How to moisturize hair before coloring?

Author: Jazmyn Wehner Sr.  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Moisturized smooth strands are the best canvas for hair color application. That's why applying a hydrating hair mask or leave-in conditioner a day or two prior to changing your shade with home hair color “will prime hair by plumping up the hair's cuticle,” says eSalon colorist Emily M.

How do you moisturize your hair before coloring it?

Moisturize and smoothen strands - Hair masks are like super-hydrating hugs for strands. They load up hair with the moisture it craves, which is a big deal before diving into the coloring process. Dry hair + color chemicals = potential disaster.

What should I put in my hair before dying it?

For best results, we recommend washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo 24 hours before dyeing, but no sooner. You can use your normal conditioner, but we'd advise against using a deep conditioner before dyeing your hair due to potential product build-up.

What not to do before dying hair?

Along with washing your hair right before dyeing it, avoid applying any styling products, like dry shampoo or leave-in conditioners.

How do I prepare my hair for coloring?

5 Steps To Prepare Your Hair For Color
  1. Be Realistic. This is best remedied by a consultation. ...
  2. Deep Conditioning Treatment. This is especially important if your hair is dry or damaged by heat or color. ...
  3. Use A Clarifying Shampoo. ...
  4. Do not wash your hair 24-48 hours before your appointment – no products or heat, please.

I GUARANTEE YOUR HAIR WILL GROW IF YOU DO THESE | Grow Longer Thicker Fuller Hair to Waist Length

What should I condition my hair before coloring?

Should I Condition My Hair Before Coloring It? The answer to this question is generally no. You should avoid washing and conditioning your hair immediately before coloring.

Should I dry my hair before coloring?

"Semi-permanent and demi-permanent hair color can be applied to wet or dry hair, but wet hair application in not recommended for permanent hair color." Meanwhile, permanent color changes require a dry hair application. This could mean going lighter, or darker.

Is it better to color hair clean or dirty?

That said, on the flip side if you have too much oil or dirt, it can prevent the color from working as well and efficiently. For this reason, we recommend coming with clean hair that was washed either the night before or morning of to allow your scalp to have some natural oils, but not be dirty.

Can I dye my hair if I have dry shampoo in it?

No, experts do not recommend applying a dye with dry shampoo. Dyes contain a few chemicals, (1) and when combined with the ingredients in dry shampoo, (2) it may give rise to a bad reaction. It may even affect the dye's color, and you might end up with the color you didn't expect.

Can I put oil in my hair before dying?

A bit of product on the mids and ends of the hair isn't a big deal, but avoid applying oil or gel to your scalp (especially before a root application), as doing so can result in a patchy, uneven color.

Why do hairdressers hate box dye?

Certain harsh chemicals in popular box dyes have given many stylists pause. Common concerns include: Ammonia - This mixing agent lifts cuticles to deposit colour but is quite drying over time. Peroxide - High volumes like 30+ developer cause more damage to delicate hair.

Is it better to dye your hair wet or dry?

If your hair is healthy, meaning it's not fragile and damaged, technically, you can dye it when wet. However, we recommend coloring hair when dry so you achieve a look that aligns with your desired results.

Does putting coconut oil on your hair help?

Coconut oil can have many benefits for your hair and scalp. It is used to relieve dandruff, restore luster to dry and damaged hair, tame frizz, and protect hair against styling damage. It is safe to use on all hair types.

Where do you put Vaseline before dying your hair?

To prevent the hair dye from staining your skin, apply some petroleum jelly around your hairline and on your ears. Start with the mid-lengths and ends and apply the colour as you would a conditioner, squeezing it into your hands and then rubbing it through the hair.

What happens if you put hair dye on dry hair?

If your hair is extremely dry, there is a strong possibility it will absorb more water and less hair dye, which may lead to a more subtle result.

Can I dye my hair if I haven't washed it in a week?

The general rule of thumb is to not wash your hair the day of coloring or even the day before coloring if your hair washing routine allows. You might hear colorists say a second (or even third) day hair is best. Why is that so? Unwashed hair produces a natural oil protective layer.

Do hairdressers prefer your hair clean or dirty?

Short answer: Clean hair please! While we want you to feel pampered and enjoy the experience of a relaxing shampoo, it's ideal for first time clients to visit the salon with clean hair.

Why do salons wash your hair after coloring?

Post-color washing is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your hair. By cleansing and conditioning, salons help in closing the hair cuticles, locking in moisture, and preserving the smoothness of your locks.

How do I prepare my hair before coloring it?

It's best to shampoo 12 - 24 hours before coloring when using semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair color. Shampoo 24 hours before using permanent color. As soon as you've finished applying your hair color, set your timer for the amount of time indicated on the box.

What happens if you put grey hair dye on brown hair?

If your hair is brown, you may need to bleach it more than once before you apply the grey dye. It's important you get your hair as light as possible before you attempt to turn it grey – this will help ensure a more even tone and vibrant, all-over colour.

Can I dye my hair if my scalp is dry?

Use A Scalp Protector On An Itchy And Dry Scalp Before Coloring, Perming or Any Chemical Processes. Scalps need protecting when coloring, perming, and relaxing. Even if you don't have sensitivities. This is because these chemicals are disruptive to your scalp.

Is it OK to have dry shampoo in hair before coloring?

Dry shampoo can leave a residue on your scalp and hair that might affect how evenly the dye takes. If you're planning a hair color appointment, try to wash your hair the day before to ensure that your scalp and strands are clean and ready for the dye.

What is damp hair mean?

First, let's set the record straight—what does damp hair mean? This is when your hair isn't dripping water everywhere but still feels moist to the touch. If you're a numbers person, we like to say damp hair should be about 65% wet. It's clearly not dry, but your hair isn't leaking water either.

Can you dye your hair with conditioner in it?

Only mix conditioner with semi-permanent shades. Permanent hair dye that needs a developer won't mix well with conditioner, and it can make the dye bond unevenly to your hair. You can use conditioner to make your fantasy color lighter, or even pastel. However, it might fade faster than usual.

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