The Complete Handbook of Hair Coloring Accessories
A Professional's Field Guide to Tools, Techniques, and Selection
by Alumigogo Books
non-fiction
The definitive practical reference for selecting, using, and maintaining every tool in the hair colorist's arsenal.
About this book
The difference between an average color application and an exceptional one is often not the dye itself, but the tools used to apply it. From the precise bead of a squeeze bottle to the seamless blend of a brush, hair coloring accessories are the critical link between a colorist's skill and the final result. This handbook is a comprehensive, vendor-neutral guide to the entire category, written for working professionals and serious hobbyists who demand more than marketing fluff.
Inside, you will find a systematic breakdown of accessory types—from applicator bottles and brushes to foils, caps, and protective equipment—with a clear focus on the specifications that matter: material compatibility, volume markings, bristle types, and durability. The book moves beyond simple listing to provide practical decision-making frameworks, so you can confidently select the right tool for a precise balayage, a full-head foil, or a corrective color service. It also covers proper installation, daily usage, maintenance, and troubleshooting, helping you extend the life of your tools and avoid common salon pitfalls.
Written in a clear, instructional tone, this handbook also explores the business side of accessories, including supplier relationships and opportunities for ancillary revenue. It addresses future trends in materials and technology, and provides a curated overview of expert resources. Whether you are outfitting a new salon, updating your kit, or teaching the next generation of colorists, this is the reference you will keep within reach.
Reader Reviews
Paul Green
★★★★★It's a solid reference and I've already used it to standardize the back bar. The chapter on choosing bottles was more detailed than I expected, and it made me realize I was using the wrong tips for thick color. My main gripe is that some sections feel heavily geared toward someone just starting out, like the part on basic brush care. For a veteran colorist, a lot of that is second nature. Still, it's well-organized and the troubleshooting charts alone are worth the price for training new assistants. Good, but not the deep dive I was hoping for in every section.
Kathleen Nguyen
★★★★★I bought this for my kit and as a quick reference for my students. The breakdown of the different bottle capacities and tip types was really helpful for explaining to them why we use certain tools for certain services. I appreciate that it doesn't push any particular brand. It feels very practical. The only reason I'm not giving it five stars is that I wish the maintenance chapter had more detail on specific cleaning chemicals that are safe for all the different plastics and silicone parts. It gives general rules, but I'd have liked a more exhaustive compatibility chart.