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Rockin' It With Color
By Susan J. Dorsainville, Special to AOL Black Voices
Color Crazy!

Although adding color is a great way to add flava and flair to an already spicy hairstyle, many women are not willing to brave the potential damage that can be done to their hair. And rightfully so. Done incorrectly, coloring your hair can cause hair loss, thinning and breakage. But there's a right way to do it.


For those who are a little squeamish but want to add punch to their hair, colored extension hairpieces are just what you need. Applied properly, colored hair additions can look just as natural as your chemically treated hair. Add a few pieces for a streaked effect.


But if you're bold enough to get a full head of colored tresses, there are several ways to make it happen – bleaching, permanent color or semi-permanent color. For best results, consider heading to a professional stylist, especially if your hair is weak or damaged. If not, your local drugstore sells all the products you need to do it yourself. But be sure to follow the directions carefully.


Here's a quick primer on your coloring options:

On the Pulse

Bleaching is the most permanent and leaves maximum room for color creativity. This option is not recommended for individuals with weak and brittle hair and requires regular preventive maintenance, including deep conditioning. For your own safety, it's best to allow a licensed hair stylist handle this process. Using Clorox at home, like many still do, is not the healthiest way to go.


In order to achieve rich vibrant color, you must begin with a blank slate. Your hair should be stripped of its natural color first, and then the new color of your choice can be added. When the hair is stripped, it creates a bleached blond effect. This color, or lack of color, creates your canvas for a world of color to be created within minutes.


Another option is permanent hair color, mixed with hydrogen peroxide to lift your hair color. The hair cuticle is opened up and the tint penetrates the cortex to form the color. Your new shade will last until you're ready for a change.


With semi-permanent color, you're simply varying the tone of your natural color, lighter or darker. These products contain ethanolamine and three percent peroxide, which slightly opens the cuticle. The color can last from six to eight washes and will fade as you shampoo.


Happy coloring!


About the Author
Susan J. Dorsainville is president of the Total Media Group. Visit www.clickonbeauty.com for more information.


2005-05-20 16:10:34

I had highlights placed in my hair just before Miami and I LOVEEEEEE it ..I have been using the Pantene Color Collection Shampoo and Conditioner that someone in Invogue suggested and it is working well!!!