The Pro’s Guide To Coloring Your Hair At Home

All over the world, people are practicing social distancing to curb the spread of COVID-19. For most, it's proving to be challenging in ways we didn't expect, including our beauty routines. Sure, removing our own gels and waxing at home isn't as timely or pressing as most of the issues facing the world at large, but it can help restore some dignity and a sense of routine to people who feel upended by the changes around them. If there's one beauty treatment that's especially intimidating, though, it's hair color.

"It's best to leave big color changes to the professionals," says Nikki Lee, Garnier Celebrity Hair Colorist. "You don't want to try new colors and techniques at home just because you're bored." While some salons have resumed offering services with restrictions, some people still feel safer sitting out close-contact services. That being said, successfully using toning gloss, root touch-up, or even a temporary color mask for Halloween is totally possible with the right tips and tools.

"Before attempting to color your hair at home, it's important that you understand what color your hair is," Lee says. "Are you a medium, warm brown? Or maybe a light, cool blonde?" She recommends paying close attention to color guides on product websites and at-home boxes to match your natural color. Plan to grab two boxes if your hair is super thick or long and, regardless, always do a patch test on a small, bottom section of hair before doing the full job.

Still nervous? For extra clarity around your color and formula choice, Lee suggests checking in with your hairdresser. "Call your colorist and talk to them honestly about what your goal is," Lee says. "This will help to avoid color correction later." Keep scrolling for more pro tips, plus the products that make it easy, ahead.