Choosing the Right Developer for Dyeing Over Faded Black Hair with Brown Natural Color

When dyeing over faded black hair, especially if your natural hair color is brown, choosing the right developer is crucial. In most cases, a developer with a volume of 10 or 20 is recommended. Each volume plays a different role in ensuring the best dye results.

Volumes Explained

10 Volume Developer:

Often used for deposit-only color not lift the existing hair color significantly, but helps the new dye adhere better.

20 Volume Developer:

Can lift the hair slightly, up to one level, while allowing for good color suitable when you want a more vibrant result or the faded color is stubborn.

Steps for Successful Dyeing

To achieve the best results when dyeing over your faded black hair:

Perform a Strand Test

Always perform a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This helps you see how the color will develop on your hair and gives you a preview of the final result.

Preparation

Ensure your hair is clean and dry prior to dyeing, as avoiding scalp exposure to water is beneficial. Natural oils on your scalp should be left to protect it during the dyeing process.

Application

Apply the dye evenly, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. This ensures a consistent final result.

Follow Instructions

Always adhere to the instructions provided with the dye, including timing and application techniques, for the best results.

When to Consider a Color Remover

If you decide to remove the black dye, understanding the options is crucial. Bleaching over black can drive the color molecules deeper and permanently stain your hair. A color remover, on the other hand, turns these molecules back to their original state.

The vol you used with your black dye and how many times it was applied can significantly affect the final color. For example, box dyes typically use 20 volume for black to accommodate the widest consumer base who needs some grey coverage. Several applications can result in your hair appearing lighter and warmer, potentially more of a rusty color instead of your natural brown.

Preparing for Bleaching

Once the black dye is removed, it’s important to pre-condition your hair. Recommended products include:

OlaplexK18Good moisturizing conditioner like Biolage Hydrasource

Allow a few days to let natural oils rebuild before bleaching. The volume to be used will depend on the current condition of your hair and the specific bleach used. Some bleaches can lift many levels with just 20 volume, while others may require higher volumes. Start with a lower volume and do a strand test.

To further protect your hair, apply pure organic unrefined cold pressed coconut oil at least a couple of hours prior to bleaching, to mitigate damage. You can also add a small amount of Olaplex to your bleach and follow up with a treatment containing hydrolyzed protein and moisture to ensure your hair remains in good condition.

In conclusion, choosing the right developer and preparation steps are crucial, especially when dealing with faded black hair with a brown natural color. Whether you decide to dye over the faded color or perform a full removal, the steps outlined here can help you achieve the desired results while minimizing damage to your hair.