Kool-Aid is best-known as a drink mix for kids, but you can also take advantage of its bright color to create a homemade hair dye. For people with dark hair, Kool-Aid dye results in a subtle tint that will fade away over several washings, allowing you to experiment with hair color without permanent consequences.
Apply petroleum jelly to any skin areas that might come in contact with the Kool-Aid. Cover your ears and forehead generously to prevent staining.
Empty unsweetened Kool-Aid packets into a glass bowl. Determine how many packets to use based on the amount of hair you are dyeing. Short hair might require only three packets, whereas long or especially thick hair might require seven or more.
Add a few drops of water to the Kool-Aid. Mix to create a thick paste.
Add a few drops of conditioner to the mixture to make it easier to apply and to help the dye permeate your hair. Mix until all lumps are gone and the paste is smooth and creamy.
Place an old towel around your shoulders to protect your clothing, and put on plastic gloves. Dip your hands into the mixture and massage it into your hair wherever you want the color to appear.
Wrap your entire head in plastic wrap. If you have long hair, gather it on top of your head before wrapping. Secure the plastic wrap with tape.
Keep the plastic wrap on for six to eight hours, then remove it and wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner.