If you want to refresh your look, coloring your hair extensions can be a fun and effective way to change up your style. Wondering, "Can I dye my hair extensions?" The answer is yes! However, there are essential tips to consider to ensure you achieve the best results without damaging your extensions.
Hair extensions are a fantastic investment, offering instant length, dimension, and volume to your hair. However, dyeing them requires some care. For those not confident in their coloring skills, it's best to visit a professional salon to avoid any potential damage. But if you're feeling adventurous and want to save some money, dyeing your hair extensions at home is an option.
Essential Tips for Dyeing Hair Extensions at Home
- Choose the Right Extensions: Ensure you are using high-quality, 100% human hair extensions, as synthetic extensions do not take dye well and can be damaged by the process.
- Prep Your Extensions: Before dyeing, thoroughly wash your hair extensions to remove any product buildup. This helps the dye to adhere better and provides an even color.
- Select the Right Dye: Use a dye specifically formulated for human hair. Semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes are generally safer for hair extensions.
- Perform a Strand Test: Always do a strand test first. This helps you see how the hair will react to the dye and ensure you achieve the desired color.
- Apply Dye Evenly: When applying the dye, ensure it is distributed evenly. Use a brush and work the dye through the hair from roots to tips to avoid patchiness.
- Monitor the Process: Keep a close eye on the time. Extensions can absorb dye faster than natural hair, so check them regularly to prevent over-processing.
- Rinse and Condition: After achieving the desired color, rinse the extensions thoroughly with cool water. Apply a deep conditioner to restore moisture and shine.
Alternative to Dyeing: Pre-Colored Extensions
If you're short on time or prefer not to dye your extensions yourself, consider our Halo collection. These pre-colored hair extensions offer a hassle-free way to update your look without the mess and stress of DIY dyeing.
Remember, while coloring your hair extensions can be a fun project, it's crucial to handle them with care to maintain their quality and longevity. For more tips and to explore our range of hair extensions, visit FABULIVE.
THE PROCESS FOR GOING DARKER IS DIFFERENT FROM GOING LIGHTER
Just like natural hair, you can color hair extensions to the shade you desire. If you’re aiming to make your extensions darker or alter the tone, the process is straightforward and can be done at home. Use a high-quality, semi-permanent dye for the best results, ensuring you follow the steps for even application and conditioning afterward.
However, if you want to go lighter, we don't recommend doing this with hair extensions. Bleaching, lightening, or highlighting hair extensions can be complicated and risky, potentially causing significant damage. If you need lighter extensions, it’s best to bleach virgin hair (hair that hasn’t been dyed before). Always consult the brand's dyeing instructions and seek advice from a professional hair stylist before proceeding. This ensures the integrity and longevity of your extensions.
YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS NEED TO BE MADE OF HUMAN HAIR
Before you begin coloring your extensions, ensure they are made of natural human hair. Experts strongly advise against dyeing synthetic hair, as it has been chemically treated and typically cannot withstand the dyeing process. If you’re wondering about FABULIVE hair extensions, we’re pleased to confirm that all FABULIVE extensions are made from high-quality, 100% Remy human hair. However, only our Classic and Halo extensions can be dyed without damage.
For those using Seamless clip-in hair extensions, it’s important to note that the silicone strip will retain its original color if dyed. Therefore, we recommend avoiding our Seamless products if you plan to dye your extensions. Once you've confirmed your extensions can be dyed, a world of creative coloring opportunities awaits. Not only can you color hair extensions to match your natural hair, but you can also experiment with trendy styles like ombre. An ombre effect involves darker roots that transition to lighter ends, offering a beautiful gradient look.
To achieve a natural dark-to-light ombre, dye the top half of your extensions a shade or two darker to blend seamlessly with your hair color. This technique means you should select extensions that match the lighter ends of your desired ombre look. By carefully coloring the top half to match your roots, you’ll create a cohesive and stylish appearance.
Remember, achieving the best results involves using high-quality human hair extensions and following proper dyeing techniques. This ensures your extensions remain vibrant, healthy, and long-lasting. For more expert tips and to explore our range of dye-friendly hair extensions, visit FABULIVE.
Ready to get started? Keep scrolling for our complete, step-by-step guide to dyeing hair extensions.
How to color hair extensions
- CHOOSE A COLOR
Start by selecting the perfect shade for your hair extensions. It’s essential to use professional hair color and developer lines, as drugstore boxed color doesn’t allow you to choose the appropriate developer for extensions. Typically, a 10-volume developer or demi-permanent color is recommended. For first-time dyers, expert stylists advise opting for a subtle shade change to minimize the risk of damage or breakage. If you’re aiming for drastic changes like platinum highlights or a white-blonde look, it’s best to seek professional assistance to achieve the desired results.
- GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES
In addition to hair color and developer, gather essential supplies including hair color gloves, a color bowl and brush, tin foil, plastic wrap, wide-tooth comb, and a towel. If you’re using the watercolor method, you’ll need a deep container such as a sink, mixing bowl, or plastic bucket. Once you have all your supplies, prepare your workspace. Dyeing hair can be messy, so cover surfaces with sheets of tin foil to prevent any unwanted color stains. Having everything ready ensures a smooth and efficient dyeing process, allowing you to achieve professional-looking results from the comfort of your own home.
- PREP YOUR HAIR
Before applying color, it's crucial to prepare your Luxy Hair extensions properly. Although Luxies come pre-conditioned with a silky coating, this needs to be removed for the color to absorb evenly. Begin by filling your sink with lukewarm water and adding 2-3 dollops of shampoo to create a soapy solution. Wash each weft individually, gently submerging them in the water and avoiding rubbing to prevent tangling. After washing, air-dry the extensions thoroughly before starting the color application. Ensure they are completely dry and comb through to remove any tangles or styling products before laying them on the tin foil.
