Can You Dye Synthetic Wigs? Here’s What You Need to Know

April 02, 2025 D Bytom

Synthetic wigs are a popular and affordable way to change your hairstyle.

But what happens when you want to switch up the colour too? Plenty of people ask whether synthetic wigs can be dyed—and the short answer is yes, though it’s not always a simple process.

Unlike human hair, synthetic fibres don’t soak up colour the same way, so you’ll need the right tools, the right technique, and a bit of patience.

Whether you’re aiming for a subtle shade shift or a bold new look, this guide breaks down everything you need to know before reaching for the dye.

Key Takeaways

Synthetic wigs can be dyed, but with big limitations
Only lighter coloured wigs can be dyed darker
Special dyes and methods are needed for synthetic fibres
Results can be unpredictable due to the wig material
Professional dyeing often works best
Buying pre-coloured wigs is easier for changing colours
Taking good care of dyed synthetic wigs is really important
Temporary colour options are less risky than permanent dyes

Understanding Synthetic Wig Fibres

Synthetic wigs are made from plastic-based fibres like acrylic, polyester, and PVC. These materials are designed to look and feel like real hair, but they're very different when it comes to colouring. Synthetic fibres don't absorb dye like human hair does. The colour in synthetic wigs is added during manufacturing through a heat process. This makes the colour last longer, but also makes it harder to change.

Synthetic wig fibres get their colour during manufacturing through a heat process. This means the colour is part of the fibre itself, unlike human hair where dye can soak in. Because of this, normal hair dyes don't work on synthetic wigs. The heat-sealed colour is hard to change, which is good for keeping the original colour but makes it tough to dye the wig. Understanding this is really important if you're thinking about dyeing your synthetic wig.

Can You Dye Synthetic Wigs?

The short answer is: yes, but it's not easy. Dyeing synthetic wigs is much harder than colouring human hair wigs. Here's what you should know: You need special products and techniques made for synthetic fibres. Unlike human hair, which you can lighten or darken pretty easily, synthetic wigs usually can only be dyed darker than their original colour. This is because of how synthetic fibres hold colour.

Also, how well the dye works can really vary depending on the quality and type of synthetic fibre in the wig. Some expensive synthetic wigs might take colour better, while others might not change at all. Even when dyeing works, the colour on a synthetic wig might not be as bright or last as long as it would on human hair. The synthetic fibres might not hold the new colour as well, so it could fade faster or look uneven over time.

Preparing to Dye Your Synthetic Wig

If you've decided to try dyeing your synthetic wig, getting ready properly is super important. Here are some steps to follow:

Choose a light-colou red wig: You can't make dark wigs lighter, so start with a wig that's lighter than the colour you want. This is a basic rule in synthetic wig dyeing because you can only add colour, not take it away.
Get your supplies: You'll need special synthetic hair dye, gloves, a mixing bowl, and a brush to apply the dye. It's really important to use dyes made for synthetic fibres because regular hair dyes can ruin the wig.
Set up a place with good air flow: Dyeing can smell strong, so make sure you have good ventilation. This is for your comfort and safety, as some synthetic dyes can release fumes you shouldn't breathe in too much.
Protect your work area: Cover where you're working with old towels or plastic sheets. Synthetic dyes can be really hard to clean if they stain, so it's important to protect everything well.
Test on a small piece first: Before dyeing the whole wig, try the dye on a small, hidden part to see how the colour looks and how long it takes to work.

Remember, not all synthetic wigs can be dyed successfully. Wigs that can handle heat usually take dye better than regular synthetic wigs. Always check what the wig maker says before trying to dye your wig. Some wig makers say not to dye their wigs at all, and if you do, you might not be able to return it. Also, the wig might feel different after dyeing, maybe not as soft or it might tangle more easily.

