If you’ve recently taken the plunge and dyed your hair orange, you’re in for a bold and vibrant look. Using orange hair dye is a fantastic way to express your individuality and style. But to keep that vibrant hue looking its best, you need a few tricks up your sleeve.
In this guide, we’ll explore the hair dyeing process, ensuring your orange hair remains a head-turner.
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The Process of Dyeing Your Hair Orange
Dyeing your hair orange is a bold and exciting transformation. Whether you’re going for a fiery red-orange or a soft pastel hue, follow these steps.
Step 1: Pre-Dye Preparation
Before anything else, you need to gather the materials you need, including:
- Orange or copper hair dye (semi-permanent dye or permanent, depending on your preference)
- Developer (if required by your dye)
- Mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- Hair clips or ties
- Old t-shirt or hairdressing cape
- Petroleum jelly or barrier cream
- Shampoo and conditioner for color-treated hair
- Towel
- Timer
When choosing the right orange color, consider your skin tone and personal style. Options range from bright tangerine to deep copper. Decide whether you want a temporary or semi-permanent color. Temporary dyes are less commitment.
To ensure you’re happy with the color and that there are no adverse reactions, do a strand test. Apply a small amount of dye to a hidden section of hair. You can follow the instructions on the dye packaging.
Step 2: Mixing the Dye
Follow the instructions on your hair dye’s packaging carefully. Some dyes may require you to mix the color with a developer.
If needed, mix the dye and developer in a mixing bowl according to the instructions. Use a brush for even distribution.
Step 3: Dye Application
Carefully read the instructions provided with your hair dye product. Wear gloves to protect from staining. Also, put on an old T-shirt to avoid staining your clothing.
Divide your hair into manageable sections. Use hair clips to keep them separate. Begin applying the dye at the roots and work your way down to the tips. Use the brush to saturate each section evenly.
Be careful not to get the dye directly on your scalp. Leave a small gap to prevent staining.
Step 4: Wait and Rinse
Once the dye is applied, set a timer according to the instructions. This is typically around 30 minutes. But it can also depend on the brand and type of dye.
After the waiting period, rinse your hair with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water. It can cause the color to fade easily.
Step 5: Style Your Hair
Once it’s dry, style it as you like. Avoid excessive heat styling, as it can fade color faster. Depending on the type of dye, you may need occasional touch-up treatments. This is to maintain your desired orange hue.
8 Tips for Maintaining Orange Hair Dye
Maintaining orange hair dye requires some special care to prevent it from fading too quickly.
Here are some tips to help you maintain your orange hair color:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates can strip away the color and make it fade faster. Look for hair products that are labeled as color-safe or colour-protecting.
- Wash with cold water. Hot water can possibly open up your hair cuticles. It allows the color to escape. Use cool to lukewarm water when washing your hair to help preserve the color. Chlorine in pools and saltwater at the beach can also cause your orange color to fade. If you’ll be swimming, protect your hair by applying a leave-in conditioner to create a barrier.
- Limit washing. Try to wash your hair less to prevent color fading. Use dry shampoo. This is to absorb excess oil and keep your hair fresh.
- Use a colour-protecting hair mask. Incorporate a color-protecting hair mask or deep conditioner into your routine. This will help keep your hair hydrated and vibrant. Use it once a week or as recommended on the product label.
- Protect your hair from the sun. UV rays can also fade your orange hair color. Wear a hat or use hair products when you’re outside for extended periods.
- Avoid heat styling. Excessive use of these tools, like curling irons, can also weaken your hair and cause color to fade faster. If you need to style your hair, use a heat protectant spray and lower heat settings.
- Be mindful of products. Some hair products, such as those containing alcohol or harsh chemicals, can strip away color. Check the ingredients of your styling products and avoid those that may be harmful to your color-treated hair.
- Visit a professional. Regularly consult a professional colorist to maintain the vibrancy of your orange hair. They can provide touch-ups, recommend products, and give you advice based on your hair type and color.
Remember that maintaining vibrant orange hair takes effort and care. So be patient and consistent with these tips to enjoy your unique hair color for as long as possible.
Wrap-Up
Maintaining vibrant copper or bright orange hair dye can be challenging because it fades faster than natural shades. However, with proper maintenance, you extend the life of your orange hair color.
Remember that vibrant hair colors like light or dark orange may require more maintenance than natural shades.