We’re sure you’ve heard horror stories about at-home dye jobs. Some people’s hair turns orange or green, or worse, falls out. It’s terrifying. All hope is not lost, though. Safe and effective at-home hair dye does exist, and sometimes it can be a better option than going to a salon.
At-home hair dye puts everything into your hands. You can’t blame anyone else, and you aren’t risking your entire paycheck on a potential miscommunication (caramel can mean a whole range of shades, for example). Going to a professional doesn’t mean you’ll get the results you are looking for.
If you want to go from a lighter shade to a darker shade and not worry about too much dimension, you can stick to some drugstore basics that will cost less than a sandwich.
Revlon Colorsilk Permanent Hair Color, $2.99 (shop here)
Here is one of least expensive hair color lines you can find at your local store. Before you let that too-good-to-be-true price scare you away, this option is long-lasting, less damaging than some, and doesn’t have a bad smell.
With tons of shades available, this line is versatile and easy to use. Still, we’d only recommend it for basic hair coloring, especially if you’re new to the game. Stick to going a few shades darker, covering grays, or touching up your roots.
Madison Reed, $22 (shop here)
Madison Reed offers salon-grade products to use at home for an affordable price. The process is a bit more involved than your drugstore box dye, but it is worth it. The color has more dimension and lasts longer, and Madison Reed has top-notch customer service.
Whether you’re new to coloring at home or not, the professionals at Madison Reed can help. You can let them know your goal color and your current color, and they’ll suggest their professional recommendation.
They also offer highlighting kits for those who want dimension without the salon price. These kits have everything you need from the gloves to the conditioner. They even include wipes in case you make a mess. This is the at-home hair dye kit for everyone – from newbies to professionals.
What makes this brand truly rare is that it is cruelty-free and formulated without harsh ingredients. It is the easiest way to dye your hair at home, even if you want to go a little lighter.
Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss, $13.99 (shop here)
Whether you went to the salon or colored your hair at home, your new shade will need maintenance. Hair dye fades or gets brassy over time. Even if you don’t dye your hair, you may want a bit of a boost to your natural color. Here is where Kristin Ess comes in.
Her Signature Hair Gloss is both cruelty-free and affordable. It works to boost shine, neutralize brassiness, and boost hydration – and it lasts up to a month. The in-shower treatment takes up to 20 minutes, depending on the results you want, and is very user-friendly. The instructions are fool-proof.
Although there is a clear gloss for shine, there are also ten shades you can choose from to enhance your color and hair health. These glosses make maintaining your color easy and enjoyable.