I started with A1 instead of Step 1 which resulted in me following that instruction -putting only tube 1 on my hair !!! 15 mins later partner noticed and we then frantically mixed the rest with the other bottle and mixed all together in my hair then left it on but not too long as was then worried about overall time Despite this my hair came out ok ! Clairol should make this clearer as I went straight to A1 and tube 1 And followed that Yes we should all read the full instructions but stick to one set of 1s please Barbara User's recommendation: Read the instructions thoroughly.