People often ask, “I want to dye my hair a new color; should I get a cut first?” This is a common question at barbershops. The answer is actually quite simple—in most cases, a cut should come first, followed by dyeing. The reasoning is simple: not only does this result in a more even color, but it also reduces the risk of hair damage. Below, I’ll break down the three core principles behind this and provide a guide to avoiding pitfalls for those considering dyeing their hair at home.
1. Why should you cut your hair before dyeing it in 90% of cases?
Some people think it’s more cost-effective to dye your hair first and then cut it, as it avoids wasting the dyed hair. But the truth is, cutting first and then dyeing is the scientific approach. There are three reasons why.
1. Healthy hair ends make hair color more even
Split ends and damage are common when hair is exposed for too long. These ends are like a “broken sponge”: some areas try too hard to absorb the color, resulting in too dark a color, while others simply don’t absorb the color at all. After dyeing, you look at the color in some places, which is darker and lighter, which is very embarrassing.
First, trim away the damaged ends, leaving only the healthy hair. Intact hair cuticles allow dye to penetrate evenly, resulting in a uniform, lustrous color that lasts longer. Generally speaking, a hair color cut before dyeing lasts 1-2 weeks longer than a hair color cut before dyeing.
2. Uniform length to avoid mottled color blocks
Hair actually grows at different rates. The top of your hair grows faster, while the ends grow slower, resulting in differences in length. If you dye your hair first and then cut it, your long hair will take longer to dye thoroughly, while your short hair may fade quickly, resulting in a “blocked” look.
However, if you trim the length first and lay an even “base,” whether it’s done by a hairdresser or you DIY at home, use scissors or hair clippers to adjust the layers, the dye can work more evenly, and the color will not be uneven.
3. Reduce damage and make hair smoother
Hair dyes are somewhat irritating, especially ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, which can cause the hair cuticles to open up. If you dye your hair before cutting, the already dry ends will become even more brittle after being exposed to the dye, making a cut like this a frizzy mess.
Removing the damaged hair ends first and allowing only healthy hair to come into contact with the dye is equivalent to “reducing the burden” on the hair, making it smoother and shinier after dyeing.
2. 4 Tips to Avoid Pitfalls When Dyeing Your Hair at Home
If you plan to do it yourself at home, in addition to the general premise of “cut first and then dye,” there are a few small details to pay attention to; otherwise, it is easy to fail.
1. Follow the “two-degree principle” and avoid too many color changes
The most common mistake for beginners in hair dyeing is “choosing too extreme a color.” Suggestions:
- If you want to dye your hair darker, don’t dye it more than 2 shades darker than your natural hair color (for example, light brown can only be dyed dark brown at most); otherwise, it will make you look older, and it will be difficult to fade.
- Going lighter → Go up to 1 shade lighter than your natural hair color. Home dyes have limited concentrations, so forcing them to lighten your hair can easily result in a yellow-orange tint, which is a high risk of failure.
Of course, if you just want to play with trendy colors (pink, purple, blue, green, etc.), that’s fine, but you must do a skin sensitivity test first and then prepare color-protecting shampoo; otherwise, the color will fade so quickly that you will question your life.
2. Protect your skin and prevent your hairline from becoming a “dyed band.”
Many people find dark marks around their ears and hairline after dyeing their hair, and they can’t be removed even after washing for a long time. It’s actually very simple: 10 minutes before dyeing, apply a thick layer of Vaseline or moisturizer to these areas. This acts like an invisible raincoat for your skin, so any stains can be easily wiped away.
3. Post-dye care: How long does your hair color last?
Dyed hair tends to dry out and fade easily.
- Avoid using shampoos containing sulfates or parabens, and choose color-protecting products.
- Always use conditioner after washing your hair, and apply a hair mask once a week if your hair is dry.
- If you dye your hair a light color, you can prepare a bottle of purple shampoo to help neutralize the “yellowish” color.
Also, don’t wash your hair every day. Once every 2-3 days with warm water is enough.
4. If you’re not sure, ask a professional
If you’re completely lost and unsure what color looks best on you, don’t force yourself. Instead, ask your hairdresser, “I’d like to dye my hair a certain color. Is that a good color?” Your hairdresser can give you reliable advice based on your hair texture and skin tone, helping you avoid potential pitfalls.
3. Are there any exceptions to the “dye first, cut later” rule?
Although it is recommended to cut first and then dye in most cases, it is not always the case. There are two exceptions:
- Gradient dyeing and highlights: These styles require control of the dyeing area. It is easier to handle the boundaries by dyeing first and then cutting.
- Super short hair (crew cut, flat cut): If the hair is too short, not much will be wasted, so it doesn’t matter if you dye it first and then cut it.
hair clippers or scissors to create the general outline first, then dye it, and finally make fine adjustments.
Summarize
Simply put, in most cases, you should cut your hair first and then dye it. This will make the hair color more even, reduce hair damage, and make the overall effect last longer.
If you plan to do it yourself at home, remember four key points: don’t choose too extreme a color; protect your skin in advance; don’t be lazy about post-dyeing care; and if you are really unsure, ask your hairdresser.
In this way, whether you are doing it in a salon or at home using scissors or hair clippers, you can greatly reduce the “hair dyeing failure rate.”