When it comes to hair dye, one of the most common questions is whether or not you can reuse dye that has already been opened. The quick answer is yes, you can reuse hair dye that has been previously opened, but there are some important factors to consider.
How long is hair dye good for after opening?
Most opened hair dye can be reused for up to 6 months after opening, as long as it has been properly stored. Here are some general guidelines on how long different kinds of opened hair dye will last:
- Permanent hair dye – 6 months
- Semi-permanent hair dye – 6 months
- Temporary hair dye – 3 months
- Highlighting kits – 6 months
- Bleach – 2 months
The reason opened hair dye has a shorter shelf life is because oxygen, light, and moisture can degrade the chemicals in the dye over time. Storing opened dye properly in an airtight container and away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight will help prolong its shelf life.
Does hair dye expire?
Yes, hair dye does expire and has a shelf life, even when unopened. Here is how long different unopened hair dyes typically last:
- Permanent dye – At least 3 years
- Semi-permanent dye – At least 2 years
- Temporary dye – At least 1 year
- Highlighting kits – At least 1 year
- Bleach – At least 1 year
The expiry date should be printed on the hair dye packaging. After this date, hair dye may not work as effectively even if unopened. Chemicals in the dye can degrade over time with exposure to heat, humidity, and oxygen.
What happens if you use expired hair dye?
Using expired hair dye is not recommended, but here is what may happen if you do:
- The color may turn out uneven, blotchy, or a different shade than expected.
- The dye may not fully take to your hair.
- The chemicals may irritate your scalp.
- The result may fade quicker than normal.
If you do choose to use expired dye, do a strand test first to see how your hair reacts and if the color comes out as desired.
Can you reuse hair dye without mixing developer?
Most permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes require mixing with a developer before application. Can you reuse previously mixed dye without adding new developer?
The short answer is no – you should not reuse hair dye without also using fresh developer. Here’s why:
- The developer activates and oxidizes the color during dying. Old developer will not work as effectively.
- Double processing your hair without fresh developer can damage your strands.
- The result will likely be splotchy and uneven without the developer to carry the dye into your hair.
When reusing previously mixed dye, you need to add the same ratio of new developer as original. Follow the instructions on the dye packaging.
Can you mix two different hair dyes together?
It’s generally not recommended to mix two different brands or types of hair dye together in the same process. Here’s why:
- The formulas are designed to work in specific ratios and mixing can throw this off.
- You may end up with a color or result you didn’t anticipate.
- The ingredients may react with each other in an undesired way.
- At best it may not work well, at worst can damage your hair.
However, some stylists will mix shades of the same dye brand to achieve custom colors. Always do a strand test first to see how your hair reacts before mixing dyes.
Can you reuse hair dye with different developer?
It’s best to reuse hair dye with the same ratio and type of developer as originally used. However, in a pinch, you may be able to reuse hair dye with a different volume developer.
Some things to keep in mind:
- Only use 10, 20, or 30 volume developer – higher volumes are too harsh for reused dye.
- Using a lower volume may work but can result in less vibrant color.
- Always do a strand test – the color may come out slightly different.
- Never use a higher volume than original – this can damage hair.
While not ideal, using a different developer with caution can allow you to reuse leftover dye. Test strands first and watch development time.
Does hair dye work differently on unwashed hair?
Using hair dye on unwashed hair can affect the results. Here’s what to expect:
- Dye may not penetrate as deeply into oils and residue.
- Result may appear less vibrant and fade faster.
- Development time may need to be increased 5-10 minutes.
- Formula may need more mixing or shaking while on hair.
- Hair may feel drier due to oils blocking moisture.
While you can dye unwashed hair, it’s best to shampoo first without conditioner. This allows the cuticles to open for better dye penetration and even saturation. Always do a patch test first.
Does the order you apply hair dye matter?
When applying permanent or semi-permanent hair dye, the order you work in can impact the final results and difficulty achieving full, even coverage. Here are some tips:
- Start by sectioning clean, dry hair for manageability.
- Apply dye to the mid-lengths and ends first, then work up towards the roots.
- Let dye process on the ends 5-10 minutes longer since heat from scalp makes dye work faster on roots.
- Save the back for last since you can’t see it as easily while applying.
Working in sections from ends to roots will help blend grays, avoid splotchiness, and make sure the ends get fully saturated.
What happens if you leave hair dye on too long?
Leaving hair dye on for too long can have damaging effects on your strands. Here’s what can happen:
- Hair can become overly porous from chemical overprocessing, causing frizz.
- Cuticles may lift, causing roughness and tangling.
- Hair may look darker and brassier from overdepositing of pigment.
- Danger of skin irritation around hairline and neck.
- Hair is more prone to dryness and breakage.
