5 things you should know before dyeing your hair, according to a stylist

"Rainbow-colored hair usually requires the most maintenance because it fades faster than traditional hair colors," McCarthy said.

If you don't bleach your hair prior to adding a rainbow color, it might not show up exactly the way you want it, especially if you have darker hair.

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Dye can alter the natural texture of hair over time. Certain color services are harsher on the hair than others, especially those that require longer and more frequent treatments like bleaching.

"Make sure you have a full consultation of any expectations. You should know that coloring the hair can change the texture and even the volume of your hair," McCarthy told Insider.

Your new color will likely require some upkeep after the initial dye. You might have to frequent the salon often to keep your color from fading or splurge on special shampoo and conditioner made for color-treated hair.

McCarthy suggests that those interested in coloring their hair should make sure that the financial aspect and time commitment surrounding color-treated hair fits into their lifestyle.

Once you know the look you are aiming for, consult your hairstylist (or the directions of the home treatment) to make sure you fully understand how much of a time commitment dyeing your hair will be.

You should also make sure to research how many applications it may take to reach your specific hair goals. Sometimes, it'll take more than one trip to the salon or more than one box of dye to achieve your desired look.

"Celebrities like the Kardashians have brown hair one day, blonde the next, and sometimes these can be eight-hour projects or even a hairpiece," McCarthy said. "It can be a process to get to your desired color. Your blonde isn't my blonde, your auburn isn't my auburn. Sometimes it takes more than one visit to reach your ultimate goal."

You probably have an idea of what type of color service you would like, but it's still important to do plenty of research before heading to the salon or buying dye from the store.

"Do your due diligence and make sure you have inspiration photos," hairstylist and salon owner Maureen McCarthy told Insider. "In regards to coloring from the store, know that the color on the box is not taking into consideration what's on your head. The same color on three different people can yield three different results even in a salon."

Scour the internet for different types of hair-color inspiration before dyeing your hair, and save photos to show the stylist exactly what color you want if you're going to a salon.