Burgundy hair, with its rich blend of red and purple hues, is a captivating choice that adds depth and dimension to any look. Achieving this vibrant color at home on dark hair requires careful planning and execution, but it’s entirely achievable with the right approach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you achieve salon-worthy results without breaking the bank.
Understanding Your Hair and Burgundy Shades
Before diving into the dyeing process, it’s crucial to understand your hair type, current color, and the various shades of burgundy available. This knowledge will help you choose the right dye and anticipate the final outcome.
Assessing Your Hair Type and Condition
Your hair’s porosity, texture, and overall health significantly impact how well it absorbs color. Porous hair, often damaged or chemically treated, absorbs color quickly, potentially leading to uneven results. Healthy, less porous hair may require more time for the dye to penetrate.
Consider your hair’s thickness and texture. Fine hair tends to process color faster than coarse hair. If your hair is already damaged from previous dyeing, bleaching, or heat styling, it’s essential to prioritize repair before attempting to dye it burgundy. Use deep conditioning treatments for a few weeks to improve its condition.
Choosing the Right Burgundy Shade
Burgundy isn’t a monolithic color; it exists on a spectrum, from deep wine reds to vibrant plum purples. The best shade for you depends on your skin tone and personal preference.
- Cool Skin Tones: Cooler complexions generally look stunning with burgundy shades that have a stronger purple undertone, such as plum burgundy or deep violet-red.
- Warm Skin Tones: Warmer skin tones tend to complement burgundy shades with more red undertones, like cherry burgundy or a rich wine color.
- Neutral Skin Tones: Neutral skin tones have the most flexibility and can often pull off a wider range of burgundy shades.
Look at color charts and online examples to see how different burgundy shades appear on various hair colors and skin tones. Consider using a virtual try-on tool if available on the dye brand’s website.
Understanding the Color Wheel and Undertones
The color wheel is a valuable tool for understanding how different colors interact. Burgundy sits between red and purple, meaning it can lean towards either color. Identifying the undertones in your hair and chosen dye is crucial.
If your hair has strong warm undertones (red or orange), choosing a burgundy dye with cooler, purple undertones can help neutralize some of the warmth and prevent the color from pulling too brassy. Conversely, if your hair has cool undertones, a burgundy with warmer, red undertones can add vibrancy.
Preparing Your Hair for Dyeing
Proper preparation is key to achieving even color distribution and minimizing damage. It involves gathering your supplies, conducting a strand test, and protecting your skin and clothing.
Gathering Essential Supplies
Before you even think about opening the dye, make sure you have everything you need. This includes:
- Burgundy Hair Dye: Choose a high-quality dye specifically formulated for dark hair. Permanent dyes offer the most vibrant and long-lasting results.
- Developer (if needed): Some permanent dyes require a developer. Choose the volume recommended by the dye manufacturer. A higher volume developer lifts more color, but also causes more damage.
- Applicator Brush: A wide applicator brush helps distribute the dye evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: A non-metallic bowl for mixing the dye and developer.
- Gloves: Essential for protecting your hands from staining.
- Old Towel or Cape: To protect your clothing from dye splatters.
- Hair Clips: To section your hair and keep it out of the way.
- Petroleum Jelly or Barrier Cream: To protect your hairline and ears from staining.
- Deep Conditioner: To replenish moisture after dyeing.
- Shampoo and Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair: To help prolong the life of your color.
Performing a Strand Test
A strand test is non-negotiable. It’s the only way to predict how the dye will react with your hair and ensure you achieve the desired color.
Select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair, preferably at the nape of your neck. Apply the dye according to the package instructions and let it process for the recommended time. Rinse, dry, and assess the color.
If the color is too light or doesn’t take well, you may need to adjust the processing time or choose a different dye. If the color is too dark, shorten the processing time or dilute the dye slightly.
Protecting Your Skin and Clothing
Dyeing your hair can be a messy process, so it’s essential to protect your skin and clothing. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or barrier cream along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining. Wear an old towel or cape to protect your clothing from dye splatters. Lay down old towels on the surrounding surfaces in case of drips.
