If you're not experienced with bleaching and coloring hair, it's highly recommended to take the wig to a professional stylist. They have the experience and knowledge to minimize damage and achieve the desired result.
However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general guideline (but proceed with caution and at your own risk):
Materials You'll Need:
* Human Hair Wig: Essential that it's 100% human hair. Synthetic hair cannot be bleached.
* Bleach Powder: Choose a good quality bleach powder specifically designed for hair.
* Developer: Volumes 10, 20, and 30. *Start with 10 volume!* You'll likely need to use stronger developer later, but start low to minimize damage. Using too high a volume can fry the hair instantly.
* Toner: Choose a toner that will neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones. (e.g., purple or blue-based toners).
* Purple Shampoo: To maintain the blonde and counteract brassiness.
* Protein Treatment: To help repair the hair after bleaching.
* Deep Conditioner: To restore moisture to the hair.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Mixing Bowl: Non-metallic.
* Applicator Brush: For applying bleach and toner.
* Wide-Tooth Comb: To gently detangle the hair.
* Wig Stand: To hold the wig securely while you work.
* Aluminum Foil: To wrap sections of hair during bleaching (optional, but helpful).
* Timer: To accurately time the bleaching process.
* Old Towels: To protect your workspace.
* Heat Protectant Spray: To protect the hair if using heat for styling after coloring.
* Test Strand: Cut a small section from under the wig to test the bleaching process BEFORE bleaching the whole wig. This is absolutely crucial!
Steps:
1. Preparation:
* Protect your workspace: Cover your area with old towels.
* Detangle: Gently comb through the wig to remove any tangles or knots.
* Secure the wig: Place the wig on a wig stand.
2. Strand Test (MANDATORY):
* Mix a small amount of bleach: Follow the instructions on the bleach powder package, mixing it with 10 volume developer.
* Apply to test strand: Apply the bleach mixture to the test strand, starting at the roots.
* Check every few minutes: Observe the strand carefully, checking for any signs of damage (e.g., breakage, stretching). Note how long it takes to reach the desired level of lift.
* Rinse and condition: Rinse the test strand thoroughly and apply a deep conditioner.
* Evaluate: Analyze the test strand to see if the hair can withstand the bleaching process and if the lift is sufficient. If the hair feels damaged, consider seeking professional help or abandoning the project. If the strand shows minimal damage, you can proceed with caution.
3. Bleaching:
* Section the wig: Divide the wig into small, manageable sections.
* Mix the bleach: Follow the instructions on the bleach powder package, mixing it with the chosen developer (again, START with 10 volume). Mix only the amount you need for one section at a time.
* Apply the bleach: Apply the bleach mixture to the hair, starting at the roots. Avoid getting bleach on the wig cap.
* Wrap in foil (optional): If desired, wrap each section in aluminum foil to help retain heat and accelerate the process.
* Monitor the lifting process: Check the hair every few minutes to see how it's lifting. *Do not leave the bleach on longer than necessary!*
* Rinse thoroughly: Once the hair has reached the desired level of lift (pale yellow is ideal for blonde), rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water.
4. Repeat Bleaching (Likely Necessary):
* Going from black to blonde *almost always* requires multiple bleaching sessions.
* Allow the hair to recover for at least a week before bleaching again. Use protein treatments and deep conditioners during this time.
* When you bleach again, use a slightly higher volume developer (e.g., 20 volume) if the hair can tolerate it, and monitor closely.
5. Toning:
* Apply toner: Mix the toner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
* Apply to the wig: Apply the toner to the wig, ensuring even coverage.
* Follow the instructions: Leave the toner on for the recommended time.
* Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water.
6. Deep Conditioning:
* Apply a deep conditioner: Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner to the wig.
* Leave on for 30 minutes: Allow the conditioner to sit for at least 30 minutes (or longer, depending on the product).
* Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water.
7. Drying and Styling:
* Gently pat dry: Gently pat the wig dry with a towel. Do NOT rub.
* Air dry: Allow the wig to air dry completely on a wig stand.
* Style as desired: Once the wig is dry, you can style it as desired. Use heat protectant spray if using heat styling tools.
Important Considerations:
* Hair Quality: The quality of the human hair wig is crucial. Cheaper wigs may not withstand the bleaching process.
* Over-Processing: Avoid over-processing the hair, as this can lead to irreversible damage.
* Root Shadows: Consider leaving the roots a darker shade to create a more natural look and minimize the need for bleaching at the roots.
* Maintenance: Use purple shampoo and deep conditioners regularly to maintain the blonde color and keep the wig healthy.
* Patience is Key: This is not a quick process. Allow plenty of time for each step and be prepared to repeat bleaching sessions if necessary.
In summary, dyeing a black human hair wig blonde is a risky and complex undertaking. Proceed with extreme caution, prioritize the health of the hair, and be prepared for the possibility of damage. A professional stylist is always the safest option.