It’s no secret that many women are obsessed with hair extensions. After all, they can add length, volume, and color in a matter of minutes. But did you know that you can also dye hair extensions?
In this post, we’ll teach you how to color your hair extensions at home with simple methods. We’ll also provide you with some pointers on how to pick the appropriate hair color for your extensions as well as how to care for it.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about dying hair extensions!
So, Can You Dye Hair Extensions?
Yes, you can most certainly dye hair extensions! In fact, this is a great way to change up your look without having to commit to a new hairstyle or color.
Keep in mind that since hair extensions are not your own natural hair, they may not take to color as well as your strands would. This is because the cuticle of hair extensions is often damaged or non-existent, which means that the dye may not be able to penetrate the shaft properly.
That being said, you can still achieve a beautiful color on your hair extensions with the right products and methods. Let’s take a look at how to do it!
What to Prepare Before Dying Hair Extensions
There are a few things you’ll need to gather before dying your hair extensions. First, you’ll need to select hair color. If you’re unsure of which shade to choose, we recommend going one or two shades lighter than your natural hair color. This will help prevent any unwanted brassiness or uneven coloring.
You’ll also need to purchase a coloring brush, a bowl for mixing the dye, gloves, and clips to keep the hair out of your way. We also recommend using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and care for your extensions after they’ve been dyed.
Now that you’ve acquired all of the necessary materials, let’s get started on the dying procedure!
NOTE: If you are going from a light color to a darker color, you will not need to bleach your hair first. However, if you are trying to achieve a lighter color, you will need to use a bleach kit on your extensions before dying them. We do not recommend bleaching your own hair at home as this can be very damaging.
How to Color Hair Extensions
There are two main ways that you can color hair extensions: with hair dye or with colored hair chalk.
Hair Dye
If you want to use hair dye on your extensions, we recommend opting for semi-permanent or demi-permanent color. These types of hair dye will be less damaging to your extensions than a permanent hair color would be.
Additionally, it’s important to use a high-quality hair dye that is specifically designed for coloring hair extensions. We also recommend doing a patch test on a small section of your hair extensions before applying the dye to your entire head.
To color your hair extensions with hair dye, follow these simple steps:
- Begin by placing your hair extensions in a bowl or sink filled with cool water. Allow them to soak for at least 15 minutes.
- Next, mix together your semi-permanent hair color according to the instructions on the box.
- Apply the hair color to your extensions, using a brush or your fingers to work it in evenly.
- Allow the dye to sit on your hair for the amount of time specified on the box.
- Rinse your extensions thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
- Shampoo and condition your extensions as you normally would.
- Allow your extensions to air dry or style them as usual.
Hair Chalk
If you want to add a pop of color to your hair extensions without using hair dye, then hair chalk is the way to go! This is a great temporary coloring option that will give your extensions some extra dimension and fun.
To use hair chalk on your extensions, follow these steps:
- Begin by spraying your hair extensions with a light mist of water. This will help the chalk to adhere to your hair.
- Next, rub the chalk directly onto your hair extensions, using as much or as little as you want.
- Once you’re happy with the color, seal it in by spraying your extensions with a light layer of hairspray.
- Allow your extensions to air dry or style them as usual.
- When you’re ready to remove the color, simply wash your extensions with shampoo and conditioner as you normally would.
Picking the Right Hair Color for Your Extensions
When choosing a hair color for your extensions, it’s important to take into account both your natural hair color and skin tone. If you have fair skin, we recommend avoiding hair colors that are too dark or vibrant, as they can look harsh. Instead, opt for softer, more natural-looking colors like blonde, light brown, or reddish brown.
If you have medium skin, you can get away with a wider range of colors. To avoid washing out your complexion, however, we recommend sticking to colors that are on the richer end of the spectrum, such as chocolate brown, auburn, or burgundy.
And if you have dark skin, you can pretty much rock any hair color! Just be sure to avoid colors that are too close to your skin tone, as they can make your extensions blend in instead of stand out.
Some of our favorite hair colors for extensions include:
- Blonde
- Brown
- Black
- Red
- Auburn
- Burgundy
How to Care for Colored Hair Extensions
Now that you know how to color your hair extensions, it’s important to know how to properly care for them so that the color lasts as long as possible. We recommend using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner on your extensions, as well as avoiding heat styling tools whenever possible.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to use a leave-in conditioner or serum on your extensions to help keep them hydrated and healthy. And be sure to avoid using any products that contain alcohol, as this can strip the color from your hair.
You can maintain your colored hair extensions looking fresh and beautiful for weeks if you use the advice below!
Read Also: Can You Perm Hair Extensions?
Does Dyeing Hair Extensions Damage Them?
Dyeing your hair extensions can cause some damage, but this will vary depending on the quality of the extensions and how well you take care of them.
If you use a good quality hair dye and follow the directions carefully, you should be able to minimize any damage. Be sure to deep condition your hair extensions regularly to help keep them healthy and looking their best.
The Verdict
Hair extensions can be colored using semi-permanent or semi-permanent hair color. Before applying the dye to your whole head, we recommend conducting a patch test on a small portion of your hair extensions. This will allow you to examine the shade and make sure it is what you want before putting it all over your head.
When dying your hair extensions, use high-quality hair color and follow the instructions precisely to minimize any damage. To maintain your hair extensions looking good, deep treat them on a regular basis.
Have you ever tried dying your hair extensions? What tips would you add? Let us know in the comments below!
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