The Dyeing Process: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve prepared your hair and gathered your supplies, it’s time to begin the dyeing process.
Mixing the Dye
Follow the instructions on the dye package carefully. In most cases, you’ll need to mix the dye with the developer in a non-metallic bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it’s smooth and creamy.
Sectioning Your Hair
Sectioning your hair makes it easier to apply the dye evenly. Divide your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back. Use hair clips to keep each section separate.
Applying the Dye
Start applying the dye at the roots, working your way down to the ends. Use the applicator brush to saturate each strand of hair with dye. Be sure to apply the dye evenly, especially around the hairline and part.
Once you’ve applied the dye to all four sections, gently massage it into your hair to ensure even coverage.
Processing Time
Refer to the dye package for the recommended processing time. It’s crucial to adhere to the time suggested. Cover your hair with a plastic shower cap to trap heat and help the dye penetrate more effectively. Avoid exceeding the recommended time, as this can damage your hair.
Rinsing and Conditioning
After the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Apply a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and seal the cuticle. Leave the conditioner in for the recommended time, then rinse again.
Maintaining Your Burgundy Hair Color
Maintaining your burgundy hair color requires a dedicated routine to prevent fading and keep your hair healthy.
Using Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Invest in a shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle on your hair and prevent the dye from fading. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as they can strip the color.
Washing Your Hair Less Frequently
Washing your hair too often can cause the color to fade faster. Try to limit washing to two or three times a week. When you do wash your hair, use cool water, as hot water can also strip the color.
Protecting Your Hair from the Sun
The sun can cause your hair color to fade and damage your hair. Wear a hat or scarf when you’re spending time outdoors. You can also use a hair product that contains UV protection.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Heat styling tools can damage your hair and cause the color to fade. Try to minimize your use of heat styling tools. When you do use them, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair beforehand.
Using Color-Depositing Products
Color-depositing shampoos and conditioners can help refresh your burgundy color and prevent it from fading. These products contain a small amount of dye that deposits color onto your hair each time you use them.
Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments
Deep conditioning treatments are essential for maintaining the health and moisture of your hair, especially after dyeing. Use a deep conditioner once or twice a week to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with careful planning, you may encounter some challenges when dyeing your hair burgundy at home. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Uneven Color Distribution
If you notice uneven color distribution, it could be due to improper application or inconsistent porosity. You can try applying more dye to the areas that are lighter or less saturated. Ensure you have saturated all sections of hair properly and evenly during application.
Color Fading Too Quickly
Color fading is a common problem, especially with vibrant shades like burgundy. To prevent fading, follow the maintenance tips outlined above. Use color-safe products, wash your hair less frequently, protect it from the sun, and avoid heat styling.
Hair Damage
Dyeing your hair can cause damage, especially if it’s already dry or brittle. To minimize damage, use a high-quality dye, follow the instructions carefully, and avoid over-processing. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your routine.
Allergic Reaction
Although rare, allergic reactions to hair dye can occur. Perform a patch test 48 hours before dyeing your hair to check for any sensitivity. If you experience any itching, burning, or swelling, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Dyeing your dark hair burgundy at home can be a rewarding experience that allows you to express your personal style. By following these comprehensive instructions and taking the necessary precautions, you can achieve beautiful, vibrant results without damaging your hair. Remember to prioritize hair health, choose the right shade, and maintain your color with a dedicated routine.
What shade of burgundy is best suited for dark hair?
When dyeing dark hair burgundy at home, the ideal shade will depend on your starting hair color and desired intensity. For very dark hair (level 1-3), opt for deeper burgundy shades with strong red or purple undertones. These richer hues will be more visible without requiring excessive bleaching, preventing unnecessary damage. Consider shades like deep plum burgundy or cherry cola for a noticeable, yet subtle, shift.
If your hair is a shade lighter (level 4-5), you have more flexibility. Medium burgundy shades with balanced red and purple tones will work well. Remember that the darker your starting color, the more the burgundy will appear as a subtle tint or sheen, especially in lower lighting. Always perform a strand test to preview the color outcome before applying it to your entire head.
