- If you want to dye roots darker without ruining your highlights, wait until your roots are at least three centimeters long.
- Once your roots reach three centimeters, apply the dye precisely using a fine dye brush or a dye applicator bottle.
- Even if you use box dye, the dye applicator spout from the kit is ideal for avoiding ruining your highlights when you dye your roots.
- Below you’ll find foolproof step-by-step instructions on dyeing roots darker without ruining your highlights.
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Are you thinking about dyeing your roots darker without ruining your highlights? If you aren’t organized, neat, and patient, my advice is to go to a salon.
Why? It’s because even just one moment of distraction or impatience while dyeing your roots darker can ruin your highlights.
If you stain your highlights with dye while dyeing your roots, you will ruin the highlights. And then, you’ll only be left with two options: either bleach the highlights again or apply a fake balayage to even out the color.
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What I want to make clear to you is that recoloring roots darker without ruining highlights is actually an incredibly complex coloring job. As you apply the dye, you’ll stain your highlights if you go past the roots even a little.
And if you smudge the highlights and ruin them, are you willing to pay a professional to bleach your hair again to redo your highlights or try to do a fake balayage?
As a stylist, in these cases, I think it’s sometimes better to stick to the saying: “You get what you pay for.” And in this case, that could mean, “If you don’t want to ruin your highlights when you dye your roots darker, go to a salon.”
Now, if you’re an experienced colorist, or if you’re just fearless of any consequences, here’s how to dye your roots darker without ruining your highlights.
Step-by-step instructions to dye roots darker without ruining highlights
Previously, I mentioned that it’s best to wait until your roots are at least three centimeters long. This way, applying the dye will be easier.
After that, you’ll have to decide which dye to choose.
- If you don’t have much coloring experience , use a box dye. The kit includes an applicator bottle that has an extra small spout. This allows you to apply the dye in fine lines.
- If you have experience in coloring and want to buy the dye and developer separately , I recommend you have an extra fine dye brush on hand.
Preparing your hair
If possible, your hair must be dry and unwashed for at least 48 hours beforehand. The oil from your scalp will protect your roots from harsh dye chemicals.
Protect your highlights
Apply toning shampoo to protect the color of the highlights and prevent them from being stained by the dye. You can also use moisturizing cream.
Prepare the dye
Mix the dye tube and developer with the kit applicator. If you’re not using box dye, prepare the mixture in a plastic container. In both cases, whisk until you get a smooth mixture.
Applying the dye
Start by applying the dye to the front roots, drawing a line down the length of your head with a middle part. Apply the dye with your fingers (using gloves) or use the dye brush.
To avoid touching the highlights, you should do this accurately. Continue applying the dye in sections until you’ve covered all your roots.
Leave the dye on your roots
Leave the dye on for the proper length of time. I recommend you read the instructions for use, which usually indicate you should leave the dye on for 45 minutes. Once this time has passed, rinse your hair with lukewarm water until it runs clear.
Moisturize your hair
Once you’ve rinsed out the dye, apply your regular conditioner or the one included in the dye kit. Leave it on for three minutes, then rinse it with lukewarm water.
Conclusion
Dyeing your roots darker without ruining your highlights is a tricky process. My professional recommendation is that if you don’t have experience in coloring, go to a salon.
