Generally, it's not recommended to color your hair immediately after oiling it.
Here's why:
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Oil Creates a Barrier: Hair oils, while beneficial for moisturizing and protecting your hair, can create a barrier on the hair shaft. This barrier can prevent hair dye from properly penetrating the hair, leading to uneven color distribution, patchy results, or the dye simply not taking well.
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Interference with Dye Absorption: Hair dye needs to bind to the hair shaft to deposit color effectively. The oil coating interferes with this process, potentially diluting the dye's strength or hindering its ability to adhere to the hair.
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Uneven Color Results: Because the oil might not be distributed evenly throughout your hair, some areas might absorb dye better than others, resulting in a splotchy or inconsistent color.
What to do instead:
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Cleanse Your Hair: Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo 12-24 hours before coloring it. This helps remove any buildup of oils, products, or impurities, allowing the dye to penetrate more effectively.
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Skip Conditioner: Avoid using conditioner after shampooing before you dye your hair, as this can also leave a residue that interferes with dye absorption.
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Follow Dye Instructions: Always adhere to the instructions provided with your specific hair dye product, as these instructions are formulated for optimal results with that particular dye.
In summary: Oiling your hair before coloring can significantly impact the color's outcome. It's best to ensure your hair is clean and free of oils for optimal dye absorption and even color distribution.
