Can You Dye Tape-In Extensions While They Are In Your Hair?

Tape-in hair extensions have become an increasingly popular way to add length and volume to your natural hair. The tape-in method is loved for being quick and easy to apply at home. However, many people wonder if you can dye the extensions while they are installed in your hair.

The short answer is yes, you can dye tape-in extensions while they are in your hair. But there are some important factors to consider first. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about dyeing tape-in extensions, from how to prepare to application tips.

Overview of Tape-In Extensions

Before diving into the dyeing process, let’s start with an overview of what tape-in extensions are and how they work.

Tape-in extensions are made from wefts of human hair that have a small section of tape attached to them. The tape is usually made of polyurethane or silicone. To apply them, the stylist sandwiches small sections of your natural hair between 2 weft strips. The tape holds the extensions in place.

There are a few benefits that make tape-ins a popular choice:

• Quick and easy to apply and remove at home
• Little tension on natural hair compared to other methods
• Allows for styling versatility like updos and ponytails
• Less damaging than glues, bonds or sewing

However, there are some downsides to consider:

• Can slide around or become loose if not applied correctly
• Tape strips and adhesive can cause damage when removing
• More difficult to completely match natural hair color and texture

Now let’s look at the crucial question of whether it’s possible to dye them while installed.

Can You Dye Tape-In Extensions In Your Hair?

The good news is yes, it is possible to dye tape-in extensions while they are attached in your hair. However, there are some challenges that you need to be prepared for.

Here are the key points to know:

• Use extreme caution around adhesive strips – dye can damage the tapes
• Colour may not develop evenly – extensions dye faster than natural hair
• Can cause leaks, bleeding and an uneven result if not done properly
• Have a professional stylist help remove if tapes are damaged from dye

If you take the necessary precautions, minimize contact with the tape and adhesive, and properly care for the extensions afterwards, you can successfully dye tape-ins in your hair. But there is a higher risk of damage compared to removing them first.

We recommend considering having your stylist dye them for you, especially for radical colour changes. Now let’s look at how to prep and care for the extensions.

Preparing Tape-Ins for Dyeing

Follow these steps to get your tape-in extensions ready for dyeing:

1. Clarify the Hair

• Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup.
• Rinse hair thoroughly and towel dry.
• Clarifying ensures dye penetrates evenly.

2. Detangle the Extensions

• Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle the extensions.
• Work in small sections from the bottom up.
• Remove any knots or tight tangles.

3. Protect the Tape

• Coat the adhesive strips with petroleum jelly or conditioner.
• Avoid getting dye directly on the tapes.
• Tape damage can cause the extensions to loosen or fall out.

4. Separate the Bonded Areas

• Use clips to section off your natural hair that is bonded beneath the tapes.
• Dyeing over the bonds can cause damage and loosening.

Once prepped, you can mix up your dye and get started with application.

How to Dye Tape-In Extensions

Follow these instructions when applying dye to tape-in extensions:

1. Mix the Dye

• Only use semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye on extensions.
• Bleach and permanent color can be too harsh on extensions.
• Mix as directed and have all tools ready (brushes, bowl, gloves).

2. Section the Hair

• Clip your natural hair out of the way in top and bottom sections.
• Work on one weft at a time to ensure even coverage.

3. Apply the Dye

• Brush dye onto the weft strips from root to tip.
• Concentrate on the extension hair, avoiding the tape strips.
• Ensure all areas are saturated.

4. Maintain Even Development

• Keep an eye on how quickly color develops.
• Extensions may process faster than natural hair.
• Rinse once desired tone is reached.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

• Rinse in the shower with lukewarm water.
• Use a comb to ensure all traces of dye are removed.
• Harshly rinsing extensions can cause tangling and shedding.

6. Air Dry Extensions

• Gently blot wet extensions with a towel.
• Allow to fully air dry stretched out on a towel.
• Do not rub wet extensions and avoid heat styling.

Be extremely cautious when working around the tape adhesive. Avoid direct contact with dyes, bleach, shampoo or conditioner on the tape strips.

Now let’s go over some tips for maintaining freshly dyed tape-ins.

Caring for Dyed Tape-In Extensions

Here are crucial aftercare steps when caring for recently dyed tape-in extensions:

• Wash with sulfate-free shampoo and lukewarm water.
• Use a moisturizing hair mask or deep conditioner weekly.
• Blot wet extensions gently and allow to air dry fully stretched out.
• Avoid heat styling like blowdrying, curling and straightening.
• Rinse with cool water to keep dyed color vibrant and long-lasting.
• Detangle very gently using a wide-tooth comb or fingers.
• Keep up with regular maintenance appointments for your extensions.
• Have a stylist thoroughly but gently remove when ready for removal.

Being cautious and taking proper precautions allows you to successfully dye your tape-in extensions at home between salon appointments. But be aware of the risks of potential damage to the bonds and adhesive.

Seeking professional help is recommended if you want to do a major color change. Your stylist can also properly prep the extensions, mix custom color and remove them safely when needed.

Now let’s go over the pros and cons of dyeing tape-ins yourself versus having them done at the salon.

Dyeing Tape-Ins at Home vs Salons: Pros and Cons

Below is an overview of the main advantages and disadvantages of dyeing your tape-in extensions at home versus having them colored professionally at the salon:

Dyeing at Home

Pros:

• More affordable option
• Can touch up color as needed between appointments
• Convenient to do at home

Cons:

• Higher risk of damaging the bonds and adhesive
• Can easily cause leaking, uneven dyeing, harsh lines
• Difficult to thoroughly rinse hair after coloring

Professional Salon Dyeing

Pros:

• Experienced stylist properly preps and handles extensions during process
• Lower risk of damage to bonds and tapes
• Even and complete dye application and rinsing
• Can do major/dramatic color changes
• Match extensions to your new color if desired

Cons:

• More expensive than DIY dyeing
• Inconvenient to book appointments solely for coloring
• Roots may need quick touch ups between visits

While dyeing tape-in extensions at home does save time and money, visiting an experienced stylist minimizes the likelihood of causing permanent damage. Discuss your hair goals and options to decide the best route forward.

Now that we’ve covered if and how to dye tape-in extensions, let’s look at some frequently asked questions.

FAQs About Dyeing Tape-In Extensions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about dyeing tape-in extensions:

How soon after getting tape-ins can I dye them?

Wait 2 weeks after application before dyeing. This allows the bonds to fully set and minimizes damage.

What’s the best temporary dye for extensions?

Semi-permanent, demi-permanent or vegetable-based dyes are safest for extensions. Avoid bleaches and permanent color.

Should I remove the extensions to dye them?

Yes, removing them first is ideal to prevent dyeing over bonds and adhesive. But with care, you can minimize risks dyeing them in.

How often can I re-dye my tape-ins?

Limit re-dyeing to every 4-6 weeks. Too frequent dying can compromise the quality and integrity.

Can I just dye my roots at home?

You can carefully touch up roots at home between appointments. Avoid overlapping dyed extension hair.

**How do I match extensions to my new hair color