How Long To Leave L’Oreal HiColor Hair Dye In For Best Results

L’Oreal HiColor is a vivid, ammonia-free hair dye designed specifically for dark hair. It can create bright, bold colors without having to pre-lighten hair first. But to get the most out of it, you need to leave HiColor in for the right amount of processing time.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• L’Oreal HiColor dye and how it works
• Standard processing time on the instructions
• Why you may need more time than directed
• Ideal leave-in times for different hair types
• What happens if you leave it in too long
• Tips for maximizing color results
• Washing out dye properly afterwards
• How long HiColor lasts

How Does L’Oreal HiColor Hair Dye Work?

L’Oreal HiColor uses a unique formula that deeply penetrates unbleached, dark hair to deposit extra vibrant, translucent color.

It contains cationic polymers that act as tiny magnets, binding to hair for intense, long-lasting color. An optimized alkalizing agent also helps the dye take better.

HiColor comes in shades like vibrant red, copper, magenta, and various blondes. It shows up boldly on brunette, black, or color-treated hair.

What’s The Standard Processing Time?

The instructions on L’Oreal HiColor say to leave the dye in hair for 30 minutes before rinsing.

This 30 minutes is the absolute minimum needed to get some color deposit. But most users find they need to leave it in longer.

Why You May Need More Time Than Directions Say

There are several reasons you may need to extend the processing time beyond 30 minutes:

• You have resistant gray/white hairs – these take longer to absorb dye
• Your hair is lower porosity or finer in texture
• You want the maximum color vibrancy and longevity
• You have semi-permanent dye still in your hair
• You are only touching up your roots

The longer the dye can remain in contact with your hair, the better the results will be.

How Long Should You Leave L’Oreal HiColor In?

To optimize your HiColor’s performance and longevity, follow these leave-in time guidelines:

• Coarse, thick hair – 45 minutes
• Average texture hair – 1 hour
• Fine or thin hair – 1.5 hours
• Max vibrancy on dark hair – 2+ hours

As you can see, leaving it on for several hours makes a big difference if you want bold, long-lasting color – especially on resistant dark shades.

What Happens If You Leave It In Too Long?

L’Oreal HiColor is gentler than traditional hair dye. The company says you can leave it in overnight with no adverse effects.

However, for best results, aim to wash the dye out within 5 hours maximum. Leaving it for 8+ hours may cause dryness or irritation in some.

Tips For Maximizing L’Oreal HiColor

Follow these handy tips to boost color results when using L’Oreal HiColor:

• Wash hair with clarifying shampoo before applying
• Apply petroleum jelly on skin to avoid stains
• Separate hair into sections for even coverage
• Keep hair warm while dye processes with a cap or towel
• Add heat with a blowdryer for 10 mins (don’t go longer)
• Rinse with coolest water temperature you can tolerate
• Use sulfate-free shampoo & limit washing after

Taking these steps allows the dye to optimally penetrate and adhere for dazzling color that lasts.

How To Properly Rinse Out L’Oreal HiColor

Once the processing time is complete, you’ll want to rinse the dye from your hair correctly:

• Rinse hair with lukewarm water until it runs clear
• Lather hair with a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo
• Let shampoo sit 3-5 minutes before rinsing out
• Apply conditioner and leave on 5 minutes, then rinse
• Gently blot hair with a towel and allow to air dry fully

Washing with cool water and using gentle products keeps the cuticle sealed and color locked in.

How Long Does L’Oreal HiColor Last?

With proper at-home care, you can expect L’Oreal HiColor to last 4-6 weeks before fading or becoming brassy.

To extend the longevity even further:

• Use color-depositing shampoo/conditioner weekly
• Apply a hair mask or gloss treatment monthly
• Re-apply the dye every 6-8 weeks as needed
• Avoid washing daily, hot water, sulfate shampoos

HiColor gives long-lasting results, especially if you limit washing and use products that deposit pigment.

The Takeaway

While the directions say 30 minutes for L’Oreal HiColor, leaving it on for 1-2 hours allows the dye to thoroughly penetrate and adhere for dazzling color that lasts.

Next time you use L’Oreal HiColor hair dye, wait at least one full hour before rinsing out for best results. Your vibrant new color is absolutely worth the extra processing time!