Selecting the Right Dye for Synthetic Wigs

Picking the right dye is super important for colouring synthetic wigs successfully. Here are your options, with details about each:

Fabric dyes: Some fabric dyes made for synthetic materials can work on synthetic wigs. These dyes are made to stick to plastic-based fibres, so they might work for wig colouring. But the results can be hard to predict, and not all fabric dyes are safe to use near your skin, so be careful.
Alcohol-based inks: These can change the colour temporarily. They coat the fibres instead of soaking in, which means the colour might not last as long but can be easier to remove if you don't like it. This is good if you want to try out a colour without committing to it for a long time.
Special synthetic wig dyes: Products made just for synthetic hair work the best. These dyes are designed to work with the unique properties of synthetic fibres, giving better colour that lasts longer. They often come with specific instructions for use on wigs and may include things that help protect the fibres during dyeing.

Don't use regular hair dyes, as these can damage the synthetic fibres and won't change the colour like you want.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dyeing a Synthetic Wig

Now that you're ready, let's go through the dyeing process step by step:

Wash the wig: Use a mild shampoo to clean off any dirt or hair products. This is really important because any leftover stuff on the wig can make the dye not work evenly.
Dry the wig completely: Let it air dry or use low heat if your wig can handle heat. Make sure the wig is totally dry before you start dyeing, because water can make the dye not work as well.
Mix the dye: Follow the instructions on the dye package carefully. Different dyes might need to be mixed in different ways or with special ingredients. Measuring everything exactly is key to getting the colour you want.
Apply the dye: Use a brush to put the dye on evenly, starting at the roots and working your way down. Be very thorough to make sure every part of the wig gets dyed to avoid patchy spots. Pay extra attention to areas that might be harder to reach, like the back of the neck or around the ears.
Let the colour set: Leave the dye on for the recommended time, usually 15-30 minutes. During this time, check the colour every so often to make sure you're getting the shade you want without overdoing it.
Rinse thoroughly: Use cool water and rinse until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to get all the extra dye out and stop the colour from developing more. Be patient, as it might take several minutes of rinsing to get all the dye out.
Condition the wig: Use a conditioner made for synthetic hair to keep the fibres soft. This helps bring back any moisture lost during dyeing and can help keep the wig's texture and manageability.
Let it air dry: Let the wig dry naturally on a wig stand. Don't use heat to dry the wig, as this can make the colour set unevenly or damage the newly dyed fibres.

Remember, the results might not be as bright or last as long as dyeing human hair. Synthetic fibres don't absorb colour the same way, so don't expect it to look exactly like dyed human hair. The final colour might also keep changing a bit over the next day or two, so don't worry if it looks a little different right after dyeing. Also, dyeing can change how the wig feels a little, maybe making it less smooth or more likely to tangle. You might need to take extra care when styling and maintaining it after dyeing.

Post-Dyeing Care for Your Synthetic Wig

After dyeing your synthetic wig, taking good care of it is really important to keep the new colour looking good and the wig healthy. Here are some detailed tips for caring for your wig after dyeing:

Wait 48 hours before washing the wig to let the colour set. This waiting time helps the dye really stick to the synthetic fibres, making the colour less likely to fade when you wash it for the first time.
Use cool water and special synthetic wig shampoo when washing. Hot water can make the new colour come out faster, and harsh shampoos can strip the colour and damage the fibres.
Don't use heat styling tools, as they can damage the fibres and make the colour fade. If you really need to use heat, use the lowest setting possible and use a heat protectant spray made for synthetic hair.
Store the wig on a wig stand away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Sunlight can be really harsh on dyed synthetic fibres and can make the colour fade quickly.
Think about using a leave-in conditioner or wig spray to keep the wig soft and easy to manage. These products can help if the wig feels dry or stiff after dyeing.
Brush the wig gently and often with a wide-toothed comb or a brush made for synthetic wigs. This helps prevent tangling and keeps the wig's style while spreading any conditioning products evenly.

Regular care and gentle handling will help keep your newly dyed synthetic wig's colour and texture looking good. It's also important to be careful about what products you use on the wig after dyeing. Avoid any hair products with alcohol or oils, as these can remove the colour or make the wig look greasy. Instead, use products made specifically for coloured synthetic hair to help your dyed wig last longer.

