Your cheat sheet for a salon-worthy wig transformation
Coloring a wig is like giving it a brand-new personality—and who doesn’t love a good makeover? If you’re dreaming of trendy pastel shades, rich brunettes, or bold statement colors, the right hue can completely upgrade your look. Even better, you can experiment without touching your natural hair.
But before you get creative with color, remember that not all wigs are made in the same way, and a flawless coloring job takes more than just picking up a box of dye. From prepping the wig to avoiding rookie mistakes (because nobody wants a streaky disaster), we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.
Ahead, we’re breaking it all down: the tools you’ll need, the steps to follow, and expert-approved tips for coloring everything from human hair wigs to lace fronts.
Types of wigs and how they affect coloring
Not all wigs play by the same rules when it comes to dyeing. Whether you’re working with human hair, synthetic fibers, or lace fronts, understanding your wig type is key to nailing the perfect color without any mishaps. Here’s what you need to know:
Human hair wigs
Human hair wigs are the gold standard for coloring. Because they’re made from natural hair, they can be dyed, highlighted, or toned just like your own locks. They’re ideal for achieving rich, dimensional shades and trendy techniques like balayage or ombre. The versatility of human hair wigs makes them a favorite for anyone looking to experiment with color while maintaining a natural look. How to dye a human hair wig? Follow our instructions below, and be sure to use high-quality dyes and products to keep the hair healthy.
Synthetic wigs
Synthetic wigs are a bit trickier. Traditional hair dye won’t work on synthetic fibers, as they’re made from plastic-like materials that repel dye. But don’t worry—you’ve still got options. Fabric dyes designed for synthetic materials or spray-on wig color can be used to achieve head-turning looks. Keep in mind, though, that synthetic wigs are less forgiving and don’t allow for as much customization as human hair wigs.
Lace front wigs
Lace front wigs offer a natural hairline but come with extra challenges when it comes to dyeing. The delicate lace can easily stain if you’re not careful. Always apply petroleum jelly or tape along the lace edge to protect it during the coloring process. Focus on even application to avoid patchiness near the hairline—it’s all about maintaining that flawless, natural look.
When it comes to coloring wigs, knowing the material and structure of your piece is half the battle. With the right techniques, you can achieve a stunning, professional-looking result every time.
What you’ll need to color a wig
Before getting stuck into the coloring process, having the right tools is essential for achieving a flawless, salon-worthy finish. Be it you’re working with a human hair wig or a synthetic piece, proper prep ensures your efforts pay off without a hitch. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
☐ Hair dye
Choose a dye specifically for human hair wigs or fabric dye for synthetics.
☐ Developer
For human hair wigs, a gentle developer (10 or 20 volume) is ideal.
☐ Gloves
Protect your hands from staining.
☐ Applicator brushes
For precise application.
☐ Wig stand or mannequin head
Keeps the wig steady and secure while you work.
☐ Sectioning clips
For dividing the hair into manageable sections.
☐ Comb
To distribute the dye evenly.
☐ Petroleum jelly or tape
Protects lace edges from staining.
☐ Towels and a cape
To keep your workspace clean.
☐ Shampoo and conditioner
Use color-safe products to maintain vibrancy post-dyeing.
Choosing the right dye is crucial. Human hair wigs work best with salon-quality dyes, while synthetic wigs require specialized fabric dye or wig-specific sprays. Using the wrong product can ruin your wig, so always double-check compatibility before starting.
How to prepare your wig for coloring
Proper prep is the secret to a smooth coloring process and a flawless end result. Rushing into dyeing without preparation can lead to uneven color or damage, so take the time to set your wig up for success. Here’s how to get it ready:
1. Wash and dry the wig
Start with a clean slate. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove product buildup or oils. Let the wig air-dry completely to be sure the dye adheres evenly.
2. Detangle and secure the wig
Use a wide-tooth comb to remove knots, starting from the ends and working your way up. Then place the wig on a mannequin head or wig stand to keep it steady while you work.
3. Test the dye on a small section
Pick an inconspicuous strand to do a patch test. This checks that the dye works with your wig’s material and gives you a preview of the color result.
Taking these steps not only helps the dye go on evenly but also minimizes the risk of damaging your wig. A little extra effort at this stage makes a big difference when it’s time to see the final look!
How to color a wig (a step-by-step guide)
Armed with the supplies we noted above and your wig prepped to perfection, you’re ready to begin the fun part: coloring! Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to dye a wig to achieve an even, professional look, no matter if you’re going for a classic shade or something bold and trendy.
Step 1: Section the wig for even application
Divide the wig into manageable sections using clips, starting at the nape and working your way up. Smaller sections allow for precise application, ensuring every strand gets evenly coated with dye.
