If you think hair color for men is about simply going from salt and pepper strands to an all-black look, you couldn’t be more wrong. Men are increasingly trying different types of hair colors, which range from subtle highlights to bold colors. So, if you too have been inspired to color your hair, follow the steps in this guide to learn how to apply the dye and also tips to maintain your hair color so it always looks fresh and vibrant. 

Understanding Hair Color Basics

Before diving into the application process, it is important to comprehend the basics of hair color for men. Hair dye can be categorized into several types:

  • Permanent: This category of hair color absorbs into the strands very deeply which results in long-lasting colors. This kind is the best one if you are looking for major changes or want to conceal grey hair. However, it requires regular touch-ups as the roots will be a different color as the hair grows.
  • Semi-Permanent: This is just coating for the outer part of your hair strands and fades out after 5-6 washes. Therefore, it proves to be an excellent temporary alternative to any hair experiment you want to delve into without a long-term commitment.
  • Demi-Permanent: This type falls between permanent and semi-permanent due to its longer duration than a semi-permanent hair color but not as long as a permanent hair color. It is appropriate when you want more dimension or want to intensify your natural hue.
  • Temporary: Requires no commitment at all. It usually lasts until the next time you wash the hair. It’s ideal for experiments with vibrant colors or a quirky fun tye-dye trial.

Make Your Choice Wisely

Ever wondered why a certain hair color for men looks phenomenal on your best friend but does not have the same effect on you? It is important to consider your skin tone, hair texture, and personal style to select a good color. Below are a few tips you can keep in mind before going for a hair shade change:

Skin Tone:

  • Warm-skinned individuals with yellowish, peachy or golden undertones should choose warmer hair color shades such as golden brown, auburn or honey blonde.
  • On the other hand, if you have pink, red or a blue undertone then go for cooler hair colors for men such as ash brown, platinum blonde or black.
  • Men with a neutral skin tone can choose any color that pleases them since they have both warm and cool undertones.

Natural Hair color:

  • If this is your first time dying your locks, it is recommended that you do not go beyond two shades away from its original hue as it’s easy to maintain and has a more natural feel to it.

Personal Styles:

  • Do you want just a little bit of change? Your choice of color will depend on what fits into your lifestyle best hence making conservative use of low lights close to the original hue very effective while bold choices would include bright reds and platinum blonde along with other trendy pastels among others.

How to Apply Hair color For Men At Home

For the times you just want to color your hair in the convenience and comfort of your house, here are a few tips you should follow to get better outcomes:

Preparation:

  • Tools: Get hold of hand gloves, a dye brush, a comb and an old towel or cape to avoid staining your clothes. 
  • Patch Test: Conduct a patch test before anything. Take a small amount of dye and put it on a hidden spot like behind your ear. Monitor the place for 24 hours.
  • Pre-treatment: Using pre-color treatment is advisable especially if you have thick or rough hair.

Application:

  • Mix the Dye: Adhere to specific instructions on the kit closely mixing dye and developer in a convenient container.
  • Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure even coverage. Use clips to hold back sections that are not currently in your hands yet.
  • Apply the Dye: Start by applying dye at the back then go down to the tips all through ensuring an even application takes place without patchy spots.
  • Timing: Follow the recommended processing time mentioned in the box. Leaving this for too long or taking it earlier may result in uneven coloration.

Rinse and Condition:

  • After letting the dye sit on your hair for about 40-45 minutes, rinse it off with warm water. Use a conditioner (it is sometimes included in the skit) as it specifically helps in locking in the hair color as well as restoring moisture to your hair.

Keeping Up Your Hair color

To make sure that your new hair color remains fresh, you should maintain it well. Here are some tips:

  1. Use color-Safe Products: The best decision you can make is to purchase shampoos and conditioners prepared for color-treated hair only. They’ve got low-pH formulations for mild cleansing agents that wash away the color in one go.
  2. Avoid Frequent Washing: Frequent washing might strip off all the color from your hair. You can wash your hair with a dry shampoo if you wish to wash them twice a week.
  3. Protect from Heat: Strong heating tools like curlers, straighteners, and blow dryers can cause fading of colors. Always use heat protectant spray when working with these devices.
  4. Limit sun Exposure: The sun can decolor hair over time due to its UV rays. Protect your hair by spraying UV- protectant on your hair or you can also just wear a cap.
  5. Regular Touch-Ups: Depending on what kind of dye was used; this could mean touching up roots or refreshing color every four to six weeks. This becomes more imperative if considering permanent colors since there will be new visible growth.
  6. Deep Conditioning Treatments: When one colors their hair it tends to get dry or brittle. Hence, consider deep conditioning your hair once a week so that there’s enough hair moisture retention.

The Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Make sure to always do a patch test before applying hair color for men in order to avoid any allergic reactions.
  • Don’t reapply color on previously colored hair during touch-ups at the roots because otherwise, it will result in damaged and uneven coloring.
  • After coloring, it is important you consider using color-safe products or conditioning treatments to avoid dull, lifeless hair.

Conclusion

Dyeing your hair will always bring in a vibe of a new fresh look and it is important you know how to take care of your now-colored hair. Choosing the right shade, following a proper procedure, and maintaining proper after-care are a few things you always need to keep in mind whether you are a pro at coloring your hair or are a first timer.