When you dye your hair, you might be surprised to find that your natural curls have disappeared. “I dyed my hair and my curls are gone!” It’s a question commonly seen in many hair-related social groups. This can happen because the chemicals in hair dye can damage or change the structure of your hair.
To tackle this issue and regain your curls, it’s essential to understand the science behind hair dye and the steps you can take to recover.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons for curl loss after dyeing and offer practical advice to help you restore your lovely curls.
“I Dyed My Hair and My Curls Are Gone” – Why?
Why did your curls disappear after dyeing your hair? It’s likely due to one of three reasons:
Hair Dye
Whether it’s your first time dyeing or you have multiple layers of dye, the process opens the hair cuticle to deposit color, dehydrating the hair fiber. Your curls may look stretched or spongy initially, but they should regain shape after a few days as the cuticle closes.
If you’ve dyed your hair multiple times, damage from chemical processing could be more severe. To minimize damage, follow proper coloring guidelines, such as not dyeing your hair more than once a month and using a good quality dye with a 30-volume developer or less.
Hair Type
Thin or porous hair is more vulnerable to drying out during the dyeing process, while thick hair is more resistant. If you have fine, curly hair, your curls might look stretched due to breakage and dehydration. Porous hair needs a focus on hydration, as it’s fragile regardless of thickness.
After Color Care
Maintaining a proper hair care routine at home is crucial, especially for dyed curly hair which is more prone to drying out. Use the right hair care products for your specific hair type and dedicate time to care for your curls after coloring.
Now that you understand the causes, let’s explore solutions for getting your curls back!
How to Get Your Curls Back After Dyeing Your Hair
Thick/Normal Hair
Here’s how to get your curls back after dyeing your hair:
After dyeing, the hair cuticle opens up and then returns to normal within a few days. To help your hair regain its curls, focus on hydration and follow these steps:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo: These shampoos are gentler and won’t dry out your hair or scalp. Don’t wash your hair every day; once a week or when it looks dirty is enough.
- Condition: Choose a conditioner designed for curly hair. Detangle with a wide-toothed comb while conditioning.
- Apply a hair mask: Use a hydrating hair mask once a week.
- Style: Use hair products to shape your curls and avoid hair dryers until your hair’s hydration is restored and your curls re-form.
For fine hair
Fine hair requires specific care. Wash your hair every two days, as it can get greasy quickly.
- Use a neutral shampoo for a deep cleanse. Choose a lightweight conditioner.
- Apply a hydrating mask every ten days.
- Use light, non-creamy hair products to define curls without weighing them down.
For porous hair
Porous hair has open cuticles and needs extra hydration. Follow the same steps as for normal, thick, or fine hair, but also:
- Alternate the hydrating mask with an extra-acidic mask to help close the hair cuticles.
- Seal in moisture with a few drops of oil for thick or normal hair, or use a biphasic oil for fine hair to avoid a flat or limp appearance.
Remember, every hair type is unique, so use the products that work best for your hair and don’t skip any steps, especially if you continue to dye your hair. This will ensure your curls bounce back and stay beautiful.
misconceptions about hair dye and curly hair
- Dyeing curly hair will cause it to become straight – False! Curly hair is much more resilient than people think. Although the texture of your hair may change slightly, the curl pattern will remain intact.
- Hair dye causes significant damage to your hair – False! With the right products, proper application and good aftercare, you can dye your hair without causing any damage.
- Hair dye won’t work on curly hair – False! There are lots of great dyes available for curly hair that are specifically designed for this type of texture.
- Dyeing curly hair requires a professional – False! You can easily dye your own curly hair at home with the right products and techniques.
- All hair dyes are created equal – False! Different types of dyes provide different results, so it’s important to choose a product that is best suited to your unique needs and desired look.
