Looking to add a touch of color to your hair? Skip the trips to an expensive salon. Successful at-home hair color can be easier than you think. Use these tips to achieve a professional-quality look that both you and your wallet will love.

• Apply a deep-conditioning treatment. The conditioner will form a protective layer around the hair shaft, minimizing damage caused by chemicals commonly found in hair dye.
• Look for conditioners with protein to further promote healthy hair.
• Seek color ideas in magazines or hairstyle guides if you’re undecided about your new hair shade.

Find the hair color that best matches your preferred shade. Unsure what to pick? For guidance, follow these tips and use the color guides on the product package:

• Choose a multifaceted shade for a shimmering color result.
• Select a solid shade for a deep, rich color result.

Next, choose the color permanence that fits your needs.

• Temporary hair color will last up to 12 washes.
• Long-lasting hair color will stay in your hair for up to 30 washes.
• Permanent hair color will remain on your hair until it grows out or until you dye it again.

Want to avoid possible surprises? Perform allergy and strand tests before coloring your hair. This will help ensure that you won’t have an allergic reaction and the desired color will take correctly to your hair.

To perform an allergy test:

• Mix a small amount of color and developer in a small bowl. Mix up enough for both the allergy test and the strand test.
• Place a small amount of the mixture on your elbow and allow it to dry, following the developing time indicated on the box’s instructions.
• Wipe off the area with a clean, wet cloth.
• Check for skin irritations or rash.
• Allow 24 hours to pass before moving on to your hair.

To perform a strand test:

• Use a small amount of the color / developer mixture from the bowl.
• Cut a small stand of hair and saturate it with the color mixture.
• Rinse the hair according to the developing time indicated in the box’s instructions.
• Once the hair dries, look at the color. If you’re happy with the shade, move on to your hair.

Now that you’re ready, it’s time to dye your hair. Follow these simple tips for a successful application:

• Protect your hands with latex gloves (these are usually included in the box) or disposable nitrile gloves.
• Apply petroleum jelly or wax to a cotton swab. Run the swab along the hairline to avoid dyeing your skin. Repeat until the entire hairline is protected.
• Mix the color according to the box’s instructions.
• Using clips, section your hair in 1-inch pieces.
• Apply color from roots to tips. Be careful not to drip on the floor or your clothing.
• Use a shower cap or a hair clip to keep the color from staining your neck while the color processes.
• Set a timer or alarm according to the box’s instructions. It will alert you when your color has fully developed.

When your timer or alarm rings:

• Rinse your hair using lukewarm water until all the color runs out.
• Condition your hair using the product included in your kit. This is a crucial step, so follow the instructions exactly. NOTE: If your kit doesn’t come with conditioner, use a color-protecting conditioner on your hair; leave it on for at least one minute and then rinse.

To finish up, towel-dry your hair and style as usual. Don’t forget to take the time to admire your new ’do in the mirror!