How to Use Temporary Hair Color Spray

Switching up your hair color may not feel so simple, but when you’re equipped with the right products, switching it up doesn’t have to be a major commitment. For Halloween, one of the best ways to elevate your Halloween costume is with a simple hair color switch. If you’re looking for a non-committal way to experiment with a different look, a wash-out hair color spray (also known as spray on hair dye or spray on hair color) is going to be your best friend. 

Perhaps it’s shades of pink to match your fairycore costume one night, and shades of crimson to match your mermaidcore costume the next — it can all be done with temporary hair color spray because it lasts until your next shampoo. Keep reading to learn how to use a temporary hair color spray to get a fresh, new hue for Halloween and after the holiday is over. 

What Is a Temporary Hair Color Spray?

A hair color spray is a form of temporary hair dye, also known as wash-out hair color, that offers a non-damaging, short-term way to color your hair. Unlike other types of hair color, temporary sprays don’t actually change the color of your strands, they just coat the outside of the hair shaft in a dye that usually fades in a few shampoos or less. Temporary hair color sprays don’t contain chemicals like ammonia or peroxide in the formula, making them easy to use on all hair types and textures.

Temporary Hair Color Spray Vs. Semi-Permanent Hair Dye

There are a few different types of temporary hair dye out there — temporary hair color spray is just one of many. Choosing the right one for your hair color needs comes down to understanding how they differ and how they work.

Temporary hair color, like L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray, is simply sprayed onto the hair to coat each strand with color so no bleach is required. Semi-permanent hair dye, like L’Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color, is a non-damaging, short-term way to color your hair. Unlike most permanent formulas, it doesn’t contain ammonia or peroxide, which means it doesn’t require any developer or pre-mixing so you can apply it straight to your hair from the applicator. It generally lasts through a few washes and can go even longer if you use the right shampoo. And since there’s no bleach required, it’s also safe to use on hair that’s been permed or relaxed. Semi-permanent hair color can add gloss and shine to dull-looking hair.

How to Use a Temporary Hair Color Spray for Halloween

If you’re ready for a quick, Halloween hair color change, then a temporary hair color spray is right on time. Choose your favorite hue from Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray. With eight colors available including red, hot pink and blue, your hair experimenting options are plentiful. You can try giving yourself accent highlights with peek-a-boo hair, a trendy new ombré dip-dyed look, or cover your entire head without stepping near a bottle of hair bleach. 

This wash out hair color is designed for both blondes and brunettes, and is suitable for all hair types, so everyone can get in on the fun. Here’s how to use it in three simple steps.

Step 1: Place a towel around your shoulders to protect your clothing.

Step 2: Shake the can well, then Hold it about four to six inches away from dry hair and spray wherever you want. The color will become more vivid after it dries down, so be sure to spray a little at a time and wait a few minutes until it’s completely dry before applying more.  

Step 3: If you’re looking for all-over color, you may need to use more than one can, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.

How Long Does Hair Color Spray Last?

We mentioned that hair color spray lasts until your next shampoo, but if you plan on waiting a few days to wash, know that it will last but continue to fade the longer you wear it. If you want a vibrant color, you can easily reapply it daily. The color may also transfer onto clothes or bedding so keep that in mind. 

How to Wash Out Temporary Hair Color Spray

Once the Halloween festivities have passed or you’re just ready to return to your natural hair color, all you’re going to need is shampoo and conditioner. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we like L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron + Plump Hydrating Shampoo, Paraben-Free and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron + Plump Hydrating Conditioner, Paraben-Free. 

This duo contains hyaluronic acid to replump dry strands, giving them noticeable volume, shine and bounce. Use the shampoo as usual to wash out the hair color spray, then use the conditioner to add moisture back to your strands, and your hair will look good as new. 

Is Spray On Hair Color Safe?

Not only is spray on hair color safe, it's one of the safest ways to color hair because its void of ingredients that can cause irritation to the scalp or damage to the hair. It never penetrates the hair shaft which is good for the health of your hair, that said, this also is what makes it temporary. 

Next: How to Remove Hair Dye Stains From Your Bathroom and Countertops

Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier