3 Important Steps to Dye Buzz Cut

Dying a buzz cut is relatively simple compared to longer hairstyles, but it comes with some unique considerations.

Here’s what you should know:

READ ALSO: 8 Great Tips on How to Maintain Blue Hair

Dying a Buzz Cut Step #1. Choosing the Right Dye

• Permanent vs. Semi-Permanent: If you want a bold, long-lasting color, go for permanent dye. If you prefer something temporary, semi-permanent or temporary dyes are a good option.
• Bleaching for Lighter Shades: If you’re going for a vibrant or pastel color, you may need to bleach your hair first, especially if you have dark hair.
• Scalp Sensitivity: Since buzz cuts expose more of your scalp, choose a dye that’s gentle to avoid irritation.

Dye Buzz Cut/How to Color a Buzz Cut Step #2. Application Process

• Protect Your Skin: Apply petroleum jelly or a barrier cream around your hairline to prevent staining.
• Even Application: Since the hair is short, using a brush or gloves to evenly distribute the dye is key.
• Processing Time: Buzz cuts absorb dye quickly, so you might not need the full processing time. Check frequently to avoid over-processing.

Dying a Buzzcut/Dying Buzzcut Step #3. Maintenance

• Frequent Touch-Ups: Since hair grows fast, your natural color will show within a couple of weeks, requiring more frequent touch-ups.
• Color-Safe Products: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain the color.
• Scalp Care: Since your scalp is more exposed, moisturize and use sunscreen if necessary.

How to Dye Buzzed Hair Without Staining Scalp

When your hair is buzzed, there’s no hiding the scalp, so avoiding stains becomes part art, part strategy.

The challenge is that dye will inevitably touch skin, but you can reduce how much it sticks and how long it lasts.

Here’s how:

1. Prep Your Scalp Before Dyeing

• Barrier Cream or Petroleum Jelly: Apply a thin, even layer along your hairline, ears, and any exposed scalp areas you don’t want stained. This creates a slick surface so dye won’t penetrate the skin.
• Moisturize the Night Before: A hydrated scalp absorbs less color than a dry, flaky one. Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer.

2. Use the Right Application Technique

• Less Saturation, More Precision: Because buzzed hair is short, you don’t need heavy dye application. Use a tint brush or gloved fingers to work the color into the hair, not the scalp.
• Work in Small Sections: Apply gently, lifting hair as needed, instead of mashing dye into the skin.
• Foaming or Cream-Based Dyes: These tend to sit more on the hair shaft and drip less than liquid dyes.

3. Minimize Processing Time on Skin

• Check Often: Buzzed hair takes color quickly, so start checking after a few minutes to avoid unnecessary contact time.
• Wipe Excess Immediately: Keep a damp cloth or cotton pads nearby to wipe any stray dye as soon as it touches your skin.

4. Aftercare to Remove Any Stains

• Quick Wash: Rinse with lukewarm water and shampoo promptly when processing is done.
• Gentle Stain Removal: If there’s still color on the scalp, use a mix of baking soda and gentle shampoo, or a dedicated hair color stain remover. Massage lightly to avoid scalp irritation.
• Avoid Harsh Scrubbing: Over-scrubbing can inflame the skin and make it look worse than the stain.

Photo credit: TheNiksters, Buzzcut Guide, Pinterest