Red hair dye can be a beautiful and bold choice, but it can also be difficult to remove if you decide you no longer want it. Unlike other hair dye colors, red hair dye molecules are smaller and more likely to penetrate the hair shaft. This makes them more resistant to fading and more challenging to remove. If you’re looking to cancel out red hair dye, there are a few different methods you can try. Depending on the intensity of the red dye and the condition of your hair, you may need to try a combination of methods to achieve the desired results.
One option for canceling out red hair dye is to use a color-correcting shampoo. These shampoos contain blue or green pigments that neutralize the red tones in your hair. They can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other methods. If you’re using a color-correcting shampoo, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid over-correcting the color of your hair. Another option for canceling out red hair dye is to use a bleach wash. A bleach wash is a mixture of bleach and water that is applied to the hair to lighten it. This can be an effective way to remove red dye, but it can also be damaging to your hair. If you’re considering using a bleach wash, it’s important to consult with a professional hairstylist to discuss the risks and benefits.
Finally, you can also try using a natural remedy to cancel out red hair dye. There are a few different natural ingredients that can be used to strip hair of color, including lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda. These ingredients can be used to create a homemade color-correcting treatment that can be applied to the hair. However, it’s important to note that natural remedies may not be as effective as professional hair dye removers. If you’re considering using a natural remedy, it’s important to do a patch test on a small area of your hair to make sure it doesn’t cause any irritation.
Understanding the Chemistry of Red Hair Dye
Red hair dye utilizes a unique chemical process to deposit vibrant pigments onto hair strands, transforming their natural hue. This process involves two primary components: a dye precursor and an oxidizing agent
The dye precursor, typically a small organic molecule, contains colorless chromophores capable of absorbing specific wavelengths of light. When combined with an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, these chromophores undergo a chemical transformation, creating larger, colored molecules known as dyes.
The size and structure of the resulting dyes determine their color and intensity. Smaller dyes with simpler structures produce lighter, more vibrant shades, while larger dyes with complex structures create darker, more intense colors. The choice of dye precursor and oxidizing agent, as well as the concentration and timing of their application, allows colorists to achieve a wide range of red hues.
| Dye Precursor | Oxidizing Agent | Color |
|---|---|---|
| p-Phenylenediamine | Hydrogen Peroxide | Bluish-Red |
| o-Aminophenol | Hydrogen Peroxide | Orange-Red |
| m-Aminophenol | Hydrogen Peroxide | Yellowish-Red |
The Role of Oxidants and Bleaching Agents
Oxidants and bleaching agents work by breaking down the chemical bonds that hold the dye molecules to the hair. This releases the dye and allows it to be washed away. The strength of the oxidant or bleaching agent will determine how quickly and effectively the dye is removed.
There are two main types of oxidants used in hair color removal: hydrogen peroxide and sodium percarbonate. Hydrogen peroxide is a stronger oxidant than sodium percarbonate, so it will remove dye more quickly. However, it can also damage the hair if it is not used correctly. Sodium percarbonate is a gentler oxidant, so it is less likely to damage the hair. However, it may not be as effective at removing dye as hydrogen peroxide.
Bleaching agents work by breaking down the melanin in the hair. Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its color. When melanin is broken down, the hair becomes lighter. Bleaching agents can be used to remove dye from hair, but they can also damage the hair if they are not used correctly.
The following table summarizes the key differences between oxidants and bleaching agents:
| Oxidants | Bleaching Agents |
|---|---|
| Stronger | Gentler |
| Remove dye more quickly | Remove dye less quickly |
| Can damage hair if not used correctly | Less likely to damage hair |
Using Color-Correcting Shampoo and Conditioner
Color-correcting shampoos and conditioners are specifically formulated to neutralize unwanted hair tones. For red hair, green-based color correctors are the best choice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Choose a green-based shampoo and conditioner. Look for products that mention “anti-red” or “color-correcting” on the label.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, color-correcting shampoos are applied to damp hair, massaged in, and left on for a few minutes before rinsing. Color-correcting conditioners are applied after shampooing and left on for a longer period, as directed.
- Use the products regularly. The frequency of use will depend on the intensity of the red tones you want to neutralize. Start by using the products once or twice a week and gradually increase the frequency as needed.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps:
Step Description 1 Choose a green-based shampoo and conditioner 2 Apply shampoo to damp hair and leave on for a few minutes 3 Rinse out shampoo and apply conditioner 4 Leave conditioner on for longer period as directed 5 Rinse out conditioner Tips:
- Avoid overusing color-correcting products, as they can overly strip your hair of natural oils.
- Wear gloves to prevent color stains on your hands.
- Be patient, as it may take several uses to fully neutralize the red tones.
