You’ve found the perfect shade for your new project, but the synthetic hair you have isn’t quite the right color. It’s a common dilemma, leading many to wonder if they can simply dye it like natural hair. The short answer is that it’s possible, but the process is very different from dyeing human hair.
Synthetic fibers, like kanekalon or toyokalon, are made from plastics such as PVC. Unlike human hair, these fibers are not porous, which means they don’t absorb traditional hair dye. Using box dye from a drugstore will not work and could even damage the fibers, making them stiff or frizzy. However, with the right materials and techniques, you can successfully change the color of your synthetic wigs or braids.
Why Regular Hair Dye Doesn’t Work
Think of synthetic hair as a thin plastic thread. Its color is baked in during the manufacturing process, creating a smooth, non-absorbent surface. Liquid hair dyes designed for human hair need a porous material to latch onto and develop. When applied to synthetic hair, these dyes simply sit on the surface, creating a messy, sticky coating that eventually washes off or ruins the hair’s texture.
The Right Way to Color Synthetic Fibers
To permanently color synthetic hair, you need a dye that is specifically formulated for synthetic materials or fabric. The most common and effective method is using fabric dye or synthetic hair dye. These products are designed to work with plastic-based fibers and require heat to set the color properly.
The general process involves simmering a pot of water, adding the dye, and then submerging the synthetic hair for a period of time. The heat opens up the plastic fibers just enough for the specialized dye to penetrate. It’s crucial to follow the instructions on your chosen dye product carefully, as times and temperatures can vary.
Important Considerations Before You Start
Not all synthetic hair can be dyed. Light-colored hair, like blonde or light grey, is the best candidate for dyeing, especially if you’re aiming for a darker shade. It is extremely difficult to lighten dark synthetic hair, as the existing color is permanent. Always test a small, inconspicuous section of hair first to see how it reacts to the dye and heat.
Remember that this process can be messy and requires caution with hot water. Work in a well-ventilated area and use pots and utensils that you don’t mind dedicating to craft projects.
Conclusion
While you can’t use traditional hair dye, coloring synthetic hair is absolutely achievable with the right products. By using fabric or synthetic-specific dyes and applying heat, you can customize wigs, extensions, and braiding hair to your exact color preference. With a bit of patience and careful testing, you can open up a whole new world of creative possibilities.