Hair Care
Color Hair at Home?

Should I color my hair at home or go to a salon?

Although do-it-yourself kits are quicker and cheaper than salon visits, it's harder to get good results, especially if your hair is already bleached or permed.

When you do it at home, you risk putting color on the same spot repeatedly. This saturates the hair with chemicals, leaving it damaged and dull.

A professional colorist can make sure you get a natural look with several different color shades. If you decide to go lighter, she'll first bleach your hair before painting on your new color. And if you're looking to cover gray hair, you'll get better results if you stay within two shades of your natural color.

If you want to experiment yourself, consider using temporary hair color. (Look for a low-ammonia kit.) Different versions can last from six to 21 shampoos.

Whatever route you choose, it's a good idea to use shampoos and conditioners specially formulated for colored hair. They contain extra moisturizers, which you need because the chemicals used in the coloring process can dry hair out.

By Jim Scott

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Community Insurance Company.
An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
® Registered marks Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.