tend to look better with warm shades of brown, while people with brown eyes look good in almost any shade of brown.
It is also essential to consider the undertones of your hair when choosing the right shade of brunette. For example, if you have cool-toned hair, it is best to go for a cool-toned brown shade such as ash brown. On the other hand, if your hair has warm undertones, a warm-toned brown shade such as golden brown may be more suitable.
To select the perfect shade of brunette, you can consult with a professional hair colorist or use online hair color simulation tools that help you visualize how different shades of brown will look on you. Additionally, it’s best to choose a shade that compliments your personal style and preferences.
Preparing your hair for the color change
Preparing your hair for the color change is a crucial step in achieving the desired outcome. It involves several important steps to ensure that the hair is ready to receive the color and that the process goes smoothly.
First, it is important to properly wash and condition your hair before coloring. This will help remove any buildup, oils, or other residues that could interfere with the color process. It is recommended to wash hair 24-48 hours before coloring to allow natural oils to build up and protect the scalp.
Additionally, it is important to conduct a strand test prior to the color change. This involves taking a small section of hair and applying the hair color mixture to it. This will allow you to see how the color will look on your hair and whether it will be the right shade.
Allergy testing is also crucial to ensure that you are not allergic to the hair dye. To conduct an allergy test, apply a small amount of hair dye mixture to a small area on your skin and wait for 24-48 hours. If there is any redness or irritation, do not proceed with the color change.
Lastly, make sure your hair is completely dry before starting the coloring process. Wet hair can dilute the color and result in an uneven application. Therefore, it is best to let hair air dry or blow dry before coloring.
The hair coloring process
The hair coloring process can be a bit intimidating, but with the right tools and technique, it can be done successfully at home.
Here are some step-by-step instructions for coloring your hair from blonde to brunette:
- Choose the right hair color: As mentioned earlier, it’s important to choose the right shade of brunette to complement your skin tone and eye color. You should also consider whether you want a permanent or semi-permanent color. Semi-permanent color is a good option if you’re not ready to commit to a permanent change.
- Prepare your work area: Cover the area with old towels or newspapers to prevent staining. Wear old clothes and gloves to avoid getting hair color on your skin.
- Mix the hair color: Follow the instructions on the hair dye box to mix the color. Make sure you mix it well to ensure an even hair color.
- Apply the hair color: Apply the hair color to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Be sure to saturate all of your hair with the hair color.
- Wait for the color to develop: Follow the instructions on the hair dye box to determine how long you should leave the color on. Be sure to set a timer so you don’t leave the color on too long.
- Rinse your hair: Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Condition your hair: Use the conditioner that comes with the hair dye to condition your hair. This will help to lock in the color and leave your hair feeling soft and silky.
Tips for achieving an even hair color and avoiding common mistakes:
- Divide your hair into sections to ensure even coverage.
- Start applying the hair color at the roots and work your way down to the ends.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure the hair color is evenly distributed.
- Don’t leave the hair color on for too long, as this can damage your hair and cause uneven color.
- If you’re not sure about the color, do a strand test before applying the hair color to your entire head.
- Avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours after coloring to allow the color to set.
Caring for your new brunette hair color
Caring for your new brunette hair color is an essential part of the hair color change process. After you’ve achieved your desired shade, it’s important to take care of your hair to maintain the color and keep your locks healthy.
Here are some tips for caring for your new brunette hair color:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: Sulfates can strip hair color and cause it to fade faster. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to protect your new hair color and keep it looking vibrant.
- Avoid hot showers: Hot water can open up the hair cuticles, allowing the color to wash out faster. Use lukewarm water when washing your hair to keep the color locked in.
- Limit heat styling: Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers can cause your hair color to fade faster. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low.
- Protect your hair from the sun: UV rays can cause hair color to fade and dry out your hair. Wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection to shield your hair from the sun.
- Get regular trims: Regular trims help keep split ends at bay and prevent breakage, which can cause your hair color to look dull.
- Use color-safe hair products:
Use hair products specifically designed for colored hair, such as shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. These products are formulated to be gentle on your hair and help your new color last longer.
By following these tips, you can keep your new brunette hair color looking fresh and vibrant for weeks to come. Remember, caring for your hair is just as important as choosing the right shade and going through the coloring process.
Common mistakes to avoid
Changing your hair color from blonde to brunette at home can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to coloring your hair. To avoid any mishaps and achieve the desired result, it’s important to be aware of the most common mistakes people make when coloring their hair at home. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the strand test:
Before you start coloring your hair, it’s crucial to do a strand test to see how the color will turn out on your hair. Skipping this step can result in an unwanted color or uneven coloring. - Using the wrong shade:
Choosing the wrong shade of brunette can be a major mistake. It’s essential to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and eye color. If you’re unsure about which shade to choose, consult with a professional or do some research online. - Overlapping color:
Overlapping color can lead to an uneven hair color, especially if you’re using permanent hair color. It’s important to avoid overlapping color by following the instructions on the hair color kit and being careful when applying the color. - Not protecting the hairline:
Not protecting your hairline can lead to staining and discoloration of your skin. Use petroleum jelly or a barrier cream around your hairline to prevent staining. - Not following the instructions:
Not following the instructions on the hair color kit can lead to an undesirable result. Be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully, including the time to leave the color on your hair.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can successfully change your hair color from blonde to brunette at home and achieve the desired result.