Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect At-Home Hair Colour

Colouring your hair at home is easier, and more effective, than ever before. Whether you're covering greys, refreshing your tone, or going for a bold new look, the key to flawless at-home colour is preparation, the right products, and the right technique.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to achieve salon-quality colour from the comfort of your bathroom. Whether you’re a first-timer or a DIY pro, this guide is packed with expert tips to help you colour with confidence, and keep your hair healthy and vibrant.

Why Colouring Your Hair at Home Makes Sense

• Cost-effective: Save hundreds on salon visits
  
• Convenient: Colour your hair on your schedule
  
• Customisable: Mix shades and touch up roots anytime
  
• Empowering: Take control of your colour journey
  

And with professional-grade hair colour now available to consumers, there’s no reason you can’t achieve radiant, long-lasting results at home.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the essentials:

• Your chosen hair colour kit (permanent, semi-permanent, or root touch-up)
  
• Gloves (usually included in the kit)
  
• Mixing bowl and brush (if not pre-mixed)
  
• Old towel or cape to protect clothing
  
• Vaseline or barrier cream (to prevent staining on the skin)
  
• Wide-tooth comb for even distribution
  
• Sectioning clips to divide hair
  
• A timer or phone clock
  

Pro Tip: Perform a patch test 48 hours beforehand, even if you’ve used the product before. Safety first.

Step-by-Step At-Home Hair Colour Process

Step 1: Choose the Right Shade

• Go no more than two shades lighter or darker than your natural or current colour for best results.
  
• For covering greys, look for shades labelled 100% grey coverage.
  
• If you’re unsure, opt for neutral or natural tones, they’re more forgiving.
  

Not sure which shade to choose? Browse our professional colour range or ask our team for advice.

Step 2: Prep Your Hair

• Don’t wash your hair right before colouring, natural oils help protect your scalp.
  
• Comb out tangles and section hair into 4 quadrants using clips.
  
• Apply Vaseline along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining.
  

Step 3: Mix the Colour

• Follow the instructions carefully, different brands may have different mixing ratios.
  
• Use a non-metallic bowl if you’re mixing manually, as metal can interfere with the chemical process.
  

Step 4: Apply Like a Pro

• Start with the roots, especially if you're touching up or going lighter.
  
• Work in small sections for even coverage.
  
• Use a brush for precision and a comb to distribute colour evenly through mid-lengths and ends.
  
• For a full colour change, apply to mid-lengths and ends after 20–25 minutes of root processing time.
  

Step 5: Set Your Timer

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended timing exactly.
  
• Don’t leave the colour on longer than instructed, overprocessing can damage the hair and alter the result.
  
• Use a shower cap to keep heat in and avoid mess.
  

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly

• Rinse with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
  
• Apply the post-colour conditioner that comes with your kit, it helps seal in colour and boost shine.
  
• Avoid shampooing for at least 24–48 hours after colouring to let the pigment settle.
  

Step 7: Maintain the Colour

• Use sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoos to extend colour life.
  
• Incorporate a weekly mask or deep conditioner to restore moisture and prevent fading.
  
• Avoid excessive heat styling or use a heat protectant every time.
  

Bonus Tips for Perfect Results

• For Highlights or Balayage: Stick to kits designed for dimensional colour or consult a professional, it’s trickier to DIY.
  
• For Curly Hair: Use your natural curl pattern to section and apply colour evenly.
  
• For Blonde Tones: Consider using a purple shampoo to maintain tone and reduce brassiness.
  

Salon-Quality Hair Colour You Can Trust

At Budget Hair & Beauty, we stock a wide range of professional-grade at-home hair colour kits and aftercare products trusted by stylists across Australia. From rich brunettes to vibrant reds and icy blondes, you’ll find the perfect shade for your hair goals.

Shop now:

• Permanent Hair Colour Kits
  
• Semi-Permanent Tints for a Gentle Touch
  
• Colour-Safe Shampoos & Masks
  
• Root Touch-Up Sprays and Powders
  

Now To Colour Your Hair

Colouring your hair at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right products, preparation, and technique, you can achieve stunning results that rival the salon, at a fraction of the price.

So go ahead, refresh your roots, enhance your shine, or try something new. With our trusted tools and expert tips, your dream hair colour is just a few steps away.