Foam and mousse formulas are the easiest to apply, but they’re difficult to apply accurately. Go with a cream or gel formula for a precise application.
You may want to place newspaper or plastic sheeting over your workspace as well.
Try to make these parts as neat as you can—you need to be as precise as possible to ensure your roots blend in seamlessly with the rest of your hair. [4] X Expert Source April FerriProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 8 December 2020.
If you don’t have petroleum jelly or conditioner, try coconut oil or shea butter.
Take care not to dye the hair that’s already colored. Overlapping the dye can cause a discolored band to form just beyond your roots. It can also lead to breakage. [8] X Expert Source April FerriProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 8 December 2020.
You can also do this with the tail end of a hair dye applicator brush.
It should only take between 10 and 20 minutes per quadrant, depending on the thickness of your hair.
Gently massage the back of your head after applying dye to all your hair. This will help spread the dye to any missed spots you didn’t notice.
You may want to place a shower cap over your head at this point, as a warm environment promotes development.
The petroleum jelly around your hairline should rinse away, but you may want to wipe it off with an old cloth or a paper towel at this point. Consider rubbing a little bit of shampoo onto your hairline before adding water to help remove any staining on your skin.
Cool, rather than warm, water helps to close the hair shaft and lock in the color.