How can I lighten my dark based hair color? Can I use box hair dye to lighten my brown hair? If it is «yes», so how to lighten dark brown hair with box dye? You may search for these keywords to find several techniques so that you can achieve a light shade of curls. 

Many say that there are some intricacies when they color their mane at home. But with box dye, it may be easier as long as you follow basic rules and instructions on the label. Are you curious about how to color dark hair with a box dye? Here we go!

What you prepare before lightening brown hair with box dye? 

Before learning how to lighten light brown hair with box dye, there are some basics and points you should follow: 

Get proper hair box dye

Do the research and find the best item you should go for. Hair box dyes are available in two common types, including semi-permanent and permanent color. If you want to switch up the color in a short time, for a few weeks, opt for a semi-permanent hair dye. And you should get permanent hair colors for long-lived color. 

However, you should purchase box dyes from reliable stores. Not all the chemicals on the dye are safe for strands. Consult your hairstylist and find the best formulation for your mane. 

Prepare your natural locks

Make sure that your curls are healthy and clean enough before coloring with hair box dye. If your hair is damaged, get a hair trim or use a protein treatment a few times. Bear in mind that a protein treatment works to restore and moisturize your dry and damaged locks. And don’t forget to discuss your hair’s condition with pros before you lightening it. 

Furthermore, don’t wash your hair and scratch the scalp in the 24 hours before dyeing. Your last shampoo should be two days before. If your hair is too oily, fresh shampoo your curls a day before is acceptable. 

Can I lighten previously colored hair with box dye?

Nope. Don’t take this risk! You cannot lighten a previous color with box dyes in a lighter shade. It is a rule in the color industry. If you color hair, the roots will lighten up clearly, but the hair ends will be damaged. Also, your hair ends are barely color change at all. It’s terrible!

How to lighten dark brown box dyed hair

Step 1: Prepare

Firstly, you should wear an old T-shirt and plastic gloves. This way, it protects your skin from exposing chemicals and keep your clothes clean. 

To avoid chemicals contact with eyes, apply a thin layer of Vaseline around your forehead, temples, and behind your ears. You will notice that this tip keeps your skin clean. 

Step 2: Mix the dye

In the dye box, you will see two elements: hair dye and the developer. Now, start mixing these products together. You have to mix it in a plastic bowl, not a metal container, as it may interact with chemicals. Stir them to create a good mixture. 

Step 3: Apply the dye

Divide your mane into small sections and start placing the hair dye. We advise you to start from the front sections. Try to apply the dye carefully and evenly; otherwise, it appears with patchy parts. 

Coloring from the roots and move downward to the hair ends. Often, the roots take more time to be lightened. Ensure that the color covers all hair strands.

Step 4: Wait for at least 30 minutes

Once you’ve finished, cover your mane with a shower cap. Leave it to set for 30-45 minutes to work. If you are in a hurry, blow the hair with a hairdryer to shorten the lightening process.  

Step 5: Rinse hair dye thoroughly

Rinse your mane with cool water till you notice that water is clean. Never use hot water as it will dry out and damage your natural locks. Also, it may strip the color out of your strands.  

Finally, let your colored hair air dry and enjoy the miracle. 

You can apply the same steps to highlights your hair. Going for highlights with lighter shade is a great way to achieve a perfect transition. Or visit a hair salon if you are unsure about the coloring technique. 

We’ve already shared the most common technique on how to lighten dyed dark brown hair with box dye. To avoid damage, however, you can try some natural ways such as using lemon juice, vinegar and honey, baking soda, salt, etc. All of these ingredients are safe and easy to get, so you can apply them at home. But the results can differ because of the hair type. 

How to maintain your lightened color hair?

Tips to keep your light hair color last longer: 

— Wait at least two days after dyeing to shampoo your mane. Why? As the color needs time to saturate and grab onto your curls. 

— Invest in hair care products, such as shampoo & conditioner, specific for colored hair. These items are formulated to retain color and boost hair beauty. 

— Protect your colored hair from the sun’s UV radiation and other polluted factors. Use hair care products added sunscreen to prevent hair damage and protect your scalp, as well. 

— Deeply condition the hair to keep your light color in the best condition. Repeat the tip once a week to get vibrant color. 

— Cut down the frequency of using hot styling tools. Utilize hair spray or gloss to have a stunning hair look. 

— Have no time to take care of your mane at home, please visit the salon regularly for maintenance hair color. Well-trained hair colorists can help you keep a great result ever. 

Layla has presented everything related to how to lighten dark brown hair with box dye. Following our guide, it allows you to have a light hair color that looks great every day. 

Do you have any questions about coloring your curls? Leave comments for tailored advice. 

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