How to Fill Hair Before Coloring
Achieving a flawless hair color transformation often begins with proper preparation. One of the most essential steps in the coloring process, especially when dealing with severely lightened or porous hair, is known as "filling." Filling hair ensures that the new color adheres evenly, looks vibrant, and lasts longer. This article explores the process of how to fill hair before coloring to achieve professional-level results.
1. Understanding the Purpose of Hair Filling
Filling hair is a method used to replace missing pigments in hair that has been excessively bleached, stripped, or lightened. When hair is lightened, underlying pigments—such as red, orange, yellow, or gold—are removed, leaving behind a blank canvas. Without these pigments, applying a darker or vibrant shade can result in uneven, dull, or unnatural-looking colors.
For example:
- Blonde hair going brunette: Filling adds back the missing warm tones (e.g., orange or red) to ensure the brunette color doesn’t turn muddy or green.
- Porous hair: Filling helps to even out the hair’s porosity, preventing patchy or uneven coloring.
2. Selecting the Right Filler Shade
The key to filling hair successfully lies in selecting a filler that corresponds with the desired end color. Fillers are available in warm tones—such as red, orange, and gold—that mimic the natural underlying pigments of darker shades. Use the table below as a guide to choose the correct filler shade based on the final hair color:
| Final Hair Color | Filler Tone Required |
|---|---|
| Light Brown | Warm Gold |
| Medium Brown | Gold or Copper |
| Dark Brown | Copper or Red |
| Auburn/Red Shades | Red |
For high-quality results, SISHAIR offers a range of pre-formulated color fillers designed to simplify the process while maintaining hair health.
3. Gather the Necessary Tools and Products
Before starting, ensure you have all the essential tools and products in place:
- A filler product (such as liquid color fillers or demi-permanent dye)
- Hair coloring brush and bowl
- Gloves to protect your hands
- Wide-tooth comb for even distribution
- Towels or cape to prevent staining
- Color-safe shampoo for post-treatment washing
- SISHAIR repair treatments for additional hydration and protection
4. Preparing the Hair for Filling
Clean hair is essential for the filling process. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup, oils, and residue that may interfere with the absorption of the filler. Do not use conditioner, as this can create a barrier that prevents the filler from penetrating.
5. Mixing and Applying the Filler
Follow these steps to apply the filler correctly:
- Mix the filler product: If using a liquid filler, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution. For instance, combine the filler with water in a 1:1 ratio to create a more fluid consistency.
- Section the hair: Divide your hair into four sections to ensure even application.
- Apply the filler: Using a coloring brush, start at the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, as these areas are typically more porous. Work your way toward the roots.
- Comb through: Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the filler evenly, ensuring every strand is coated.
- Allow processing time: Let the filler sit for the recommended time (typically 10–20 minutes) to ensure full pigment absorption.
6. Rinse and Dry the Hair
After the filler has processed, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid using shampoo at this stage, as it may strip the pigments that were just deposited. Lightly towel-dry your hair or let it air dry before proceeding to the color application.
7. Applying the Final Hair Color
Once the filler is in place and the hair is prepped, it’s time to apply the final hair color:
- Mix your chosen color (preferably demi-permanent or permanent dye) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the color evenly from roots to ends, ensuring full coverage.
- Allow the color to process as directed, then rinse with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to lock in the pigment. A product line like SISHAIR color-care shampoo and conditioner can help maintain the color’s vibrancy.
8. Post-Color Care for Long-Lasting Results
Proper aftercare ensures that your new hair color stays vibrant and healthy. Here are some tips:
- Use sulfate-free and color-safe shampoos and conditioners.
- Minimize heat styling to prevent fading.
- Incorporate deep conditioning treatments, such as SISHAIR Repair Mask, to maintain moisture and repair any damage caused during the coloring process.
- Protect your hair from UV rays by wearing hats or using UV-protectant sprays.
Conclusion
Filling hair before coloring is a vital step to achieving rich, even, and long-lasting results, especially when transitioning from lighter shades to darker hues. By taking the time to replace missing pigments and preparing the hair properly, you can avoid common issues like patchiness, dullness, or unnatural tones. With quality products like those from SISHAIR and the right techniques, your hair transformation can look professional and polished every time.
