When you try something new like switching up your hair color it’s exciting. The idea of a fresh new look filled with possibilities is fun right? But sometimes things don’t go as planned. Maybe your hair doesn’t turn out how you expected or you are just tired of that bright unnatural color. It’s a common question for people to ask a colourist: “How can I get rid of this color and go back to my original shade?
Well, don’t worry. You are not alone in this! Whether you are trying to fix a mistake or just want to go back to your natural shade there are quick effective ways to remove the dye. The good news is you can often do this at home with items you already have in your bathroom or kitchen. For example, cool water can help and sometimes the solution is just a few steps away.
I remember when I first started dying my hair thinking it would be easy like the movies. Watching Ramona from Scott Pilgrim VS the World, who changed her hair color all the time, made me think it was no big deal. But soon, I learned that things aren’t always that simple. Now, after some trial and error I have figured out the best ways to handle it and avoid causing any damage to my hair. If you are in this situation rest assured there are safe efficient and trusted ways to fix it.
Types of hair dye
1.Permanent Dye
Permanent dye is the most long lasting and is often used to cover grey hair. This dye works by changing the chemical structure of your hair which is why it is called permanent.
However even though it’s meant to last a long time permanent dye will still fade after some time. As your hair grows you will notice a demarcation line where your natural hair color begins.
2.Demi Permanent Dye
Demi permanent dye is less intense than permanent dye. It acts like a toner or shine gloss giving your hair a glossy natural color. This type of dye lasts about 4-6 weeks and doesn’t change your hair’s chemical structure. It gradually fades over time so it’s perfect for those who want a temporary change.
3.Semi Permanent or Direct Dye
Semi permanent or direct dye is the least damaging option. It is perfect for adding a bright colour without making permanent changes to your hair. This type of dye doesn’t alter the chemical structure of your hair and provides a vibrant color that will fade after several washes. If your hair is lightened to the correct level this dye will give you a rich colorful look that is easy to maintain.
Lightening hair and the colour wheel
When it comes to lightening hair it’s important to understand the colour wheel. Just like mixing paints different colours can create new shades when combined. For example, if you mix blue and red you get purple and mixing blue and yellow gives you green.
This is why lightening your hair to the right level is super important. If you don’t lighten it enough and there’s a trace of yellow left and then try to go blue your hair will end up green.
To avoid this it’s a good idea to go to a professional colourist who understands how to mix and match these colours correctly. They know how to get the perfect lightness without leaving behind unwanted colours.
After your hair has been lightened enough you can enjoy keeping your hair vibrant with a good maintenance regime. Always remember when you mix the wrong colours you might end up disappointed so it’s best to trust the experts.
The importance of safe hair dye removal
When you want to remove unwanted hair color it is super important to use a hair color remover that is gentle. Many hair dyes have chemicals that change your hair’s natural composition which can affect its structure.
If you try to remove the dye using harsh or abrasive techniques you could cause damage like dryness breakage or even a diminished luster in your hair. Just like you wouldn’t use strong detergent on a silk blouse you should also take care when removing hair dye to protect your hair’s health and integrity.
It’s also essential to think about your scalp as it is part of your skin. Harsh removal methods can irritate or harm your scalp causing discomfort or even more serious health effects. When you prioritize safe removal methods you are helping prevent these negative consequences. Using damage prevention strategies like choosing the right remover can keep your hair healthy and looking great avoiding harm and irritation.
The best hair dye removal methods
1. Use a clarifying shampoo
To remove hair dye quickly you can use clarifying shampoo or anti dandruff shampoo. These shampoos are great for a deep cleanse as they have harsh chemicals that strip away color dirt and oil from your hair. They also help get rid of unwanted hair dye. When you apply the shampoo make sure to massage it gently into your scalp and hair just like a regular shampoo.
But remember don’t use it too often because it can cause over-drying. Afterward always follow up with a nourishing conditioner and rinse with cool water to give your hair a refreshing finish. This method works fast but make sure to limit its use for the best results.
2. Make a paste with baking soda
If you want to remove hair color without using strong chemicals baking soda can be a great option. It is a gentle product that works well for many hair types. To use it mix baking soda and water in equal parts to make a smooth paste.
Then apply the paste to your hair and start massaging it gently. This method is especially good for semi permanent dyes as it helps to remove the color without being as harsh as some chemical removers.
After you apply the paste leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. If you have sensitive scalps or dry hair this method is a safer choice because it is a mild but effective solution.
It is a great way to get rid of unwanted hair color while keeping your hair healthy. This method works wonders for people who want a gentle option for color removal.
3. Vinegar rinse
If you are looking for a natural way to remove hair dye try a vinegar rinse. Apple cider vinegar works great because it helps adjust your hair’s pH and gently fades the color. It’s a good alternative to harsh products like clarifying shampoo. The secret ingredient is acetic acid which helps break down the dye making it easier to wash out.
To use it mix one part vinegar with two parts water. After you have shampooed your hair pour the mixture over your hair and let it sit for a few minutes. You may need to repeat this process a couple of times to fully remove the color.
Finish by rinsing your hair with cool water to help seal your hair cuticle and add a nice shine. It’s a mild yet effective way to remove unwanted hair dye without causing too much damage.
How to get direct dye out of your hair
1.Using Clarifying Shampoo with Pre-Treatment Oils
To remove hair dye from your hair a great first step is using clarifying shampoo. This type of shampoo is designed to help remove unwanted pigments and buildup on your strands. Apply the shampoo to your hair making sure to coat it from roots to ends.
