Removing synthetic color from hair can be challenging, but there are several methods you can try, depending on the type of dye used and the condition of your hair. Here are some common techniques:
BUT FIRST, CHECK
What colour is still in your hair? What is the colour you want to dye it next? Will you be doing a different colour placement? Think about this before doing these treatments, as it may be unnecessary! So what colours can still work?
Leftover red: red, pink, purple, orange
Leftover orange: orange, red, pink, brown
Leftover yellow: yellow, orange, red, green
Leftover green: green, blue
Leftover blue: blue, green, purple
Leftover purple: purple, blue, pink, red
Leftover pink: pink, purple, red, orange, blue
note: if the leftover colour is still quite vibrant, it will impact the colour you put on top. For example, putting blue over green will give you an aqua colour depending on the shades of green and blue. similar to if you were mixing paint!
But if you really want to get rid of a colour or change to a completely different one, here are some methods:
1. CLARIFYING SHAMPOO
Use: Effective for semi-permanent and temporary dyes.
Instructions: Wash your hair several times with a clarifying shampoo, or a shampoo with a
higher pH. Leave the shampoo in your hair for a few minutes each time before rinsing.
Note: This method is gentle but may take multiple washes.
2. VITAMIN C TREATMENT
Use: Effective for fading semi-permanent dyes.
Ingredients: Vitamin C tablets (ascorbic acid) and clarifying shampoo.
Instructions:
- Crush 10-15 Vitamin C tablets into a fine powder.
- Mix the powder with a sufficient amount of clarifying shampoo to cover your hair.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 30-60 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly and condition.
3. BAKING SODA AND ANTI-DANDRUFF SHAMPOO
Use: Effective for semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes.
Ingredients: Baking soda and anti-dandruff shampoo.
Instructions:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and anti-dandruff shampoo.
- Apply the mixture to wet hair, working it into a lather.
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly and condition.
4. COLOUR REMOVER
Use: Effective for permanent dyes.
Products: Commercial colour removers specifically made for your type & brand of dye.
Instructions: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Typically, you will apply the product to your hair, leave it on for a specified amount of time, then rinse and condition.
5. BLEACH BATH
Use: Effective for stubborn or very dark dyes.
Ingredients: Bleach powder,
20 volume developer, and
shampoo.
Instructions:
- Mix bleach powder with developer and shampoo.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair.
- Leave it on for 10-20 minutes, checking frequently.
- Rinse thoroughly and condition deeply.
Note: This method can be very damaging, so use it as a last resort and ensure you condition your hair thoroughly afterward using Holyplex's restoring formula.
6. PROFESSIONAL SALON TREATMENT
Use: For best results and minimal damage.
Instructions: Visit a professional hairstylist who can assess your hair and use appropriate treatments to remove the color.
TIPS FOR ALL METHODS
Conditioning: Always follow up with a
deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and health to your hair.
Strand Test: Before applying any treatment to your entire head, perform a strand test to see how your hair reacts.
Patience: Removing synthetic color may take multiple attempts and a lot of patience.
If your hair is particularly fragile or if you're unsure about the process, consulting with a professional stylist is highly recommended to avoid excessive damage.