Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

How To Dye A Synthetic Wig

How To Dye A Synthetic Wig

If you'd asked us 10 or even 5 years ago if it would be possible to dye a synthetic wig at home without it looking like a hot mess afterwards, we probably would've told you no. However, thanks to the rising quality of synthetic wigs in recent years, dyeing synthetic wigs at home has become a breeze. Keep reading as we guide you through how to dye a synthetic wig. 

Choose A Quality Wig 

Not all synthetic wigs are created equal. While synthetic wigs have overall improved and are continuing to improve in quality, there are still many synthetic wigs on the market that reflect the stereotypical qualities of synthetic wigs: stiff, difficult to manage and near impossible to customise. So if you're looking for quality synthetic wigs you can dye, Outre is one of the brands leading the way in this new synthetic hair revolution. TikTok is full of videos of people slaying their affordable Outre wigs. Available online and in beauty supply stores, these wigs are easily accessible and a great option for your hair transformation adventures.

how to dye a synthetic wig

Image | Outre 

Use The Correct Dye

Synthetic hair won't behave the same as human hair so it's important to use the right type of dye for the best result. Synthetic fabric dye is the best option to go for if you want to give your wig the best chances to take on your ideal colour. Rit fabric dye–specifically their Dye More formulation designed for synthetic fibres–is an online favourite for many people who have ventured into the world of synthetic wig dyeing. Available in a rainbow of colours, you're spoilt for choice. If you're based outside of the US, their online site ships worldwide and Amazon UK also stock the dye. 

Now when it comes to how to actually dye the wig, this tutorial by Kyne is helpful, well-explained and the end result is gorgeous. 

Not Into Dye? Try Fabric Spray 

If you're not thrilled at the idea of dyeing your wig in a more traditional sense, fabric dyes can also be used as can root touch up sprays like L'Oreal's Magic Retouch. Simply spray evenly across small sections of your wig at a time and brush the product through for almost instant results. While this method is great if you're looking to test the proverbial waters when it comes to dyeing your synthetic wig, the colour coverage isn't as strong as it through traditional dye, especially when using a product like the Magic Retouch. If you're looking for soft pastel colours to refresh a platinum blonde wig this is a great, semi-permanent option to try out but for bolder colours, stick to the water and dye method. 

 

Aftercare Is Key 

Synthetic hair is already notorious for being high maintenance so if you've dyed yours, it's extra important to take good care of it by practising the following:

  • Gently brush from the ends upwards 
  • Never brush the hair when wet
  • Avoid buildup by using products like oils sparingly 
  • Protect the lace on your wig and your natural hair by using the Wig Fix

Find us on social media:
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

 

Cover Photo Image | Rit Outre

Leave a comment

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

All comments are moderated before being published.

Read more

The Best Wigs For Medical And Cancer Patients
Hairloss

The Best Wigs For Medical And Cancer Patients

Find out which wigs are great for medical and cancer patients.

Read more
Best Synthetic Hair For Your Favourite Hairstyles
Wig Advice

Best Synthetic Hair For Your Favourite Hairstyles

Because why let human hair have all the fun?

Read more
Find Your Cap Size
Setup
01 Circumference
02 Front to Nape
03 Ear to Ear
Your Size
Setup

Before you start

What you need

Get this right
from the start

Most fit problems trace back to how the measurement was taken, not the number itself.

A soft fabric measuring tape — metal tapes give inaccurate readings.
With or without wig cap? If you plan to wear one, measure with it on.
Snug, not tight. The tape should sit firmly but not indent your skin.
A mirror or a friend. A second set of hands improves accuracy.
Circumference

Step 01 · Primary measurement

The anchor

Circumference

Place the tape around your head at the hairline — approximately ¼ inch above your eyebrows and ears. Bring it around the back at the base of your skull. Keep the tape parallel to the floor the entire way around.

Why it mattersThis is the primary anchor. When you're between sizes, circumference is always the tiebreaker.
Common mistakeTipping the tape up at the back. Keep it level all the way around.
Enter your circumference
inches

This number takes precedence

Front to Nape

Step 02 · Secondary measurement

Nape comfort

Front to Nape

Start at your natural hairline at the center of your forehead. Run the tape back over the crown to the nape of your neck where your hairline ends. Let the tape follow the curve of your head.

Why it mattersDetermines nape comfort over a full day. If slightly short, you'll feel it by afternoon.
Common mistakeStarting from the scalp instead of the hairline. Always begin at the hairline.
Enter your front to nape
inches

Affects nape comfort over long wear

Ear to Ear

Step 03 · Secondary measurement

Front stability

Ear to Ear

Begin at the top of one ear where it starts to curve. Bring the tape up and over the crown to the same point on the opposite ear. The tape runs across the top of your head, not around it.

Why it mattersControls whether the front stays in place. If too small, the wig will gradually ride back over the course of the day.
Common mistakeStarting at the earlobe instead of the top curve. This adds length unnecessarily.
Enter your ear to ear
inches

Determines front stability and placement

Your recommended cap

Retake measurements

Understanding your size

Your cap has a range

The adjustable back strap gives you roughly half an inch of flexibility in each direction.
If you're between sizes, sizing up always works — a slightly larger cap adjusted with the strap fits better than a slightly small one.
A full day of wear tells you more than 10 minutes. Nape comfort reveals itself over hours.

On comfort and security

A well-fitting wig should feel comfortable — not tight, not grippy.

"Comfortable is correct.
Tight is not security."

The Renatural
Shop