How to Dye a Human Hair Wig at Home ?

Perfect question — dyeing your wig at home can be fun and rewarding if done right! Whether you want a subtle tint or a bold new color, here’s a beginner-friendly step-by-step guide on how to dye a human hair wig at home like a pro.

Before You Start: Know Your Wig

Only human hair wigs can be dyed.
Synthetic wigs (made of fibers) can’t be dyed with regular hair dye — the color won’t stick.

✅ Check your wig’s base color:

  • Lighter shades (like 613 blonde) are easiest to dye any color.

  • Darker wigs may need bleaching first if you want a bright tone.

What You’ll Need ?

  • A human hair wig

  • Hair dye (semi-permanent, demi, or permanent depending on your goal)

  • Developer (usually 20 volume for human hair)

  • Mixing bowl & brush

  • Gloves

  • Wide-tooth comb

  • Plastic wrap or foil

  • Old towel or cape

  • Shampoo & conditioner (sulfate-free)

  • Wig stand or mannequin head

💡 Optional: Use a patch test on a small wig strand first to preview the color.

Step-by-Step: How to Dye Your Wig at Home

Step 1: Wash & Dry the Wig

  • Gently shampoo to remove oils, dirt, or product buildup.

  • Let it air dry completely before dyeing.

  • Comb through to remove any tangles.

Step 2: Mix the Hair Dye

  • Put on gloves.

  • In a bowl, mix hair dye and developer (usually 1:1 ratio).

  • Stir until smooth and even.

  • Work in a well-ventilated area.

Step 3: Protect the Lace (if applicable)

If your wig has a lace front or closure:

  • Apply petroleum jelly or conditioner to the lace base to keep dye from staining it.

Step 4: Apply the Dye

  • Place your wig on a stand or mannequin.

  • Divide the hair into sections (4 or more for thick wigs).

  • Use your brush to apply dye from roots to ends, section by section.

  • Comb through gently to spread color evenly.

Pro tip: For a natural blend, apply less dye at the roots and slightly more toward the ends.

Step 5: Let It Process

  • Cover the wig with plastic wrap or foil.

  • Let it sit for 20–40 minutes, depending on the dye type and color depth.

  • Check every 10 minutes to monitor the shade.

Step 6: Rinse & Condition

  • Rinse under cool water until the water runs clear.

  • Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

  • Apply a deep conditioner or hair mask to restore softness and shine.

Step 7: Dry & Style

  • Pat with a towel — don’t rub.

  • Air dry on a wig stand.

  • Once dry, style as usual with heat protectant if needed.

💡 Extra Tips for Beginners

  • Always test dye on a small strand first to avoid surprises.

  • Avoid overlapping colors — it can lead to uneven results.

  • For ombre or highlights, use a toothbrush or smaller brush for precision.

  • Never bleach or dye your wig too often — it can damage the cuticles.

Recommended Beginner-Friendly Dyes

  • Adore or Kiss Colors (semi-permanent) – gentle and great for vibrant tones.

  • L’Oréal Excellence or Clairol Textures & Tones – ideal for natural shades on human hair wigs.