I have been coloring my hair for four years now. And yes, I do it by myself. I have tried everything from purple to red to a wine burgundy color. Eventually, I go back to black or dark brown then change it again to red. So yes, I bleach it a lot but that doesn’t mean that my hair is permanently damaged because it’s not! Surprise surprise. If you're like me, and color your hair often, then people probably tell you all kinds of things about your hair and your life. But these are the only things you need to remember.

1) Coloring your hair is about expressing yourself.

People always ask, "How is purple hair expressing you?" Well, simple, I am a vibrant exciting young woman and I am fun. Purple hair is vibrant and fun. Shows off my youth and I love it. No matter what color your hair is, it is nobody's business but your own.

2) Do your research?

Read articles. Ask hair stylists or employees at Sally's. Watch Youtube videos. Read instructions and ingredients. Before you even think about coloring your hair make sure you have an idea of what you're doing. Make sure the bleach will actually lift your color. Make sure you have more than enough product, you can always return the unused/unopened.

3)The secret to less damage is to CONDITION! CONDITIONS! CONDITION!

I did a big chop and cut off all my chemically processed hair about four years ago. I basically started over and I have a newfound love for my hair. I take extremely good care of it. Make sure it's moisturized, oiled up, not dry etc. One thing I learned over these four years is that conditioner is your best friend. But not just any conditioner works, you have to actually look at the ingredients, find one with no alcohol (or alcohol as the third or fourth ingredient. Alcohol will just dry out your hair.

4) Pick your color wisely.

Once again, do your research! Watch youtube videos. Find what brand will work best for you. Do you want permanent? Semi-permanent? Something that'll wash out in a week? It's also good to window shop and compare prices. I personally prefer Ion Brilliance and Manic Panic. They have bright colors and are sold at Sally's where I can get a discount for being a member. They also send coupons or have sales frequently.

5) Have fun.

Invite your friends over. Have them help you. Have them help you pick an awesome new color. Be sure to show it off.