Applying Baking Soda Paste
To neutralize the red tones from your hair, baking soda serves as an effective natural remedy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply a baking soda paste:
- Create the Paste: Combine one tablespoon of baking soda with three tablespoons of water in a bowl to form a smooth paste.
- Apply Evenly: Using a brush or your fingers, apply the paste evenly to your dry hair from roots to tips, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Leave In: Leave the paste in your hair for 20-30 minutes. The longer you leave it in, the stronger the color-neutralizing effect will be.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until all traces of the paste are removed. To enhance color removal, consider washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo.
Time Neutralizing Effect 20 Minutes Mild to Moderate Color Correction 30 Minutes Stronger Neutralization for Stubborn Red Tones Neutralizing with Vinegar
Vinegar, a common household ingredient, can effectively neutralize the red pigments in hair dye. Its high acidity helps break down the color molecules, creating a more natural-looking result.
To use vinegar as a color corrector, follow these steps:
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Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl.
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Wet your hair thoroughly and apply the vinegar solution, ensuring it reaches all the red-tinted areas.
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Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, allowing the vinegar to work its magic.
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Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
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Advanced Technique for Stubborn Red Dye
Treatment Instructions Lemon Juice and Vinegar Mask
Combine equal parts lemon juice and vinegar. Apply to hair, covering all red areas. Leave on for up to 2 hours for maximum effect.
Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply to hair, allowing it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. This paste helps neutralize the alkalinity of the red dye.
Color-Removing Shampoo
Purchase a commercial color-removing shampoo specifically designed to remove artificial hair color. Follow the instructions on the package.
Trying a Vitamin C Rinse
Vitamin C is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten red hair dye. To make a vitamin C rinse, dissolve 2-3 tablespoons of vitamin C powder in 1 cup of warm water. Apply the rinse to your hair and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with water. You can repeat this process 2-3 times a week until you reach your desired level of lightness.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare and use a vitamin C rinse for red hair:
Materials Instructions - 2-3 tablespoons vitamin C powder
- 1 cup warm water
- Applicator brush or sponge
- Shower cap or plastic wrap
- Dissolve the vitamin C powder in the warm water until completely clear.
- Apply the vitamin C rinse to your hair using the applicator brush or sponge, starting from the roots and working your way down to the tips.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and let the rinse sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with water.
- Repeat the process 2-3 times a week until you achieve your desired level of lightness.
Tips:
- If your hair is very dark red, you may need to use the vitamin C rinse more often.
- You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the vitamin C rinse for extra lightening power.
- Be sure to condition your hair after using the vitamin C rinse to prevent dryness.
Removing with a Professional Salon Treatment
Professional salons offer various treatments to remove red hair dye effectively. These treatments are typically more expensive than home remedies but provide more reliable results.
Color Removal System
The color removal system is a salon-exclusive treatment that uses a chemical solution to break down the red dye molecules. It is a non-damaging process that can effectively remove most red tones without altering the natural hair color.
Color Correction
Color correction involves applying a new hair color over the red dye to neutralize it. The stylist will select a complementary color wheel that will cancel out the red, such as green or blue.
Olaplex Treatment
Olaplex is a proprietary hair bonding treatment that can help to remove red dye while repairing and strengthening the hair. It works by reducing the number of free radicals in the hair, which can break down the dye molecules.
Vitamin C Treatment
Vitamin C is a natural dye remover that can help to lift red tones from the hair. Stylists may use a vitamin C powder mixed with water to create a paste that is applied to the hair.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar is another natural dye remover that can help to neutralize red tones. It can be used as a rinse after shampooing or applied directly to the hair as a mask.
Bleaching
In cases where other methods have failed, bleaching may be necessary to remove stubborn red dye. However, bleaching can be damaging to the hair, so it is important to only use it as a last resort.
Treatment Estimated Cost Time Required Color Removal System $100-$250 2-4 hours Color Correction $75-$200 1-3 hours Olaplex Treatment $50-$150 30-60 minutes Vitamin C Treatment $25-$75 30-60 minutes Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse $5-$15 15-20 minutes Bleaching $50-$150 1-2 hours Preventing Red Tones from Returning
Once you’ve successfully canceled out the red tones in your hair, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them from returning. Here are some tips:
1. Use Color-Correcting Shampoo
Color-correcting shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair. For red hair, you’ll want to use a shampoo with blue or green undertones. These colors will help to balance out the red and prevent it from reappearing.
2. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can strip your hair of its natural oils and color. This can make your hair more susceptible to brassiness and red tones. If you’re planning to swim, be sure to wet your hair before getting in the water and apply a leave-in conditioner to help protect it.
3. Use a Color-Protecting Conditioner
Color-protecting conditioners help to lock in your hair color and prevent it from fading. They also contain ingredients that help to nourish and strengthen your hair, which can help to prevent breakage and brassiness.
