Have you ever wondered if you can dye your hair with food coloring? As someone who experimented with hair dye in my rebellious teenage years, I understand the urge to switch up your hair color. I was inspired by some amazing dye jobs I saw on Pinterest and wanted to find a fun, potentially less expensive way to add some color to my hair. Remembering the pricey Manic Panic dyes, I wondered, “Can You Dye Hair With Food Coloring?” The answer, thankfully, is yes, and there are even ways to make it last longer!
Temporary vs. Permanent: Food Coloring Hair Dye Options
Food coloring is a fantastic way to achieve a temporary hair color transformation. If you are looking for a more lasting result, you can combine food coloring with a developer to create a semi-permanent hair dye. Here’s how I explored both options.
Temporary Food Coloring Hair Dye
For a temporary color boost, simply mix food coloring with conditioner or hair gel. A helpful website (this helpful website) provided great tips on this process. The color will wash out after a few shampoos, making it perfect for a weekend change or a fun experiment. The longer you leave the food coloring mixture in your hair, the more vibrant the color will be. If you’re unsure how the color will turn out, perform a strand test. This involves applying the mixture to a small, hidden section of hair to check the color payoff before applying it to your entire head.
Semi-Permanent Food Coloring Hair Dye
To make the color last longer, you will need a developer. Hair dye kits usually include a bottle of developer that helps the color bind to the hair shaft. You can purchase a bottle of developer separately at beauty supply stores.
Here’s what I did to create a semi-permanent dye:
- Mix approximately 2 tablespoons of developer with 1 tablespoon of food coloring.
- For my experiment, I blended hot pink with fluorescent purple and blue to create a unique shade.
- I applied the mixture evenly to my hair and let it sit for about 40 minutes.
- Finally, I rinsed my hair thoroughly.
The initial result was a little brighter than I wanted, so I toned it down using a box of light blonde hair dye.
Experimenting with Colors and Techniques
I had initially aimed for a deep purple shade, but the fluorescent purple food coloring turned out more fuchsia. Although the blue I added didn’t quite neutralize the pink, I was very pleased with the resulting light to bright peachy pink color, which complemented my natural hair color.
Important Considerations When Dyeing Hair with Food Coloring
- Hair Color: This method generally works best on light blonde hair, as the color will show up more vividly. However, if you have dark hair, don’t be discouraged! You can still experiment, but the results may be more subtle. Always perform a strand test to see how the color will appear on your hair.
- Strand Test: Before dyeing your entire head, cut a small, inconspicuous strand of hair and test the dye mixture on it. This will give you a preview of the final color and help you adjust the mixture as needed.
- Color Selection: Be mindful of the colors you choose. Fluorescent colors may not always produce the expected results. Research different color combinations and experiment with small batches to find the perfect shade.
The Verdict: Is Dyeing Your Hair with Food Coloring Worth It?
So, can you dye your hair with food coloring? Absolutely! Whether you opt for a temporary color change with conditioner or a semi-permanent option with developer, food coloring can be a fun and affordable way to experiment with different hair colors. Remember to perform strand tests, consider your hair color, and have fun with the process. Embrace your inner artist and transform your hair into a colorful masterpiece!
