How to Dye A Synthetic Wig With Fabric Dye: 5 Ways

If you plan to freshen up your worn-out synthetic wig, dyeing can be the right decision. It can transform your old wig but how to dye a synthetic wig with fabric dye? You can dye your synthetic wig with fabric dye. Dip a clean sponge in the mixture of fabric dye and boiled water heated about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. After removing the excess by squeezing the sponge, apply the dye on the wig in strokes. Start dyeing from the top to the down and continue until you achieve the expected color.

Keep in mind that processed fibers in synthetic wigs make dyeing tough. Only a few of the particulars ingredients and methods can do the job. We will explain all of them in detail in this tiny but practical guide.

Can You Dye Synthetic Wigs?

To do some experiments, you can try dyeing your synthetic wigs. Sometimes the result will make you happy, and sometimes your efforts can go in vain. Well, you don’t need to be hopeless. Let me explain first.

Processed fibers like polyvinyl, polyester, and acrylic are used in making synthetic wigs. These elements are very difficult to dye. Human hair comes with natural pigments and can be dyed easily. On contrary, the usual hair dyes will not work for synthetic wigs.

Also, remember that synthetic wigs are not the right option to be properly bleached. All these things mean that you will need to use particularly made dyes on man-made wigs. Also, you should choose light-colored wigs to mantle with darker dyes.

Another suggestion you should bear in mind is that painting worn-out wigs are a good idea. You can monitor the result and if you take some faulty actions, you can avoid that in your next wig dyeing project.

Can You Dye Synthetic Hair with Fabric Dye?

Synthetic hair doesn’t perform the same as natural hair. Even you can’t bleach them. Plus, synthetic wigs are not made of natural fibers. All these features don’t allow regular fabric dye to sit on synthetic wigs properly.

However, you have still some options to paint wigs with specially made fabric dyes. As synthetic hair has polyvinyl or polyester as key ingredients, you will need to find a fabric dye that will work great on those man-made fibers. Additionally, pick a lighter color to dye so that your selected fabric dye can add something noticeable.

How to Dye A Synthetic Wig with Fabric Dye (Rit Black Dye) Step by Step

A synthetic wig is quite troublesome to redden with regular fabric dye. So, we have taken specially-created Rit Black dye in this method.

Things You Need:

• Heat-resistant wig
• Plastic bag
• Gloves
• Rit Black dye
• A bowl
• A sponge

The processes are following. 

Step 1:

As precautions, wear gloves to prevent making a painting mess on your hands. Also, cover the work area with a plastic bag openly cut so that the dye can’t grim the surface.

Step 2:

Measure the wig and confirm how much water you need to dye the entire wig. For each cup of water, put 2 tsp. of Rit dye in it. Make sure the water reaches up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s wise to boil the water.

Step 3:

Take a sponge and dip it in the dye mixture. Squeeze the sponge to remove the excess mixture. Apply it to the wig in strokes. Make sure to start from the wig’s scalp down.

Step 4:

Now, wait for about 20 minutes to allow the Rit dye to sit on the wig strongly. Then, rinse the wig in the runny water. After removing all dye residues, bring that out of the water.

Step 5:

Dry the wig in the air. Avoid using a hairdryer for quick-drying; it can damage your synthetic hair.

You Can Use the Rit Black Fabric Dye in Another Way:

This process can be helpful to add deep color to your wigs. Let’s check the steps.

Step 1: 

Wear gloves and cover the area with a plastic bag.

Step 2: 

Like the previous method, add 2 tsp. of Rit black dye in one cup of water. Boil the water.

Step 3: 

Damp the wig to make the dyeing process easier.

Step 4: 

Now, place your synthetic wig in the pot. To achieve a darker color, place the wig for a longer period. It’s better to cautiously monitor the step and remove the wig when it achieves the desired color.

Step 5: 

Bring out the wig from the dye mixture. Then wash lightly in the cold water and remove the wig when you see clear water runs out.

Step 6:

Take a wig stand and put the wig on it. Dry your synthetic hair in natural air.

Read Next: How to remove fabric dye from skin and hands

Can You Dye A Synthetic Wig with Regular Hair Dye?

