Using a color rinse is an easy way to change your appearance without the drama of the effects being permanent. Rinses only coat the outside of the hair shaft so your normal color should return after six to eight washes. However, there are a limited number of options for people with black hair who want to rinse it. Because the hair is so dark, a rinse is too weak to lighten the hair. But reds, purples, and blues will work and add depth to your dark natural color.

Rinse your hair under warm water until it is fully saturated.

Put on the plastic gloves provided with the hair rinse and mix the color according to the instructions provided.

Put a towel over your shoulders to protect your clothes. Comb through your hair to get rid of any tangles.

Use the applicator tip of the color rinse bottle to divide your hair into quarter-inch partings, using the hair clips to help keep the separated parts of hair in place. Squeeze the bottle and work the mixture through the hair, being careful not to drip any dye onto anything, as it will stain. At each section, distribute the dye into the root and rub it in. Rub the remainder through the length of your hair until all of it is completely saturated.

Use the hand-held mirror to check the back of your head in case you have missed any spots. Pull your hair back away from your face but don't clip up so the color has a chance to breathe. Leave the rinse on for the time allocated in the directions.

Shower and wash out the rinse, following the directions on shampooing and conditioning afterward. Blow dry and style as normal.