If you’re looking to go to the dark side with a chic black hair color, you likely have questions about the process. Namely, how long should you leave black hair dye in to achieve perfect jet black tresses?
The processing time for black hair dye depends on several factors:
- The type of dye you use (permanent, demi-permanent, temporary)
- Your natural hair color and texture
- Whether you’ve pre-lightened your hair
Follow our comprehensive guide for expert tips on timing for black hair dye based on your unique hair needs.
How Long To Leave Permanent Black Hair Dye In
Permanent hair dyes use ammonia or peroxide to open the cuticle and permanently alter the natural pigment inside the hair shaft. Here’s how long to leave permanent black dye in:
For Natural Dark Hair
- Virgin hair: 35-45 minutes
- Pre-colored hair: 25-30 minutes
The strong black pigments will take quicker on hair that already has some artificial color. Watch closely to avoid over-depositing.
For Natural Medium to Light Brown Hair
- Leave permanent black dye on for 35-45 minutes.
Darker dyes require a bit longer to fully saturate and cover lighter shades.
For Pre-lightened or Bleached Hair
- Leave permanent black dye on for 30-35 minutes.
Peroxide-treated hair is highly porous and will absorb the color quickly. Rinse promptly to avoid damage.
For Resistant Gray Hair
- Leave permanent black dye on for 45-60 minutes.
Gray hair lacks melanin so needs extended time to accept and hold onto color.
For Damaged or Over-Processed Hair
- Leave permanent black dye on for 25-30 minutes.
Compromised cuticles readily absorb dye so minimize time to avoid further damage.
How Long To Leave Demi-Permanent Black Hair Dye In
Demi-permanent dyes have lower peroxide levels to deposit color inside the cuticle but not permanently alter it. Here’s the timing:
- All hair types: 25-30 minutes
Demi-permanent dye will develop fully on any hair in this timeframe. Rinse promptly after.
How Long To Leave Semi-Permanent Black Hair Dye In
Semi-permanent dyes coat the outside of hair strands only so timing is flexible:
- Minimum time: 15-20 minutes
This allows the color to adhere properly for short-term results.
- Maximum time: 25-30 minutes
Any longer risks oversaturation which can cause staining and fast fading.
How Long To Leave Temporary Black Hair Dye In
Temporary black hair dye rinses out with one shampoo. Timing is flexible based on the intensity you want:
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Rinse out immediately for a subtle sheer black tint.
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Leave on for up to 30 minutes for deeper temporary color.
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Monitor development and rinse when desired intensity is achieved.
Tips for Leaving Black Hair Dye In Correctly
Follow these pro tips for flawless results when coloring your hair black:
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Always do an allergy skin test before applying dye to your head.
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Carefully combine the color and developer according to instructions.
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Divide hair into sections and apply dye thoroughly from roots to ends.
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Use a tinting brush to precisely apply around hairline and partings.
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Start a timer once finished applying the dye to all sections.
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Rinse hair with lukewarm water and shampoo only after the full time is complete.
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Apply a rich conditioner for 5 minutes to nourish the hair post-coloring.
What Happens If You Leave Black Hair Dye In Too Long?
Leaving any permanent or demi-permanent hair dye on for too long can cause:
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Uneven or splotchy color result
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Unwanted color buildup
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Brassy or ashy tones
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Dry, damaged hair
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Irritation or reactions on the scalp
What If Hair Isn’t Dark Enough After Rinsing Out Dye?
If your black hair dye didn’t deposit dark enough, try these fixes:
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Re-dye hair with permanent black dye, leaving on for the full recommended time.
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Dye over with a black demi-permanent dye for added depth.
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Use a dark brown demi-permanent dye to soften the black tones.
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Try a black additive or color intensifier mixed in with your next dye.
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Seek professional help from a colorist for color correction.
Caring For Dyed Black Hair
Once you’ve nailed the processing time, preserve your new black locks with proper care:
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Use color-safe or sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
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Wash less often, just 1-2 times per week
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Rinse hair with cool water and air dry when possible
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Apply a weekly hydrating hair mask or deep conditioner
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Protect hair from sun exposure with hats, scarves or products with UV filters
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Avoid chlorine, salt water, and other chemicals that can strip color
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Get a glossing treatment every 4-6 weeks to refresh color
So now that you know exactly how long to leave in permanent, demi-permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary black hair dye, you can achieve perfect jet black hair every time!
Contact Heather Annz Salon to book your next professional black hair coloring service and get gorgeously chic black tresses that last.