Oh no! You’ve just dyed your hair and it’s not the color you wanted. Or maybe you’ve had dyed hair for a while and it’s starting to fade and you want to get back to your natural color. Whatever the reason, you’re now faced with the task of removing dye from your hair. Don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as it may seem. There are several methods you can try, depending on the type of dye you used and how long it’s been in your hair.
If you’ve only recently dyed your hair and you’re not happy with the color, you may be able to remove it with a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup from your hair, so they can also be effective at removing dye. To use a clarifying shampoo, simply wet your hair and apply the shampoo. Massage it into your scalp and hair, then rinse it out thoroughly. You may need to repeat this process several times to completely remove the dye.
If a clarifying shampoo doesn’t work, you can try using a color remover. Color removers are chemical products that can break down the dye molecules in your hair. This will allow you to wash the dye out of your hair. Color removers can be harsh on your hair, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. You should also do a strand test before using a color remover to make sure it doesn’t damage your hair.
Selecting the Right Removal Agent
Choosing the appropriate dye removal agent is crucial to ensure effective and safe results. Consider the following factors:
1. Type of Dye
| Dye Type | Removal Agent Options |
|---|---|
| Permanent Dye | Color Remover (professional-grade), Bleach (stronger, may damage hair) |
| Semi-Permanent Dye | Color Fader (semi-professional), Dish Soap (gentle, multiple washes required) |
| Fashion Color (e.g., pinks, blues) | Color Remover (specific for fashion colors), Bleach (may require multiple applications) |
| Direct Dye | Dish Soap (effective for small amounts), Hot Water (removes dye over time) |
2. Porosity of Hair
Porous hair absorbs and holds dye more readily. Choose a removal agent that is strong enough to penetrate the hair shaft without causing excessive damage. Bleaching porous hair requires caution to avoid breakage.
3. Hair Condition
Damaged or chemically-processed hair is more vulnerable to harsh chemicals. Opt for gentle removal agents, such as color faders or dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and use deep conditioning treatments after application.
Employing Baking Soda and Peroxide
If your hair dye debacle isn’t as severe, you might be able to salvage the situation using household ingredients. Baking soda and peroxide, both known for their bleaching properties, can help lighten unwanted hair dye. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Create the Baking Soda Paste
Mix equal parts baking soda and water in a non-metallic bowl until a thick paste forms. Apply the paste to your dyed hair, focusing on the areas that need lightening. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes.
Step 2: Rinse and Apply Peroxide
Rinse the baking soda paste thoroughly with cool water. Next, mix a solution of 1 part peroxide (3%) to 2 parts water. Apply the peroxide solution to your hair, paying special attention to the areas where the dye is most stubborn. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse, Condition, and Repeat
Rinse the peroxide solution thoroughly. Condition your hair to replenish moisture and nutrients. If necessary, repeat steps 1 and 2 to further lighten the hair dye. Note that this method may take several applications to achieve desired results.
Utilizing a Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, dirt, and oil from the hair. They can also be effective at removing dye from the hair. To use a clarifying shampoo to remove dye, follow these steps:
1. Wet your hair
Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
2. Apply the clarifying shampoo
Apply the clarifying shampoo to your hair and massage it in gently. Avoid scrubbing your scalp, as this can irritate it.
3. Rinse your hair
Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this step until all of the shampoo has been removed.
4. Condition your hair
Apply a conditioner to your hair and leave it in for a few minutes. This will help to restore moisture to your hair and make it less likely to be damaged.
5. Rinse your hair again
Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this step until all of the conditioner has been removed.
Here are some additional tips for using a clarifying shampoo to remove dye from your hair:
– Use a clarifying shampoo that is designed for your hair type. If you have dry hair, use a clarifying shampoo that is gentle and moisturizing. If you have oily hair, use a clarifying shampoo that is stronger and more effective at removing oil.
– Do not use a clarifying shampoo more than once a week. Overuse of clarifying shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle.
– If you have color-treated hair, use a clarifying shampoo that is specifically designed for color-treated hair. This will help to prevent the shampoo from stripping the color from your hair.
| Benefits of Using a Clarifying Shampoo |
|---|
| Removes product buildup, dirt, and oil |
| Can be effective at removing dye from the hair |
| Helps to restore moisture to the hair |
Applying a Vitamin C Treatment
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to break down hair dye molecules, making them easier to remove. To apply a vitamin C treatment:
- Crush up 1-2 vitamin C tablets into a powder.
- Mix the powder with 1/4 cup of warm water.
- Apply the mixture to your hair, making sure to saturate it completely.
