Apply mixture on hair that is dry, free from styling build-up, not colored with metallic dyes, henna or color restorers. These interfere with the hair color process. Distribute mixture thoroughly and evenly in application. Thorough and even mixture-application is very important to cover approximately 100,000 hair strands (which human beings usually have, depending on the individual). Start applying mixture from recommended area: Covering Gray: where hair is most gray Fashion Color (Lightening): 1/2 inch away from the scalp, start at back, then side, front, and finally, top. Then roots. Care - after coloring Good hair care is recommended on a daily basis, because your hair cannot repair itself without your help. Additionally, coloring results last longer with good hair care habits. Rinse just after coloring It is recommended to rinse hair thoroughly until water runs clear before shampooing. If hair is not well rinsed after coloring process, it may cause hair damage and color fading. Conditioner for color-treated hair Conditioners designed for color-treated hair or with a pH value of 3 to 4 are recommended. For a while after coloring, some of your cuticles won't close as easily as they did before coloring. The designed conditioner will expedite cuticle closure and prevent hair-damage and color-fading.