Elcea Hair Colour How to Use Guide

Elcea hair colour how to use: Achieve vibrant, long-lasting results with this simple guide. Learn the essential steps for a professional-looking DIY hair colour application, ensuring a smooth and successful experience for beautiful, radiant hair.

Key Takeaways

Prepare your Elcea hair colour kit and workspace carefully.
Patch test for allergies 48 hours before applying Elcea hair colour.
Section hair evenly for uniform Elcea hair colour coverage.
Apply Elcea hair colour systematically, root to tip.
Develop for the recommended time before rinsing Elcea hair colour.
Condition with the provided Elcea aftercare for best results.

Are you looking to transform your look with a fresh new hair colour? Elcea offers a range of shades that can bring vibrancy and shine to your hair. While salons are a great option, many people prefer the convenience and cost-effectiveness of colouring their hair at home. However, achieving salon-quality results can feel daunting, especially when it comes to knowing exactly how to use your Elcea hair colour kit correctly. Don’t worry, this guide is here to demystify the process. We’ll walk you through each step, from preparation to the final rinse, ensuring you get beautiful, even coverage every time you use Elcea hair colour. Get ready to unlock your best hair colour yet with our easy-to-follow instructions.

Elcea Hair Colour: What’s Inside and Why Choose It

Elcea hair colour is designed to provide rich, long-lasting colour and excellent grey coverage. Understanding the components of your Elcea hair colour kit is the first step to a successful application. Each box typically contains everything you need for a seamless at-home colouring experience. These kits are formulated to be user-friendly, even for beginners, making them a popular choice for those who want a professional finish without the salon price tag. Elcea’s commitment to quality ingredients ensures that while you’re achieving stunning colour, your hair’s health is also considered. This focus on both aesthetics and care makes Elcea a trusted name in home hair colouring.

The Components of Your Elcea Hair Colour Kit

Before you begin, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with what’s inside the Elcea hair colour box. This ensures you have all the necessary items at hand and understand their purpose. Typically, you will find:

• Colour Cream: This is the primary colouring agent.
• Developer Lotion: This activates the colour cream and helps it penetrate the hair shaft.
• Conditioner/Aftercare Sachet: This is used after rinsing to restore moisture and shine.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from staining.
• Instruction Leaflet: This provides specific details for your chosen shade and is crucial to read.

It’s always wise to double-check the contents against the leaflet to ensure no item is missing. This preparation will prevent any last-minute rushes or compromises during the colouring process.

Benefits of Using Elcea for At-Home Colouring

Choosing Elcea hair colour for your DIY project offers several advantages that resonate with users seeking both quality and convenience. The brand is known for its sophisticated colour palettes, catering to a wide spectrum of preferences, from natural hues to more vibrant tones. Elcea’s formulations are often praised for their gentle yet effective nature, aiming to minimize damage while maximizing colour payoff and longevity. Furthermore, the consistent quality of Elcea products ensures that users can achieve predictable and satisfying results, building confidence in their at-home colouring abilities. This reliability makes Elcea a smart choice for those who value professional-looking results achieved in the comfort of their own home.

Step-by-Step Guide: Elcea Hair Colour Application

Applying hair colour at home might seem intimidating, but with Elcea, the process is straightforward. Following these detailed steps will help you achieve an even, beautiful colour result. Remember, patience and precision are key. This guide breaks down the entire Elcea hair colour how to use process into manageable stages, ensuring you feel confident at every turn.

Step 1: Preparation is Key – Gathering Your Supplies and Protecting Your Space

Thorough preparation is the bedrock of a successful Elcea hair colour application. This stage ensures a smooth process and minimizes potential mess. Think of it as setting the stage for a beautiful transformation. A well-prepared environment and readily available tools will make the entire experience more enjoyable and the results more professional.

What You’ll Need (Beyond the Elcea Kit):

• An old towel or cape to protect your clothing.
• A non-metallic bowl and applicator brush (if not using the applicator bottle from the kit).
• Hair clips to section your hair.
• A timer or watch.
• Cotton wool pads or old rags to protect your hairline.
• Petroleum jelly or a thick barrier cream for your skin.
• A mirror (preferably a 3-way mirror for better visibility).

Preparing Your Workspace:

Choose a well-ventilated area, ideally a bathroom. Cover surfaces with old newspapers or towels to protect them from accidental drips. Ensure you have good lighting so you can see clearly.

