Yes, you can effectively apply hair color to oiled or greasy hair. In fact, having some natural oils in your hair can even be beneficial for the dyeing process.
When considering a new hair color application, a common question arises: Can we apply hair color on oiled hair? The answer is yes, and surprisingly, it can even be advantageous for the dyeing process.
Having some natural oils in your hair before coloring is not just acceptable, but it can actually enhance the experience. According to experts, these natural oils act as a protective barrier (1). They help to coat and protect both your hair strands and your scalp from the chemical agents in hair dye.
Key Benefits of Coloring Hair with Natural Oils:
- Reduced Damage: Natural oils can help to mitigate potential damage to the hair shaft from the chemicals in the dye.
- Minimized Scalp Irritation: They create a protective layer on the scalp, significantly reducing the risk of irritation, itching, or burning sensations often associated with hair coloring (1).
- Improved Application: The hair might feel more pliable and easier to work with, potentially leading to a more even color application.
Best Practices for Dyeing Oiled Hair
While natural oils are beneficial, it's important to distinguish between naturally oily hair and hair laden with styling products or excessive amounts of added oil. The key is to have natural oils, not product buildup.
Tips for Optimal Results When Dyeing Oiled Hair:
- Avoid Immediate Washing: It's often recommended not to wash your hair immediately before coloring. Allowing natural oils to build up for 24-48 hours prior to dyeing is generally ideal.
- Ensure Product-Free Hair: Make sure your hair is free from heavy styling products, serums, leave-in conditioners, or excessive amounts of applied oils, as these can create a barrier that prevents the hair dye from properly penetrating the hair shaft.
- Perform a Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test 48 hours beforehand to check for allergic reactions.
- Conduct a Strand Test: A strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of hair can help you preview the color result and ensure you achieve your desired shade.
- Follow Dye Instructions: Adhere strictly to the specific hair dye kit's instructions regarding application time and rinsing process.
Natural Oils vs. Added Products: A Comparison
Understanding the difference between your hair's natural sebum and external products is crucial for successful hair coloring.
| Feature | Hair with Natural Oils (Recommended) | Hair with Excessive Products/Oil (Not Recommended) |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Provides a natural barrier against chemical damage and scalp irritation (1) | Can create an artificial barrier, potentially leading to uneven color or poor absorption |
| Color Uptake | Allows for effective and potentially more even color absorption | May hinder color penetration, resulting in patchy, lighter, or inconsistent color |
| Scalp Health | Reduces irritation and dryness | May trap chemicals against the scalp, increasing irritation risk |
| Texture | Hair feels more lubricated, less prone to breakage during processing | Hair might feel heavy, greasy, or have residue, making application difficult |
Important Considerations
While the presence of natural oils is advantageous, be mindful of the type and amount of oil or product on your hair.
What to Avoid Before Dyeing:
- Heavy, Thick Oils: Excessive application of heavy oils like pure coconut oil, castor oil, or olive oil right before coloring might create too much of a barrier, preventing the dye from fully penetrating.
- Silicone-Based Products: Products containing high amounts of silicones can coat the hair too heavily, blocking the dye from reaching the hair shaft effectively.
- Excessive Product Buildup: If your hair has a lot of dry shampoo, hairspray, gel, or other styling product residue, it's generally better to do a light wash (without conditioning) and wait a day or two to allow natural oils to replenish.
In summary, applying hair color to hair with natural oils is not only permissible but often recommended to help protect your hair and scalp, ensuring a smoother and potentially safer dyeing experience.
