Blue black hair, a captivating blend of inky darkness and subtle blue undertones, is a statement of sophistication and edge. It’s a color that can flatter a wide range of skin tones and add a touch of mystery to your look. If you’re dreaming of transforming your hair into this mesmerizing shade, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a successful and stunning result.
Understanding Blue Black Hair
Blue black isn’t simply black hair; it possesses a unique depth and dimension. The blue reflects light in a way that a true black can’t, creating a dynamic and eye-catching effect. This color works particularly well for those with cooler undertones in their skin, as the blue enhances these features. However, with the right makeup and styling, it can also complement warmer complexions.
Why Choose Blue Black?
Blue black hair offers several advantages. It can make your hair appear thicker and glossier. The dark shade creates a beautiful contrast against the skin, accentuating your facial features. Moreover, it’s a relatively low-maintenance color compared to lighter shades, as it doesn’t show fading or brassiness as easily. The allure of blue black lies in its ability to be both bold and understated, making it a versatile choice for various personal styles.
Preparation is Key: What You Need Before You Begin
Before diving into the dyeing process, thorough preparation is crucial. Gathering the necessary supplies and understanding your hair’s current condition will significantly impact the final outcome. Rushing into the process can lead to uneven color, damage, and disappointment.
Essential Supplies for Dyeing Your Hair Blue Black
To achieve a salon-worthy blue black hue at home, you’ll need the following:
- High-Quality Blue Black Hair Dye: Choose a reputable brand known for its color longevity and minimal damage. Look for ammonia-free options if you have sensitive hair.
- Developer (if required): Some dyes come with a developer, while others require you to purchase it separately. The volume of the developer depends on your hair’s starting color and the desired level of lift.
- Applicator Brush: This ensures even distribution of the dye throughout your hair.
- Mixing Bowl: A non-metallic bowl is essential for mixing the dye and developer.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from staining.
- Old Towel: Dyeing your hair can get messy, so use an old towel that you don’t mind staining.
- Hair Clips: Sectioning your hair makes the application process easier and more precise.
- Petroleum Jelly or Barrier Cream: Apply this to your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining your skin.
- Deep Conditioner: Dyeing can dry out your hair, so a deep conditioning treatment is essential for restoring moisture.
- Shampoo and Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair: These products are formulated to protect your color and prevent fading.
Assessing Your Hair’s Condition and Undertones
Before you even consider which dye to purchase, take a close look at your hair. Is it damaged from previous coloring or heat styling? Is it naturally light, dark, or somewhere in between? The answers to these questions will determine the best approach.
If your hair is significantly lighter than the desired blue black shade, you may need to pre-pigment it with a red or orange toner to prevent the blue from turning green. This is because blue cancels out orange, and if your hair lacks underlying warmth, the blue may appear ashy or greenish.
For those with previously colored hair, consider a strand test. Apply the dye to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to see how the color takes. This will help you avoid any unwanted surprises.
The Importance of a Strand Test
A strand test is not optional; it’s a crucial step in ensuring a successful dyeing experience. It allows you to assess the following:
- Color Result: See how the blue black dye interacts with your existing hair color.
- Processing Time: Determine the optimal amount of time to leave the dye on for the desired shade.
- Allergic Reaction: Check for any adverse reactions to the dye before applying it to your entire head.
- Hair Damage: Evaluate how the dye affects the texture and condition of your hair.
The Dyeing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve gathered your supplies and assessed your hair’s condition, it’s time to begin the dyeing process. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Protecting Your Skin and Workspace
Before mixing the dye, protect your skin and workspace. Apply petroleum jelly or barrier cream to your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining. Lay down old towels to protect your clothing and surfaces.
Mixing the Dye
Follow the instructions on the dye package carefully. Typically, you’ll mix the dye and developer in a non-metallic bowl using the applicator brush. Ensure the mixture is smooth and consistent.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back. This will make the application process more manageable and ensure even coverage. Use hair clips to keep the sections separate.
Applying the Dye
Starting at the roots, apply the dye to each section of your hair, working your way down to the ends. Use the applicator brush to ensure even distribution. Be thorough and make sure every strand is coated.
Processing Time
Once you’ve applied the dye to all of your hair, cover it with a shower cap or plastic wrap. This will help to keep the dye moist and prevent it from drying out. Follow the instructions on the dye package for the recommended processing time.
Rinsing and Conditioning
After the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. This may take several minutes. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it on for the recommended time. This will help to restore moisture and prevent damage.
Post-Dye Care: Maintaining Your Blue Black Hair
Maintaining your blue black hair is just as important as the dyeing process itself. Proper care will help to keep your color vibrant and your hair healthy.
Washing Your Hair
Wait at least 72 hours after dyeing your hair before washing it. This will allow the color to fully set. When you do wash your hair, use a shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and prevent fading. Wash your hair in cool water, as hot water can strip the color.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage your hair and cause the color to fade. Minimize your use of heat styling tools such as hair dryers, curling irons, and straightening irons. When you do use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair first.
Protecting Your Hair from the Sun
The sun can also cause your hair color to fade. Wear a hat or scarf when you’re spending time outdoors, especially during peak sun hours. You can also use hair products that contain UV protection.
Regular Touch-Ups
Depending on how quickly your hair grows, you’ll need to touch up your roots every 4-6 weeks to maintain your blue black color. You can either do this at home or visit a salon.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning and execution, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues that you may encounter and how to address them.
Uneven Color
If you notice that your color is uneven, you may need to reapply the dye to the areas that are lighter. Make sure to apply the dye evenly and thoroughly.
Color Fading
Color fading is a common issue, especially with dark colors. To prevent fading, use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoid heat styling, and protect your hair from the sun.
