Coloring virgin hair is a huge decision to make. It’s your first time coloring your hair, and you have been eyeing that subtle balayage for months. Taking that plunge with our untouched hair is a huge step.

Your virgin strands are pure and free from damage, prior dyes, and chemicals so that they will react uniquely to a color. So, working your hair does not work the same as processed hair. You do not want to risk surprising tones, long-term damage, or uneven results.

Here at our hair wellness spa, we recommend a proper prep as it can make a difference.

Why Does Proper Prep Matter For Virgin Hair?

We must congratulate you if your hair is untouched by bleach, dye, chemical treatments, or relaxers. You have virgin hair, the most untouched hair that is healthy without damage.

Whether you have straight, curly, or sleek virgin hair, it is a hair colorist’s dream. Your hair cuticle is intact, which means your hair is more responsive to color and healthy. You can expect no unexpected reactions as you have never had past treatments.

Your hair is ready to take on anything, but needs proper care before coloring it.

Why Coloring Virgin Hair is The Best?

Think of coloring virgin hair as a fresh canvas for permanent hair color. It only takes one color to create a beautiful image, and holds longer. You will get smoother blends, richer tones, and fewer regrets.

Since chemical treatments have not yet weakened your hair, it can handle the process without frying, falling flat, or snapping. The natural variation of your virgin hair adds dimension and depth that synthetic dyes cannot fake.

Hence, if you want to make a dramatic or subtle change, coloring virgin hair using permanent color gives us more control, options, and excellent results.

Prepping Before Coloring Virgin Hair

So, you thought about coloring your virgin hair. Prepping your hair is essential. You want to lay a foundation for making your hair shine.

Whether you want to do it at home or visit us at the hair and scalp spa, we recommend starting with a clean slate.

We will wash out the buildup at Haste for coloring virgin hair using a gentle shampoo, but if done at home, do not go overboard.

We will follow up with a deep conditioner to help strengthen your locks and add moisture. We will scan your hair for damage and trim away the frays. Never skip the basics; you do not want to mess up your dye.

We also recommend avoiding the common pre-color mistakes:

• Never skip doing a patch test by using the dye on a small section to determine if you get an allergic reaction or unexpected tone.
• Also, do not color your hair when it is dirty, as the oil can block the color absorption.
• Avoid over-conditioning your hair as too much moisture forms a slippery surface, preventing the dye from setting.
• Lastly, do not rush the process as it can lead to uneven color.

Coloring Virgin Hair: How to Choose The Right Color?

Great! Now that you are ready to take the first step, choosing your first color is about the shade and the statement you want to make. Whether subtle or bold, your color choice must sync with your skin tone, lifestyle, and vibe.

We found that if you have black virgin hair, it is best to remain within two to three shades of the natural color to stay on the safe side and still have a glow. But if you prefer a dynamic change, then go for it.

Ensure the dye you use will respect your hair’s integrity. Also, you do not have a one-size-fits-all regarding the types of dye. So, take our advice on what you must know before moving.

• You can use temporary dye, a quick fix for trial runs. It washes out after a couple of washes.
• Then, you have a semi-permanent option lasting four to six washes that adds tone and shine without making a hash commitment.
• Another option is the demi-permanent dye, which adds depth and lasts up to 24 washes. It is excellent for coloring virgin hair.
• Lastly, you have the permanent option and will be in it for the long haul, as it needs to grow out. It is ideal for covering grays or if you want to go lighter.

The choice depends on how bold you want to go and how much time you have to maintain it.

Coloring Virgin Hair Step-by-Step

Now that you are ready to color your virgin hair, the next step is to decide whether to do it at home or by a professional colorist. Here are the steps we will follow:

1. Do Not Panic, And Start With a Plan

For DIY coloring virgin hair at home, always read the instructions from start to finish. Never skip the steps, as you will regret it. Know your prep work, timing, and whether you need a developer.

2. Get The Right Tools

We recommend investing in a color brush, gloves, a mixing bowl, hair clips, old t-shirts/cape, and a wide-tooth brush.

3. Make Hair Sections

With your hair dry and detangled, divide it into four sections, two in the front and two at the back. For long, thick hair, you must add more sections and secure them with your clips.

4. Mix And Test

Next, mix your color following the instructions and do a quick strand test. With it, you can get a sneak peek of your final shade and see how your hair reacts.

5. Start With The Roots, Then The Ends

Work with one section at a time, applying the color by starting at the roots, as it takes longer to process. Once you are done with your roots, you can work your way down to the ends. Then, once done with all the sections, you can massage your scalp and your hair to distribute the dye.

6. Set Your Timer and Don’t Rush It

Now set your timer according to the instructions, as too long will dry out the hair, and too short will cause your color not to take correctly. Then rinse your hair with lukewarm water until it runs clear. Follow it up with the provided conditioner for a deep conditioning treatment to lock in the moisture and color. Then leave your hair to air dry and admire your new color.

A tip is to capture a photo and write down the color you used to help with a repeat the next time.

What You Can Expect After Coloring Your Virgin Hair

Great, now that the coloring of your virgin hair is done, it does not stop here, as a post-coloring takes place:

1. Do not expect immediate effects, as your hair can feel different, especially when you lift your virgin hair with several levels. You will have a change in texture, slight tightness, or need to assess your tone and missed spots.
2. Your maintenance game will shift, and you must prepare for texture tweaks, root regrowth, fading, and commitment. Your hair texture is no longer virgin, and you need a new hair care routine.

Aftercare For Coloring Virgin Hair

Now that your hair has been colored, you need to protect your new investment with post-color care to keep it looking healthy and vibrant.

1. Now you must invest in color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to protect your hair.
2. Do not wash your hair too much, and stick to it two to three times a week to preserve the condition of your scalp and lock in the color.
3. A weekly deep conditioning treatment is done to help restore the moisture and reduce breakage.
4. Where possible, avoid heat styling, and if you must heat style, use a heat protectant spray or serum on your hair.
5. Also, guard your hair against elements like the sun and chlorine by wearing hats and using UV sprays.

Wrap-Up: Unleash Your Hair’s Potential at Haste Hair

At Haste Urban Hair Spa in Medford, MA, we can help transform your virgin hair with professional coloring treatments to bring out your natural beauty. Our professional colorists will work closely with you to provide a personalized look to suit your style and hair texture.

Whether you want to go dark or a shade lighter, we provide professional coloring for virgin hair. We use quality hair products to ensure you get long-lasting and vibrant results. Book a consultation now if you have doubts or want to connect with us.

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