Have you ever looked at your hair in the mirror and thought, “I wish my hair color was a bit different”? Many of us have had that feeling at some point. However, repeatedly dyeing your natural hair can lead to damage over time. That’s where hair extensions come in handy! They allow you to temporarily change up your look without causing harm to your real hair.
But can you actually dye hair extensions? What types of extensions can be dyed? How do you properly dye them? This complete guide will answer all of those key questions and more.
What Are Hair Extensions?
Before diving into dyeing, let’s start with the basics – what exactly are hair extensions? Hair extensions are strands of either synthetic fiber or real human hair that are attached in various ways to your natural hair. The main types include:
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Clip-in extensions – These clip into your hair in sections and can easily be put in and removed daily. They don’t require professional installation.
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Tape-in extensions – These have small sections of tape attached to them that adhere to your natural hair. They are semi-permanent and generally last 4-8 weeks.
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Micro bead/loop extensions – Tiny beads or loops clamp down on small sections of your natural hair to hold these extensions in place. They are also semi-permanent, lasting a few months at a time.
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Bonded or fused extensions – These use advanced bonding agents like keratin to actually “fuse” the extension strand to your natural hair. It creates a very seamless look. They require professional installation but can last several months.
Now that you know the main types, let’s look at what you need to know about dyeing each one!
Can You Dye Clip-In Extensions?
Clip-in extensions are by far the easiest type to dye because you can fully submerge them in dye without worrying about damaging any bonds or attachments. As long as your clip-ins are made from real human hair, you can absolutely dye them any color you wish.
In fact, dyeing your clip-ins allows you to experiment with fun colors like pink or blue without ever having to damage your natural hair with bleach. You can just clip them in whenever you want to temporarily change your look. Some tips for dyeing clip-ins:
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Carefully brush through the hair beforehand to remove tangles. Work the dye through in small sections.
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Follow the timing instructions from the dye brand, as clip-ins may process color faster than natural hair.
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Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. Air dry or gently blow dry on a low setting.
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Store hair in a cool, dry place and wash gently before wearing to remove excess dye.
What About Tape-In Extensions?
The tape wefts that adhere tape-in extensions to your natural hair make the dyeing process a bit more tricky. You’ll need to carefully cover the entire length of the hair with dye while completely avoiding the tape and adhesive areas. If dye seeps into the tape, it can break down the adhesive.
This is definitely a case where going darker rather than lighter is best. Bleach may be too harsh on the bonds between the tape wefts and your natural hair. Some tips for dyeing tape-ins:
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Work in small sections and use a tint brush to precisely apply the dye.
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If using foils, wrap the ends only to avoid the tape area near the roots.
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Check how the dye is processing frequently to avoid over-processing.
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When rinsing, run water over the ends only. Avoid the tape.
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Use a sulfate-free shampoo when washing to preserve the adhesive.
How About Micro Bead or Micro Loop Extensions?
The tiny metal beads and loops used in micro bead and micro loop extensions also make dyeing a bit challenging. Like with tape-ins, you’ll need to carefully apply dye only to the hair, avoiding any contact with the metal attachments themselves.
Overlapping foils underneath the beads/loops can help shield them from the dye. Again, you’ll want to stick with going darker for these extensions rather than trying to lighten them. Some tips:
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Work cautiously in small sections, using a tint brush or foils to shield the beads from dye.
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Rinse very carefully around the bead area. Don’t disturb the beads.
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Stick to semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes. Avoid bleaches and high-volume peroxide.
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Use a sulfate-free shampoo and gentle brushing/combing when washing.
What About Bonded Extensions?
While you may technically be able to dye bonded extensions if you’re extremely careful around the keratin bonds, it is generally not recommended. The bonds adhering the extension hair to your natural hair are very delicate and easy to damage.
Getting dye on the bonds can break them down and cause the extensions to loosen or fall out prematurely. For best results, wait until after the bonds are removed to dye this type of extension or color your natural hair instead.
If you do attempt to dye bonded extensions, use extreme care and consult a professional. Avoid the bonds, rinse very gently, use a specialized shampoo, and do not aggressively brush or comb afterward. Even then, there is still a moderate risk of damaging the bonds.
Can You Dye Synthetic Hair Extensions?
Synthetic hair extensions are typically made from fibers like kanekalon or toyokalon rather than real human hair. The materials they are made from do not absorb dye in the same way that human hair does.
While you may be able to use fabric dye to lightly tint or color synthetic extensions, it likely won’t come out looking natural. Plus, the dye may rub off easily onto skin, clothing, pillows, etc.
In most cases, it is best to stick to dyeing only 100% remy human hair extensions for the most seamless, natural results. Synthetic extensions are more suitable for temporary styling rather than permanent coloring.
Should You Dye Extensions Already Attached to Your Head?
This depends on the extension type, but in general, it is safer to dye extensions before they are attached rather than while worn. When attached, there is greater risk of the dye harming attachments like tape, beads, keratin bonds if it overlaps onto them.
The one exception is with clip-ins – since they fully detach, you can safely dye them while clipped into your hair as the dye won’t interact with how they are put in.
For any semi-permanent or permanent extensions already installed, either have them removed first before dyeing or just touch up your natural exposed hair in between appointments. Avoid applying chemical dye directly on top of the attachments.
What About Bleaching or Lightening Extensions?
Trying to dramatically lighten extension hair with bleach is risky. The bleach will damage the cuticle protective layer, causing dryness, tangling, and breakage over time.
If you must lighten them a shade or two, use the mildest volume peroxide possible. Still, there’s no guarantee lightened extensions won’t become brittle and dry prematurely. You’re better off choosing extensions in lighter shades from the start rather than trying to bleach dark pieces yourself.
How Many Times Can Extensions Be Dyed?
As with your natural hair, repeated chemical dyeing will damage extensions over time. The general rule of thumb is to limit dyeing to no more than 1-2 times during the usable lifespan of the extensions.
Any more than that risks over-processing the hair and causing dryness, tangling, and breakage. Try to space out dye jobs by at least 2-3 months to allow the hair to recover.
Also keep in mind that some types of extensions like tape-ins or micro bead extensions don’t last forever before needing to be removed and reinstalled. You may only have them in for a few months at a time, limiting the number of safe dye opportunities.
How to Prep Extensions Before Dyeing
To ensure even dye results, properly prepping the extensions is a key first step:
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Carefully brush out any tangles using a wide-tooth comb.
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Wash extensions beforehand with clarifying shampoo to remove any residue.
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Blow dry or allow to fully air dry – dye adheres best to dry hair.
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Separate hair into multiple manageable sections.
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Protect work surfaces by covering with plastic wrap or foil.
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Wear gloves and old clothes to avoid stains.
Step-By-Step Guide to Dyeing Extensions
Once prepped and ready to begin, follow these steps closely when applying the color:
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Use petroleum jelly around hairline and ears to protect skin from stains.
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Work on one section of hair at a time, beginning closest to the roots/top.
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Use a tint brush or small bowl to mix the dye. Follow brand instructions.
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Apply dye using brush, working from roots to ends in a neat, even manner.
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Carefully use gloved hands or tint brush to work dye fully into the hair strands.