One of the most exciting and potentially rewarding aspects of hair coloring at home is mixing your very own custom color. Matrix's Medium Chestnut hair color offers a deep, rich brown with warm, mahogany undertones that can elevate your look. This DIY guide will walk you through creating your version of this stunning shade, utilizing Matrix's professional color products available at salons. Whether you're touching up your roots or experimenting with a new hue, understanding the process of mixing hair color can be empowering and financially savvy.
Why Choose Matrix Medium Chestnut?
Matrix has been a trusted name in hair care for decades, known for quality, consistency, and color longevity. Here are some reasons why their Medium Chestnut color could be the right choice for you:
- Versatility: Suitable for a range of skin tones, this color can either add warmth or cool down a look.
- Depth: It offers depth without being too intense, providing a natural-looking finish.
- Warmth: The mahogany undertones add a subtle warmth, making this shade especially flattering for those with cooler skin tones.
Preparing for Your Color Journey
Before you dive into mixing your custom Matrix Medium Chestnut shade, it’s crucial to prepare:
- Assess your hair’s current condition and color. If it’s heavily treated, consider deep conditioning treatments beforehand.
- Set up your workspace in a well-lit area. Use a mirror to ensure even application.
- Gather your tools: gloves, mixing bowl, applicator brush, towels, and a cap.
Mixing Your Color
To achieve Matrix’s Medium Chestnut shade, follow this recipe:
| Product | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Matrix Socolor Permanent Haircolor 5N | 30 ml |
| Matrix Socolor Permanent Haircolor 5RV | 10 ml |
| Matrix Color Sync (5VC) | 10 ml |
| Developer (20 or 30 vol.) | 60 ml |
Here’s how to proceed:
- Mix the Colours: In your mixing bowl, combine the Socolor 5N, 5RV, and 5VC as per the quantities listed above.
- Add the Developer: Measure and add the developer into the mix. Stir well to ensure even color distribution.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mix seems too thick, you can add a bit more developer, but keep in mind the developer’s volume affects the hair lightening and color intensity.
⚠️ Note: The consistency should be creamy but not runny. Overly thick mixtures might not apply evenly, while overly thin mixtures may not cover or lift the hair color sufficiently.
Application and Processing
With your custom color ready, follow these steps:
- Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, ensuring even application.
- Leave the color on for the recommended time, usually between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your hair type and desired color intensity.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, then shampoo and condition with color-safe products.
Maintaining Your Medium Chestnut
- Hair Care: Use shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair.
- Wash Less: Color fades with each wash, so try to wash less frequently.
- Hair Masks: Deep condition once a week to keep the color vibrant and the hair healthy.
- Sun Protection: UV rays can fade color, so use UV protection sprays or hats when outdoors.
As you've seen, creating your Medium Chestnut hair color with Matrix products can be an enjoyable and rewarding DIY project. With proper preparation, mixing, application, and aftercare, you can achieve salon-quality results from the comfort of your home. The key is patience and precision in following the steps outlined, and in doing so, you not only save on salon costs but also gain a deeper understanding of what makes your hair color truly shine. Remember, the beauty of a custom color blend like this is that it's tailored to your specific hair type and desired outcome, making your hair color journey uniquely yours.
How often should I mix a new color batch?
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It depends on your hair growth and root regrowth, typically every 4-6 weeks.
Can I mix more than one developer volume?
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Yes, if you need different effects (like lifting and toning), you can mix developers, but it requires precise calculation.
What if I want a lighter or darker shade of Medium Chestnut?
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For a lighter shade, use more developer or higher volume. For darker, add more color base like 5N.
How do I correct an overly warm color?
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Use a toner with cool or ash undertones to counteract the warmth.
