When you try to change the look of your hair color, many questions can run through your mind. One of the most common ones we see is, “Can I mix conditioner with hair dye or developer?”
That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you decide whether you can mix conditioner with hair dye and developer, and if not, what else you can do to protect your hair during dyeing. .
Is it okay to mix conditioner with hair colorant or developer?
Hair color experts do not recommend mixing hair dyes and conditioners that contain color developers. Doing this can interfere with the staining process and lead to disappointing results.
There is no practical benefit to mixing conditioner with hair dye and developer. The only potential benefit is that it may reduce the damage caused to your hair by the dye, but this is not guaranteed.
The developer opens the hair cuticle to allow dye molecules to penetrate. Conditioner can neutralize the developer and prevent it from working properly.
Effect of mixing conditioner with hair dye and developer
As mentioned earlier, mixing these small products can produce unexpected results for a variety of reasons. This includes two things:
unexpected results
Using one product is one thing, but using three different products with different ingredients is a whole new ball game.
Each product uses specific components to achieve the desired results for its purpose. However, there is no clear way to predict how these components will behave when mixed.
In this case, all products are designed to treat hair, but using them together can lead to unexpected results. It can damage your hair and make it feel greasy, brittle, or just plain weird.
Also, don’t forget that you can create entirely new products that can cause irritation and dryness to your skin.
Unattractive colors and strange spots
Do you know the difference between conditioner and hair developer? If not, let me explain. Conditioners are mainly there to moisturize your hair and keep it healthy and shiny.
Hair developers, on the other hand, aim to lift the hair cuticle so that the hair dye can penetrate and retain its color for as long as possible. It also helps you get the shade exactly as stated on the box.
These products are designed to be used sequentially, not simultaneously. First, use dye and developer to quickly condition your hair.
Therefore, incorporating conditioner into the main dye mixture dilutes the developer and dye, resulting in uneven application and less vibrant shades.
neutralize developers
The developer activates the dye and allows it to penetrate the hair. The conditioner interacts with the developer and neutralizes the effect of opening the cuticle.
This prevents the dye from penetrating the cuticle and cortex, resulting in a consistent, even color deposit.
leads to faster fades
Conditioners change the viscosity and texture of the dye mixture, making application messy and difficult to control. The extra slipperiness causes drips and streaks rather than a clean, precise application.
Mixing with conditioner prevents the dye from bonding properly to the hair, so it tends to fade faster. Colors should be touched up and refreshed frequently.
Is it okay to mix hair color with conditioner?
If you are using a semi-permanent dye, you can mix the dye with a conditioner. Do not mix conditioner and permanent hair dye, as color developer is an essential ingredient in permanent hair dye.
Now, mixing hair dye and conditioner without developer may not be the best idea, but it’s not a completely bad idea either.
On the plus side, adding conditioner can make the dye mixture creamier, which means:
- Application is now easier and evenly distributed.
- Less burden on hair and scalp
- Allows color to adhere more evenly and reduces specks
- May reduce irritation and itching that some people experience
However, there are also some potential disadvantages to keep in mind.
- Dye can be diluted and can give a brighter color than expected
- Different conditioners have different ingredients so results may vary
- Color may fade faster, especially if your conditioner contains silicone
- Risk of unexpected and strange chemical reactions occurring
Therefore, it is best to contact the brand or hair professional before doing anything. Be sure to mention what products you use, including brand names, and if they fit well together. If the other person doesn’t respond or give you a clear answer, it’s best to take it as a “no.”
Tips to keep in mind when dyeing your hair
If all is well and your hair and skin are ready for this adventure, keep these tips and tricks in mind.
Always patch test
It may sound redundant, but do not forget to perform a patch test first to avoid skin aggravation.
To do this, apply the prepared mixture to a small area of \u200b\u200bthe body. If there are no problems after 24 hours, you can dye your hair.
Keep away from hot tools
Straightening, curling, and heating up our hair is a daily routine for many of us. However, you should avoid using hair dryers or curling irons for about a week before dyeing your hair.
You may be wondering why. Unfortunately, continuous use of heat tools can make your hair dry and brittle. Therefore, when you try dyeing it, you will find that the color does not stick well.
Get the right product
We know you can find the color you want at Walmart or Target, but why not take the plunge? If you’re going to dye your hair, you better make sure it looks great.
Consider going to a salon or beauty supply store. There you can buy the perfect product or ask what you need.
So, is it okay to mix conditioner with hair color and developer?
Conditioner is a great product for maintaining hair health and manageability, but it is not recommended to mix it with hair dye or developer.
If you want to protect your hair dye, consider using a post-color treatment or a developer-free semi-permanent hair dye that can be mixed with conditioner.
Also, be sure to perform a patch test to avoid skin abnormalities or strange discoloration. Good luck and enjoy coloring!
