Dyeing your blonde hair black can be a dramatic and stunning transformation. However, it’s not as simple as slapping on a box of black dye and hoping for the best. Going from light to dark requires careful planning, the right products, and a methodical approach to avoid disastrous results like green undertones, uneven color, or damaged hair. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a successful and beautiful black hair transformation.
**Why Dyeing Blonde Hair Black is Tricky**
Blonde hair, especially if it’s been bleached, is porous and lacks the underlying pigments (red, orange, and yellow) that are naturally present in darker hair. When you apply black dye directly to blonde hair, it’s like trying to fill an empty vessel. The hair absorbs the dye quickly, but because there’s nothing for the black pigment to adhere to, it can fade rapidly or even turn green or muddy as the underlying blue tones in the black dye become more prominent.
**The Key: Filling the Underlying Pigment**
The secret to successfully dyeing blonde hair black is to first *fill* the hair with the missing underlying pigments. This creates a solid base for the black dye to adhere to, ensuring long-lasting color and preventing unwanted tones.
**What You’ll Need:**
* **Color Remover (Optional):** If you have a lot of buildup from previous dyes, a color remover can help create a cleaner slate.
* **Protein Treatment:** Bleaching can weaken hair. A protein treatment helps strengthen and repair it before dyeing.
* **Red/Orange Color Filler:** This is crucial for adding the missing underlying pigments. Choose a shade of red or orange that’s slightly more vibrant than your current hair color. Avoid using a purely red filler if your blonde is very pale or platinum, as it can lead to an overly red result. Orange is generally a safer choice.
* **Demi-Permanent Black Hair Dye:** Demi-permanent dye is less damaging than permanent dye because it doesn’t contain ammonia and only deposits color. It’s ideal for this process as you’re primarily focusing on depositing color rather than lifting it.
* **Developer:** You’ll need a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) to mix with your demi-permanent dye.
* **Deep Conditioner:** To replenish moisture after dyeing.
* **Gloves:** Essential for protecting your hands.
* **Applicator Brush:** For even dye application.
* **Mixing Bowl:** Non-metallic.
* **Old Towel:** To protect your clothing.
* **Hair Clips:** To section your hair.
* **Petroleum Jelly:** To protect your hairline.
* **Shampoo and Conditioner (Color-Safe):** For washing your hair after dyeing.
* **Optional: Toner:** A green-correcting toner can be used if you’re concerned about green undertones, but this is usually unnecessary if you properly fill the hair.
**Step-by-Step Guide:**
**1. Preparation is Key:**
* **Strand Test:** Before applying anything to your entire head, perform a strand test. This will allow you to see how the color filler and black dye will react with your hair and adjust the application time accordingly. Choose a small, inconspicuous section of hair, such as underneath your hair at the nape of your neck. Apply the color filler and black dye according to the instructions below and check the results after the recommended processing time. If you’re happy with the color, proceed with the full application.
* **Protect Your Skin and Clothes:** Apply petroleum jelly along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining. Wear an old towel or a dyeing cape to protect your clothing.
* **Section Your Hair:** Divide your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back. This will make it easier to apply the dye evenly.
**2. Color Remover (Optional):**
* If you have significant color buildup from previous dyes, use a color remover according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help create a cleaner base for the color filler.
**3. Protein Treatment:**
* Apply a protein treatment to your hair according to the product instructions. This will help strengthen and repair any damage caused by bleaching.
**4. Applying the Red/Orange Color Filler:**
* **Mix the Color Filler:** In a non-metallic mixing bowl, mix the red/orange color filler according to the product instructions. Most color fillers are pre-mixed and ready to use, but some may require mixing with a developer.
* **Apply to Dry Hair:** Apply the color filler to your dry, sectioned hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Ensure that every strand is thoroughly saturated.
* **Process According to Instructions:** Leave the color filler on for the recommended processing time, usually around 20-30 minutes. Check the strand test to gauge how long it takes for the color to develop properly.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse the color filler out of your hair with warm water until the water runs clear. Do not shampoo. Just rinse thoroughly.
* **Dry Your Hair:** Gently towel-dry your hair. It should be damp, not soaking wet, before applying the black dye.
**5. Applying the Demi-Permanent Black Dye:**
* **Mix the Dye:** In a non-metallic mixing bowl, mix the demi-permanent black dye with the developer according to the product instructions. The typical ratio is 1:1 (one part dye to one part developer), but always refer to the specific instructions on the dye packaging.
