How to Dye a Black Wig Into Ginger Wig Diy at Home
Dyeing a long black wig into a stunning ginger color wig at home is an exciting transformation, but it comes with challenges. Different levels of blackness in human hair wigs affect the difficulty of bleaching, which can damage the wig's hair quality. Therefore, post-dye care is crucial to maintain softness and shine. For more tips, read: How To Care Your Colored Human Hair Wigs.
Important Considerations Before Dyeing
Before dyeing your black wig to a ginger shade, consider the following:
- Current Wig Color:
- Identify whether your wig is jet black or natural black.
- Jet black is harder to bleach and may require multiple sessions, increasing the risk of damage.
- Hair Quality:
- Assess the texture of the wig—coarse or fine.
- Coarse hair can withstand bleaching better, while fine hair needs extra caution.
- Desired Ginger Shade:
- Decide on the ginger color you want—light, deep, or copper ginger.
- Light ginger requires more bleaching, while deep ginger can be achieved with less processing, reducing damage risk.
Materials Needed
Gather the following materials before dyeing your black wig to a ginger shade to ensure a smooth process. Each item plays a crucial role in achieving even and long-lasting color:
Material |
Purpose |
Bleaching Powder |
Lightens the black base |
Developer (20 or 30 volume) |
Works with bleach to lift the color |
Ginger Hair Dye |
Provides the desired ginger shade |
Gloves |
Protect hands from chemicals |
Mixing Bowl & Brush |
Helps mix and apply the dye evenly |
Deep Conditioner |
Restores moisture after bleaching |
Shower Cap |
Helps retain heat during processing |
Step-by-Step Guide to Bleaching the Black Wig
Step 1: Prepare the Wig
- Gently wash the black wig to remove any product buildup. Before starting, make sure the wig is dry and tangle-free.
Step 2: Mix the Bleach
- Combine bleaching powder with the developer (20 or 30 volume). Mix until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Apply the Bleach
- Using a brush, apply the bleach evenly, starting from the ends and working toward the roots. Ensure full coverage for an even lift.
Step 4: Monitor and Process
- Leave the bleach on for 20-30 minutes, checking frequently. Once the desired lightness is achieved, rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water.
Tips: Lift a small section to check if the wig is light enough for the ginger dye. It should be a light yellow or pale blonde. If it’s still too dark, leave the bleach on for a few more minutes, but be careful not to over-process.
How to Dye the Bleached Wig to Ginger
Step 1: Section the Wig
- Start by dividing the bleached wig into manageable sections using hair clips. Sectioning ensures even application of dye throughout the wig.
Tips: Dividing the wig into at least four sections helps you work more systematically, ensuring no areas are missed during dye application.
Step 2: Mix the Ginger Dye
- Prepare the ginger hair dye according to the instructions in a mixing bowl. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well-combined, without any lumps.
Tips: Use a wide brush to mix; always wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
Step 3: Apply the Dye
- Apply the dye evenly to each section, starting from the roots and working down to the ends. Make sure every strand is well coated for consistent color.
Tips: Work in thin sections to ensure full saturation, especially if the wig is thick. This will help prevent any uneven patches.
Step 4: Processing Time
- Leave the dye on for the recommended time, usually between 20-40 minutes, depending on the intensity of ginger you desire. Cover the wig with a shower cap to retain warmth, which helps with better dye penetration.
Tips: Check the color development every 10-15 minutes to ensure the shade progresses as expected, adjusting the processing time if necessary.
Step 5: Rinse and Condition
- Once the desired color is reached, rinse the wig with cool water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore softness and shine.
Tips: Avoid using hot water, which can strip the color faster. Use a color-safe conditioner to help lock in the ginger shade and hydrate the wig.
Post-Dye Care and Maintenance
After dyeing your wig to a ginger shade, proper care is essential to maintain its vibrancy and health. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help lock in the color and prevent fading. Regularly deep condition the wig to keep it moisturized, as bleaching and dyeing can leave the hair dry. Avoid excessive heat styling to prevent further damage—opt for low heat settings or air dry instead. Always store your wig on a wig stand in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to preserve its color and quality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Strand Test: Always do a strand test before full application to ensure the color turns out as expected.
- Over-Bleaching: Avoid over-bleaching as it weakens the wig fibers, making it prone to breakage.
- Uneven Dye Application: Apply the dye in small sections to avoid uneven color, ensuring all strands are coated evenly.
- Using Hot Water: Rinsing with hot water can strip away color and cause fading. Always use cool water.
- Neglecting Post-Dye Conditioning: Not conditioning properly after dyeing can leave the wig dry and frizzy.
Conclusion
Transforming a black wig into a vibrant ginger shade at home can be rewarding with the right approach. Following the proper bleaching, dyeing, and care steps can achieve a stunning color while maintaining the wig's quality. Remember, patience and post-dye care are key to a beautiful result.