How to Dye Red Hair Black: A Complete Guide

Have you been sporting vibrant red locks for a while now and are looking to go to the dark side? Want to know how to dye your red hair an inky, beautiful black? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Overview

Dyeing your red hair black is totally possible, but the process will vary slightly depending on:

• Whether you used permanent or semi-permanent red dye
• How dark of a black you want to achieve

Here’s a quick overview of what we’ll cover:

• Can you dye black over red hair?
• How to prep your hair
• Removing red dye
• Applying black permanent dye
• Applying black semi-permanent dye
• Bleaching before dyeing black
• Aftercare and maintenance

Let’s start by looking at the basics of dyeing black over red hair.

Can You Dye Black Over Red Hair?

The short answer is yes, you can dye black right over red hair. However, the results may be a bit more nuanced than you expect.

When you apply black dye directly on top of red, the resulting color will likely be a black base with strong red undertones. This can create a beautiful dark auburn or black cherry result.

However, if you want a true, intense black with no traces of red peeking through, you’ll need to first remove the existing red dye from your hair.

The steps involved in removing the red color will vary depending on whether you used a semi-permanent or permanent dye. Let’s look at both scenarios.

Dyeing Black Over Semi-Permanent Red

If your current red hair color comes from a semi-permanent dye, you’re in luck! These dyes are made without ammonia, meaning the color molecules don’t penetrate as deeply into the hair shaft.

This makes the red dye easier to remove. Here are your options:

Let It Fade

Semi-permanent red fades out on its own within 4 to 6 weeks. You can help speed up the fading by using clarifying shampoos and hot water to wash your hair. Once the red is sufficiently faded, you can apply your black semi-permanent dye.

Use a Color Remover

Color removing products can strip the red pigment, allowing you to apply the black right away. Look for removers that are gentle enough for color-treated hair.

Bleach First

Bleaching will lift and remove the red dye very quickly, allowing the black to adhere evenly for maximum intensity. More on bleaching red hair later.

Dyeing Black Over Permanent Red

If your current red shade comes from a permanent, ammonia-containing dye, the color molecules in your hair will be harder to remove.

Permanent red fades very slowly on its own. Bleaching is typically required to fully lift the pigment so black can adhere evenly.

If you don’t want to bleach, you can dye black directly over permanent red, but expect to see some red tones peeking through.

How to Apply Black Permanent Hair Dye

If you’ve prepped your hair by removing or fading your red color, you’re ready to apply permanent black dye. Follow these steps:

Gather Your Supplies

• Black permanent hair dye kit
• Application bottle and nozzle
• Protective gloves
• Old shirt and towels

Mix the Dye

Combine the color and developer according to the instructions in your kit, usually in a 1:1 ratio. Shake or stir thoroughly until smooth and consistent.

Section Your Hair

Work in sections no wider than 1-inch squares for full coverage. Use clips to separate hair.

Apply the Dye

Use the nozzle to apply dye directly to your roots first, then work the dye through the mid-lengths and ends of each section.

Process and Rinse

Leave the dye on for the time indicated in your kit, usually 25-35 minutes. Rinse until the water runs clear. Use a sulfate-free shampoo if needed.

Dry and Style as Usual

You did it! Now you have beautiful, intense black hair.

How to Use Black Semi-Permanent Dye

Using semi-permanent black dye is very similar to the steps above. Just keep these differences in mind:

• Processing time is shorter, about 15-25 minutes

• No developer is required

• Fades gradually over 4-6 weeks

• Can be reapplied directly as needed, no prep required

Using semi-permanent dye will create a softer, natural-looking black. It’s great for blending gray roots seamlessly.

Should You Bleach Red Hair Before Dyeing Black?

Bleaching ensures any traces of red pigment are completely lifted from your hair so the black shade is as even and intense as possible. Here are some tips:

Consult a Pro

Bleaching can damage hair if done incorrectly. Consider having your hair lightened professionally at a salon.

Use a Lower Volume Developer

Opt for a 20 or 30 volume developer to gently lift red shades without going overboard.

Focus on Mid-Lengths and Ends

Apply lightener to the most porous areas first, leaving roots for last to avoid breakage.

Use a Toner

If any orange persists after lightening, use a toner like Wella Color Charm T18 to neutralize brassiness before dyeing.

Deep Condition

Nourish and strengthen strands before and after lightening. Olaplex No. 3 is excellent for bond repair.

Aftercare Tips for Dyed Black Hair

Black hair color looks its best and lasts longer when properly maintained:

• Use sulfate-free shampoo and lukewarm water

• Wash only 1-2 times per week

• Use a weekly hydrating hair mask

• Protect hair from sun exposure

• Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the ends

• Use a blue or purple shampoo to fight brassiness

How Often to Dye Your Hair Black Again

With permanent black dye, regrowth will become visible around the 6-8 week mark as your roots grow in. Semi-permanent black will need a full redo every 4-6 weeks.

Schedule your touch-ups based on how quickly you see fading or regrowth. Brushing your hair up can help you check for any lightness at the part and crown.

And there you have it! Now you’re equipped with all the steps and tips for dyeing your red hair a beautiful black shade. Trust the process, take it slow, and work with the needs of your hair.

You’ll love seeing your vibrant transformation from red to black come to life. Enjoy your bold new style! Let us know if you have any other hair color questions.