Oh Yeah! Some People Are Coloring Their Hair With Kool-Aid

Not being able to book an appointment with their colorist at the hair salon has some people looking for DIY ways to color at home… and they’re turning to a childhood favorite for a fun new hue: Kool-Aid.

But is it safe? Cosmetic chemist Ginger King explains that “dying your hair with Kool-Aid is generally safe as it is a temporary colorant with FD&C colors.” Professional hair colorist Barri Gibson warns that “Kool-Aid can possibly be drying to your hair texture,” and suggests using a good moisturizing conditioner afterward. Over time the Kool-Aid color will wash out on its own and the colors will show up best on blonde or light brown hair.

If you want to give it a try, here’s what the pros say you’ll need: Kool-Aid packets, moisturizing conditioner, dye brush, plastic bag or shower cap, bowl or mug.

Here’s the step by step process and warning - this can get really messy, so wear an old t-shirt and be careful where you lay your head because it could stain.

·Step 1: Microwave conditioner in bowl or mug for around 30 seconds.

·Step 2: Make a paste out of heated conditioner and several packets of Kool-Aid.

·Step 3: Section off hair you want to color.

·Step 4: Use dye brush or fingers to apply paste to sections of hair.

·Step 5: Cover colored hair with shower cap or plastic bag and leave it on for three to eight hours, depending on how bright you want your hue to be.

·Step 6: Take shower cap or bag off and rinse with cool water.

·Step 7: Style as usual.