Step 2: The Crucial Allergy Alert Test – A Must-Do for Elcea Hair Colour

This step is non-negotiable and vital for your safety. Hair dyes can cause allergic reactions, even if you’ve used them before. Always perform an allergy alert test 48 hours before you plan to colour your hair with Elcea. This small step can prevent a significant adverse reaction.

How to Perform the Allergy Alert Test:

1. Cleanse a small area of skin behind your ear or in the bend of your elbow using soap and water. Pat dry.
2. Open one sachet of the Elcea colour cream and developer (if applicable, follow the instructions specific to your Elcea kit, as some may require mixing a tiny amount).
3. Mix a small amount of the hair colour mixture.
4. Apply a thin layer of the mixture to the cleansed area using a cotton swab.
5. Allow it to dry and leave it on for 48 hours, without washing, covering, or disturbing it.
6. During these 48 hours, keep an eye on the area. If you notice any redness, itching, swelling, or any other irritation, rinse immediately and DO NOT use the Elcea hair colour product. Consult a doctor if necessary.

Skipping this test can lead to severe skin reactions, making it an indispensable part of the Elcea hair colour how to use process for safe application.

Step 3: Strand Test – Predicting Your Elcea Hair Colour Outcome

While the allergy test is for safety, the strand test is for results! This test helps you see exactly how the Elcea hair colour will look on your hair and how long it will take to develop to achieve that shade. It’s especially important if you’re trying a new shade or colouring previously dyed hair.

Performing the Strand Test:

1. Choose a hidden section of your hair, usually from the nape of your neck.
2. Mix a small amount of Elcea hair colour according to the instructions.
3. Apply the mixture to the chosen strand of hair.
4. Start your timer. Check the strand every 5 minutes by wiping off a small amount of colour.
5. Look for the desired shade. Note the time it took to reach it.
6. Rinse the strand and allow it to dry naturally to see the final colour outcome.

This test is invaluable for predicting the final Elcea hair colour result and determining the optimal processing time.

Step 4: Preparing Your Hair and Yourself

For the best application of Elcea hair colour, your hair should be dry and unwashed for at least 24-48 hours. Natural oils help protect your scalp. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any knots, which will make application smoother.

Protecting Your Skin:

Apply petroleum jelly or a thick barrier cream generously along your hairline, behind your ears, and on your neck. This creates a barrier to prevent skin staining from the Elcea hair colour. Wear the gloves provided in the kit throughout the colouring process.

Step 5: Mixing the Elcea Hair Colour

This is where the magic begins! Each Elcea kit comes with specific instructions, and it’s crucial to follow them precisely for safe and effective mixing.

Mixing Instructions:

1. Ensure you are wearing your gloves.
2. In the non-metallic bowl or applicator bottle provided, carefully squeeze the entire contents of the Elcea colour cream tube.
3. Add the entire contents of the developer lotion bottle.
4. Mix thoroughly with the applicator brush or by shaking the bottle (if using the bottle applicator) until you have a smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Use the mixture immediately. Do not save any leftovers, as the mixture can lose its effectiveness and potentially become harmful.

Always refer to your specific Elcea instruction leaflet, as formulations can vary slightly between products.

Step 6: Applying Elcea Hair Colour – Section by Section

This is the most critical part for achieving an even colour. Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure thorough and uniform application of the Elcea hair colour.

Application Technique:

1. Divide Your Hair: Using your hair clips, divide your hair into four main sections: front left, front right, back left, and back right. For very thick hair, you may need more sections.
2. Start at the Roots: Begin applying the Elcea hair colour mixture to the roots of one section at a time. Use the applicator brush or bottle tip to apply the colour precisely along the scalp line.
3. Work Through the Strands: Once the roots are covered, work the colour down through the lengths of your hair. Ensure each strand is fully saturated with the Elcea hair colour. You can use your gloved fingers or the applicator brush for this.
4. Continue Systematically: Move from section to section, applying the colour evenly. Pay close attention to areas prone to uneven coverage, such as behind the ears and around the hairline.
5. Check for Full Coverage: Once all sections are covered, gently massage the colour through your hair to ensure complete saturation. Check in the mirror to make sure no strands have been missed.

For root touch-ups, apply only to the new growth first, let it process for a specified time (check instructions), and then apply to the rest of the hair for the remaining time.