4. Avoid Over-Washing
Over-washing your hair can strip it of its natural oils and color. This can make your hair more susceptible to brassiness and red tones. Aim to wash your hair no more than 2-3 times per week.
5. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage your hair and make it more susceptible to brassiness and red tones. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray to help protect your hair.
6. Get Regular Trims
Regular trims help to remove split ends and damage. This can help to prevent your hair from becoming dry and brassy.
7. Use a Purple Mask
Purple masks are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in your hair. They can be used once or twice a month to help keep your hair looking its best.
8. Use Hair Gloss
Hair gloss is a semi-permanent color treatment that adds shine and vibrancy to your hair. It can also help to neutralize unwanted tones. Hair gloss is typically applied every 4-6 weeks.
Color Condition Red Can return after multiple washes Orange Can return after multiple washes Yellow Can return after multiple washes Tips for Maintaining Healthy Hair After Color Removal
Removing red hair dye can damage your hair, so it’s important to take steps to keep it healthy. Here are a few tips:
- Use a deep conditioner after each wash to help repair and restore your hair.
- Avoid using heat styling tools, as they can damage your hair further.
- Get regular trims to remove any damaged hair.
- Eat a healthy diet that is rich in protein and vitamins, as this will help your hair to grow strong and healthy.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated.
- Avoid over-washing your hair, as this can strip it of its natural oils.
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner that is designed for color-treated hair.
- Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or scarf.
- Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools, as the chlorine can damage your hair.
9. Use a clarifying shampoo occasionally to remove any product buildup.
Product buildup can weigh your hair down and make it look dull. Clarifying shampoos can help to remove this buildup and leave your hair feeling fresh and clean. However, avoid using clarifying shampoos too often, as they can be harsh on your hair.
Benefits of Using a Clarifying Shampoo How to Use a Clarifying Shampoo - Removes product buildup
- Leaves hair feeling fresh and clean
- Can help to prevent scalp irritation
- Use a clarifying shampoo once or twice a month
- Wet your hair and apply the shampoo
- Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair
- Rinse thoroughly
- Condition your hair as usual
Considerations for Different Hair Types
Unnatural Red on Virgin Hair
Virgin hair holds red pigments well, so neutralization should be done in stages to avoid over-toning. Start with a 1:1 ratio of blue toner to developer and leave it on for 5-10 minutes. Assess the results and reapply as needed.
Red on Previously Color-Treated Hair
Faded red dyes can be stubborn to remove. Use a stronger blue toner (1:2 or 1:3 ratio) and leave it on for up to 30 minutes. Multiple applications may be necessary.
Red on Bleached Hair
Bleached hair is prone to becoming brassy, so use a green toner instead of blue. Green works better at counteracting yellow tones. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
Red on Highlights
Highlights can be more challenging to neutralize than solid colors. Test the toner on a small section first to avoid over-toning. Apply the toner to the highlighted areas only, using a cotton swab or brush.
Toning Chart for Different Hair Types
Hair Type Toner Type Ratio to Developer Leave-on Time Virgin Hair Blue 1:1 5-10 minutes Color-Treated Hair Blue 1:2 or 1:3 Up to 30 minutes Bleached Hair Green 1:1 5-10 minutes Highlights Blue or Green 1:2 Test on a small section first How to Cancel Out Red Hair Dye
Red hair dye is a popular choice for those who want to add a vibrant pop of color to their look. However, if you’re not happy with the results, or if you simply want to change your hair color, there are a few ways to cancel out red hair dye.
One way to cancel out red hair dye is to use a color-correcting shampoo. These shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair, and they can be very effective at removing red dye. Simply apply the shampoo to your hair and leave it in for the recommended amount of time. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly afterwards.
Another way to cancel out red hair dye is to use a color-depositing conditioner. These conditioners are designed to add color to your hair, and they can be used to tone down unwanted tones. Simply apply the conditioner to your hair and leave it in for the recommended amount of time. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly afterwards.
If you’re not sure which method is right for you, you can always consult with a professional hair stylist. They can help you determine the best way to cancel out red hair dye and achieve the desired results.
People Also Ask About How to Cancel Out Red Hair Dye
How long does it take to cancel out red hair dye?
The amount of time it takes to cancel out red hair dye will vary depending on the method you use. If you use a color-correcting shampoo, it may take several washes to see results. If you use a color-depositing conditioner, you may see results after just one application.
Can I cancel out red hair dye at home?
Yes, it is possible to cancel out red hair dye at home. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your hair.
What are the best products to use to cancel out red hair dye?
There are a number of different products that you can use to cancel out red hair dye. Some of the most popular options include color-correcting shampoos and color-depositing conditioners.
