Can Synthetic Hair Be Dyed?

Though synthetic hair comes in a variety of colors, you may want to create a custom piece to call your own, or add a new hue to your synthetic wig. Though dark synthetic hair cannot be lightened, a few options exist for dyeing synthetic hair a dark or funky color.

Synthetic Fibers

Synthetic hair is made out of a plastic or acrylic, which cannot withstand the high heat associated with many dye methods. Using extreme heat when dyeing can warp or melt synthetic hair.

Synthetic Hair Colors

Dyeing synthetic hair with fabric dye will not remove the original color, only add to it. For example, if you have red synthetic hair, your options for a new color are purple and orange, by adding blue or yellow fabric dye, respectively. If you are looking to create your own color, it is best to begin with white or platinum synthetic hair.

Fabric Dyes

Easily available fabric dyes such as RIT and Tintex are recommended by MHRW International for dyeing synthetic hair. To ensure a deep color, it is best to apply the dye in concentrated form.

Colored Hair Gels

Colored hair gels such as Dye Hard by Manic Panic can be applied to synthetic hair and combed through for a solid new color. The gel can cover the existing synthetic hair color and washes away easily.

Use of Hair Dye

Not only will regular hair dye do nothing to alter the color of synthetic hair, the chemical components of hair dye can degrade or dissolve the hairpiece.

References

• MHRW International: Wig Coloring Tips
• Manic Panic: Dye Hard