Here's Absolutely Everything You Should Know Before Dyeing Your Hair at Home

There are two kinds of hair enthusiasts: those who have been loyal to a hairstylist their whole lives and those who prefer to take matters into their own hands. While I don't fall into either category ("It's just hair" has been my unofficial slogan for the past few years), my desire to treat my hair as well as I treat my skin is getting stronger. If I can stand in front of the mirror every day and do a 10-step skincare routine involving luxurious creams, powerful tools, and red-light therapy, why can't I take a few moments out of the month to give my hair that same attention?

This is where at-home coloring comes in. While using box dye may seem intimidating, Clairol's ColorStrong eases your fears and provides a top-notch at-home experience. This premium hair-coloring product has a three-step bonding color system to prime, color, and treat your hair. You can get permanent, multidimensional color with 100% gray coverage without ever stepping foot in a salon or damaging your tresses. I know this sounds too good to be true, so I enlisted Kim Kimble, celebrity hairstylist and Clairol color expert, to support my argument. If you're looking for the cheat code for your best hair, this is it.

Marie Claire: What's the biggest misconception people have about box dye?

Kim Kimble: One of the biggest misconceptions about box dye is that it's more damaging than professional color, but that's simply not true. Clairol's at-home formulas, like ColorStrong, are designed with hair health in mind, using advanced ingredients like AHA bonding care to revitalize while they color. People also think you need a lot of experience to use box dye, but Clairol makes the process easy, with clear instructions and salon-quality results right at home.

MC: What nonnegotiables should shoppers consider when buying a new hair dye?

KK: When choosing a hair dye, ingredient safety should always come first—look for formulas that nourish rather than damage your hair. Clear instructions and ease of use are key for a smooth coloring process, and a patch test is a must to avoid any surprises. Lastly, a brand's reputation and reviews can tell you a lot about the quality and results you can expect.

MC: What advice would you give someone coloring their hair for the first time?

KK: If you're coloring your hair for the first time, choosing the right shade is key—sticking within one to two shades of your natural color will give you the most seamless, flattering result. Always do a strand test first to preview the color and check for any reactions. Follow the instruction leaflet carefully to ensure even application, and don't skip the conditioner included in the kit—it's specifically designed to lock in vibrancy and moisture. Lastly, hold off on washing your hair for at least 48 hours after coloring to allow the color to fully set.

MC: What are the benefits of using a primer before coloring your hair?

KK: A primer acts as a base coat, prepping the hair to absorb color more evenly while reinforcing its structure. ColorStrong's Bonding Primer is a game-changer—it supports the internal bonding of hair while it colors, protecting your hair before the color even touches it!

MC: What sets the Clairol ColorStrong dye apart from other dyes on the market?

KK: ColorStrong is a revolutionary permanent hair color that has zero ammonia and merges multidimensional color with hair-bonding benefits. This new collection prioritizes the "skinification of hair" trend by caring for hair using ingredients found in skincare products. The AHA bonding technology nourishes hair from the inside out, so you get vibrant, multidimensional color without compromising hair integrity.

MC: What are the best ways to take care of colored hair?

KK: To take care of colored hair, incorporate a hydrating and conditioning mask into your routine to replenish nutrients. Opt for a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo like Clairol's Shimmer Lights Shampoo for blonding or Wella's Color Invigo for other hair colors, deep condition regularly, and minimize heat styling to keep your hair healthy and vibrant.

MC: What are three tips for anyone who colors their hair?

KK: Keep up consistent trims. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to maintain vibrancy, and deep condition weekly to keep your hair strong and hydrated.

MC: How would you describe a fail-proof haircare routine for colored hair? What steps should it include?

KK: A solid routine starts with moisture as the foundation. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to maintain vibrancy, incorporate hydrating deep conditioners to nourish strands, and always apply heat protection to prevent damage and breakage.