Step 7: The Processing Time – Let the Elcea Hair Colour Work its Magic

The processing time is when the colour pigments penetrate the hair shaft and develop. This is a critical step that determines the final shade and longevity of your Elcea hair colour. Always adhere to the time recommended in your Elcea instruction leaflet and confirmed by your strand test.

Timing Your Application:

1. Start the Timer: As soon as you finish applying the Elcea hair colour to all your hair, start your timer.
2. Adhere to Instructions: The recommended processing time is usually between 20 to 35 minutes, but this can vary. Do not guess; follow the leaflet precisely.
3. Avoid Over-Processing: Leaving the colour on for too long can lead to excessive damage and may result in a darker colour than expected.
4. Avoid Under-Processing: Not leaving it on long enough will result in poor colour development, weak coverage, and a colour that washes out quickly.

If your strand test indicated a shorter or longer time, use that as your guide, but never exceed the maximum time stated in the Elcea instructions.

Step 8: Rinsing Out the Elcea Hair Colour

Once the processing time is complete, it’s time to rinse. This step removes the excess colour and prepares your hair for the conditioning treatment.

Rinsing Process:

1. Rinse with Lukewarm Water: In the shower or over a basin, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear. This may take several minutes.
2. Gentle Rinsing: Avoid using hot water, as it can strip moisture from your hair and fade the colour.
3. Final Rinse: Ensure all traces of the Elcea hair colour mixture are removed from your scalp and hair.

Step 9: Applying the Elcea Aftercare Conditioner

The conditioner provided in your Elcea kit is specially formulated to lock in colour, restore moisture, and add shine. This is a crucial step for maintaining the health and vibrancy of your newly coloured hair.

Using the Elcea Conditioner:

1. Apply Generously: After rinsing out the colour, towel-dry your hair slightly to remove excess water. Apply the Elcea conditioner evenly throughout your hair, from roots to tips.
2. Leave In: Leave the conditioner on for the duration specified in the Elcea instructions (usually 2-5 minutes).
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the conditioner out completely with cool water. Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticle, enhancing shine.

This step is vital for ensuring your hair feels soft, looks glossy, and the colour is long-lasting.

Step 10: Drying and Styling Your Newly Coloured Hair

Once you’ve completed all the washing and conditioning steps, it’s time to dry and style your hair. Avoid washing your hair for at least 48-72 hours after colouring to allow the colour to fully set.

Tips for Drying and Styling:

• Gently towel-dry your hair. Avoid rough rubbing, which can cause frizz.
• Use heat protectant spray before blow-drying or using heated styling tools.
• Style as usual. You should notice a significant difference in the vibrancy and depth of your Elcea hair colour.

Enjoy your beautiful new look!

Troubleshooting Common Elcea Hair Colour Issues

Even with the best preparation, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues you might encounter with Elcea hair colour and how to address them. Understanding these can save your colour and your confidence.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Uneven Colour or Streaks	Inadequate saturation, hair not properly sectioned, or product applied unevenly.	Ensure thorough saturation in all sections. Consider a root touch-up or a colour correction process if severe. For future applications, focus on meticulous sectioning and even application.
Colour is Too Dark	Hair was porous, over-processed, or the processing time was too long.	Wash hair with a clarifying shampoo. A colour remover might be necessary, but proceed with caution and follow product instructions carefully. For next time, shorten processing time.
Colour is Too Light or Not Enough Coverage	Hair was too resistant, processing time was too short, or not enough product was used.	This is harder to fix immediately. A second application might be needed after a few days (if hair can tolerate it), or consider a colour gloss for a boost. Ensure full saturation and correct processing time next time.
Skin Staining	Failure to use barrier cream or gloves, or inadequate wiping during application.	Gently rub the stained skin with a cotton ball soaked in makeup remover or a paste of baking soda and water. Ensure proper barrier application next time.
Scalp Irritation	Allergy to ingredients, or product left on the scalp for too long.	Rinse immediately. If it persists, seek medical advice. Always perform the allergy alert test 48 hours prior to application. Avoid direct contact with the scalp where possible.

Remember, for significant colour correction issues, consulting a professional hairdresser is often the safest and most effective solution.

Maintaining Your Elcea Hair Colour for Longevity

Once you’ve achieved your desired shade with Elcea hair colour, proper maintenance is key to keeping it vibrant and healthy. Simple changes to your hair care routine can make a big difference in how long your colour lasts.