* **Apply to Damp Hair:** Apply the black dye to your damp, sectioned hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Again, ensure that every strand is thoroughly saturated.
* **Process According to Instructions:** Leave the black dye on for the recommended processing time, usually around 20-30 minutes. Refer to your strand test results to fine-tune the processing time for optimal color deposit.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse the black dye out of your hair with cool water until the water runs clear. Continue rinsing until you see no more color coming out.
**6. Condition and Protect:**
* **Apply Deep Conditioner:** After rinsing the dye, apply a deep conditioner to your hair. This will help to replenish moisture and restore shine. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time, usually 5-10 minutes.
* **Rinse and Style:** Rinse the conditioner out of your hair with cool water. Style your hair as usual. Avoid using heat styling tools immediately after dyeing, as this can further dry out your hair.
**7. Post-Dye Care:**
* **Wait Before Shampooing:** Wait at least 72 hours (3 days) before shampooing your hair after dyeing. This will allow the dye to fully set and prevent fading.
* **Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner:** When you do shampoo, use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. These products are formulated to be gentle on dyed hair and will help to prolong the life of your color.
* **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and parabens, in your hair care products. These chemicals can strip the color from your hair and leave it dry and damaged.
* **Minimize Heat Styling:** Minimize the use of heat styling tools, such as hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. Heat can damage dyed hair and cause it to fade more quickly. If you do use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray.
* **Protect Your Hair from the Sun:** The sun can also fade dyed hair. Wear a hat or scarf when you’re spending time outdoors in the sun, or use a hair product with UV protection.
* **Regular Deep Conditioning:** Deep condition your hair regularly, at least once a week. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
* **Touch Up Roots Regularly:** As your hair grows, you’ll need to touch up your roots to maintain the black color. Use the same demi-permanent black dye that you used for the initial dyeing process. Be careful to only apply the dye to the roots, as overlapping the dye on previously dyed hair can cause it to become darker and uneven.
**Troubleshooting Common Problems:**
* **Green Undertones:** If you notice green undertones in your hair, you can use a red-toned shampoo or conditioner to neutralize the green. Alternatively, you can apply a red-correcting toner.
* **Uneven Color:** If your hair is unevenly colored, you may need to re-dye it. Be sure to apply the dye evenly and thoroughly, and follow the processing time carefully.
* **Dry and Damaged Hair:** If your hair is dry and damaged after dyeing, use a deep conditioner regularly and avoid heat styling. You may also want to consider getting a trim to remove any split ends.
* **Fading Color:** If your hair color is fading quickly, make sure you’re using color-safe shampoo and conditioner, and avoid harsh chemicals and excessive heat styling. You may also need to re-dye your hair more frequently.
**Choosing the Right Black Dye:**
There are many different shades of black hair dye available, ranging from blue-black to natural black to jet black. Consider your skin tone and personal preferences when choosing a shade. Generally, cooler skin tones look best with blue-black or jet black, while warmer skin tones look best with natural black.
* **Blue-Black:** This shade has a cool, bluish undertone. It can make your hair look very shiny and dramatic, but it can also emphasize any redness in your skin.
* **Natural Black:** This shade is a true black with no undertones. It’s a versatile choice that works well with most skin tones.
* **Jet Black:** This shade is a very deep, intense black. It can make your hair look very thick and luxurious, but it can also be too harsh for some skin tones.
**Demi-Permanent vs. Permanent Dye:**
As mentioned earlier, demi-permanent dye is the preferred choice for dyeing blonde hair black because it’s less damaging and still provides excellent color deposit. However, permanent dye is an option if you want a more long-lasting result. Keep in mind that permanent dye contains ammonia and can be more damaging to your hair. It also lifts the hair’s cuticle to deposit the color, so it can be harder to correct if you make a mistake.
**When to Consult a Professional:**
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, or if you have severely damaged hair, it’s always best to consult a professional hair stylist. A stylist can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best course of action. They can also ensure that the dye is applied evenly and that the color is exactly what you want.
**Conclusion:**
Dyeing blonde hair black can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research and follow the steps carefully. By filling the underlying pigment, using the right products, and taking good care of your hair, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting black hair transformation. Remember to always prioritize the health of your hair and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Good luck with your hair transformation!