Hair

Prepare for Hair Colour: What to Bring to Your Salon Appointment

👤 Sherin 📅 September 23, 2026 🕑 7 min read

When preparing for a hair colour appointment, it is essential to bring a few items to ensure the best possible results, including a picture of your desired hair colour, any relevant hair history, and a list of the products you currently use on your hair. Bringing these items will help your stylist understand your needs and preferences, allowing them to provide a more personalized service. Additionally, it is a good idea to arrive with clean, dry hair, free of any styling products or accessories.

Understanding Hair Colour Services

At our salon, we offer a range of hair colour services, from subtle, natural-looking highlights to bold, vibrant all-over colour, all of which can be found on our hair services page. Our experienced stylists will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your hair, taking into account your skin tone, eye colour, and personal style. We use high-quality, gentle products to minimize damage and ensure the best possible results. To book an appointment or inquire about our services, you can call us on +971 54 233 3898 or reach us on WhatsApp.

Before your appointment, it is a good idea to think about what you want to achieve with your hair colour, and to gather some inspiration, such as pictures of hairstyles or colours you like. This will help your stylist understand your vision and work with you to create a personalized look. You should also be prepared to discuss your hair history, including any previous colour treatments or chemical processes, as this can affect the outcome of your appointment.

Our stylists are trained to work with a variety of hair types and textures, and will take the time to understand your unique needs and concerns. We use a range of techniques, including foiling, balayage, and glossing, to achieve the desired results, and will work with you to determine the best approach for your hair. Whether you are looking for a subtle, natural-looking colour or a bold, vibrant statement, we have the expertise and experience to help you achieve your goals.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

During your hair colour appointment, your stylist will begin by consulting with you to discuss your desired outcome and determine the best course of treatment. They will then apply the colour, using a combination of techniques and products to achieve the desired results. The length of the appointment will depend on the complexity of the service and the length and thickness of your hair. For more information on what to expect, you can read our article on summer hair cut tips, which provides guidance on how to prepare for and maintain your hair during the summer months.

After the colour has been applied, your stylist will process it for the recommended amount of time, before rinsing and toning your hair to achieve the desired shade and texture. They will then style your hair, using a range of techniques and products to enhance the colour and add shine and vibrancy. Throughout the appointment, your stylist will work closely with you to ensure that you are happy with the results, and will make any necessary adjustments to achieve the perfect colour.

Our salon is committed to providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience, and we will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable and at ease during your appointment. We offer a range of refreshments, including tea, coffee, and water, and our stylists are always happy to chat and answer any questions you may have. Whether you are a regular client or visiting us for the first time, we will do our best to make you feel welcome and valued.

How to Prepare Your Hair for Colour

To prepare your hair for colour, it is essential to avoid using any harsh or damaging products in the days leading up to your appointment. This includes products containing sulfates, parabens, or silicones, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage. Instead, use gentle, nourishing products that will help to moisturize and protect your hair. You should also avoid using heat styling tools, such as flat irons or curling tongs, as these can cause damage and dryness.

In the days leading up to your appointment, it is a good idea to use a pre-colour treatment, such as a deep conditioning mask or a hair oil, to help nourish and moisturize your hair. This will help to open up the hair cuticle, allowing the colour to penetrate more evenly and resulting in a more vibrant, longer-lasting colour. You should also avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours before your appointment, as this can cause the hair to be too clean and receptive to the colour.

On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, dry hair, free of any styling products or accessories. This will allow your stylist to work with your hair in its natural state, and will help to ensure the best possible results. If you have any questions or concerns about how to prepare your hair for colour, our stylists will be happy to provide guidance and advice.

Can I Colour My Hair If I Have Previously Coloured or Chemically Treated Hair?

If you have previously coloured or chemically treated hair, it is still possible to colour your hair, but it may require some extra care and attention. Our stylists will work with you to determine the best course of treatment, taking into account the history of your hair and any previous colour or chemical treatments. We may need to use a special colour or treatment to help repair and restore your hair, and will work with you to determine the best approach.

In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a strand test before colouring your hair, to ensure that the colour will take evenly and to check for any potential damage or allergic reactions. This will involve taking a small section of hair and applying the colour, before rinsing and checking the results. If the test is successful, we can then proceed with the full colour treatment.

Our stylists are experienced in working with previously coloured or chemically treated hair, and will do everything they can to help restore and revive your hair. We use a range of gentle, nourishing products, and will work with you to determine the best approach for your hair. Whether you are looking to touch up your existing colour or try a completely new look, we have the expertise and experience to help you achieve your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to my hair colour appointment?

It is a good idea to wear old clothes or a shirt that you do not mind getting stained, as hair colour can be messy and unpredictable. You should also avoid wearing anything that is too tight or constricting, as this can cause discomfort during the appointment.

Can I bring a friend or family member to my appointment?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment, but please be aware that our salon is a ladies-only environment. We also ask that you keep noise levels to a minimum, as other clients may be trying to relax.

How long do I need to wait before washing my hair after colouring?

It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before washing your hair after colouring, to allow the colour to set and penetrate the hair shaft. This will help to ensure the best possible results and prevent the colour from fading too quickly.

Can I colour my hair if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is generally recommended to avoid colouring your hair during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the chemicals used in the colour process can be absorbed into the body. However, if you do need to colour your hair, our stylists will work with you to determine the best approach and minimize any potential risks.

Para Ella Hair and Nails Ladies Salon is located at Azizi Riviera 9, Shop 4, Meydan One Street, Al Merkadh, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, and is open daily from 10 am to midnight. You can contact us on +971 54 233 3898 to book an appointment or inquire about our services.

Beauty treatments are cosmetic services and this content is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin, nail or scalp condition, diabetes or known sensitivities, please consult your doctor and tell our team before booking.

There is more detail on hair colour in Dubai over on the main Para Ella site, and our team is happy to talk it through before you book.

Book Your Visit to Para Ella

Para Ella is a ladies only salon at Azizi Riviera 9, Shop 4, Meydan One Street, Al Merkadh, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, open daily 10 am to midnight. Call or message +971 54 233 3898 to book.

Sherin
Sherin

Staff Writer, Para Ella Hair and Nails Ladies Salon

Sherin writes for the Para Ella beauty blog, covering everyday hair, nail and skin care questions that clients ask at the salon. Para Ella is a ladies only salon at Azizi Riviera 9, Shop 4, Meydan One Street, Al Merkadh, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, open daily 10 am to midnight.

More articles by Sherin