6 days ago
How to colour your own hair like a pro — and save hundreds of dollars at the salon
In my 20s, I was a new freelance writer, living on my own after a traumatic breakup and clinging to my identity as a Virgo with flaming red locks (despite my genetic blessing of a mousy dark blond). Soon, the cost of bimonthly salon appointments became too much, and I decided to try my hand at box dye. After my spin with L'Oréal Paris Féria in R48 Intense Deep Auburn, my bathroom looked like a scene out of Psycho, but I was thrilled with the vibrant outcome. Over the next eight years, I saved around $12,000 by skipping the salon, only returning to the pros when I was ready to make the technically challenging transition from red to blond.
The money I saved was no small thing. And for the many Canadians watching their grocery bills skyrocket, an extra $1,500 a year probably sounds pretty good. The swap to box dye can be tricky at first, but if you're willing to do your homework and put in the effort, you can score great results with minimal damage. Here, Vancouver master colourist Kyle Gould shares his top tips for getting the most out of at-home hair colour.
