Changing your look with hair dye can be exciting. That new shine, a color that reflects your personality, or simply covering those gray hairs that are appearing always creates a feeling of renewal. However, behind this aesthetic change lies an issue that is often overlooked: the care and precautions that must be taken to ensure the experience doesn’t turn into a headache… or worse, a health problem.

Hair dyes aren’t harmless. Although they’re designed to beautify, they contain chemicals that, if misused or used without proper precautions, can cause adverse reactions to the skin, scalp, and even overall health. Therefore, beyond just thinking about which shade will suit you best, it’s a good idea to take a moment and know what to do before, during, and after applying them.

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1. The importance of allergy testing.
Perhaps the most repeated recommendation, and paradoxically, the most ignored. Before applying a hair dye, it’s always necessary to do a skin test by placing a small amount behind the ear or on the inside of the arm. If redness, itching, or swelling appears within 24 to 48 hours, it’s best not to use the product. Skipping this step can result in a serious allergic reaction.

2. Choose quality dyes
. Not all dyes are created equal. Some contain more ammonia, peroxides, or other harsh chemicals that can damage your hair and skin. Always look for reputable brands, preferably those that offer gentler formulas, fewer harsh chemicals, or added natural ingredients to protect your hair.

3. Protect your skin before applying.
A simple trick is to apply a light layer of petroleum jelly or cream around your forehead, ears, and neck. This way, you’ll prevent the dye from staining your skin and the chemicals from coming into direct contact with sensitive areas.

4. Avoid applying to severely damaged hair.
If your hair is extremely dry, brittle, or you’ve recently undergone harsh processes like bleaching, it’s best to wait. Dyeing hair under these conditions can end up further damaging the hair fiber. Sometimes it’s better to spend a few weeks hydrating and nourishing your hair before changing the color.

5. Don’t overdo it.
Even if you want to always maintain the perfect color, it’s not advisable to dye your hair too often. Experts suggest waiting at least 4 to 6 weeks between each application. This gives your hair a break and reduces accumulated damage.

6. Ventilate the application area well.
Many people apply hair dye in small, enclosed bathrooms, which increases exposure to chemical fumes. It’s best to do this in a well-ventilated area to avoid dizziness and irritation to the nose and throat.

7. Use gloves and appropriate utensils
. Never apply dye with your bare hands. Always wear gloves (preferably the ones included in the product box) and mix the dye in non-metallic containers. Metal can react with the dye’s chemicals and alter the results.

8. Don’t sleep in your hair dye.
Although it may sound obvious, never leave your hair dye on longer than recommended, and certainly never try to sleep with it in your hair. Doing so won’t intensify your color, but it will increase the risk of irritation and hair damage.

9. Aftercare:
After coloring, it’s essential to use shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair. These products help maintain the color longer and protect the hair fiber. Also, avoid washing your hair with water that’s too hot, as this can strip the color faster.

10. Consider gentler alternatives.
If your scalp is very sensitive or you’re simply looking for less aggressive options, you can opt for plant-based dyes like henna, or temporary products that don’t contain as many chemicals. They don’t last as long, but they are more friendly to your hair’s health.

Final Thought
: Dyeing your hair is a wonderful way to reinvent yourself and feel good about yourself, but it should never be done at the expense of your health. Being cautious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a new look; on the contrary, it allows you to experience the process with peace of mind, knowing that you’re taking care of yourself while also taking care of your appearance.

Always remember to listen to your body: if you notice burning, excessive itching, unusual hair loss, or any other unusual reaction, discontinue use and consult a specialist. Your health will always be more important than any trendy color.