This guide is for adults seeking a vibrant, long-lasting black hair color solution that can be conveniently applied at home. Schwarzkopf LIVE B14 Permanent Black Hair Dye offers an intense, deep black shade for a striking look. A crucial caveat is the absolute necessity of performing a patch test 48 hours before each application to prevent allergic reactions.
Permanent Color: Provides a long-lasting, deep color transformation that won't wash out.
Intense Black Shade (B14): Delivers a rich, striking black result designed for maximum impact.
At-Home Application: Formulated for convenient and straightforward use in your own home.
Vibrant & Glossy Finish: Aims to leave hair looking healthy, shiny, and full of life.
Effective Gray Coverage: Designed to blend away grays, offering uniform color from root to tip.
Deep, Lasting Color: Achieve a striking black shade that endures over time.
Convenience: Easy to apply at home, saving time and money compared to salon visits.
Cost-Effective: An economical way to achieve a professional-looking hair color.
Enhanced Shine: Leaves hair with a healthy-looking, glossy finish, boosting its appearance.
Allergic Reaction Risk: Requires a mandatory patch test 48 hours prior to use to ensure safety.
Permanent Commitment: The color cannot be easily washed out, requiring grow-out or re-coloring to change significantly.
Potential for Mess: Dye can stain skin, clothing, and surfaces if not handled with care.
Hair Health Impact: Chemical processing may lead to dryness or damage if hair is not properly prepared and cared for post-coloring.
Deep, Lasting Color: Achieve a striking black shade that endures over time.
Convenience: Easy to apply at home, saving time and money compared to salon visits.
Cost-Effective: An economical way to achieve a professional-looking hair color.
Enhanced Shine: Leaves hair with a healthy-looking, glossy finish, boosting its appearance.
Allergic Reaction Risk: Requires a mandatory patch test 48 hours prior to use to ensure safety.
Permanent Commitment: The color cannot be easily washed out, requiring grow-out or re-coloring to change significantly.
Potential for Mess: Dye can stain skin, clothing, and surfaces if not handled with care.
Hair Health Impact: Chemical processing may lead to dryness or damage if hair is not properly prepared and cared for post-coloring.
Schwarzkopf LIVE B14 Permanent Black Hair Dye is designed to deliver a rich, uniform black color that stands out. For optimal results, always begin with a patch test and a strand test to check for allergic reactions and predict the final color outcome, especially if your hair has been previously colored or treated.
Application Process:
Preparation: Wear old clothes, put on the provided gloves, and protect surrounding surfaces with old towels or newspaper. Apply a thin layer of barrier cream (like petroleum jelly) around your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent skin staining.
Mixing: Follow the instructions precisely to mix the color cream and developer lotion.
Application: Apply the mixture evenly to dry, unwashed hair, starting from the roots and working towards the ends. Ensure full saturation for consistent color. For root touch-ups, apply to roots first, then distribute through the rest of the hair for the last few minutes.
Processing Time: Adhere strictly to the recommended processing time specified in the product leaflet. This is crucial for achieving the desired color intensity and longevity.
Rinsing: Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water, which can strip color.
Conditioning: Apply the provided conditioner (if included) or a color-safe conditioner to lock in color and nourish your hair. Leave on for the recommended time, then rinse.
Real-World Performance: Users can expect a vibrant, deep black that effectively covers grays and provides a lasting color. The permanence means less frequent touch-ups for full coverage, typically only needed as new growth appears. The color holds well with proper care, maintaining its intensity and shine.
Before you begin, ensure you have:
Schwarzkopf LIVE B14 Permanent Black Hair Dye Kit: All components included.
Gloves: Always use the gloves provided in the kit.
Old Clothes/Towels: To protect your clothing and surfaces from stains.
Timer: To accurately track processing time.
Non-metallic bowl and brush: If the product requires mixing outside the applicator bottle.
Barrier Cream: Petroleum jelly or a thick moisturizer for skin protection.
Patch Test: Performed 48 hours prior to application. This is non-negotiable for safety.
Strand Test: Recommended to determine exact processing time and final color result on your specific hair type.
Hair Type: Generally suitable for all hair types. However, results may vary depending on your natural hair color, texture, and porosity.
Previously Colored Hair: Can be used on hair previously colored, but always perform a strand test to predict the outcome, especially if the previous color was very light or significantly different.
Bleached or Damaged Hair: Exercise caution. It's often advised to wait until hair is healthier or consult a professional, as bleached or porous hair can absorb color intensely or unevenly.
Age Group: Suitable for adults, as indicated by the product's attributes. Not recommended for use on children.
To prolong the vibrancy and health of your colored hair:
Use Color-Safe Products: Opt for shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. These formulations help preserve color and prevent fading.
Wash Less Frequently: Washing your hair less often can help the color last longer. Consider using dry shampoo between washes.
Cool Water Rinses: Rinse your hair with lukewarm or cool water instead of hot water, as hot water can open the hair cuticles and cause color to fade faster.
Limit Heat Styling: Excessive heat from styling tools (blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons) can cause color to fade. Use heat protectant sprays and lower heat settings.
Protect from Sun: UV rays can cause hair color to lighten and fade. Wear a hat or use UV-protective hair products when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Regular Conditioning: Keep your hair moisturized with regular conditioning and occasional deep conditioning treatments to maintain its health and shine after coloring.