How to Color Your Raw Hair Extensions Without Ruining Them
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One of the biggest advantages of raw hair extensions is that they can be colored — just like your natural hair. But there's a right way and a wrong way to do it. Follow these steps to lift, tone, or color your extensions without compromising their quality or longevity.
Why Raw Hair Takes Color So Well
Because raw hair is completely unprocessed, the cuticle is intact and the hair is in its most natural state. This means it responds to color the same way virgin natural hair does — predictably and beautifully. You can go lighter, darker, or add tones without the unpredictable results you'd get with processed hair.
Before You Color: What You Need
- A quality developer (20 or 30 volume for lifting)
- Salon-grade hair color or bleach
- Deep conditioner for after
- A toning shampoo if going blonde
- Patience — don't rush the process
Step-by-Step: How to Color Raw Extensions
Step 1: Do a strand test. Before coloring the full weft, test a small section to check how the hair responds and how long it takes to lift.
Step 2: Start with clean, dry hair. Color processes more evenly on clean extensions. Make sure they're fully dry before applying any product.
Step 3: Apply color evenly from root to tip. Work in sections and ensure full saturation. Use a brush for precision.
Step 4: Monitor closely. Raw hair lifts faster than processed hair. Check every 10–15 minutes to avoid over-processing.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly and deep condition. After rinsing, apply a deep conditioner for at least 20–30 minutes to restore moisture.
Step 6: Tone if needed. If going blonde, use a purple or blue toning shampoo to neutralize brassiness.
Tips to Protect Your Investment
- Never use heat immediately after coloring — let the hair rest for 48 hours
- Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo going forward
- Deep condition weekly after coloring
- Avoid bleaching more than 1–2 times per year to preserve integrity
Can You Color Back to Dark?
Yes! Raw hair can be darkened easily with a deposit-only color or dark dye. Going darker is always safer than lifting, and the results are typically rich and glossy.
At Bellmazi Hair Mob, our raw extensions are sourced specifically for their ability to withstand coloring, heat, and repeated styling — so your investment goes the distance.