For those of us in the salon community, colouring wigs is both an art form and a creative outlet. Whether you’re preparing for a show, crafting a bold look for a client, or simply indulging in the joy of experimenting, wig colouring offers endless possibilities. Extreme long hair is a great way to showcase various colours and precise skill, and wigs are often the best way to get access to that length. Here’s a guide to help you elevate your wig colouring game, straight from the Crazy Color PRO’s.
Why Colour Wigs?
Wigs provide the ultimate canvas for creativity. Whether you’re crafting stunning pastels, bold neons or multi-dimensional blends, wigs allow for unparalleled experimentation. But as glamorous as the results can be, the process is far from “quick and easy”. Some wigs our Ambassadors have worked on have taken over two days to complete! This meticulous attention to detail pays off, as the results are show-stopping.
Top Tips for Wig Colouring from Sophia Hilton, our Global Colour Ambassador:
- Test Before You Commit
Always test the tone on small, hidden sections of the wig, or on swatches, before diving into the full colouring process. This allows you to assess how the colour develops without risking a mismatch on the entire wig. Over-processing a wig to correct mistakes isn’t an option—it simply won’t withstand the strain. - Avoid Harsh Treatments
Wigs, especially pre-processed ones, are delicate. We avoid bleach at all costs. Stick to direct dyes like Crazy Color for vibrant results without damaging the fibres further. Remember, less is more when it comes to preserving the integrity of the wig.
The Overnight Pigment Hack
One of the best discoveries Sophia has made over the years is the power of leaving Crazy Color pigments to process overnight. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- Maximum Pigment Absorption: Allowing the dye to sit overnight ensures that the pigment fully penetrates the hair cuticle. This results in richer, more vibrant shades that truly pop.
- Blended Colours Without Bleed: If you’re working with blended or multi-tone designs, this hack ensures that the colours don’t bleed when rinsed. Rinse the next day, and you’ll find your masterpiece intact.
- Post-Processing Texture: Be prepared—your wig will likely feel stiff after the product has sat overnight. This is normal! A thorough rinse will bring it back to life, leaving you with clear, vibrant colours.
Connor Stansfield who has worked on Sophia’s creative team for shows, tells us about his experience with wigs:
“Colouring wigs has been one of the most challenging tasks in my entire career, especially because all the wig work I have done has been for shows and on stage. To make your life 100% easier, start with a blonde wig ideally on a shade #60 or #613.
My biggest tip for colouring wigs is to make sure that the wig is prepped properly. I always like to start by shampooing the wig to remove any coatings that may be on the hair that might block the colour from processing properly. I like to use a gentle clarifying shampoo, and then follow up with Crazy Color Anti Bleed Spray to even out the porosity. Remember, wig hair does not come from just one head, so the porosity can be all over the place – it’s important to balance it out before applying vivid shades!
Colouring wigs is a real labour of love, so give yourself plenty of time and allow extra time if you need to touch up any areas. I always love to put my favourite relaxing songs on whilst colouring as it helps me to focus and enjoy the time whilst colouring.”
Hydro Dipping Technique
Oli Tracey adds: “I love using the hydro dipping method with Crazy Color to bring extensions to life! It’s incredibly easy—just hot water and those iconic pink bottles, and you’ve got bold, vibrant colour in just a few dips. The result? Rich, saturated colour with minimal effort.
Want to create a seamless colour melt? Simply dip the tips into a complementary shade—think pink blending into yellow for a gorgeous orange transition. This technique works beautifully on both tape and weft extensions, and you can experiment with any shade in the Crazy Color range for endless creative possibilities!”
Best Practices for Wig Colouring
- Choose the Right Products: Opt for high-pigment, direct dyes like Crazy Color. These are perfect for pre-processed hair and allow for stunning, vibrant results.
- Be Gentle: Handle the wig with care throughout the process, from detangling to rinsing. Harsh handling can cause shedding or damage to the fibres.
- Plan Your Palette: Visualise the end result and create a step-by-step plan for layering colours. Precision is key when working with wigs!
- Protect the Lace: When dyeing lace front wigs, it’s crucial to prevent the lace from staining, as this can affect the natural appearance of the wig. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or conditioner to the lace areas before colouring. This barrier helps repel the dye, keeping the lace intact and maintaining the wig’s realistic look.
- Select the Appropriate Dye for Wig Material: Understanding your wig’s material is essential for choosing the right dye.
- Human Hair Wigs: These can be dyed similarly to natural hair using standard hair dyes.
- Synthetic Wigs: Traditional hair dyes are often unsuitable so do a strand test to make sure the colour takes. This is unpredictable so we would always recommend a Human hair wig.
- Maintain Wig Condition Post-Dyeing: After colouring, it’s vital to care for your wig to preserve its vibrancy and health. Use sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for coloured hair to gently cleanse and moisturise the fibres. Additionally, minimise heat styling to prevent further stress on the wig, ensuring longevity and sustained colour quality.
- Perform a Strand Test: Before applying dye to the entire wig, conduct a strand test. Apply the chosen dye to a small, inconspicuous section of the wig to observe how the hair reacts and to confirm the final colour outcome. This step helps prevent unexpected results and allows for adjustments before full application.
These tips will help to enhance the wig’s appearance and durability.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
While colouring wigs may take time and patience, the rewards are unparalleled. Wigs allow you to push boundaries, create jaw-dropping designs, and bring your creative visions to life. With these tips, you’ll be ready to take your wig colouring skills to the next level.
Whether it’s a client’s bold request or a masterpiece for your next show, remember that every wig is a canvas for you to push your own artistry.