Hair Damage
Dyeing your hair can cause damage, especially if you’re using harsh chemicals. To minimize damage, choose a gentle dye, use a deep conditioner, and avoid over-processing your hair.
Staining
Staining can be a nuisance, but it’s usually temporary. To remove dye from your skin, use a makeup remover wipe or a gentle exfoliating scrub.
Choosing the Right Blue Black Dye
With countless blue black hair dyes on the market, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Consider these factors to make an informed decision:
- Hair Type: Different dyes are formulated for different hair types. Choose a dye that’s specifically designed for your hair type (e.g., fine, thick, dry, oily).
- Hair Condition: If your hair is damaged, opt for a gentle, ammonia-free dye.
- Desired Shade: Blue black shades can vary in intensity. Some are more black with subtle blue undertones, while others have a more pronounced blue hue.
- Longevity: Some dyes are more long-lasting than others. Consider how often you’re willing to touch up your color.
- Brand Reputation: Choose a reputable brand with positive reviews.
Final Thoughts
Achieving the perfect blue black hair is within your reach with careful planning, preparation, and execution. By following these steps and taking proper care of your hair, you can enjoy a stunning and captivating look that will turn heads wherever you go. Remember to prioritize your hair’s health and always perform a strand test before applying any dye to your entire head. Embrace the allure of blue black and express your unique style with confidence.
What exactly is blue black hair and how does it differ from regular black hair?
Blue black hair is a shade of black with cool, blue undertones that are subtly visible, especially in bright light. It’s not simply a very dark black, but rather a specialized color created by adding blue pigment to a black base, resulting in a richer, more dimensional appearance.
Regular black hair, on the other hand, often appears flat and lacks the vibrancy of blue black. While regular black can sometimes reflect light, it doesn’t possess the characteristic cool-toned shimmer that distinguishes blue black hair. The blue undertones in blue black add depth and can even enhance certain skin tones.
What hair types and colors are best suited for achieving blue black hair?
Generally, individuals with naturally dark hair, ranging from dark brown to black, find it easier to achieve blue black hair. The darker the starting color, the less work is required to reach the desired depth. However, even those with lighter hair colors can achieve this look with pre-lightening, although it involves more processing.
The hair’s porosity also plays a crucial role. Hair with medium to high porosity tends to absorb color more readily, making the blue black color take easily. Low porosity hair may require more effort and techniques like applying heat to help the dye penetrate the hair shaft. Regardless of hair type, ensuring the hair is healthy and undamaged before coloring is essential for optimal results.
What are the different methods to achieve blue black hair at home versus in a salon?
At home, achieving blue black hair typically involves using a box dye specifically formulated for this shade. These dyes are readily available and offer a convenient, more affordable option. It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully, perform a strand test beforehand, and use protective gloves to avoid staining your skin. Applying a deep conditioner after coloring is also important to replenish moisture.
In a salon, a professional colorist can customize the blue black shade to perfectly match your skin tone and desired intensity. They have access to professional-grade dyes and techniques, such as color mixing and balayage, to create a more nuanced and dimensional result. They can also assess the health of your hair and minimize damage during the coloring process, offering treatments and advice for maintaining the color and hair health.
What are some potential risks or side effects of dyeing hair blue black?
Dyeing hair any color, including blue black, carries the risk of allergic reactions. It’s essential to perform a patch test 48 hours before applying the dye to your entire head to check for any adverse reactions, such as redness, itching, or swelling. Additionally, repeated dyeing can lead to dryness, breakage, and overall damage to the hair, especially if the hair is already weakened or over-processed.
Another potential side effect is staining. Blue black dye can easily stain skin, clothing, and surfaces. Wearing gloves and protecting your hairline with petroleum jelly are crucial preventive measures. Furthermore, the blue pigment in the dye can fade over time, leading to brassiness or a greenish tint, especially on lighter hair. Using color-safe shampoos and conditioners can help prolong the color and prevent unwanted undertones.
How do I maintain blue black hair to prevent fading or brassiness?
To maintain the vibrancy of your blue black hair and prevent fading, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip the color and moisture from your hair, causing it to fade quickly. Additionally, washing your hair less frequently and using cool or lukewarm water can help preserve the color.
To combat brassiness or greenish tints, consider using a blue or purple shampoo once or twice a week. These shampoos help neutralize unwanted yellow or green tones, keeping your blue black hair looking fresh and vibrant. Also, protect your hair from sun exposure by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray, as the sun can fade the color and damage your hair.
What are some popular blue black hair dye brands or products recommended by professionals?
Several reputable brands offer excellent blue black hair dyes. Wella Koleston Perfect and L’Oréal Majirel are popular choices among salon professionals for their rich color payoff and long-lasting results. These dyes offer a range of blue black shades and are known for their ability to deliver consistent and vibrant color.
For at-home use, brands like Schwarzkopf Keratin Color and Garnier Nutrisse offer convenient and readily available options. These box dyes are formulated to provide good color coverage and minimize damage. Furthermore, Arctic Fox offers semi-permanent vegan and cruelty-free options for those seeking a less permanent and more environmentally conscious choice, though it may require more frequent touch-ups.
What styling tips and makeup looks complement blue black hair effectively?
Blue black hair creates a striking contrast and enhances a variety of hairstyles. Sleek, straight styles emphasize the color’s shine and depth, while loose waves or curls add texture and dimension. High ponytails and buns showcase the hair’s length and create a polished look. Experiment with different parts and accessories like headbands or clips to accentuate your features.
Makeup that complements blue black hair includes a range of options. For a classic look, opt for bold red lips and defined winged eyeliner. For a more subtle approach, focus on enhancing your natural features with a dewy complexion, rosy cheeks, and a nude lip. Eyeshadows in jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue can also enhance the blue undertones in your hair, creating a cohesive and captivating appearance.