What should I know before dyeing my hair?

Don’t wash your hair the day you get it done, and you can even skip the day before. That’s good to do because you will still have all the natural oils in your hair. I would get a shampoo/conditioner that is for colored hair. Try to use a shampoo that doesn’t dry your hair out. I’d ask your stylist at the salon.

it can turn green if you don’t do it appropriately….

Avoid any shampoo that lists alcohol as an ingredient, it adds short term shine and the illusion of health – but it will destroy your hair, particularly if it’s been colored.

As for the coloring process, they’ll sit you down and show you some samples of colors, try and get a good fit, you’ll sit in the hair reading a magazine and drinking water while they mix it up, then they’ll ‘paint’ it one to chunks of your hair bit by bit. After that, there’s about a half hour of hanging out looking weird with you hair all slicked down. You might really hate the smell of the chemicals, but then they’ll wash it, cut it if you’re doing that too, style and send you on your way. I usually set aside a couple hours when I go. But it’s been a while for me. :)

I agree….....the dirtier the hair…....the better the solution sticks.

(Or that’s what my auntie said….she was a hairdresser/colourist/stylist for 60 years.)

Yes, dirty hair is better, and don’t use styling product the morning you go to have it done. If you have product covering the hair there is a chance the dye will not work as well in those areas.

Also, if you are going much darker know that it can be shocking. You may not want to go too dark the first time. If you can bring a picture from a magazine of the color you think you want. Or at minimum look through some pictures for women who have similar complpexions to you so you can get an idea of what it will really look like on your head.

The process was described well by @asmonet While the chemical is on your head they might give you a magazine and set you aside while your hairdresser starts on another person. Overlapping clients does happen, so don’t be put off if he/she does this. It depends on the salon and how much help they have.

Oh, and if you are going much darker you will need some new make-up probably, unless you already use dark colors. Depending on how warm (red) or cool (blue/violet) you go, you might want some new clothing also.

One last thing. Nicer salons will have you change out of your shirt and put on a robe styled cover-up.