1. I would like to perm and colour my hair to have a new look. Can I do both on the same day, or is it better to do one before the other?
2. I need some hair advice. I'll be visiting my hairdresser for a cut next weekend, and it's also time for me to reapply my hair colour. Should I get my hair cut before or after colouring?
3. Does the length of my hair make any difference in the amount of hair colour I will need?
4. If I'm going to colour my hair, when should I shampoo it?
5. Can I mix shades?

Q1. I would like to perm and colour my hair to have a new look. Can I do both on the same day, or is it better to do one before the other?

A1. Clairol recommends that you perm first to ensure that the perming process will not interfere with your newly applied colour. If you're using a Permanent (Level 3) hair colour, wait 7-10 days and shampoo at least once before colouring.

Demi-Permanent (Level 2) (last through 28 shampoos) hair colours can be used the same day as you perm - as long as your scalp is not irritated and is in good condition.

Q2. I need some hair advice. I'll be visiting my hairdresser for a cut next weekend, and it's also time for me to reapply my hair colour. Should I get my hair cut before or after colouring?

A2. We recommend cutting your hair first and then colouring it. And, of course, your colour will enhance your cut!

Q3. Does the length of my hair make any difference in the amount of hair colour I will need?

A3. Absolutely. If your hair is below shoulder length or very thick, you may need two boxes to fully saturate your hair. Also, keep in mind that the ends of long hair tend to absorb more colour, so the timing may be different for your ends. So make sure you do your strand test.

Q4. If I'm going to colour my hair, when should I shampoo it?

A4. You generally shouldn't shampoo immediately before colouring because this will remove the natural oils that protect your scalp during the colouring process.

It's best to shampoo 12-24 hours before colouring with a Demi-Permanent (Level 2) product and shampoo 24 hours prior to using Permanent (Level 3). But be sure to check the instructions inside the box because it can vary by product.

Q5. Can I mix shades?

A5. Yes, but the hair advice we generally give is that, for best results, you mix shades no more than 2-3 shades lighter or darker than each other. In other words, you wouldn't want to mix a blonde and a black together. Also, you should only mix the same brand of shades, so for example, only mix Nice'n Easy with other Nice'n Easy shades.