DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been getting my hair dyed for about 15 years now. Like other women in my family, I went gray prematurely. I have gone to several salons over the years and have often gotten some wacky colors. I haven’t been to a salon in months, as my funds are low, and my roots are beginning to give away my silver secrets. I don’t think I can get a discount from my hair dresser, and I don’t want to go natural yet. Do you think those “paint in the roots” products work? -- Silver Secrets, Tacoma, Washington
DEAR SILVER SECRETS: How much gray hair is showing will determine whether those spot root treatments are worth it. What seems more fitting is for you to go to the beauty supply store and purchase hair dye in the color you feel you want to wear today. Then go home and follow the directions to dye your hair yourself. This may seem scary at first, especially if you have never done it before, but you can do it. Thousands of women do so all the time.
Just make sure that you clean the area you will be using for the dying. Use gloves so you do not stain your hands. Take your time. For a boost of moral support, ask a trusted friend to help you -- especially if that person has ever dyed her hair before. You can do it if you take your time.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)