5 Ways to avoid a hair dye disaster!

I have to admit, when Demi Lovato first dyed her hair "smurf blue" I didn't hate it. In fact, I thought it was kind of cool and edgy. But that strange glittery, faux undercut thing she wore on last night's episode of X Factor was WAY too much. Apparently she decided to go all out in honor of '80s night on the show. Keep in mind, Demi is no stranger to ever-changing hair. She's sported so many different looks and colors I'm surprised she hasn't lost all her hair by now. But still, I think she really outdid herself this time!

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Let's analyze this look, shall we? First and for most, that vibrant blue has got to go. It was cute when she first dyed it, but now it's starting to make her hair look incredibly dry and damaged. The side swept would have been chic had she not added those streaks of gold glitter. I don't even want to know how long that must have taken her to wash out. But I'm actually curious to see how Demi plans on reversing the damage from this hair color. That's definitely going to be a challenge. To avoid finding yourself in a similar dilemma, here are 5 ways to avoid a hair dye disaster in the first place!

Get a picture: To avoid winding up with the wrong color,  bring a picture of the shade you want to show your stylist. It's the best way to make sure you're both on the same page. Look for pictures online or scroll through some of your favorite magazines for inspiration.

Listen to your stylist: Your stylist might be able to color your hair, but that doesn't mean he or she can do miracles. If you just dyed your hair black a month ago and suddenly want to go blonde, chances are you're not going to get the shade that you're looking for. Keep an open mind, and if they can't do it, consider going a little darker for the meantime.

Be honest: Before getting your hair dyed, let your stylist know if you have any hair concerns regarding maintenance or damage. If you can't afford the frequent touch-ups needed to maintain your color, it may not be worth it.

Don't go back: If the color winds up really off, find another colorist who understands your desired hair color more. If your original stylist didn't get it the first time, who's to say they'll get it right the second time around? Also, make sure you wait a few weeks before having your hair re-dyed, unless you don't mind your strands falling out.

Preserve the color: You might LOVE the color you see at the salon, but if you don't use the right products, that beautiful shade might fade away with your next wash. Look for products especially designed to preserve hair color. I love the Pureology Hydrate for Dry, Colour Treated Hair Shampoo ($25).

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