Going from red to pink hair is possible for most people, but does require some planning and preparation. Red hair dye tends to be very vibrant and staining, while pink is a pastel shade that is typically harder to achieve on top of red hair. However, with the right hair color products and techniques, you can successfully transition your red hair to a pretty pink hue.
Can You Go Directly from Red to Pink Hair?
In most cases, you cannot immediately go from red to pink hair without some intervening steps. Red hair dye is formulated to saturate the hair shaft intensely and last a long time. Most semi-permanent pink hair dyes will not show up well or create an even tone on freshly dyed red hair.
To go from red to pink hair, you will need to first remove some of the artificial red pigment. This can be done with a color remover or through careful bleaching. After lightening the red color, you can then apply a pink semi-permanent hair dye. With proper timing and care, you can change your vibrant red hair to a subtler pink shade.
Using a Color Remover
One option for transitioning red to pink hair is to use a color remover product. Color removers work by shrinking color molecules so they can be rinsed out of the hair shaft. They do not contain bleach, so they remove artificial dye without damaging your natural hair color underneath.
Color removers are especially effective at removing permanent or direct dye colors like red. They will not damage your hair like bleaching would. However, they likely won’t completely remove the red hue, especially if your hair is naturally dark underneath.
Here are some tips for using a color remover to get red hair ready for pink dye:
- Choose a remover formulated for permanent/direct dye. Popular options include Colour B4, Scott Cornwall, and L’Oreal Effasol.
- Follow the product directions carefully. Apply the remover, wait the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Repeat if needed for maximum color removal. Wait a few days between treatments to avoid irritation.
- Shampoo regularly after removing steps to keep color from oxidizing and turning red again.
- Use a clarifying shampoo 1-2 days before applying pink dye to prepare hair.
Color removers are best for taking out thicker, permanent red dye. For temporary or semi-permanent reds, you may only need regular shampooing over a few weeks for the color to fade enough for pink.
Using Bleach to Remove Red Hair Color
Bleaching is the most effective way to strip artificial color for dramatic hair changes like red to pink. However, it is also the most damaging route for your hair’s health.
Here is how to bleach red hair in preparation for pink dye:
- Do a patch test on a small section first to determine required bleaching time.
- Protect hair with a conditioning treatment before bleaching.
- Lighten hair in stages, at least 24 hours apart, to avoid breakage.
- Use a lower volume developer (20 Vol or less) with bleach powder.
- Tone hair after lightening to avoid brassiness.
- Give hair a break of a few days after bleaching before pink dye.
When bleached correctly, red hair can lift to a pale yellow or orange shade that pink dye will adhere to nicely. Be extremely careful not to overlap bleach while hair is still red, as this can create hot roots and damage hair.
Dyeing Your Hair Pink
Once you have removed enough of the red hue through color removing or bleaching methods, you are ready to apply pink dye. Here are some tips:
- Choose a semi-permanent or demi-permanent pink dye for the most natural look.
- Stick to one shade lighter or darker than your lightened hair tone.
- Apply dye quickly and evenly, following product instructions.
- Rinse thoroughly after processing time is complete.
- Use a tinted conditioner or gloss to keep pink vibrant between dye touch-ups.
Common pink dyes to try for redheads include:
- Manic Panic Cotton Candy Pink
- Punky Colour Pink
- Ion Brights Semi Permanent Hot Pink
- Pravana ChromaSilk Vivids Pink
- Lunar Tides Cotton Candy
The pink will show up best on pale yellow or orange lightened hair. Expect the color to fade after 4-6 weeks, especially with frequent washing. Re-dye pink hues as needed. Over time with touch-ups, you can transition hair from red to light pink shades.
Maintaining Pink Hair Color
To keep pink hair looking vibrant and prevent fading:
- Use shampoo and conditioner made for color-treated hair.
- Wash hair less frequently, every 2-3 days.
- Use cool water and limit time in shower.
- Blow dry hair instead of towel drying.
- Avoid chlorine, salt water, and sun exposure.
- Use a glossing treatment once a week.
- Avoid heat styling when possible.
Also be aware that pale pink will have a harder time covering dark roots. Plan to touch up your new growth every 3-4 weeks. Using a root concealer spray can help blend this grow-out line between full dye jobs.
Common Concerns When Transitioning Red to Pink
Overlapping Dyes
If pink dye is applied directly without properly removing red first, it can create an unappealing burgundy or dark magenta color. Be patient and lift out that red pigment before applying pink hues.
Brassiness
Bleaching red hair often results in orange or yellow undertones. Be sure to use a toner before dyeing pink. Look for toners that cancel out warmth, like blue- or purple-based products. Wella and Matrix make great toners.
Dryness and Damage
Red color is prone to fading but also very moisturizing for hair. Pink dyes tend to dry out and damage hair over time. Make sure to do conditioning treatments and limit heat styling. Also cut down on shampooing and use a gentle, sulfate-free formula.
Staining
Pink hair dye can be messy and stain skin, tile, bathtubs, and countertops. Wear gloves during application and clean up spills right away with soap and water. Avoid getting hair wet for the first 2-3 days after dyeing.
Should You Go to a Salon?
While it is possible to go from red to pink hair at home, visiting a licensed stylist is often worth the investment. They have professional products and expertise for dramatically lightening hair and minimizing damage. This is especially key if you want to go very light blonde or pastel pink all over.
Salon methods like balayage and ombre can also help you gradually go from red to pink. These techniques leave roots and ends darker to create a blend of color.
How to Do a Strand Test
Before committing to a full dye job, it’s wise to do a strand test:
- Pick out a 1 inch section of hair near your neck or behind the ear.
- Prep section according to product directions.
- Apply small amount of remover, bleach, or dye product to the subsection.
- Time for estimated processing period.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Examine how the subsection of hair lightened or took on color. Adjust your full head application based on these results. Strand testing helps prevent disappointments by showing how your hair will react.
Transitioning from Red to Pink: Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a summary of the full process for changing over from red to pink hair:
- Pick your desired pink shade and buy necessary hair products.
- Do a strand test to plan timing and application.
- Remove red color:
- Use color remover according to directions
- Lighten with bleach if needed. Tone hair.
- Prep and dye clean hair with pink color. Process fully.
- Rinse, condition, and air dry.
- Maintain pink color between salon visits.
- Touch up new growth every 3-4 weeks.
Some salons may be able to complete this transition in one long appointment, assuming your hair is healthy enough. But spacing out stages over multiple weeks is ideal to protect your hair’s integrity. Have patience for the process and take good care of your locks at home.
Conclusion
While it takes some work, you can successfully achieve pretty pink locks after having red hair. With the proper removal of artificial dye followed by applying and maintaining pink color, it is very possible to go from red to pink hairstyles. Take it slow by planning out stages, doing strand tests, and being gentle overall. In a matter of weeks, you can rock a head of soft pink hair after starting with bright red.
