Crochet hair extensions have become a popular protective style for natural hair. Unlike sew-in weaves, crochet hair is installed by latching the extensions onto cornrows or braids with a crochet needle, allowing for a quicker install and less tension on the natural hair. Synthetic crochet hair is an affordable option, but many people wonder if it can be dyed to match their natural hair color or create highlights like human hair extensions.
Can Synthetic Crochet Hair Be Dyed?
The short answer is no, synthetic crochet hair cannot be dyed with traditional hair dye. The materials used to make synthetic hair, like kanekalon and toyokalon, are plastic-based fibers that do not absorb dye in the same way as human hair. Attempting to bleach or dye synthetic hair will not change the color and often damages the fibers.
However, there are spray-on synthetic hair color products that can temporarily coat the hair strands. This does not permanently alter the extension color like dyeing would, but it can add a tint of color. The spray color washes out with shampoo. It works best for adding lighter colors like blonde highlights or ombre effects. Spraying a darker color likely will not show up well on synthetic hair.
Why You Can’t Dye Synthetic Hair
Human hair is made of a protein called keratin that has a rough, porous surface for absorbing and retaining color. The cuticle layers on our hair strands open when bleaching or dyeing agents are applied, allowing the color to penetrate the cortex internally. Synthetic fibers lack this cuticle structure and protein content. Instead, they are constructed of various types of plastic for making the artificial hair strands.
Applying permanent hair dye to synthetic hair may damage the fibers but it will not alter the color in any noticeable way. The plastic material is unaffected by the ammonia and developer used to open cuticles and deposit color. Any change you notice is likely residual dye coating the strands temporarily.
| Human Hair | Synthetic Hair |
|---|---|
| Made of keratin protein | Made of plastic fibers |
| Cuticle layers open to absorb dye | No cuticle structure |
| Dye penetrates cortex for permanent color | Impervious to permanent dye |
As the table illustrates, the fundamental composition of real and synthetic hair makes one absorb color permanently while the other is unaffected. The plastic fibers are too dense for dye molecules to penetrate and initiate a lasting color change.
Options for Coloring Synthetic Hair
While you can’t alter the original color of synthetic crochet braids, you do have some options for adding temporary color or highlights:
- Spray-on synthetic color – Temporary spray made for synthetic wigs and extensions comes in many vivid colors. It lasts 1-2 shampoos.
- Hair chalk – Colored hair chalk sticks coat strands for a very temporary, fun look that washes out easily.
- Hair mascara – Similar to spray-on color, hair mascaras tint smaller sections for a more subtle look.
- Buy pre-colored hair – Choose a brand like FreeTress Equal that offers synthetic hair in a rainbow of colors.
These temporary color methods help switch up the look while protecting the integrity of the synthetic fibers. The color washes out easily when you are ready for a new look.
Dyeing Human Hair Crochet Braids
While synthetic crochet hair cannot be dyed, extensions made from human hair can be colored to match your own hair. Brands like Bohemian, X-Pression, and Outre’ Natural Yaki create crochet braids from 100% Remy human hair from donors.
Real human hair has the cuticle layers and protein content needed to successfully absorb permanent hair dye. Follow these tips for dyeing human crochet braids:
- Wash hair before applying dye to remove residue.
- Use professional semi- or demi-permanent hair dye for best results.
- Separate sections of hair and use a tint or foil method to apply dye.
- Rinse thoroughly and deep condition after processing.
- Expect some fading after 6-8 weeks as color washes out.
It’s best to have your stylist do the initial coloring to ensure even results. Schedule touch-ups as needed around the same time you would get your natural hair colored. With proper application and care, dyed human crochet braids will hold the new color well and can be redyed as needed.
Caring for Colored Synthetic Hair
While you can’t permanently dye synthetic crochet braids, adding temporary color does require some aftercare to keep the hair looking its best:
- Use color-protecting shampoo and gentle brushing to make sprayed color last longer.
- Avoid getting hair wet or brushing after applying chalk or mascara to prevent transfer.
- Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup from temporary color.
- Set with rollers instead of heat tools to extend the life of synthetic hair color.
- Switch to a fresh pack of hair once temporary color fades to revitalize your look.
Even when using temporary coloring methods, take steps to keep the synthetic fibers from becoming dry and the color from rubbing off onto clothing, pillowcases, and your face. With proper care, you can switch up the color of synthetic crochet braids while keeping the hair soft and vibrant.
Conclusion
While synthetic crochet braids lack the ability to absorb permanent hair dye, you can use temporary color sprays, mascaras, and chalks to customize the look until your next install. Or opt for pre-colored synthetic hair in any shade. If you want to permanently dye crochet extensions, choose Remy human hair instead of synthetic fiber. With the right hair type and coloring method, you can match your crochet braids to your real hair for a seamless and personalized look.