You can even leave it on for a few minutes letting it sit while you wrap your hair with a shower cap. Applying heat with a hairdryer for about 15 minutes helps the shampoo work better. After that, rinse out the shampoo with cool water.
Before applying the clarifying shampoo try a pre treatment with coconut oil or argon oil. These oils help to loosen the color molecules making it easier to remove the dye. Gently massage the oil into your hair covering all of it from roots to ends.
Let the oil sit for a while then apply the clarifying shampoo. This method works well for gradually fading your hair color without using harsh lighteners that might cause damage or give you a lighter version of the original color.
Important Tips
After you rinse out the clarifying shampoo always follow up with a deep conditioner to keep your hair moisturized. The shampoo can sometimes strip natural oils from your scalp so a good conditioner will help close the cuticle and keep your hair healthy.
Just remember you don’t want to over clarify as it could leave your hair feeling dry. Doing this process a few times or every other wash can be a safe and effective way to strip the unwanted dye.
2.Use baking soda in your shampoo
To help remove hair dye you can try adding baking soda to your regular shampoo. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with half a cup of water and apply it to your wet hair starting from the roots to the ends. Let the mixture sit on your hair for about 10 minutes then rinse it out.
Baking soda acts like a scrubbing agent and will gently strip the color from the surface of your hair without damaging the quality of your strands. This method works best if you have fresh color and want to get rid of it quickly.
If you want a stronger effect you can add a little baking powder to your shampoo. But be careful! This can dry out your hair because it has a higher pH level.
Always do a test strand before applying it to your whole head. After using the baking soda mixture follow up with a good conditioner to restore the lost moisture and keep your hair feeling soft and healthy.
3.Use Fairy Liquid or other dishwashing liquid to wash your hair
If you are looking for a quick fix to remove hair dye one option is to use dishwashing liquid like Fairy Liquid. While this method can be effective at stripping color from your hair it’s important to be cautious because it can also dry your hair out.
Dishwashing liquid contains strong cleansing agents that are not meant for hair so you should only use it in a one time process. Start by lathering the dishwashing liquid into your wet hair and leave it on for about five minutes. Then rinse it out thoroughly to make sure no harsh liquid is left behind.
Afterwards it’s important to use a conditioning treatment to counter the dryness. You can try a good protein or repairing hair treatment such as EVO Ritual Salvation Conditioner or EVO Great Hydrator Treatment Mask and leave it on for 10 minutes.
This helps restore moisture and keep your cuticle closed making your hair feel strong and healthy again. Keep in mind that this method is a bit unconventional so it’s not something you should do often but it can work for shifting the last little bit of color when you are aiming for a clean change.
4. Use Olaplex
If you are looking to remove hair dye and keep your hair strong and healthy Olaplex is a game changer. This special product is used by many professionals in the hairdressing industry because of its patented technology. Unlike some rip off products you might see on the market Olaplex really works.
When you dye your hair the lightener breaks the color molecules and can damage your hair’s keratin and protein bonds. That’s where Olaplex comes in acting like Fonzy from Happy Days smooth and suave helping to build your hair’s bonds faster than they break which prevents damage.
Olaplex works in steps. First, step 1 is an additive that mixes with your lightener. After rinsing out the dye you move to step 2 where you apply it before shampooing. Finally, step 3 is a maintenance regime that you can use at home.
You leave it on for at least 10 minutes some people even leave it on overnight. Olaplex is not a miracle worker that can fix damage that already happened but it will stop any more from happening. Remember to use it weekly or fortnightly for the best results and always follow up with a good shampoo and conditioner as part of your home care routine.
FAQs
1. Can I remove hair dye from my hair at home?
Yes, you can remove hair dye using products like shampoo conditioners or even natural ingredients like baking soda. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
2. How long should I leave shampoo on my hair to remove dye?
Leave the shampoo on your hair for about 5-10 minutes to allow it to break down the color. Rinse thoroughly for the best results.
3. Does Olaplex help in removing hair dye?
Olaplex is not for removing hair dye but it helps prevent damage while dyeing your hair and keeps your hair healthy and strong.
4. Can I use dishwashing liquid to remove hair dye?
Yes, dishwashing liquid can be used to remove hair dye but be cautious as it can be very drying for your hair. Follow with a good conditioner.
5. How many times should I wash my hair to remove the dye?
You may need to wash your hair several times but be gentle and avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent damaging your hair.
Conclusion
When it comes to removing hair color at home, there are several options you can try. Some of these methods are effective especially for semi permanent dyes but they come with a bit of a risk. Using clarifying shampoo is one of the easiest ways to make your hair slightly lighter and remove a little pigment.
However, this method works best if your hair color is not too intense or darker than expected. For toners or shades that are darker you might need to consider seeking help from professionals, as the process can become complicated and the results may be unpredictable.
For a more powerful solution some DIY methods can help you remove more color but they can also cause dryness and damage to your hair. The stripping process is not always smooth and you may see uneven results.
This is why it’s always recommended to go to a professional colorist if you are unsure. A colorist can help correct the underlying tones that may be left behind after stripping and provide a more balanced finish.
If you are determined to do it yourself just remember to follow the steps carefully and use the right products to prevent further damage.
While DIY methods can work they often require a bit of extra care to protect your hair from drying out. If you are ready for a change go ahead and give it a try but remember your hair health should always come first.
