Q&A for How to Do a Strand Test Before Dyeing Your Hair

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Why is strand testing important?

April Ferri
Professional Hair Stylist
April Ferri is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Co-Owner of Widows Peak Salon, a hair salon based in Los Angeles, California. With over ten years of experience, April specializes in hair coloring and enhancing and transforming natural tones into vibrant shades for beautiful and low maintenance hair. Her work has been featured in Voyage LA Magazine, and she has worked as a stylist for LA Fashion Week.

April Ferri

Professional Hair Stylist

Expert Answer

A strand test allows you to see what color your hair is really going to come out when you dye it. You can also see the condition your hair is going to be on after you use that product.

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Question

Is it natural to do this?

Community Answer

Almost everyone I know has done this test and nothing bad seemed to happen. If you are worried then maybe consider Kool Aid or choose a color close to your hair color, because even if it doesn't work no one will notice the failed test.

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Question

I used a product to remove past colors, then had an emergency that made it impossible for me to put color on. It has been over a week. Can I still dye my hair?

Community Answer

I am sure it will be fine, but if you are still concerned, ask your stylist.

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Question

Is it OK if I use colorless product a week or so after doing the allergy strand?

Community Answer

Yes.

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Question

Where should my test strand be located before dyeing my hair?

Community Answer

You should apply the product behind your ear, on your neck.

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Question

What is a color test?

Community Answer

Color testing is dying a small section of hair to see if a colored dye will show up on your hair.

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Question

How do I know if the ratio of mixing for the test is correct?

Sneha Liza Varughese

Community Answer

The ratio should always be 1:1. You can mix a little bit of the hair color and the developer and apply it on your hair.

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If my hair is really dark, do I have to bleach it first?

Community Answer

If you want to dye your hair a color that is lighter than it currently is now, then yes, you will have to bleach it first.

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