To avoid these issues, carefully follow the recommended processing time and use a timer. Test a strand first if leaving dye on longer to gauge effects. Limit any extra time to 2-5 minutes max for semi-permanent dye.
Can you dye your hair twice in the same day?
Dyeing your hair twice in one day is never recommended. Here’s what can happen if you do:
- Greatly increased risk of irritation, burning, and damage to scalp.
- Hair may turn gummy and elastic from overprocessing.
- Cuticle damage can cause extreme dryness and breakage.
- Hair can literally melt or dissolve from chemical overload.
Hair needs at least 2 weeks between dye jobs for moisture rebalance. Dyeing twice in one day risks permanent damage. If same day redye is absolutely needed, use semi-permanent and leave on 5 minutes max.
Can you dye hair with tea bags or coffee?
While adding caffeine to hair dye is a popular DIY trick, using tea bags, coffee, or other homemade dyes alone will not effectively color hair. Here’s why:
- Tea and coffee lack strong pigments needed to change hair color.
- Without developers, stain will quickly wash out in 1-2 shampoos.
- Chamomile tea may lighten a bit, but temporarily and subtly.
- Any effects require very strong brews and long processing.
- Can feel drying without added conditioning properties.
For best results, use caffeinated hair dye from a salon. Homemade dyes cannot penetrate the hair shaft enough for permanent color change. But teas and coffee can add subtle highlights mixed into dye formulas.
Should you shampoo after dyeing your hair?
Shampooing immediately after dyeing your hair is not recommended. Here is the best hair washing schedule after coloring:
- Day 1: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water only.
- Day 2: Shampoo very gently for the first time.
- Day 3: Shampoo normally with a moisture rich formula.
- Day 4 + beyond: Maintain with color safe shampoo and conditioner.
Letting dye fully oxidize for a few days before regular shampooing helps the color lock in and last longer. Be extra gentle at first to avoid excess cuticle lifting. Proper post-dye hair washing helps color stay vivid.
Can you dye wet hair?
Hair dye generally adheres best to clean, unconditioned, and towel-dried hair for maximum saturation. But is it possible to dye wet hair?
Here’s what to expect dyeing freshly washed wet hair:
- Dilution of dye formula makes color appear lighter.
- Wetness makes it harder to see where dye has been applied.
- Drying time will be extended before rinsing out dye.
- Roots often get underprocessed from scalp humidity.
- Hair may feel rougher and require extra conditioning.
While not ideal, you can dye moderately wet hair, especially if aiming for a subtle look. Expect some processing variances and prevent scalp irritation from trapped dye.
What happens if you get hair dye on your skin or scalp?
Hair dye landing on your skin or scalp can cause irritation, burning, redness, itching, and discomfort. Here’s how to minimize and treat any skin reactions:
- Wear gloves, apply petroleum jelly to skin, and work carefully to avoid spills.
- Immediately rinse any splashes thoroughly with cool water and soap.
- Avoid scrubbing or touching dyed skin to prevent transfer and spread.
- Apply hydrocortisone cream and take an oral antihistamine for relief.
- See a doctor if reaction worsens or feels infected.
Performing a patch test before full application can indicate if your skin may react poorly to a dye formula. Carefully removing excess dye right away helps prevent adverse skin effects.
How does hair dye work?
Hair dye works by using chemical compounds to artificially alter the natural pigment within your hair strands. Here is an overview of the hair dye coloring process:
- 1. Ammonia – Swells cuticle to let dye enter hair shaft.
- 2. Hydrogen peroxide – Bleaches natural melanin and oxidizes dye.
- 3. Intermediates – Small molecules that carry color and penetrate hair.
- 4. Couplers – Bond with intermediates to form larger color molecules.
- 5. Developers – Speed up cuticle swelling and color reactions.
When all these components interact chemically with your hair, it causes permanent changes to color and tone. Understanding the ingredients helps you achieve your ideal shade.
Does hair dye kill lice and eggs?
While some home remedies suggest using hair dye to kill lice, most dyes are not proven effective or safe ways to get rid of lice or their eggs. Here’s why:
- The chemicals may not penetrate eggs shells enough to kill them.
- Hair dye isn’t designed as a topical lice treatment or shampoo.
- The active ingredient Pyrethrins is often not included or in low doses.
- Overuse of chemicals risks scalp burning and irritation.
- May dye lice but not eliminate them or new hatchlings.
For best results, use an OTC pediculicide shampoo specifically formulated against lice. Follow with thorough combing and egg removal. Consult a doctor if infestation persists.
Conclusion
While reusing previously opened hair dye can save money and reduce waste, it’s important to take precautions. Always follow usage directions, patch test skin and hair, and watch processing times closely when reusing dye more than 6 months old. Store opened containers properly and mix in new developer for best results. With careful practices, leftover hair color can be safely reused in most cases without significant quality loss.
