How to dye hair extensions. Learn the correct steps to avoid mistakes and prevent damage

Hair extensions are considered one of the most crucial methods that many women use to achieve a fresh and vibrant new look, brimming with vitality and beauty. When you rely on hair extensions as a part of your appearance, you're bound to have a lot of questions about how to use them correctly, care for them, and even transform their style through styling, cutting, or using suitable hair dyes to give them a new color. In this article, we'll address one of the most important questions regarding the possibility and technique of dyeing extensions and changing their colors professionally, as well as what essential factors to consider to achieve the best results and enjoy an attractive and distinctive look.

What should you consider before dyeing hair extensions?

Before you decide to use any hair dye on your extensions, there are several crucial points you should keep in mind to achieve the desired results while maintaining the health of your hair extensions. We'll address the most important aspects by answering the following questions:

• Are you dyeing your hair for a darker or lighter shade?
  

The way you dye hair extensions depends on whether you want a darker or lighter color. If you're dyeing your extensions a darker shade, the process is relatively straightforward, and you can do it at home with the right care and guidance.

However, if you're aiming for a lighter shade, it becomes more complicated because processes like bleaching or lightening hair have a significant impact on its health and can cause damage. It's generally not recommended to change the color of extensions to a lighter shade. If it's necessary, ensure that your extensions are virgin (never dyed before) and made from natural hair. Consult your hair expert to determine if it's safe to dye them.

• Which hair extensions are suitable for dyeing?
  

You should use natural hair extensions made from real, unprocessed hair if you intend to change their color or dye them. These are the best choice because they share the same properties as your natural hair, making the process of dyeing extensions safe.

As for synthetic hair extensions, they are chemically treated and not suitable for dyeing. They lack resistance to such processes, which can lead to damage and a poor, undesirable appearance. Experts in the field typically advise against dyeing synthetic hair extensions as it may result in complete loss of quality.

How to Dye Hair Extensions

1. Choose the Right Color

Selecting the appropriate hair color is your first step in achieving the desired final look. We recommend seeking the guidance of a hair extension and color expert to help you professionally attain your preferred shade that complements your overall appearance. If this is your first time dyeing your hair extensions, it's best to lean towards colors that closely match your natural hair to avoid any damage or harm to them.

2. Prepare Your Hair Dye Supplies

You should gather all the tools and materials you need for the hair dyeing process. Have them within easy reach before you proceed. You'll require gloves, a brush, a deep plastic mixing bowl, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, a wide-toothed comb, and a towel.

3. Prepare Your Hair Extensions

Before applying any hair dye to your extensions, it's essential to prepare them. Start by washing the hair strands in a basin filled with lukewarm water and a few drops of shampoo specially formulated for extensions. We recommend washing the hair extensions individually, or if they're bundled together, hold them at the top like a single bundle. Gently submerge them in the water without rubbing to prevent tangling. Rinse them thoroughly, ensuring there's no leftover styling product, and let them air dry completely before you begin the dyeing process. You can also use a wide-toothed comb to remove any tangles in the hair.

4. Mix the Hair Dye

It's advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using the hair dye and creating the color mixture. This mixture typically consists of an equal ratio of color and developer. Prepare a sufficient amount of hair dye to ensure you won't run out during the dyeing process.

5. Starting the Dye Application

It's a good practice to begin by applying the dye to a small section of hair as a test before working on the entire batch. If you're using a water-based dye, you'll immerse the hair strands, starting from the root area and moving towards the tips, gently pressing them in the colored water. Repeat this process to increase the color saturation in the hair strand, keeping in mind that the hair will appear slightly lighter when it dries. Afterward, rinse and wash the hair with shampoo.

6. Processing the Color

Leave the dye on the hair, covering it with plastic wrap to prevent the hair from drying out before the color fully penetrates. Typically, you'll leave it for around 20-40 minutes or as per the manufacturer's instructions. You can perform a strand test by gently rubbing a part of the hair with a towel and reapplying the color with a brush if needed.

7. Rinsing the Hair Extensions

After completing the dyeing process and achieving the desired color, you should rinse the hair extensions with cold water, allowing it to flow from top to bottom for about 15-20 minutes to ensure complete removal of the dye. It's best to avoid using shampoo if you're going for a semi-permanent color, and deep conditioning is recommended to restore lost moisture to your hair during the dyeing process.

8. Comb and Allow Your Hair to Dry

You can use a moisturizing conditioner and gently comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb before allowing it to air dry completely. It's advisable to use a heat-resistant hair spray if you plan to use heat styling tools like a flat iron.

9. Styling Phase

Once your hair extensions are dry, they are ready for styling. We recommend creating waves or curls that complement your natural hair and blend seamlessly. Additionally, using a hair spray with heat protection will enhance the vitality and beauty of your hair's appearance.

Different Types of Hair Dye

There are various types of hair dyes that you can choose from when coloring your hair, each with its unique style and appeal, allowing you to tailor your look to your personal taste. Some of these include:

• Ombré: In Ombré, the color is designed to be compatible with your natural hair color, starting darker at the roots and gradually transitioning to a lighter shade towards the ends.
• Balayage: This style begins with a lighter color at the ends and gradually moves towards a darker shade in the middle of the hair. The reverse, starting with a lighter color at the base and transitioning to a darker shade in the middle, is also an option.
• Sombre: Similar to Ombré, Sombre features a gradient between two colors with a subtle transition. For example, the caramel color is a blend of two shades of brown.
• Highlights: In this method, color is applied to thin strands of hair, creating a distinct and unique appearance.
  
• Ecaille: This technique combines shades of gold and chocolate, with the use of darker colors at the roots, creating a warm and beautiful look.

In conclusion, you can achieve a distinct and vibrant hair color for your hair extensions. However, it's important to follow the instructions carefully to maintain their health and vitality and prevent damage.