Q: I only use a single process hair color, but is there a big difference in the color I can do myself at home and what I would get at a salon?

A: I so don’t advocate the coloring of one’s hair at home. Too many times I’ve seen corrective color walking through the door. The hairstylist’s color room has so much more range and strength to their chemicals than do the over-the-counter colors at grocery stores.

Nine times out of 10, the blonds will be brassy and the brunettes too dark. Remember, there is a science to hair color, which is why we have to be licensed to do these services. Usually the color you see on the box is not going to be the color your hair turns out. Leave it to the professionals.

Matthew Shields was attending Fashion College in England when at 16 he realized that hair styling was the natural extension of his creativity. At 21 he moved to the United States and has found great success. Fifteen years ago, he was discovered by international stylist Sally Hershberger, who developed his eye and honed his talents. His career includes working on movies and with actors such as Meg Ryan, Jane Fonda, Greg Kinnear, Ellen DeGeneres, Lisa Rinna among others. Send your questions to Matthew@smartnow.com.