Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October 2026. If you want purple coils, red streaks or glitter for one night only, temporary hair colour is the easy option. It goes on in minutes and comes out with a wash, with no bleach and no long-term commitment.
This guide covers the two main types we sell, colour wax and colour spray. It explains which suits natural and afro hair, and how to use them safely.
Colour wax or colour spray?
- Colour wax is a coloured styling wax that you work through the hair with your fingers. It suits curls, coils and twist-outs, because it defines and holds as well as adding colour.
- Colour spray is an aerosol that you mist over dry, styled hair. It is quick and cheap, and good for streaks, tips, glitter or an all-over colour for a costume.
As a rule, choose wax if you want to colour and shape natural hair at the same time. Choose spray if you want fast, bold colour over a style that is already done.
Colour wax for natural hair: ORS Color Blast
ORS Curls Unleashed Color Blast Temporary Hair Makeup Wax is made for textured hair. It comes in a 6oz jar and is made with beeswax. ORS says it gives a medium to firm hold and washes out in one wash.
Shades in stock now:
- Violette, a purple (£6.49)
- Dragon Fruit (£7.99)
- Mystic (£6.49)
- Gray Galaxy, a grey that works well for witches, ghosts and zombies (£6.49)
You can mix shades for your own look.
How to use colour wax
- Start with clean, detangled hair.
- Dampen the hair. For a softer finish, add a little leave-in conditioner, lotion or cream first.
- Take a small amount of wax and work it through a section with your fingers, from root to tip or just on the ends.
- Add more for a bolder colour. It is easier to shape while the hair is damp.
- Let it dry, then style.
Wax can rub off onto pillows, sofas and collars. Sleep in a satin bonnet or scarf and wear dark clothes on the night.
Colour sprays: quick colour for costumes
For an all-over colour change or a bit of sparkle, a spray is the fastest choice.
- Colour Culture Temporary Hair Colour Spray (£2.49) comes in Black, Brown, Red, Blue, Gold, Silver Glitter and Multi Glitter. Spray it on and shampoo it out.
- Colour For Me Hair Colour Spray 125ml (£1.99) comes in Black, Blue, Brown, Red and Gold.
How to use colour spray
- Style your hair first and make sure it is dry.
- Put an old towel round your shoulders.
- Shake the can well.
- Hold the can upright and spray in short bursts from about 20cm away. Cover your face and eyes.
- Let it dry fully before you touch it or put on a costume.
- Shampoo it out after the party.
Which colour shows on dark hair?
Results vary with your natural hair colour. On very dark hair, bright shades can look softer than they do on the lid. To get an idea before the night, try a small section first. Gold, silver and glitter shades catch the light well, and grey or black give a dramatic look for costumes.
Using temporary colour safely
- Do a skin test. Even wash-out colour can irritate sensitive skin. Try a small amount behind the ear or on the inner elbow a day or two before Halloween. If you get redness, itching or swelling, do not use it.
- Read the label and follow the directions and warnings on the pack.
- Keep sprays away from flames. Aerosols are flammable. Don't spray near candles, lit pumpkins or heaters, and don't smoke while spraying.
- Protect your eyes. Cover your face while spraying, and spray in a well-aired room.
- Not for broken skin. Avoid sore, broken or irritated scalps.
- Children: an adult should apply the colour and check the label to see whether the product is suitable for children.
Getting the best results
- Apply colour on the day, after your hair is styled.
- Use less product and build up. Too much can feel stiff or flaky.
- Pack the can or jar for touch-ups if you are out all night.
- Wash it out the next day with a good shampoo, then condition to put moisture back.
- Cover pale bedding and car seats until the colour is washed out.
Finish the look
Our Halloween page has more ideas, including wigs, makeup, lashes and nails, and the scary contact lenses we sell in store. You'll find every wash-out shade in our temporary hair colour collection.
Where to buy in Leeds
Order online with UK delivery, free on orders over £75. Order early so your colour arrives before Saturday 31 October. You can also pick up from our stores in Chapeltown, Roundhay or Leeds City Centre. To check a shade is in stock, call 0113 249 5562.
