If you use gels, mousse, pomades or other styling products, you may wonder if you need to wash them out before dyeing your hair. Most experts recommend cleansing hair before coloring for optimal results. But in a pinch, you can dye over certain products. Here’s how to prep hair with styling product for coloring.
Overview
- How hair products can affect dye absorption
- Recommended wait time after using products
- Tips for removing buildup before coloring
- Safe products to leave in before dyeing
- Applying dye over hair products
- Caring for colored hair with products
- Pros and cons of dyeing hair with product in it
- FAQs about hair products and coloring
Do Hair Products Affect Dye?
Most styling products create a coating on the hair strands. This can prevent the dye from fully penetrating the cuticle and cortex for even, lasting color.
Products like gels, mousse and pomades leave behind a film that dye can’t easily absorb through. The result may be splotchy coverage or faded color.
Thick products like mud masks can also physically block dye absorption into the hair. Silicones in serums and oils may repel the coloring.
How Long to Wait Before Dyeing After Products
To allow product residue to dissipate, wait 1-2 days after last using any styling products before dyeing your hair.
If you must dye same-day, use a clarifying shampoo and apple cider vinegar rinse to remove buildup.
Avoid wax- or silicone-based products for 2+ days before coloring for best results.
Tips for Removing Product Buildup Before Dyeing
To prep product-laden hair for coloring:
- Wash with a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo to clear residue
- Rinse hair with cool water to close cuticle
- Do an apple cider vinegar soak to dissolve mineral buildup
- Shampoo twice if hair still feels coated after rinsing
- Let hair air dry fully before applying dye
Safe Products to Leave In Before Dyeing
Some lightweight, nourishing products won’t interfere with dye absorption:
- Natural hair oils like argan, coconut or marula
- Leave-in conditioners without silicones
- Heat protectant sprays with cleansing ingredients
- Volumizing mousse or foam without waxes
- Sea salt sprays for texture and grit
Use sparingly and focus just on mid-lengths and ends when applying.
Tips for Dyeing Over Hair Products
If you must apply dye without washing out products:
- Remove excess product with a boar bristle brush
- Section hair and saturate each strand thoroughly
- Apply dye right to the roots first
- Leave on the full processing time
- Rinse extra long until water runs clear
Caring for Colored Hair With Products
When using products after dyeing:
- Opt for natural, non-coating formulas
- Limit use of heavy products like gels or balms
- Shampoo thoroughly when washing to remove buildup
- Switch to sulfate-free shampoos to prevent stripping color
- Deep condition weekly to nourish dyed strands
Pros of Dyeing Over Hair Products
- Adds volume and texture for easier application
- Products can help separate and define sections
- Less risk of drips if hair is slightly coated
Cons of Dyeing Over Hair Products
- Barrier prevents dye from absorbing optimally
- Can lead to faded, splotchy or uneven color
- Heavy products must be thoroughly removed first
- More risk of staining skin and surroundings
Common Questions
Does dry shampoo need to be washed out before coloring?
Yes, dry shampoo should be washed out 1-2 days before dyeing hair for best results. The residue can block dye absorption.
Do you have to wash out hairspray before dying hair?
It’s best to wash out any hairspray before applying dye. The polymers can prevent the color from taking evenly.
Should you put conditioner in your hair before coloring it?
No, conditioner shouldn’t be applied right before dyeing. The oils and silicones can make it hard for the color to absorb.
Can I use leave-in conditioner before hair dye?
Light leave-ins without silicones or waxes may be OK. But heavy ones should be washed out 1-2 days pre-dye to prevent issues.
The Takeaway
Most styling products should be washed from hair 1-2 days before coloring for optimal dye absorption. Clarifying shampoos help remove buildup pre-dye. You can carefully apply dye over certain lightweight natural products in a pinch. Limit product use after coloring to maintain vibrant dyed hair.
How I Prep My Hair Before Dying it | Updated Hair Color Process pt. 1
FAQ
Should I wash product out of my hair before dying?
Does it matter if I have product in my hair before dying it?
What should you not do before dying your hair?
How dirty should your hair be before you dye it?