DIY hair colour made easy

Say goodbye to the mess, the stink and that awkward bag-on-your head, can’t-touch-anything wait time. And say hello to more shine, rich colour and unbelievable body. Nearly 80 years after the first at-home dyes hit the market, new innovations in hair care can make all your DIY dreams come true.

1. Fast track to shine: Take a quick 10-minute time out to colour your hair with this new high-gloss treatment from Clairol. Perfect 10 by Nice ’n Easy ($16) covers those pesky greys, and the conditioner seals in the colour for long-lasting shine.

2. Wash-and-go: Imagine a colour treatment that foams up like shampoo—well, more like whipping cream, really—coating each strand evenly and without dripping everywhere. All you have to do is massage L’Oréal’s Sublime Mousse by Healthy Look ($12) into your scalp, wait 30 minutes and rinse.

3. "Naturally" blond: With a fresh scent from fruit oils, Garnier’s Nutrisse Radiant Blondes ($11) is a cream-based dye that works through your hair like a deep conditioner. The best part? It’s ammonia-free — which means it won’t irritate sensitive types.

When doing it yourself won't cut it: “Remember to consider the health of your hair,” says Clairol consulting colourist Luis Pacheco. “If it’s overly damaged or processed, you might not get the shade you were expecting from the box.” And if you’re going for an extreme change, like dark brunette to platinum blond or vice versa, it’s usually best to head to the salon for a professional job.