I was getting bored of dying my hair different shades of brown, and had been considering going red for quite some time before taking the plunge. After much research and searching the internet for other people's results of different dyes, I finally picked up a box. Shade 5.62 Vibrant Red from the Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Colour range.

Other than really loving the colour on the model on the box, it was also specially designed for people with naturally dark hair. I really didn't want to bleach my hair but I knew lighter was better for getting the red pigment to 'stick'... So this was the next best thing. Initially I was worried that my new red hair would be too red for me, but the end result wasn't as bright as I was expecting. It was definitely red, but a dark shade that is more obvious in sunlight. I didn't realise this until catching my hair's reflection in a shop window one day, and I was rather impressed!

The application itself was very simple, just like dying your hair with any other box dye really. The first time I used this colour, I did leave it on that extra longer just to make sure it had fully taken to my hair. The rinsing the dye out however... What a mess!! If you're not EXTREMELY careful, you will end up with red coloured splashes of water everywhere. Also the first few days afterward I was finding red dye transference onto the collars and shoulders of my pajamas, and on my ears, neck etc. It was even dying my fingernails pink everytime I touched my hair! D: Luckily my pillow cases are red otherwise it probably would have dyed them too! One thing I really liked was how the dye doesn't have a strong, overpowering smell to it, nor did it make my head itch during the development time.

I was then given the tip to wash my hair as normal after washing the dye out, to help get all the excess dye out. This was something I had never needed to do with my dyes before but seeing as it was a different colour, and red is known to run, I thought I'd give it a go. The next time I dyed my hair with this colour, I followed this tip and surprisingly I didnt have any problems. Yay! The only thing is, everytime I wash my hair, the water does turn a little red, but this isn't an issue. Also I know some people say to wash your hair in cool water to stop the red dye fading quicker... But I wash my hair in hot water as always and I only need to dye it again once my roots start coming through. Never noticed any fading... Also I don't feel like it's ever dried my hair out. In fact my hair is left feeling soft and shiny :) Admittedly I do use products targeted at helping hair to look more glossy, but the dye does claim to keep your hair looking shiny for up to 8 weeks. The only other change I've made to my hair washing routine is buying shampoo and conditioner that are free of sulfates. A good sulfates free shampoo and conditioner to use (if you can get it on offer) is Naked Smooth for straight/longer hair, but I'll save that for another review ;)

The colour itself, although darker than expected, is really nice. And I'm actually surprised as to how much I like it! And even more surprised how many compliments I get! :) Highly recommended for those wanting to go red!