DIY Hair Dye at Home: The Pro Guide to Salon-Quality Color
I’ll admit, I used to think only a salon could give me that perfect, glossy hair color. But after getting some expert tips from my mother-in-law (a hairstylist who knows her stuff), I’ve learned how you can get the same pro-grade quality hair dye you’d get at a salon. You just need to know what to buy and how to apply it!
Step 1: Choose the Right Hair Color
The best shade for you depends on your skin tone, eye color, and how dramatic you want the change to be. Here’s what I’ve learned:
• For cool-toned, deep brunette: Try Wella Color Charm 3A (Dark Ash Brown) or Ion 3A (Dark Ash Brown) to avoid unwanted red tones.
• For a rich, neutral dark brown: Go with Wella 3N (Dark Natural Brown) or Ion 3NN (Darkest Intense Brown) for deep espresso vibes.
• For an icy blonde transformation: Use Wella Blondor Powder + 20 or 30 Vol Developer , followed by Wella T18 Toner to cancel brassiness.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
Here’s what my mother-in-law swears by for a seamless, mess-free dye job:
✔️ Developer (10 or 20 Vol for brown, 20-30 Vol for blonde)
✔️ Color brush & bowl (no messy hands!)
✔️ Gloves (trust me, you don’t want stained hands)
✔️ Shower cap (to keep heat in and help color process evenly)
✔️ Sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner (to protect your new color)
Step 3: Apply Like a Pro
~ Section your hair into 4 parts for even application.
~ Start at the roots and work your way down (for brunettes) or mid-lengths first (for blonde/lightening).
~ Let it process (usually 30-40 min, but check your dye instructions).
~ Rinse with cool water and use a color-safe conditioner to lock it in.
Step 4: Maintain That Fresh Color
• Use a color-safe shampoo (purple for blondes, blue for brunettes).
• Avoid hot water—it makes color fade faster.
• Try a gloss treatment (like Kristin Ess Signature Gloss) for extra shine.
With these pro tips (and a little patience), you can achieve gorgeous, salon-quality color at home—without the $200 price tag. Now, the real question is… are you team deep espresso brown or icy blonde? Let me know in the comments! ✨
