Unlocking the secrets to achieving the perfect hair color at home, Excellence Hair Color by L'Oréal offers a range of shades and innovative features to ensure a salon-like experience. This blog post will guide you through the process of using Excellence Hair Color, from choosing the right shade to applying it like a pro. Get ready to transform your hair and boost your confidence with stunning results!
Choosing the Right Shade
Selecting the perfect hair color is crucial for achieving your desired look. Excellence Hair Color provides an extensive range of shades to cater to various preferences. Whether you're aiming for a natural blend or a bold statement, there's a shade for everyone.
Here's a breakdown of the shade categories available:
- Natural Shades: These shades are ideal for those seeking a subtle change or wanting to blend away gray hairs. They offer a soft and natural look, perfect for everyday wear.
- Warm Shades: Infuse your hair with a touch of warmth! Warm shades add a hint of golden or caramel tones, creating a radiant and vibrant appearance.
- Cool Shades: For a sleek and sophisticated look, cool shades are your go-to. They add a hint of ash or platinum tones, giving your hair a modern and stylish edge.
- Red Shades: If you're feeling bold, red shades are the way to go. From fiery coppers to deep burgundies, these shades will make a statement and turn heads.
To make the right choice, consider your current hair color, desired result, and skin tone. L'Oréal provides a shade guide and online tools to help you find the perfect match. Take a look at the table below for a quick reference of shade categories and their corresponding shades:
Shade Category | Shades |
---|---|
Natural Shades | 10, 11, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 |
Warm Shades | 10W, 11W, 12W, 15W, 20W, 25W, 30W, 35W, 40W, 45W, 50W, 55W, 60W, 65W, 70W, 75W, 80W, 85W, 90W, 95W |
Cool Shades | 10C, 11C, 12C, 15C, 20C, 25C, 30C, 35C, 40C, 45C, 50C, 55C, 60C, 65C, 70C, 75C, 80C, 85C, 90C, 95C |
Red Shades | 11R, 12R, 15R, 20R, 25R, 30R, 35R, 40R, 45R, 50R, 55R, 60R, 65R, 70R, 75R, 80R, 85R, 90R, 95R |
Remember, these shades are just a starting point. L'Oréal Excellence Hair Color offers a wide range of variations within each category, allowing you to fine-tune your choice and create a personalized look.
Preparing for Application
Before diving into the coloring process, it's essential to prepare your hair and gather the necessary tools. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and successful application:
- Gather Your Supplies:
- Excellence Hair Color Kit
- Gloves
- Hair clips or pins
- An old towel or cape to protect your clothing
- A hair dye brush or an applicator bottle (optional)
- Prepare Your Hair:
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual. Ensure your hair is clean and free from any styling products.
- Dry your hair thoroughly. Excellence Hair Color works best on dry hair.
- If you have long hair, section it to make the application process easier.
- Set Up Your Workspace:
- Choose a well-ventilated area with good lighting.
- Cover your work surface with old newspapers or a plastic sheet to avoid stains.
- Have a trash bag or container nearby to dispose of any used materials.
By following these preparation steps, you'll create an organized and comfortable environment for a stress-free coloring experience.
Mixing and Applying the Hair Color
Now, let's dive into the heart of the process - mixing and applying Excellence Hair Color. This step-by-step guide will ensure you achieve professional-looking results:
- Open the Excellence Hair Color Kit:
- Inside the kit, you'll find a color cream tube, a developer lotion bottle, and a conditioning balm.
- If your kit includes a hair dye brush, set it aside for later use.
- Mix the Color Cream and Developer Lotion:
- Put on your gloves to protect your hands.
- Squeeze the entire content of the color cream tube into an applicator bottle or a bowl.
- Add the developer lotion to the color cream. Follow the instructions on the kit for the correct ratio.
- Secure the lid of the applicator bottle tightly or use a brush to mix the ingredients in a bowl.
- Shake or stir the mixture until it becomes a smooth, consistent paste.
- Apply the Hair Color:
- If you have an applicator bottle, start applying the color from the roots to the ends of your hair.
- If using a bowl, dip the hair dye brush into the mixture and apply it section by section, ensuring complete coverage.
- Work quickly but carefully to avoid any drips or spills.
- Once all sections are covered, use a hair clip or pin to secure your hair and let the color process.
