How To Watercolor Your Wigs

When it comes to revamping your mane, wigs are a fabulous choice. The chic protective style gives your natural locks a break without sacrificing your 'do. You also have the option to experiment with popular hair color trends and techniques. One hair coloring method, in particular, that has become a hot commodity is none other than watercolor wigs.

Watercolor wigs are created using a DIY technique that allows you to explore the world of hair color. If you’re interested in learning more about this unique hair coloring method, you’ve come to the right place. Follow along as we give you the lowdown on this hair color technique, including sharing how to watercolor a wig.

WHAT IS A WATERCOLOR WIG?

Before we transform you into a watercolor wig expert, you need to know exactly what the process entails. Water-coloring involves using semi-permanent hair dye (sometimes referred to as watercolor hair dye) mixed with hot water to color a wig. Blonde wigs and other light-hued options are best since they’re easier to dye. Hair is placed in the mixture and left to sit for the appropriate time, and the result is a wig with a beautiful color that you’re free to flaunt whenever you like.

You can choose from a variety of shades or mix up more than one to create a unique look. The goal of watercolor wigs is to provide you with gorgeous hair color sans a colorist. They also help to protect your wig from damage that can occur during some color processes. Most hair color methods rely on the use of hair bleach, which can take a toll on your strands with consistent and improper use. Watercolor wig-dyeing takes the chemical element out of the equation. So, it’s no surprise that YouTubers have encouraged their followers to get in on the fun.

DOES WATERCOLOR WIG DYE STAIN LACE WIGS?

Since hair dye is known to stain almost everything it comes into contact with, you may be wondering if watercolor wig dye can stain the lace on your wigs. After all, you need the lace on your wig to maintain its hue for a more natural look. The good news is that it shouldn’t. Still, you can play it safe and protect the lace if you like. Some people use petroleum jelly to create a barrier between the lace and the dye when coloring their wigs.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WATERCOLOR AND TRADITIONAL HAIR COLOR

Watercolor wig dye and traditional hair color are both options when you want to color your hair. However, it’s important to consider their differences when deciding on the right technique for you. Watercolor is a hair-dyeing approach that involves using a mixture of hot water and watercolor wig dye. This method works best on light hair shades, such as blonde, since they’re easier to dye than dark hues.

On the flip side, with traditional hair color, you can dye your wig to be any color you like. While watercolor shades will only show up on light wigs, traditional coloring gives you the option of going from a dark to light hair color. For the former, you’ll need hair bleach to make your desired hair color a reality. However, keep in mind that your wig may require multiple coloring sessions before your hair is light enough. That being said, you’ll want to enlist the help of a colorist so you can achieve the right hue. A professional can also help you color your wig the right way and avoid dyeing the wig lace.

HOW DO YOU WATERCOLOR A WIG

If you’re ready to step into the world of watercolor wigs, now is your chance. Follow our step-by-step guide below to learn how to watercolor a wig like a pro.

STEP #1: DETANGLE YOUR WIG

It’s essential to kick things off with a smooth and tangle-free wig. Reach for a hair detangler for a seamless process. Use the L’Oréal Kids Burst of Sweet Pear Tangle Tamer for All Hair Types on human hair wigs. Spray the detangler throughout your wig and use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle. Take your time and work from the ends up to the roots.

STEP #2: PREP YOUR WATER FOR COLORING

Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from the watercolor hair dye. Fill a large basin with hot water and add in your semi-permanent watercolor hair dye. Use a whisk or a metal spoon to mix the color evenly into the water. This will help ensure that your watercolor wig has no uneven patches of color. If you prefer a bolder hue, you can add more hair dye to the mixture.

Editor’s note: Keep in mind, because you’re diluting the hair color with water, you may not be able to predict the exact shade your wig will turn out. For more precision, you can always take your wig to a professional.

STEP #3: PLACE YOUR WIG IN THE BASIN

Place your wig in the basin to submerge it in the mixture. Use a whisk or spoon to stir the lace-front wig in the color bath to coat the hair. Let it sit submerged for 10 minutes or as directed on the package.

STEP #4: CHECK YOUR PROGRESS

Once the recommended time has passed, hold your wig above the basin and squeeze out the excess water. Check to see if you’ve achieved the desired color. If not, place the wig back into the mixture and leave it in place for five minutes. As soon as you get the right hue, you’re ready for the next step.

STEP #5: WASH YOUR WIG

Now that your watercolor is in place, it’s time to show your wig some love with a wash session. For human hair wigs, try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner. This sulfate-free system is the perfect match for color-treated hair since it provides deep nourishment. It also keeps your hair color pure for up to four weeks.

STEP #6: LET YOUR WIG AIR DRY

Top off your wash routine by allowing your wig to air dry. Simply lay your wig flat on a towel to keep the strands intact.

Next: How To Put On a Wig and Make It Look Natural