Short of shaving your head, there is only so much that we can do to repair our hair before we call in the big guns. And by big guns, we mean hair dye. OK, we know what you're thinking: Doesn�t hair dye damage hair even more? Not necessarily. In fact, there are many different coloring processes to address various hair concerns.

We talked to celebrity colorist Billy Lowe to find out what coloring procedure is right for your specific hair -- whether you've got split ends or fried, over-processed hair . And if you haven't already, make sure to assess your hair damage before coloring. Click here to find out just how healthy your hair really is. OK, ready to see your perfect coloring process? Read on.

Try � permanent color

"With permanent color, you're lifting and depositing," says Lowe. "Lifting" refers to opening the hair shaft and "depositing" is what happens when the color pigments penetrate the hair follicle. The processing time takes about 30 to 35 minutes, because "you're chemically changing the make-up of the hair on a molecular level," he says. And good news: Because the formula is specifically calibrated to address your current hair color, the results won't be a surprise. Lowe says that this is best for those who have healthy hair and want to go one to four shades darker or lighter than their current color. To go any lighter than that, Lowe says you have to use bleach.

Try � semi-permanent color

A semi-permanent process doesn't lift color from your hair, so by not chemically changing the molecules in the hair cortex, there's minimal to no damage inflicted, says Lowe. You're basically just changing the hair's topcoat, so your natural pigment is still there. "This is for those who want to enhance or warm up their natural color without going through the permanent color procedure," says Lowe.

Semi-permanent color usually includes a shine treatment, which boosts the moisture content, strength, and sheen of hair, which is why it's the best coloring process for damaged hair. Also, since you can only go darker with semi-permanent color, damaged hair can benefit by at least imitating healthy strands. Lighter hair can appear more frayed and broken, while a darker hue adds rich color pigment to the hair, which can help polish and shine, says Lowe.

Try � demi-permanent color

A demi-perm is basically a step between the semi and the permanent procedures. Lowe says it has to with the processing strength. "A demi is going to grab more color and last longer, since there is a lot more color pigment." This is best for those who have healthy hair.

Try � bleach or lightener

Lowe says there's a fear associated with bleach because people automatically think of the Clorox under their kitchen sink. "With permanent color, there's a lift and deposit action with a calculated outcome," says Lowe. "With bleach, you're simply removing color pigment from the hair shaft. It is a very aggressive process, so it could be damaging to the hair." Therefore, lightening hair color with bleach is only recommended for those who have healthy hair.