I am thinking about coloring my hair lighter. Not only do I want a bit of a change but I'd also like to bring my hair color close to my natural one. I haven't dyed my hair in over six months but the last time I had it was a permanent dye. It was L'Oreal Natural Match to be even more specific and I believe it was in the 5s. Right now it's a medium a tad darkish brown, I just want to lighten it to more of a light brown. Unfortunately at this time I just can't afford the professionals. L'Oreal color fix and such aren't an option for me either. I've heard not so great things about such products and they are hard to come by where I live.

My hair color now and my natural color aren't too far off, I mean they aren't on the opposite ends of the spectrum. I have let it grow out for a while and the roots are a shade or two lighter than the bottom. I just don't want any funky colors, rather something natural looking. I don't have the experience to know how to go about doing this. I have a bit of a spectrum from light to dark, top to bottom, I would like to know if the dying cover this with one common color or if it will just reinforce it.

Is there any particular way to go about doing this? Any suggestions? Should I be looking at a hair dye a couple shades lighter? Is there anything I will want to be careful about because of my previous dying? Is this even possible or am I being too optimistic?

Like I said I'm not a voice of experience at all! :p Help a girl out will you?

Just because I am still recovering from my last coloring- be CAREFUL how long it's left on-- my got burnt in the front and I have this little shock of frizzy "bangs" and I never had bangs before!!

If you want to go from dark brown to light brown or lighter, you will need to lighten your hair with bleach and then apply the desired color. Anything other than that will result in a red/orange shade. To avoid a hair disaster, you should consider getting your hair professionally done.

Should I decide to go to a professional on average how much does this procedure regularly cost?

Beauty salons may charge different prices for each of the services they offer. You might want to do some research on the salons in your area to find out which one offers a great service at reasonable prices.