Extensions can be a great way to add length, volume, or highlights to your natural hair. However, changing the color of extensions requires some care to avoid damaging them. Here’s a look at what happens when you dye extensions and how to do it properly.
Can You Dye Extensions?
Yes, it is possible to dye extensions but the process is a bit different than coloring your natural hair. Extensions are made of either human hair or synthetic fibers. Human hair extensions can be dyed just like your own hair, but the dye may not take as well. Synthetic extensions cannot be dyed with permanent hair dye. However, there are specialty dyes made specifically for synthetic extensions that can work.
Process of Dyeing Extensions
If you have human hair extensions, you can dye them with traditional permanent hair dye. Here is the process:
- Detach the extensions from your hair if they are clipped in or on a weft.
- Wash the extensions thoroughly and let them air dry.
- Apply petroleum jelly around the roots and weft band to avoid absorption of dye.
- Prepare the dye and apply it to the extensions following the product directions.
- Rinse the extensions for several minutes until the water runs clear.
- Air dry the extensions completely and style as desired.
Some tips when dyeing extensions:
- Test a strand first to ensure the color comes out as expected.
- Use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye as it will be gentler.
- If bleaching, use a lower volume developer like 10 or 20 volume.
- Avoid getting dye or bleach on attachment clips, bands, or wefts.
- Follow timing directions carefully to avoid overprocessing.
For synthetic extensions, you’ll need to use a specially formulated dye made for synthetic hair. Follow the brand’s instructions carefully. The dyes won’t permanently alter the synthetic fibers but can add a fashionable color that eventually washes out over several weeks.
What Happens When Dyeing Extensions
When you dye extensions, whether human hair or synthetic, here is what typically happens:
- Color is deposited into the hair fibers and cuticle, altering the tone and shade.
- Permanent dyes swell up and penetrate the hair cortex to permanently change the color.
- Demi-permanent dyes coat the outside of the hair and wash out over 4-12 shampoos.
- Synthetic dyes coat the fiber surface and stay until removed with clarifying shampoo.
- Developer and bleach lighten the melanin in hair strands to allow dye to deposit.
- Extensions may feel a bit drier and rougher after coloring.
- Overprocessing with bleach or dye can damage cuticle scales leading to frizz.
The results you get will depend on the original shade of the extensions, whether they are human hair or synthetic, and the color product used. Test first for your desired look.
How to Care for Dyed Extensions
Extentions require some special care after dyeing to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips:
- Wash with sulfate-free shampoo made for colored hair.
- Rinse with cool water and avoid heat styling when possible.
- Use a deep conditioner or hair mask weekly.
- Blot wet extensions gently with a towel, no rubbing.
- Detangle very gently with a wide-tooth comb.
- Avoid chlorine, salt water, and sun exposure to prevent fading.
- Use a color-protecting spray before heat styling.
- Get regular trims if the ends look damaged.
With proper care, dyed extensions can maintain their color vibrancy and last for months. Heat and sun exposure are the biggest causes of fading. Washing less often preserves the color longer too.
How Long Will Dyed Extensions Last?
How long dyed extensions retain their new color depends on several factors:
- Hair quality – High quality human hair holds color better than synthetic.
- Attachment method – Clip-ins maintain color longer than tapes or wefts.
- Permanence of dye – Permanent dye lasts longer than semi-permanent.
- Hair porosity – Color washes out faster on porous, damaged hair.
- Aftercare – Following proper care steps extends color life.
- Frequency of washing – Less washing means less fading.
With optimal conditions, here is the approximate lifespan of dyed extensions:
| Type of Dye | Lifespan of Color |
|---|---|
| Permanent | 4-6 months |
| Demi-permanent | 6-10 weeks |
| Semi-permanent | 4-8 weeks |
| Synthetic dye | 4-10 weeks |
| Bleach and dye | 4-8 weeks |
You’ll need to re-dye the extensions once you notice significant fading or regrowth to match your natural hair color.
Risks and Considerations
While dyeing extensions can give you a whole new look, there are some risks and considerations to think about first:
- Dye may not take evenly, leaving a splotchy result.
- Overprocessing can damage the hair leading to dryness and breakage.
- Bleach and permanent dye are harsher on extensions than natural hair.
- Metal clips and bands may react with dye and become discolored.
- Color may fade or bleed onto clothing and bedding.
- Roots will need re-touching as your natural hair grows out.
- Synthetic extensions may only take very light pastel shades.
To avoid surprises, do a strand test first and evaluate the condition of extensions before dyeing. It’s best to have them professionally dyed if you have any concerns about the material or construction.
For clip-ins, opt for semi-permanent dyes which will wash out gradually if you make a mistake.
Should You Dye Extensions Professionally?
While you can dye extensions at home, having them professionally colored offers some advantages:
- The stylist can evaluate hair quality and porosity first.
- They have access to professional grade dyes and developers.
- They know techniques to minimize damage from lightening.
- They can blend seamlessly into your roots.
- Professionals use olaplex and bonders to maintain integrity.
- They can tweak tone and formula for your best match.
- They have experience working with extensions of all types.
The takeaway? While you can dye your own clip-in or removable extensions, having tape-ins, microbead, or bonded extensions colored professionally will provide the most seamless, natural results. The stylist fee is well worth the cost.
Conclusion
Dyeing extensions lets you transform the color temporarily without damaging your real hair. Both human hair and synthetic extensions can be colored but require special care and techniques. Working with a professional stylist offers the best outcome, especially for permanent color and bleaching. With the proper methods, dyed extensions can maintain their vibrancy for weeks or months before needing a touch up. Just be mindful of the potential risks of damaging the extensions during processing or having the color fade out unevenly. Approach dyeing extensions with patience and care for beautiful, head-turning results!