- MIX THE COLOR
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to prepare your hair color. Most dyes consist of equal parts color and developer, with around 3-5 ounces of color typically needed for extensions. It's essential to have enough dye on hand to avoid running out mid-process. For those planning to dye blonde extensions with fashion or bright colors like pink, blue, or grey, consider the watercolor method. Instead of applying dye directly to each weft, submerge the extensions in a mixture of water and dye. Prepare the solution by adding a quarter-sized amount of dye to hot water in a deep container or sink. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the dye completely, ensuring the water turns a vibrant color. Keep adding dye until the desired color intensity is achieved. Note that bright colors can stain white or porcelain sinks, so opt for a stainless steel sink or use caution when using this method.
- APPLY THE HAIR COLOR
Before diving into the full dyeing process, always perform a strand test. This involves painting a small section of hair or a single clip weft with dye to ensure the desired color is achieved without any unexpected results.
If you're using the watercolor method, fully immerse the weft in the dye-water mixture for a few seconds to a minute. Remove it and gently squeeze out excess water, checking how much color the hair has absorbed. Repeat the process as needed to achieve the desired vibrancy, adjusting the dye concentration or soaking time accordingly. Keep in mind that the color may appear lighter once dried. Once you've determined the right color, proceed with the dye application. Put on gloves and use a color brush to coat each weft evenly, working from top to bottom. Avoid applying color in an upward motion, as this could damage the hair and create a frizzy appearance. Ensure both sides of the weft are fully saturated with dye.
For the watercolor method, repeat the same process for each weft, adjusting the dye concentration or adding more dye as needed. As you continue, you may notice the color of the water lightening or less water remaining in the container. Simply add more dye or water to maintain the desired intensity. After coloring, allow the dye to process for the recommended time specified on the box. Then, rinse, shampoo, and dry the extensions as usual. If using the watercolor method, skip the shampoo step to preserve the semi-permanent dye.
While this may seem like a meticulous process, performing a strand test ensures the color outcome matches your expectations before dyeing all of the extensions. Once complete, you'll have beautifully colored hair extensions ready to elevate your look with vibrant hues and personalized style.
- PROCESS THE COLOR
Once you've applied the dye to all your extensions, loosely cover them with plastic wrap to prevent the color from drying out before it fully saturates the hair. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the processing time, typically ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. During this time, periodically check the color by gently rubbing a paper towel over a small section of hair. If necessary, reapply color using the color brush after these checks.
- RINSE YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS
After the designated processing time and once you're satisfied with the color, it's time to rinse the extensions thoroughly. Use cool water at a low pressure, running your fingers through the hair to remove any excess dye. Ensure the water flows in the direction of the hair's natural fall, from the top of the extensions to the bottom. Continue rinsing for at least 15 to 20 minutes to ensure all residual dye is washed away.
After rinsing, shampoo your extensions with a sulfate-free moisturizing or color-friendly formula. However, if you're using the watercolor method, skip the shampoo step to preserve the semi-permanent dye. Instead, proceed directly to a sulfate-free deep conditioning treatment to replenish any lost moisture during the dyeing process.
Following these steps ensures your hair extensions maintain their vibrancy and health after coloring. By properly rinsing and conditioning, you'll keep your extensions looking fresh and vibrant, ready to complement your style with beautiful, personalized color.
- COMB AND LET HAIR DRY
After the coloring process, it's crucial to give your extensions some tender loving care. Lay a towel over your work surface and apply a leave-in conditioner to your extensions. Gently brush the hair with a wide-tooth comb once it's mostly dry to minimize shedding. Allow the extensions to air-dry completely, avoiding the use of a blow dryer. If you plan to use heat styling tools like a curling iron, ensure the extensions are thoroughly dry and apply a heat protectant spray for added protection.
- STYLE YOUR EXTENSIONS
Once your extensions are dry, it's time to unleash your creativity and style them to perfection. Whether you prefer classic long waves or an ultra-high ponytail, there are countless styling options to explore. Begin by styling your natural hair first to create a seamless blend with the extensions.
For natural-looking waves, use a curling iron on one-inch sections of hair, wrapping them around the barrel away from your head. Once curled, gently brush through the hair for a smooth finish.
Before clipping in the extensions, curl them to ensure they blend seamlessly with your styled hair. Start at the nape of your neck, clipping in a three-inch weft, then gradually work your way up, using larger wefts for the widest part of your head. Finish by adding one- and two-inch wefts around your face for added length and volume. To add the finishing touches, apply a coat of lightweight hairspray for a glossy shine. For extra luster and to tame any frizz, apply a small amount of hair oil to the ends and any areas that need smoothing.
With these styling tips, your hair extensions will look effortlessly glamorous, ready to enhance your natural beauty and elevate your hairstyle to the next level. Experiment with different styles and techniques to discover your signature look with confidence.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you're ready to tackle a DIY dye job at home, coloring your hair extensions can be a rewarding experience. However, ensure your extensions are made of real human hair and that you're only dyeing them a darker shade to avoid potential damage. While dyeing extensions at home can be fun and cost-effective, it's important to follow the instructions carefully. If any step feels overwhelming or if you're concerned about the outcome, it's best to seek the expertise of a professional hair colorist. They have the skills and knowledge to ensure your extensions are dyed safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of damage.
Ultimately, whether you choose to color your extensions at home or visit a professional, the goal is to achieve beautiful, vibrant hair that enhances your overall look. So, weigh your options and make the choice that best suits your comfort level and desired outcome.