The golden rule of hair dye is to always follow the instructions provided with the dye, but let's be real, who actually reads those things? In all seriousness, it's essential to follow the recommended processing time to avoid over-processing or under-processing your hair. Over-processing can lead to dry, damaged hair, while under-processing can result in a less-than-desirable color.
Now, you might be thinking, "But, what about all the myths and legends surrounding hair dye?" Well, let me tell you, some of them are actually true! For instance, if you have virgin hair (i.e., hair that's never been dyed before), you might need to leave the dye on for a shorter amount of time to avoid over-processing. On the other hand, if you're trying to cover up gray hairs, you might need to leave the dye on for a bit longer to ensure the color takes hold.
How Long Can You Leave Hair Dye On? Expert Tips | ShunSalon
It's also important to consider the porosity of your hair, which can affect how well the dye penetrates. If you have low-porosity hair, you might need to leave the dye on for a longer amount of time to allow it to fully penetrate the hair shaft. And, if you're using a high-lift dye, you'll need to be careful not to over-process your hair, as this can cause damage and dryness.