Essential Hair Care Tips:

• Use Colour-Safe Shampoos and Conditioners: Invest in products specifically designed for coloured hair. These are formulated to be gentler and help prevent colour fading. Look for labels like “colour-safe” or “for coloured hair.”
• Wash Less Frequently: The more you wash your hair, the faster the colour will fade. Try to extend the time between washes. Between washes, you can use a dry shampoo to refresh your roots.
• Wash with Cool or Lukewarm Water: Hot water can strip the colour molecules from your hair and dry out your scalp. Always opt for cooler temperatures when washing and rinsing.
• Limit Heat Styling: Excessive use of blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage your hair and fade your Elcea hair colour. Always use a heat protectant spray when you do use heat tools.
• Protect from Sun and Chlorine: UV rays can significantly fade hair colour, and chlorine in swimming pools can strip it. Wear a hat in the sun and consider a swimming cap or rinsing your hair with clean water before swimming.
• Consider a Colour Refreshing Treatment: Elcea or other brands may offer colour-depositing conditioners or glosses that can help maintain the vibrancy of your shade between full colouring sessions.

By incorporating these practices, you can help ensure your Elcea hair colour stays looking fresh and radiant for as long as possible.

Pro Tips for Mastering Your Elcea Hair Colour Application

Want to elevate your at-home hair colouring experience with Elcea? Here are some expert tips:

• Have Everything Ready Before You Unbox: Lay out all your Elcea kit items, protective gear, and tools before you even mix anything. This prevents frantic searching mid-process.
• Don’t Skimp on Product: Ensure you use enough Elcea hair colour mixture to fully saturate every strand. It’s better to have a little extra than to miss spots, leading to an uneven result.
• Consider Your Natural Shade and Desired Shade Carefully: Elcea offers a spectrum of colours. Always look at the “before and after” model pictures on the box, and remember that your natural hair colour and condition will influence the final outcome. If you’re transitioning from a very dark shade to a light one, you might need a lightening step first, which Elcea may or may not offer in the same kit.
• Feather the Roots: For a more natural blend, especially if you have a significant regrowth, try applying the colour to the very tips of the roots first, then go back and saturate the base. This can create a softer transition.
• Take Photos: Before you start and after you finish, take photos in good natural light. This helps you see your coverage objectively and track your results over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elcea Hair Colour

Q1: How often can I use Elcea hair colour?

You can typically re-colour with Elcea hair colour every 6-8 weeks, or when your roots start to show significantly. Always ensure your hair is in good condition before re-applying. Over-frequent colouring can lead to damage.

Q2: Can I use Elcea hair colour on permed or chemically treated hair?

It’s generally recommended to wait at least two weeks after perming or chemically treating your hair before using Elcea hair colour. Perform a strand test to check for any adverse reactions or colour inconsistencies, as chemically treated hair can behave differently.

Q3: My Elcea hair colour looks different from the box. Why?

The final colour of Elcea hair colour on your hair depends on several factors: your natural hair colour, its porosity, previous treatments, and the exact processing time. The image on the box is a guide, and your individual results may vary. Always perform a strand test for an accurate preview.

Q4: Can I mix different Elcea shades together?

While some experienced users might mix shades for custom results, it’s generally not recommended for beginners. Elcea hair colour formulas are designed to work in specific ways. Mixing them may lead to unpredictable results or affect the colour’s integrity. Stick to the intended use unless you are an expert.

Q5: How do I remove Elcea hair colour if I don’t like it?

Removing semi-permanent or permanent hair colour can be tricky. Mild fading can be achieved with frequent washing using a clarifying shampoo. For more stubborn colour, a colour remover product designed for home use might be an option, but proceed with extreme caution and always follow instructions. For significant colour issues, visiting a professional salon is the safest route.

Q6: Is Elcea hair colour safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

As a general precaution, it’s often advised to consult with your doctor before using any chemical hair colouring products, including Elcea, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While many find them safe, individual medical advice is always best.

Conclusion

You’ve now got a comprehensive understanding of how to use Elcea hair colour effectively. From the essential preparation and safety tests to the detailed application and aftercare steps, you’re well-equipped to achieve beautiful, professional-looking results at home. Remember that practice makes perfect, and with each application, you’ll become more confident. By following this guide and the specific instructions in your Elcea kit, you can confidently transform your hair and enjoy a vibrant, long-lasting colour. Happy colouring!