- Cover your hair with a plastic cap and leave it in for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply a conditioner to your hair and leave it in for 5 minutes.
Tips
- You can use this treatment once or twice a week until the dye is completely removed.
- Be patient, as it may take several treatments to completely remove the dye.
- If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying the treatment to your entire head.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| -Affordable | -Can be drying to hair |
| -Easy to apply | -Can take several treatments to remove all dye |
| -Natural | -Can cause scalp irritation in some people |
Employing a Hair Mask
Hair masks are an effective way to remove dye from hair, as they can penetrate the hair shaft and dissolve the dye molecules. There are many different types of hair masks that you can use, but some of the most effective include:
- Baking soda mask: Baking soda is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten hair and remove dye. To make a baking soda mask, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Rinse the mask out with warm water and condition your hair as usual.
- Apple cider vinegar mask: Apple cider vinegar is a natural acid that can help to break down dye molecules. To make an apple cider vinegar mask, mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup of water. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Rinse the mask out with warm water and condition your hair as usual.
- Lemon juice mask: Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten hair and remove dye. To make a lemon juice mask, mix 1/2 cup of lemon juice with 1/4 cup of water. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Rinse the mask out with warm water and condition your hair as usual.
In addition to the above masks, there are also a number of commercial hair masks that are available to remove dye from hair. These masks typically contain ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, which can help to break down dye molecules. When using a commercial hair mask, be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully.
| Hair Mask | Ingredients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Baking soda mask | Baking soda, water | Lightens hair, removes dye |
| Apple cider vinegar mask | Apple cider vinegar, water | Breaks down dye molecules |
| Lemon juice mask | Lemon juice, water | Lightens hair, removes dye |
Seeking Professional Assistance
If home remedies and commercial products fail to remove the dye, seeking professional assistance is recommended. Hairdressers and colorists have access to specialized treatments and techniques for hair dye removal, ensuring safe and effective results.
Professional Color Removal
Professional colorists use specific chemical solutions designed to dissolve artificial hair pigments. This method targets the deposited dye without damaging the natural hair color.
Hair Lightening
Bleach can be used to lighten the hair, effectively reducing the intensity of the dye. However, this method is only suitable for dark shades of dye and can severely damage hair if not performed correctly.
Color Stripping
Color stripping removes both natural and artificial pigments from the hair. This highly effective method can completely remove dye, but it also weakens the hair shafts and requires subsequent conditioning treatments.
Chemical Mixture Removal
Hairdressers may use a combination of chemical solutions, such as ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and surfactants, to dissolve and break down hair dye. This method is highly effective but can also be harsh on the hair.
Balayage and Ombré
These techniques involve strategically applying color to create a graduated effect, blending the dyed hair with the natural color. This can effectively camouflage the previous dye without removing it entirely.
Demi-Permanent Dye
Demi-permanent dye is a less intense option that fades gradually over time. Applying a semi-permanent dye in a different color can neutralize the unwanted dye and restore a more natural look.
Color Correction
Hair colorists assess the existing hair dye and develop a tailored treatment plan to neutralize and correct the unwanted color. This can involve blending multiple hair colors to achieve the desired result.
How to Get Dye Out of Hair
If you’re not happy with the color of your hair dye, there are a few things you can do to try to remove it. However, it’s important to note that once hair has been dyed, it’s impossible to completely restore it to its original color. The best you can do is to remove as much of the dye as possible and tone the hair to a more desirable shade.
There are a number of different ways to remove hair dye, including:
- Using a color remover
- Bleaching your hair
- Using a clarifying shampoo
- Applying a color-correcting mask
The method you choose will depend on the type of hair dye you used, how long it’s been since you dyed your hair, and the condition of your hair.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to get dye out of hair?
The amount of time it takes to get dye out of hair will vary depending on the method you use and the type of dye you used. If you’re using a color remover, it can take several applications to remove all of the dye. If you’re bleaching your hair, it may take multiple sessions to achieve the desired level of lightness. And if you’re using a clarifying shampoo or color-correcting mask, it may take several washes to see a noticeable difference.
What is the best way to get dye out of hair?
The best way to get dye out of hair will depend on the type of dye you used and the condition of your hair. If you’re not sure which method to use, it’s best to consult with a professional hairstylist.
Can I use bleach to get dye out of hair?
Yes, you can use bleach to get dye out of hair. However, it’s important to note that bleach is a very strong chemical and can damage your hair if it’s not used properly. If you’re not sure how to use bleach, it’s best to consult with a professional hairstylist.