Do I need to bleach my dark hair before dyeing it burgundy?
Whether you need to bleach your hair before dyeing it burgundy depends heavily on how vibrant you want the color to be and how dark your hair is. If you have very dark hair (level 1-3) and desire a vivid, noticeable burgundy, pre-lightening with bleach is generally necessary. Bleaching lifts the dark pigments, providing a lighter canvas for the burgundy dye to deposit effectively, resulting in a brighter, truer color.
However, if you prefer a subtle burgundy tint or sheen visible mostly in sunlight, you might be able to skip bleaching. In this case, choose a highly pigmented burgundy dye specifically formulated for dark hair. Keep in mind that the color payoff will be more subdued compared to applying it on pre-lightened hair. A strand test is crucial to determine if the results meet your expectations without bleaching.
What type of dye should I use for burgundy hair at home?
Choosing the right type of dye is crucial for successful burgundy hair at home. Semi-permanent dyes are gentlest, coating the hair shaft without penetrating deeply. They’re ideal for achieving a subtle burgundy tint or refreshing color but fade quickly. Demi-permanent dyes deposit color and slightly open the hair cuticle, providing longer-lasting color than semi-permanent options with minimal damage.
Permanent dyes offer the most vibrant and long-lasting burgundy color, especially on dark hair. They penetrate the hair shaft, permanently altering the color. However, they can be more damaging and require more maintenance for root touch-ups. Select a dye specifically formulated for dark hair or consider a professional-grade dye for better results and reduced damage. Always perform a patch test to check for allergies and a strand test to preview the color result.
How can I prevent the burgundy dye from fading quickly?
Several strategies can help prevent burgundy hair dye from fading quickly. First, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip the hair of its color, causing it to fade faster. Cold or lukewarm water is also your friend; hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing dye molecules to escape.
Limit washing your hair to two or three times per week to preserve the color. When you do wash it, consider using a color-depositing conditioner in a burgundy shade to replenish lost pigment. Protect your hair from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can fade color. Use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection or wear a hat when spending extended time outdoors.
What precautions should I take before dyeing my hair burgundy at home?
Before embarking on your at-home burgundy hair transformation, prioritize safety and preparation. Conduct a patch test 48 hours prior to dyeing to check for any allergic reactions. Apply a small amount of the dye to a discreet area, like behind your ear or on your inner elbow, and monitor for any irritation, redness, or itching. If any adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately.
Gather all necessary supplies, including gloves, an applicator brush, a mixing bowl, old towels, and petroleum jelly to protect your hairline. Wear old clothing that you don’t mind getting stained. Read the dye instructions carefully and follow them precisely. Over-processing can damage your hair, while under-processing may result in uneven color. A strand test is highly recommended to preview the color outcome and processing time on a small section of your hair before applying it all over.
What should I do if I don’t like the burgundy color after dyeing my hair?
If you’re unhappy with the burgundy color after dyeing your hair, don’t panic. The first step is to wait a few washes. Sometimes, the color will settle and soften after a few washes, especially if it initially appeared too vibrant. Use a clarifying shampoo to gently help fade the color faster, but be mindful of potentially drying out your hair.
If the color is still not to your liking after several washes, consider consulting a professional hairstylist for corrective color. They have the expertise to assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s toning the color down, adding highlights, or even removing the burgundy entirely. Avoid attempting drastic color corrections at home, as this could lead to further damage or undesirable results.
How do I maintain healthy hair after dyeing it burgundy?
Maintaining healthy hair after dyeing it burgundy involves a consistent hair care routine focused on hydration and protein. Use a deep conditioning mask once or twice a week to replenish moisture lost during the dyeing process. Look for masks containing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil. Consider incorporating a protein treatment to strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage, especially if you bleached your hair beforehand.
Minimize heat styling, as excessive heat can further damage color-treated hair. When you do use heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Regularly trim your hair to remove split ends and prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft, leading to further breakage. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals also contributes to overall hair health and vibrancy.