- Processing Time:
- Check the instructions on your Excellence Hair Color kit for the recommended processing time.
- Typically, the color needs to sit on your hair for 30-45 minutes. However, some shades may require a shorter or longer time.
- Keep an eye on the clock to ensure you don't leave the color on for too long.
Note: If you're new to hair coloring or have sensitive skin, it's a good idea to perform a patch test 48 hours before your full application. This will help you identify any potential allergies or skin reactions.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Once the processing time is up, it's time to rinse and condition your hair to reveal your new look:
- Rinse Your Hair:
- Put on your gloves and remove any hair clips or pins.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear.
- Avoid using shampoo during this step.
- Apply the Conditioning Balm:
- Squeeze a generous amount of the conditioning balm from the Excellence Hair Color kit onto your palms.
- Work the balm into your hair, focusing on the ends and any damaged areas.
- Let the balm sit for a few minutes to nourish and moisturize your hair.
- Final Rinse and Shampoo:
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water to remove any excess balm.
- Follow up with a gentle shampoo and conditioner of your choice.
Your hair is now transformed with a beautiful new color! Excellence Hair Color ensures long-lasting results and vibrant locks.
Maintaining Your Hair Color
To keep your hair color looking its best, follow these simple tips:
- Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: Opt for products specifically designed for colored hair to maintain its vibrancy and prevent fading.
- Avoid Excessive Heat Styling: Minimize the use of hot tools like straighteners and curling irons to prevent color damage and dryness.
- Protect Your Hair from the Sun: UV rays can fade your hair color. Wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
- Regular Touch-Ups: Depending on your hair's growth rate, you may need to touch up your roots every 4-6 weeks to maintain a consistent color.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your Excellence Hair Color lasts longer and keeps your hair healthy and vibrant.
Tips for a Successful Hair Coloring Experience
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth and successful hair coloring experience with Excellence Hair Color:
- Read the Instructions Thoroughly: Take the time to read and understand the instructions provided in your Excellence Hair Color kit. Familiarize yourself with the process and any specific precautions.
- Choose the Right Lighting: Natural daylight is ideal for choosing and applying hair color. Avoid fluorescent or dim lighting, as it can distort the appearance of the shade.
- Practice Sectioning: If you have long or thick hair, practice sectioning it before the application. This ensures even coverage and makes the process more manageable.
- Be Mindful of Your Skin: If you have sensitive skin, wear a thin layer of petroleum jelly around your hairline to prevent any color from staining your skin.
- Avoid Water before Application: Don't wet your hair before applying the color. Excellence Hair Color is designed for dry hair, and wet hair can affect the absorption of the color.
- Use a Timer: Set a timer for the processing time to ensure you don't leave the color on for too long or too short.
- Don't Rinse with Hot Water: Use warm water for rinsing to avoid stripping the color too quickly. Hot water can open the hair cuticles, causing color to fade faster.
By following these tips and taking your time, you'll achieve professional-looking results and a salon-worthy hair color transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Excellence Hair Color if I have previously colored my hair with another brand?
+Yes, Excellence Hair Color can be used on previously colored hair. However, it's important to perform a strand test to ensure compatibility and avoid any unexpected results.
How often should I touch up my roots with Excellence Hair Color?
+The frequency of touch-ups depends on your hair's growth rate and the desired look. On average, you may need to touch up your roots every 4-6 weeks to maintain a consistent color.
Can I mix different shades of Excellence Hair Color to create a custom color?
+Yes, you can mix different shades of Excellence Hair Color to create a unique color. Start with a small amount of each shade and mix them together to achieve your desired tone.
Is Excellence Hair Color suitable for gray hair coverage?
+Absolutely! Excellence Hair Color is designed to provide excellent gray coverage. Choose a shade that matches your desired hair color, and follow the instructions for optimal results.
Final Thoughts
Achieving salon-quality hair color at home is now easier than ever with Excellence Hair Color by L’Oréal. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided in this blog, you can transform your hair with confidence. Remember to choose the right shade, prepare your hair and workspace, and follow the application instructions carefully. With Excellence Hair Color, you’ll unlock a world of stunning hair colors and enjoy long-lasting, vibrant results. Embrace your new look and boost your confidence with every hair flip!