Short strands
often seem like they get the short (ha!) end of the stick, but that’s
simply the wrong outlook. Yes, there are all sorts of styles and
techniques that may not work quite as well on shorter hair, but cropped hair
is also seriously convenient. Plus, there are still plenty of styles
and dye jobs that are prime for the picking. Thankfully, colorful hair
is one trend you can totally rock if you have short hair. Whether your
locks are thick or thin, long or—you guessed it—short, there’s an option
for you. Keep reading to find out how to dip dye your short hair.
[post_ads_2]What Is Dip Dye?
You may be wondering how dip dyeing differs from the other 101 colorful hair dyeing techniques. While ombré hair
involves gradually fading your hair from one color into the next, dip
dyed hair isn’t so subtle. Your hair will shift straight from your
natural roots into your color of choice, with no in-between shade to
soften the look. Basically, it’s perfect for those looking to make a
statement. Want to get the dip dyed look on short hair? Read our
tutorial below.
Step #1: Choose Your Color(s)
Before breaking out the bleach, it’s
always a good idea to figure out exactly what you want for your hair.
When it comes to dip dyeing, that means picking your new hue. Find your
favorite color, looking at pictures of people with similar coloring to
help narrow down your options. If you’re stuck between two shades,
consider using both colors. Any two that are close on the color spectrum
will blend beautifully, adding even more dimension to your hair.
[post_ads_2]Step #2: Switch Your Shade
It’s time! Your hair’s ready for a new
color…but how are you actually achieving it? Decide if you want to DIY
dye it or head to the salon and put your hair in the hands of a pro. The
process will be similar no matter which option you settle on. Dark hair
will need to be lightened, using bleach
prior to dyeing. Keep in mind that the darker your base shade, the more
work it may take to achieve your desired dip dyed look. Then, you’ll
apply your hair color(s) of choice over whatever areas you’ve bleached.
If you’re dip dyeing your short hair at home, try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color,
which is available in a variety of beautiful shades that are formulated
to work on bleached, blonde, and highlighted hair, including pink,
purple, and aqua.
Step #3: Change Your Routine
As fun as dip dyed hair is, with it
comes a bit of new responsibility. Gone are the days of reaching for any
old products in the aisle. It’s important to use a system of hair care
products formulated for color-treated hair. Stock your shower with a shampoo, conditioner, and mask like the L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Color Vibrancy Intensive Ultra Recovery Mask.
Step #4: Make Mane Waves
Multi-toned tresses often look best
styled into waves, and dip dyed hair is no exception. Embrace your
natural texture by opting for an air-dried style, spritzing wave spray
onto damp strands to help create shape. If your hair needs a bigger
push in the right direction, place hair into braids and remove after a
full night’s sleep to reveal more voluminous waves. If not, finish air
drying as per usual and you’re all set!
[post_ads_2]Step #5: Repeat!
Once your color starts to fade, you’ll
likely start getting the itch to refresh your hair with the same shade
or revamp with a different dye. To refresh, make a follow-up appointment
with your colorist or pick up more of your favorite at-home hair color.
Are you ready for something new? We suggest a jewel tone. If your
interest is piqued, check out our article, How to Get a Jewel-Toned Hair Color.