Synthetic wigs don’t contain any natural pigments. Therefore, you can’t use regular hair dye on wigs for a satisfactory result. Plus, hair dye contains some of the harsh chemicals which are harmful to your synthetic hair. Permanent hair dye is also damaging for wigs.

To dye your synthetic wigs, you’ll need to find a hair dye that is semi-permanent and light in nature. The dye should be also darker than the synthetic wigs. You can achieve relatively better results while dyeing silver and white wigs.

Dyeing A Synthetic Wig with Hair Dye: Step by Step

Experts don’t recommend using hair dye on synthetic hair. It will not work on all synthetic wigs. But to achieve deep color or get a color change, you can use hair dye on light-colored wigs.

Step 1: 

Buy hair dye from a local store. Make sure the color is darker than your synthetic wig. Also, the color should be matching.

Step 2: 

Create a mixture of hair dye and rubbing alcohol. If you want a lighter color, add more rubbing alcohol than the dye and for deeper color, add less. For normal dyeing, the ratio of hair dye and rubbing alcohol will be 1:1.

Step 3:

Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Now, place the synthetic hair on the wig stand. Start spraying the mixture to the hair. Don’t forget to wear gloves to keep your hands free from colorful mess.

Step 4: 

Spray on a hair section. Spray from the top to the underside. After each spraying, use your fingers to remove any knots and ensure the hair is coated properly.

Step 5:

In the same way, complete dyeing the whole wig. Then, brush the wig with a big-teeth comb in one way to remove stiffness.

Step 6: 

Keep the wig in an open area so that it can be dried with sunlight and air. One hour is fine to dry it. However, you may need to wait for more times if the wig is thicker and longer.

Step 7: 

When the wig is dried properly, take it under the sink. Lightly wash the wig until you see the water is clear. Now, use a soft and dry towel to remove the excess water. Don’t hold the wig with pressure, it can damage the fibers.

Step 8: 

Before wearing this newly dyed hair, make sure to detangle the knots from the hair. A wide-tooth hair can help in this stage.

Can You Use Acrylic Paint on Synthetic Hair?

Using acrylic paint on your synthetic hair can bring some advantages. But you can’t directly use it on the wig because the acrylic paint is clingy that can affix the fibers.

If you want to achieve vibrant color on your wig, choose a light-colored synthetic wig to dye. Also, you will need to add rubbing alcohol to the acrylic paint. This mixture will not damage fibers but will bring back the original beauty.

How to Dye Synthetic Wigs with Acrylic Paint (Dark Brown Color) Step by Step

Acrylic paint will not visible on the darker synthetic wig. So, pick a wig that is light-colored. We recommend dyeing white, blonde, or silver-colored wigs.

Also, your first trying should be done on a cheap synthetic wig because if you fail to dye correctly, you will not be disappointed.

Things you need:

• A synthetic wig
• Spray bottle
• Acrylic paint (dark brown)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Old newspaper
• Towel
• A wider comb

Step 1: 

Prepare your workplace. Work in an open area. If you work in a room, make sure at least one window is opened. Cover the table with an old newspaper so that paint doesn’t stick to the table. Also, wear gloves to keep your hands dye-free.

Step 2:

Add ½ tsp. of acrylic paint to a spray bottle. You can change the amount depending on the hair’s length and weight. Now, pour rubbing alcohol into the bottle.

Use 3 tablespoons of alcohol for normal color, 2 tablespoons for saturated color, and 4 tablespoons for a lighter color. Shake the spray bottle and prepare a perfect dye mixture for your wig.

Step 3:

Spray dye on the wig. First, spray on a section. Make sure the bottle is at least 6 inches away. Cover the section properly with paint. Run your fingers through the hair and ensure dyeing on the hair surface and underneath.

Continue the process to dye the whole wig. Check from different sides to make sure that each part of the hair is completely painted.

Step 4:

Allow the wig to dry in the air for about 1-2 hours. After an hour, touch the wig. If you notice that paint sticks to your finger, let it dry for one more hour. Rinse the synthetic wig in cold water.

Continue it until you see clear water comes from the wig. Finally, use a towel to remove water from the wig. When water is removed completely, comb the hair to diminish knots. Now, the wig is ready to use.

Can I Color A Wig with Sharpie?

