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    Get The Candy-Colored Hair Color Of Your Dreams

    You know you've always wanted to try it. Here is some inspiration — and tips — if you're thinking of taking the plunge into pastel hair.

    1. First, you need to test your skin to make sure you're not allergic to the dye. No one likes a cotton candy-colored rash.

    2. Then test a small strand of hair to make sure the color is going to come out as you hope.

    3. This may require a round (or three) of bleaching beforehand, especially if you have dark hair.

    4. (Unless you're naturally platinum blonde, bleaching is necessary to get color close to what's on the box.)

    5. You can be brave and use an at-home bleach kit like this one...or play it safe and see a professional.

    6. After bleaching, make sure to wash your hair thoroughly, otherwise the residual chemicals may interfere with color application.

    7. Prior to dyeing, make sure to put on some protective gloves, otherwise staining is inevitable. Safety first!

    8. And apply petroleum jelly around your hairline to avoid staining your skin.

    9. Prepare the dye according to the directions and apply with a tint brush. You are about to get the hair of your dreams.

    10. It's important to completely saturate your hair with the product. Get it all up in there!

    11. Leave it on as long as the product requires. Any less and the results might be too light.

    12. If your hair is darker or hard to dye, you can leave a cap on to insulate the hair while the color penetrates.

    13. Rinsing your hair with white vinegar immediately after dyeing can help lock in color by raising the pH level. Science creates fierceness.

    14. It's also advised to wash your hair in cold water to help keep color looking fresh.

    15. Beware of staining fabrics right after you dye your hair. Sleep with an old towel covering your pillowcase for a few days. Unless you want candy-colored sheets – up to you.

    16. Hydrated hair will better retain the color molecules. Weekly deep-conditioning treatments are recommended.

    17. Using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner will also help lessen color-eroding damage. You've got to give back to the rainbow hair gods.

    18. And not washing your hair for at least a week after dyeing is another great color preserver.

    19. Also, before making the decision to dye, decide if you want permanent or semi-permanent color.

    20. And don't forget, it doesn't hurt to seek the help of a professional stylist. You may be brave and smart, but they have done this before.

    Or you can always just wear a wig.

    Try these helpful instructions on how to prep and dye hair an exotic rainbow hue.