Potential Risks and Challenges

Dyeing synthetic wigs comes with several risks and challenges that you should think about carefully:

Uneven colour: Because of how synthetic fibres are made, the dye might not spread evenly across the wig, which could make it look patchy or streaky.
Damage to the fibres: If not done correctly, dyeing can weaken or melt the synthetic fibres, changing how the wig feels and making it not last as long.
Unexpected colour results: The final colour might look very different from what you wanted, because synthetic fibres react differently to dyes compared to real hair.
Shorter wig life: Even when done right, dyeing can stress the synthetic fibres, potentially making the wig not last as long.
Allergic reactions: Some people might get skin irritation or allergic reactions to the dyes used, especially if they touch the scalp.
Permanent changes: Unlike human hair, once a synthetic wig is dyed, you can't easily change it back or fix it without risking more damage to the wig.

These risks are why many wig experts suggest getting professional dyeing services or buying pre-coloured wigs instead of trying to dye them yourself. Professional wig colourists have special products and techniques that can reduce some of these risks and might get better, more predictable results. However, even with professional help, there's always some unpredictability when dyeing synthetic wigs.

Alternatives to Dyeing Synthetic Wigs

If you're not sure about dyeing your synthetic wig, think about these other options, each with its own benefits:

Buy pre-coloured wigs: Look at different colours and styles to find one you like. This option avoids the risks of dyeing and ensures a professional, even colour throughout the wig. Many wig makers offer lots of colour choices, including natural shades and bright fashion colours.
Use temporary colour sprays: These wash out easily and don't damage the wig. Temporary sprays are great for special occasions or when you want to try a colour without committing. They come in many shades and can be applied quickly for an instant change.
Try clip-in coloured extensions: Add bits of colour without changing your whole wig. This method lets you create fun colour combinations and is easy to change or remove. Clip-in extensions come in different lengths and textures, so you can match them well with your wig.
Experiment with wig styling: Change your look with different partings, braids, or updos. Styling can really change how your wig looks without needing to change the colour. Learning different styling techniques can give you many looks from just one wig.
Consider ombre or balayage wigs: These pre-styled wigs have a multi-tonal colour effect without needing to dye them yourself. They can give a more natural, dimensional look that looks like professionally coloured hair.
Rotate multiple wigs: Instead of changing one wig, think about getting several wigs in different colours and styles. This approach gives you variety while keeping each wig in good condition for longer.

These options let you change your look without the risks of permanent dyeing. Each alternative has its own advantages, from easy temporary changes to long-lasting pre-coloured wigs. By exploring these options, you can find a way to change your look that works for you while keeping your synthetic wigs in good condition.

Expert Tips for Successful Synthetic Wig Dyeing

If you decide to go ahead with dyeing your synthetic wig, keep these expert tips in mind to increase your chances of success:

Always test the dye on a small, hidden part of the wig first. This important step lets you see how the wig fibres react to the dye and gives you a preview of the final colour, helping you adjust your technique or expectations if needed.
Use heat-friendly synthetic wigs for better dye absorption. These wigs are usually made from better quality synthetic fiber that can handle more processing, including dyeing. The heat-friendly fibres often allow the dye to soak in better.
Consider getting your wig dyed by a professional for the best results. Professionals have access to better dyes and techniques that can achieve more consistent and long-lasting results. They also have experience dealing with potential problems that might come up during dyeing.
Be patient and follow all instructions carefully. Rushing or skipping steps can lead to poor results or damage to the wig. Take your time, especially when applying the dye and letting it process, to ensure the colour spreads evenly.
Use good quality dyes made specifically for synthetic hair. While these might cost more, they are designed to work with the unique properties of synthetic fibres, giving better colour that sticks and causing less damage to the wig.
Think about using a colour-depositing conditioner for maintenance. These products can help refresh the colour between dye jobs and make your newly coloured wig last longer.
Be prepared for some trial and error. Even with careful preparation, the results of dyeing synthetic wigs can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan or another wig available.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Synthetic Wig

While it is possible to dye synthetic wigs, it's a tricky process with unpredictable results. For most people who wear wigs, looking at pre-coloured options or using temporary colour methods might be the safest and most effective way to change their look. Remember, having a great wig experience isn't just about colour, but also about taking good care of your wig.

For more information on wig care and styling, check out our collection of styleable synthetic hair extensions and expert advice on maintaining your perfect look. Remember that wigs offer endless possibilities for expressing yourself and changing your style.