You can color your synthetic wig with Sharpie markers. Sharpie offers stronger synthetic color. When normal hair dye fails to paint your fake hair, Sharpie ink can do a great job. It’s permanent and easy to use. It gives an effective and eye-catching color to the wig.

However, choose the ink which suits perfectly your wig. It should be darker than the wig. Remember that Sharpie ink will bring a color change to the wig, but not a completely different color.

How to Dye A Synthetic Hair with Sharpie Step by Step

Alcohol is the key solvent in the Sharpie ink. So, it can work well on synthetic hair. It’s permanent and safe for wigs.

Things You Need:

• Sharpie ink
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Latex gloves
• Old cloth
• Comb
• Towel

Step 1: 

Pour the Sharpie ink (your preferred color) into the bottle. Make sure the spray bottle is easy to hold and use. Depending on the wig thickness and length, add water to the ink. Now, leave the bottle for a few hours; a whole night is fine.

Step 2:

Select an open space to dye your wig. Take a table and cover the surface with the old cloth so that paints don’t spoil the table. Wear latex gloves. Now, you’re ready to dye the hair.

Step 3:

Place the hair on a wig stand. It will make the dyeing process very easy. Begin spraying on a portion first. Use your fingers to cover that portion completely with the ink. Agitate the part until you’re satisfied with the paint. Continue this process to dye every part of the hair.

Step 4:

After spraying, comb the hair so that there are no knots in it. It will also help to dye the hair equally. Now, place the wig under the sun. Let the wig dry. It will be perfectly dried within 1-2 hours.

Step 5:

It’s time to wash the wig lightly under the cold water. Rinse the wig until you see clear water comes out. It’s normal that colorful water will run first.

Step 6:

Detangle the synthetic wig with a wide-tooth comb. Use a towel to remove the rest water from the wig. Wait to dry the wig again and finally, you can use the newly dyed wig.

Can Synthetic Hair Be Dyed with Food Coloring?

It seems weird but food coloring can be used on synthetic hair. Keep in mind that food coloring will add some shades to actual hair. Also, be sure that your chosen color is darker than your wig. Otherwise, you will be unable to notice the new color.

Apply food coloring on your synthetic hair only when you don’t have any other options. It provides a comparatively lighter color than other methods.

How Do I Dye A Synthetic Wig with Food Coloring Step by Step?

Nobody likes to wear a same-colored wig daily. So, making a change in your synthetic hair color is a good idea. In this case, food coloring can work great. It’s easily available and can give you the desired wig.

Things You Need:

• Food coloring
• Hair mousse
• Towel
• Comb
• Bowl
• Gloves
• Spoon

Step 1: 

First of all, take necessary preparation. Put the towel on the table or any flat surface. Make sure the towel is placed evenly. Wear gloves so that food coloring doesn’t stain your hands.

Step 2:

Comb through the hair. Make sure the hair is knot-free. You can also use your fingers to make the hair even.

Step 3:

Prepare the dye for your synthetic wig. Take a little amount of mousse in the bowl. Mix food coloring with the mousse. A few drops are fine if you want to dye only a section of the hair. If you want to dye the whole wig, you will need to add more food coloring. Stir gently with a spoon to get a complete mixture.

Step 4:

Place your wig on the towel. Select one section to dye. You can use the paintbrush or simply your fingers; both work well. If you want to paint only the end of the hair, just paint on that area. Don’t leave any part without painting evenly. You can paint the wig one section by one.

Step 5:

Wait for 30 minutes to ensure the food coloring sits on the wig tightly. For deep color, you should wait at least 1 hour. Let the synthetic hair dry in the natural air.

Step 6: 

Rinse the dyed hair under cold water. Warm water can cause damage to the hair and the color will come out easily. Don’t rub; use your fingers to ensure water goes every corner of the wig.

Step 7:

After lightly rinsing off, allow the hair to dry correctly. Dab a towel over your hair. And then, dry it in the air. Again, use the comb to remove all knots. The synthetic wig is ready now to serve you.

Final Words

Dyeing synthetic wigs require expertise as it is a bit tricky process. Our above guide is suitable for beginners to experts, and so, you can also take full advantage while dyeing synthetic wigs.

Make sure you have chosen the right dyes and right wigs to give some eye-catching colors to them. If you fail to be prepared correctly, you can simply make a mess. So, be aware not to make a mess instead of making your wigs colorful.