You can also try using a dark brown or brownish black dye instead of pure black. Semi-permanent dyes aren’t as effective at covering up greys, and they can even stain your grey hair a yellowish shade. They can be helpful for helping to blend your greys with your natural hair color, however. Look for a foam formula if you have very thick hair. It will help coat your hair more evenly without dripping everywhere. [1] X Research source
You can use a foam or a bristle style brush. [3] X Research source
Some dyes may have other recommendations, so be sure to read the instructions carefully.
Consider wearing a robe or a button-down shirt. That way, when it’s time to rinse, you won’t have to pull your shirt over your head. Another good option is to wear a hairdresser’s cape, which you can purchase online or from a beauty supply store.
You can also use moisturizer or oil.
The instructions may direct you to mix the ingredients in an applicator bottle, but since you’re using a brush, it will be easier to pour them into a bowl and stir them together.
If you experience any redness, itching, or irritation, rinse the strand right away and do not use the remainder of the dye. The color should be a little lighter than the result you’re going for, but the shade should be close to what you’re expecting. If it’s dramatically different, you may need to choose a different color dye.
Use the tip of a comb or your hair dyeing brush to part your hair and apply the dye in sections. That way, you won’t miss any greys. If you’re concerned the dye color won’t match your natural color, apply the color all over your hair.
If your strand test produced really dark results in half the time, you’ll know you don’t need to leave the dye on the entire time, for instance.
Most commercial dye kits come with conditioner included. If your dye kit didn’t include a conditioner, use one that’s formulated for color-treated hair if possible.
You may need to touch up your roots every 4-5 weeks.
You can also use brewed coffee or hot tea, which may produce a darker hue. Purchase henna powder at select beauty shops or order it online. You won’t need all of the mixture if your hair is very short or you’re only covering your roots.
Store the mixture at room temperature.
If you wanted a slightly lighter or redder color, use more henna and less indigo.
Moisturizer, oil, or lip balm can all work if you don’t have petroleum jelly on hand.
You can use towels on the floor, but large drips of dye might soak through and stain the floor. Consider wearing a robe or a button-down shirt so you don’t have to pull your top over your head when it’s time to rinse your hair. You could also cover your clothes with a hairdresser’s cape.
You can use any type of paintbrush for this, from a bristled brush to a foam craft brush. Using a brush will make it easier to get the dye all the way down into your roots, and the color will typically be more evenly spread throughout your hair.
Since the dye can stain anything it touches, you may want to cover your hair with a shower cap while you’re waiting.
Most household shampoos are fine, but avoid using clarifying or medicated shampoo to rinse your hair, as they may pull some of the color out of the hair’s cuticle. If you notice a slight green tint, don’t worry—it will typically go away in 2-3 days.