Step 2: Apply the dye
Using your applicator brush, start at the roots (if coloring a human hair wig) and work down to the ends. Apply the dye in thin layers to avoid streaking or patchiness. For synthetic wigs, spray or sponge the color evenly over each section, ensuring you don’t oversaturate.
Step 3: Time the process and monitor the color
Follow the dye manufacturer’s instructions for timing. Human hair wigs may need 20–30 minutes to process, while synthetic-friendly dyes may set faster. Keep an eye on the color as it develops, especially if you’re aiming for a subtle shade.
Step 4: Rinse and condition
Rinse the wig gently with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid scrubbing, as it can tangle the fibers. Finish with a wig-safe conditioner to lock in moisture and keep the strands smooth.
Pro tips for special effects
If you’re feeling adventurous, special coloring techniques like ombre, highlights, or bold accents can elevate your wig to the next level. Here’s how to pull them off with precision:
Ombre
– Start by choosing two complementary colors—one lighter for the ends and a darker shade for the roots. For a natural effect, pick shades in the same color family; for something dramatic, go bold with contrasting tones.
– Begin by applying the lighter color to the ends, working the dye upward about halfway up the strands.
– Blend the darker shade into the lighter color at the midpoint, using a comb or your applicator brush to create a seamless gradient. Avoid sharp lines by blending well where the two shades meet.
– Process and rinse as usual, ensuring the gradient effect remains smooth and even.
Highlights
– Choose a lighter or contrasting shade for your highlights. Human hair wigs work best for this technique, as synthetic fibers can be trickier to isolate.
– Using foil strips, separate small sections of hair you’d like to highlight. Place the foil underneath the section, apply the dye, and fold the foil over the strand to keep it in place.
– Focus on areas around the face for a brightening effect or scatter the highlights throughout for an all-over dimensional look.
– Allow the dye to process and rinse carefully to avoid bleeding into the surrounding hair.
Bold accents
– Pick vibrant, eye-catching colors like electric blue, fiery red, or neon green for streaks or accents.
– Section off the areas you want to color—think face-framing streaks, peekaboo layers, or a single bold stripe along the part.
– Apply the dye generously to make sure the color pops, but avoid over-saturating the strands.
– For multi-colored accents, use small brushes or sponges to carefully layer the colors without blending them too much.
With these techniques, your wig goes from everyday to runway-ready. The key is patience and attention to detail—your creativity is the only limit!
How to dye a lace front wig
Dyeing a lace front wig takes a little extra care, but the results are worth it when done right. The delicate lace at the hairline is prone to staining, so preparation is key.
Step 1: Protect the lace
Before starting, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or wrap the lace in plastic tape along the edges. This creates a barrier that prevents the dye from bleeding onto the lace.
Step 2: Apply with precision
Use a small, angled brush to carefully apply dye near the hairline. Work slowly and use minimal product to maintain control. For a seamless, natural look, blend the dye softly at the roots instead of creating a harsh line.
Step 3: Rinse carefully
When rinsing, tilt the wig backward to prevent dye from running over the lace. Gently squeeze out excess water and avoid rubbing the lace area.
With a steady hand and a bit of patience, you can achieve a flawless, natural finish that looks professionally done. You’ve got this, girl!
Common mistakes to avoid when coloring a wig
Before we wrap up, below are some of the common mistakes when dyeing a wig to have on your radar. That way, you’ll be able to (hopefully) avoid these mishaps:
✗ Using the wrong type of dye
Human hair wigs need professional-grade hair dye, while synthetic wigs require fabric dye or wig-specific sprays. Using the wrong product can ruin the wig’s fibers.
Fix it: Unfortunately, synthetic wigs can’t be restored once damaged. For human hair wigs, a deep conditioning treatment may help repair dryness from improper dye.
✗ Skipping the strand test
Testing the dye on a small section is essential to check for compatibility and make sure that you’re happy with the color.
Fix it: If the color turns out wrong, use a color-correcting product (like a toner for human hair) to adjust the shade.
✗ Not protecting the lace
Staining the lace on a lace front wig is one of the most common mishaps during coloring.
Fix it: Gently scrub the lace with a toothbrush and a mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to remove stains.
✗ Overlapping dye on previously colored areas
This can lead to uneven patches or overprocessed hair.
Fix it: Use a semi-permanent glaze to even out the color and restore shine.
✗ Rushing the process
Skipping steps like proper sectioning or even application leads to patchy, uneven color.
Fix it: Reapply the dye to missed sections and follow proper timing instructions to blend the color.
Trust us, by avoiding these pitfalls and knowing how to fix slip-ups, you’ll save yourself a lot of frustration and keep your wig looking fabulous.
Now you know how to color a wig
Learning how to dye a wig opens up endless possibilities for personalizing your look. Through the right techniques and tools, you can achieve stunning, professional results that reflect your style. Ready to take the leap? Check out Lauren Ashtyn’s customizable wigs or connect with a stylist for expert advice!
