How Long To Leave Blue Hair Dye In?

Last Updated on June 15th, 2023

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Let’s be honest, and it’s fun to dye our hair! Different colors, whether they be neutral, pastel, or vibrant colors – it’s something almost all of us have experimented with. With that being said, we all know there are typically instructions in each hair dye box that should be followed.

We still often have those ‘what if’ moments – the instructions in the box don’t tell us what will happen if we do not follow these rules.

So why are the instructions different for every brand? How can we get the color to last longer? Let’s discuss everything you need to know about hair dye.

Woman in blue polo with blue shaded hair - How Long To Leave Blue Hair Dye In?

What Happens if You Leave Hair Dye in for Too long?

Leaving hair dye in for too long, in general, can definitely cause damage to your hair. The dyes will absorb all healthy oils occupying the hair, ultimately leaving the hair dry, brittle, and susceptible to breakage.

Leaving the boxed hair dye in for a more extended period of time than recommended will not make the hair color appear darker. If you are after a particular color, search for a professional cosmetologist within your area.

Why are There Different Times for Every Brand?

Each brand curates different hair colors and focuses on specific colors. For example, one brand could focus on creating more colorful hair dyes, whereas the other might create more neutral colors. Usually, most boxed hair dyes have the exact waiting times.

With different dyes come different formulas. When different dye formulas are mixed, some active ingredients may be stronger or weaker than the identical color of another brand of hair dye. This results in waiting times possibly being longer or shorter than others.

How Do You Get Blue Hair Dye to Stay?

You can utilize different products to maintain the blue hair color and any other colors, whether they be vibrant, pastels, or neutrals. While they may be sometimes hard to find, there truly is a product for everyone.

Indeed you will have to dye the regrowth at the roots regularly to maintain the color. Otherwise, it might be worth looking into more permanent dyes rather than temporary dyes. Another one of the most important things you can do is not to wash your hair with hard water.

What Products Do You Need for Washing Blue Hair?

While purchasing the right products to help maintain blue hair may seem significant, they are not required. However, a few different products below will help you keep the color longer. Prices are subject to change.

Joico Color Balance Shampoo and Conditioner Set BLUE – $39.95
Matrix Total Results Brass Off Blue Shampoo – $20.00
Keracolor Clenditioner BLUE – $20.00

Products that will Ruin Blue Hair

While there are products that improve the color of blue hair over time by maintaining it, there are still products you should avoid. It’s essential to avoid any products that are not color friendly, as well as any cheaper products with low quality.

If you choose to go to a professional to get that perfect shade of blue you’ve been dying to have- ask them what products they recommend and do not recommend. You might be able to purchase some products directly from the salon. How convenient is that?

Final Thoughts on How Long to Leave in blue Hair Dye

Generally, boxed hair dyes can be left anywhere between 30-45 minutes. Any longer will result in your hair being overly dry and brittle, with a high possibility of breakage. In addition, different brands may have waiting times that vary solely due to their unique dye formula.

Utilize products created to maintain that beautiful blue hair color you left the salon with. Avoid products that are not color friendly, as well as hard water. These will most likely result in your color fading faster than you’d like.