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That's where these at-home hair color kits come in. Thanks to innovations in application and formula, they make it oh-so-easy to get gorgeous, flawless results -- as long as you play by the rules.
"Always follow the directions from the manufacturer," says Kari Hill, the L'Oréal Paris celebrity colorist behind Anna Faris' gorgeous blonde hair. "The side of the box does not lie." Don't go rogue and think you know better than the instructions -- that may work when you're baking cookies, but it's not a risk you want to take with your hair.
Once you commit, Hill recommends having the following tools on hand: extra pairs of gloves, a wide-tooth comb, a fine-tooth rattail comb, section clips, clear lip-balm to use as a barrier around your hairline, a hand-mirror, a t-shirt and towels that you don't mind getting dye on, small pieces of cotton to isolate highlights around your face (if you're a seasoned at-home hair color pro), and, most importantly, a timer. All set? Then you're ready to try these eight innovative at-home hair color kits.
Image via Imaxtree
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Best for: Karlie Kloss-esque Babylights
This highlighting system is virtually goof-proof, thanks to the handy applicator brush that lets you precisely control where the color goes. Instead of chunky, thick, dated highlights, you get fine, natural-looking highlights that brighten your face.
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Best for: Extra Hydration
Four fresh shades (a blonde, a copper, a rich purple-toned brown and a light brown) give new life to this permanent hair color. The ammonia-free formula contains argan oil, plus a nourishing trio of mango, coconut and shea butters, so hair is left silky soft and conditioned.
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Best for: Allover Dimensional Color
The latest color from Vidal Sassoon features a two-step process that treats the roots and the ends of hair separately. The cream comes ready with the right concentration to use on roots. Simply add the serum before applying to the ends of hair to create balanced color.
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Best for: Semi-Permanent Mermaid Hair
I've been in love with the idea of pink hair since I saw Rachel McAdams' colorful streaks back in 2007. Now, everyone from Katy Perry to January Jones has tried out colorful, Rainbow Brite-esque hair -- but I still can't bring myself to commit to A) permanent pink color or B) the cost it would take to get it in the salon. That's where this kit comes in.
The process is easy enough: Put on the gloves (included), then use your fingers to work the color through your hair. Let dry and brush through. After a few washes, the color fades away. And ladies with dark hair take note: You don't need to bleach or lighten your hair to see results.