Can you dye wet hair? This has always been one of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to hair care. When you go to the hair salon, your stylist typically dyes your hair dry, then washes it and finishes with a cut and blow dry. However, colouring your hair at home the box typically recommends that you wash your hair first and then apply the colour to it.
This can cause huge amounts of confusion and ultimately leaves it wide open when contemplating which method is best for your hair and which one will be more effective for your desired look.
In reality there is lots of factors to think about when dying your hair wet or dry, keep scrolling to find all the information you need to decide which method is right for you.
Can You Dye Your Hair If It’s Wet?
Yes, it is possible to colour your hair when it’s wet, however, it depends on a number of scenarios. For example, the product, the condition of your hair and what look you are wanting. Applying hair dye to damp hair is typically used for certain methods such as the balayage to create more of a subtle and natural look.
However, it’s important to remember that your hair is more prone to damage or breakage if not done properly whilst it’s wet.
Here’s some of the advantages of dying your hair when wet.
- Saves time and effort – The moisture in the wet hair helps the dye spread evenly, more so than If you apply the colour to dry hair. When applying dye to dry hair, you have to be more accurate and cover each strand for coverage.
- Wet hair is porous as the hair cuticles open up, it will absorb better and quicker, when applying your colour to wet hair.
- You need less product for wet hair, saving you money, less time the chemical has to be on the hair, and less overall chemical product on the hair.
- The wet balayage technique is a very popular option for wet hair. Applying colour to the ends of your hair will give it a subtle and natural colour.
Disadvantages of dying wet hair
- Applying dye to your hair when wet is less accurate than dying dry hair, leading to a patchy colour distribution. It’s good if you are brightening up a colour already there, but for example, if you’re going from dark brown to blonde, it might be a good idea to dye your hair dry. Try applying the colour with a wide tooth comb to help cover all the strands.
- If you’re looking for a more dramatic or bold look, drying your hair wet may not be the best option. The water can dilute your colour, leading to a faded or uneven tone. It’s also important to note that If your hair is dry, it will soak up all the moisture of the water and not take to the colour so well.
Permanent Hair Color On Wet Hair: Why It Does Not Work
Semi Permanent hair colour consists of ammonia or peroxide. it can be beneficial to use it on wet hair. When your hair is wet your cuticles open up and this allows for the colour to absorb better and more efficiently. However, it really does depend on the product, just make sure to follow the instructions.
The alternative to semi permanent, is Permanent hair dye. This consists of ammonia and a different type of peroxide called hydrogen. It’s important to note that both chemicals work only on dry hair.
Washing Your Hair Before Coloring It
When you wash your hair, it strips the natural oils from your hair and scalp, leading to potential damage. When wet the water will be absorbed by the hair and leave little room for the hair to also absorb the colour – this can lead to hair damage.
It’s suggested that you wash your hair 1-2 days before heading to the salon, It’s important to note that washing your hair in shampoo straight after the Colour could fade the colour and create an uneven coverage.
How to care for damaged hair after colouring
- Avoid washing your hair straight away
- When you do wash your hair, use a hair mask
- Use a heat protection stay
- Invest in a good oil for the ends
- Avoid using any heated tools, such as straightening your hair when wet
- Avoid the sun – try wearing a hat if your out and about
- Excessive brushing, try using a wide tooth comb
- Excessively drying and rubbing with a towel, try using a micro towel for natural drying
Top top:
- Try not to apply conditioner or heavy product to your roots – this can lead to greasy roots and more frequent washing of the hair. The less you wash your hair, the more chance of the colour staying.
- The ends of your hair are the oldest and most fragile part of the strand. Although it’s a good idea to apply heat protection all over, focus on the ends for optimal protection.
- Colouring your hair can make the strands tangle, always start by brushing the ends of the hair and working your way up to the scalp to avoid breakage or damage.
Conclusion
In short, yes you can dye your hair when wet, however, it depends on your hair condition, the product and if it’s the most effective method to achieve the look you’re aiming for. Always make sure that you seek professional advice or read the instructions carefully, as if not done correctly, you risk damaging your hair.
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