Dying one’s hair is an exciting way to change up one’s look. From bold and bright to subtle and subdued, the color possibilities are endless. If you’re aiming for a soft, pastel hue, dyeing your brown hair to lilac can give you a whole new look. But how do you do it without damaging your hair or ending up with an uneven color?
First, it’s important to understand that lilac hair dye is a pastel color, which means it’s not as vibrant as other hair dyes. Achieving the perfect shade of lilac from brown hair will require some preparation, patience, and a willingness to experiment. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to dye your hair from brown to lilac safely and effectively.
Understanding Color Theory: The Science Behind Hair Dyes
Understanding color theory is crucial before you plan to dye your hair from brown to lilac. Color theory is the science of how colors interact with each other. It plays a crucial role in the process of hair dyeing. The hair dye that you choose for lilac hair must complement the base color of your hair. Whether it’s semi-permanent or permanent hair dye, it will mix with the natural pigment of your hair, creating a new color.
When your hair is brown, it is best to lighten it before dyeing it lilac. Lightening your hair helps the lilac color to stand out more and creates a consistent color base. Lift your hair to a light blonde to achieve the best results. Keep in mind that the lighter the hair, the brighter the lilac color will be. Understanding color theory and hair dyeing will help you achieve the desired results and avoid any color mishaps.
Preparing Your Hair for the Dyeing Process
Before starting the dyeing process, it’s important to prepare your hair to achieve the desired result. If you have naturally dark hair, it’s recommended to lighten your hair first before dyeing it lilac. This could be done using a bleach solution, but it’s advisable to have a experienced professional hairdresser for this process to avoid severe damage to your hair.
Additionally, you need to make sure your hair is in its best condition before dyeing it. This can be achieved by deep conditioning your hair at least a week before the dyeing process to ensure it’s moisturized and hydrated. Avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours before dyeing it to ensure the natural oils in your hair will help it to retain the color better. Lastly, brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots before dyeing, and section your hair into small parts to apply the dye evenly throughout. By preparing your hair adequately, you can get amazing lilac hair without damaging your natural locks.
Selecting the Best Lilac Hair Dye for Brown Hair
When choosing a lilac hair dye for brown hair, it is important to consider the type and quality of the product. As brown hair tends to be naturally darker, you may need a hair dye that has a stronger formula and higher pigmentation to achieve your desired lilac shade. Look for hair dyes that are specifically formulated for brown hair, as these will have a better chance of effectively transforming your hair color without causing damage.
It is also recommended to opt for a semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair dye as opposed to a permanent one. This is because semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes last for a shorter duration and will need to be touched up more frequently, but they are also much gentler on your hair and less likely to cause damage or breakage. Additionally, it is crucial to conduct a patch test before using any hair dye to make sure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients. Once you’ve selected the right lilac hair dye, you can move on to the next step of the dyeing process.
DIY vs. Professional Hair Dyeing: Which Option is Best?
When it comes to dyeing your hair from brown to lilac, you have two options: DIY dyeing or relying on a professional. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making a decision.
DIY dyeing can be done at home and is much cheaper compared to visiting a salon. However, it can also be risky as mistakes can easily be made leading to unexpected or undesired results. Additionally, DIY dyeing requires you to have some basic knowledge about hair color and the type of dyeing products you are using. Alternatively, relying on a professional can ensure that your hair is dyed properly and safely. However, it can be quite expensive and may require you to book an appointment in advance. Ultimately, it’s up to you to consider your own level of experience and budget to make the best decision for your hair dyeing needs.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Dyeing Brown Hair Lilac
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide to dyeing brown hair lilac, it’s important to understand that this process can take time and patience. It’s crucial to prepare your hair properly before diving into color, especially if you’re lightening it. If you’re not comfortable with the process, consider visiting a salon to ensure the best results.
To begin, gather all the necessary materials, including gloves, hair dye, a tinting brush, and a mixing bowl. Next, section your hair and apply a lightening agent to lift your natural hair color. Leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse it out and shampoo and condition your hair. Once your hair is lightened to a pale blonde, you’ll need to prepare the lilac hair dye and apply it carefully using the tinting brush. Leave the dye on for the recommended time, rinse, and condition your hair thoroughly. Voila! You now have lilac hair. Remember to care for your newly dyed hair by using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and protect it from heat styling tools to keep it looking beautiful and healthy.
Caring for Your Lilac Locks: Tips for Post-Dye Maintenance
After successfully dyeing your hair lilac, it is essential to take good care of it to maintain the vibrancy and longevity of the color. Here are some tips for post-dye maintenance:
1. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners – Sulfates can strip the hair of its color, so it is essential to use sulfate-free hair products. Choose gentle shampoos and conditioners that are suitable for color-treated hair.
2. Avoid heat styling – Heat styling tools can cause damage to the hair and fade the color. If you must use heat, lower the temperature and always use a heat protectant product.
3. Protect your hair from the sun – UV rays can cause the color to fade quickly, so wear a hat or use styling products that contain UV filters to protect your hair.
4. Touch up your roots regularly – Lilac hair requires frequent touch-ups, so keep up with your roots to avoid having your natural hair color peeking through.
By following these tips, you can keep your lilac locks looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Dyeing Hair Lilac
When dyeing your hair lilac, it is important to keep in mind the potential pitfalls that can arise. Common issues can include uneven or patchy coloring, brassiness and fading.
To avoid uneven color, make sure to apply the dye evenly throughout your hair and leave it on for the recommended amount of time. Additionally, it is important to choose the right shade of lilac for your hair color and to be aware of the underlying tones in your hair. If your hair has a lot of yellow or orange tones, you may need to use a toner before applying the lilac dye to prevent brassiness.
To prevent fading, use color-safe shampoos and conditioners, and avoid washing your hair too frequently. It is also important to protect your hair from heat styling tools and the sun, as these can cause color to fade more quickly. If you do experience fading, you can use a color-depositing shampoo or hair mask to refresh your color in between dye jobs. With a little care and attention, you can troubleshoot common issues and achieve a beautiful, long-lasting lilac hair color.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dying your hair from brown to lilac can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and products, it can be a fun and exciting experience. Remember to consider the current condition and color of your hair before starting the dying process and to take precautionary measures to avoid damaging it.
Additionally, it is important to note that maintaining the color of your hair requires upkeep and care. Use color-safe shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks to keep your lilac locks looking vibrant and healthy. With these tips, you can successfully achieve your desired hair color and confidently rock your new look.