How to Color Match Hair Systems: Complete Guide
Whether you’re new to hair systems or trying to extend the life of your current unit, color matching your hair system to your natural (bio) hair is essential for achieving a seamless, natural look.
Walker Tape® has you covered. Below is a complete guide to color matching hair systems, including key factors to consider and the most effective methods.
What To Consider Before Color Matching a Hair System
Before selecting a color, it’s important to understand the variables that affect how hair appears.
Color Graduation:
Natural hair is not one uniform color. It typically varies slightly from front to back, often becoming subtly darker toward the back.
To get the most accurate match:
- Evaluate hair at the front, temples/sides, and back
- Use photos or physical samples to compare variations
- Select shades that reflect this natural gradient
Human VS Synthetic Hair Color Matching
Understanding the differences between hair types is critical when matching color.
Human Hair Systems
- More natural appearance
- Better light reflection
- Can be dyed
Considerations:
- May fade over time
- Typically has less color contrast
Synthetic Hair Systems
- Holds color longer
- Often has more defined color contrast
Considerations:
- Cannot be dyed
- May appear less natural in certain lighting
Do’s and Don’ts of Dyeing a Hair System
Hair dye is another common method for color matching, but there is some yellow tape that needs to be maneuvered when it comes to dyeing units.
DO
- Test dye on a small, hidden section first
- Use heat-resistant materials if required by the dye
DON’T
- Do not dye synthetic hair systems
- Avoid letting dye reach the base (can cause staining)
- Do not use bleach or lightening agents (can damage hair fibers)
Best Methods for Color Matching Your Hair Systems
There are three primary ways of color-matching hair systems: to your natural hair:
1. ColorWheels
Most hair system providers offer color rings or swatches with multiple shades.
How to use them effectively:
- Select 2–5 shades that match different areas of your hair
- Compare colors in both natural and artificial lighting
- Be aware that color systems may vary slightly between brands
2. Hair Samples (Most Accurate Method)
Sending in your own hair is the most reliable way to color match a hair system.
Best practices:
- Collect samples from multiple areas (top, sides, back)
- Ensure strands are 1–3 inches long
- Send at least 50 strands for accuracy
- Avoid using hair from brushes or combs
- Package carefully to keep hair clean and intact
Some companies offer this service for free, while others may charge a fee.
3. Photos
Many companies provide color reference images online.
Considerations:
- Lighting can distort color
- Color graduation is harder to evaluate
- Higher risk of mismatch
Photos can be helpful, but they are less reliable than samples or swatches.
Final Thoughts on Matching Hair System Color
Accurate hair system color matching is key to achieving a natural, undetectable look.
By accounting for color variation, choosing the right hair type, and using reliable matching methods, you can significantly improve your results.
If you have any other questions, or comments, please feel free to reach out to our Customer Service team.
Contact Us
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1.800.759.5150.
