If you’re looking to shake up your look, dying your hair is a great way to do it. However, if you have red hair, you might be wondering if dying over it is even possible. Fortunately, the answer is yes! In this article, we will explore the different options for dying over red hair and what you need to know before taking the plunge.
One thing to keep in mind is that red hair can be particularly stubborn to color. This is because the red pigment in your hair is usually the strongest, making it harder for other colors to penetrate. That being said, there are ways to successfully dye over red hair, whether you’re looking to go lighter or darker. Keep reading to find out more.
Understanding Red Hair Pigment
Red hair is one of the most challenging hair colors to work with when it comes to dyeing it. The red pigment in the hair shaft tends to cling on to the hair strands tightly, making it difficult for any other color to penetrate. Furthermore, adding more pigment to an already pigmented hair dye can result in an unfavorable final outcome, which is usually a brighter or more intense red color.
When you decide to dye over red hair, it is essential to understand that the process requires more time and effort than other hair colors. You need to consider factors such as tone, texture, and porosity to ensure that your chosen hair dye color can cover the existing red tone. It’s important to keep in mind that you may need to lighten or strip the red pigments from your hair first before applying your desired color to achieve the expected results. Overall, it is possible to dye over red hair, but you must be prepared to invest time and effort into the process.
Preparing Your Hair for Dyeing
Preparing Your Hair for Dyeing:
Before dyeing your hair, it is crucial to prepare it properly to ensure that the color will take and last as long as possible. Start by washing your hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue from product or environmental factors. This will create a clean canvas for the dye to adhere to.
After washing your hair, it is also important to dry it completely before applying any dye. Damp hair can cause the color to be uneven and blotchy. Once your hair is dry, use a conditioning treatment or hair mask to add moisture back into your locks. Dying can be damaging to your hair, so it’s important to start off with healthy strands to minimize any potential damage. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your new hair color will look amazing and stay vibrant for as long as possible.
Choosing the Right Hair Dye for Red Hair
When it comes to dyeing over red hair, it is essential to choose the right hair dye that will effectively cover and blend with the existing red hair color. The best dyes to use are those that are formulated with red undertones since they will enhance the red tones already present in your hair. This will help to create a more cohesive and uniform hair color.
It is also important to consider the level of color you want to achieve. If you’re looking to go darker, it is advisable to choose a hair dye that is one or two shades darker than your current red hair color. On the other hand, if you want to go lighter, you need to consider and consult with a hair specialist since achieving a lighter color on red hair can be challenging and end up with unexpected results. When choosing your hair dye, read the label carefully and follow the instructions provided to achieve your desired look.
Tips for Achieving Desired Color Results
After deciding to dye over your red hair, it’s important to know what to expect to achieve the desired color results. It’s essential to remember that the new color will be influenced by the previous color, so it’s advisable to consult with a stylist to choose the correct dye for the best results.
One important tip is to select a color that is darker than the existing red shade. If you wish to achieve a lighter color, it’s advisable to wait until the red hair pigment fades away or settle for highlights and lowlights instead. It’s important to choose the appropriate product that suits your hair type and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions while applying the dye. By following these tips, you can achieve the desired hair color, making your hair dye experience smooth, stress-free, and successful.
Maintaining Dye and Hair Health
Maintaining dye and hair health is crucial if you want to keep your newly dyed hair looking vibrant and healthy. Dyeing can damage the hair and lead to hair breakage and split ends. It’s important to take proper care of your hair to prevent these issues.
To maintain dye and hair health, you should use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for colored hair. These products will help keep your hair and color looking healthy and vibrant. You also need to avoid using hot styling tools as they can strip away the color and dry out your hair. Instead, use a heat protectant before using any styling tool and let your hair air dry when possible. Regular trims to remove split ends and using a hair mask once a week can also help keep your hair shiny, healthy, and well-nourished.
Fixing Uneven Color and Red Tones
If you have attempted to dye over your red hair and end up with uneven color or unwanted red tones, there are several options to fix it. One way to do this is by using a color remover, which will strip the previous color from your hair. However, this can be damaging, especially if you have already dyed your hair multiple times. Another option is to use a toner or semi-permanent dye to adjust the color and neutralize any unwanted red tones. This can be done at home or with the help of a professional stylist.
If your hair is severely damaged from previous dye jobs, a more drastic option would be to cut off the damaged ends and start fresh. Regular deep conditioning treatments can also help to repair damaged hair and prevent further damage. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to wait at least 2-3 weeks before attempting to re-dye your hair. This allows your hair to recover from any damage and gives your scalp time to heal. By following these steps, you can fix any uneven color or unwanted red tones and achieve your desired hair color.
Alternative Options to Dyeing Over Red Hair.
There are times when you want to change your hair color but don’t want to dye over your red hair. If that’s the case, you have a few alternative options to consider. One option is to try color correcting your hair. If your red hue is too bright, a green-based toner can help neutralize it and bring it down a notch. For darker reds, a blue-based toner can work wonders.
Another option is to use temporary hair color. This can come in the form of hair wax, semi-permanent dye, or colored hair spray. These options provide a temporary change in hair color, allowing you to experiment without the commitment of permanent dye. Keep in mind that these options can be more temporary than usual and last only for a day or two, offering you a chance to display your latest look and try different color combinations as long as you want.
Verdict
In conclusion, it is possible to dye over red hair with the right technique and products. However, it is important to consider the current shade of red and the desired outcome before proceeding with any color change. Bleaching or stripping the red may be necessary to achieve the desired result, but this can cause damage to the hair. Choosing a professional colorist or using quality at-home products can help minimize damage and ensure a successful color transformation.
Overall, dyeing over red hair can be a tricky process, but with patience and careful consideration, it can be done. It is important to keep in mind the health of the hair and to use proper products to prevent damage. By taking these steps, anyone can achieve their desired hair color, even if it means dyeing over bright red locks.