Changing your hair color can be fun and exciting. But what if you don’t like the results or want to go back to your natural color? Removing unwanted hair dye doesn’t have to be complicated or damage your hair. The key is finding the right hair color remover for your needs.
How Hair Color Removers Work
Hair color removers work by breaking down the artificial pigment molecules in dye. This allows the color to be rinsed away. There are two main types of hair color removers:
- Bleach-based removers – Contain strong bleaching agents like sodium persulfate or hydrogen peroxide. These completely strip color, allowing dramatic results in one application.
- Non-bleach removers – Use milder chemicals like sodium metabisulfite or vitamin C powder. Take longer to work but are gentler on hair.
The safest hair color removers use non-bleaching active ingredients. They gently breakdown dye over multiple applications while conditioning hair to prevent damage. This makes them ideal for removing semi-permanent and permanent color.
Choosing the Best Hair Color Remover
Here are the most important factors when selecting a hair color remover:
Hair Type
Hair texture and condition should dictate which formula you choose. Damaged or fragile hair benefits from a gentle, non-bleaching remover to avoid further drying and breakage. Coarse, healthy hair can handle stronger bleach-based removers for fast results.
Color Type
Bleach-based removers work best for permanent dyes or vivid colors. Non-bleaching removers are recommended for removing semi-permanent color. The development time will also vary based on how long the color has been in your hair.
Ammonia-Free
Look for ammonia-free hair color removers. Ammonia swells and lifts the hair cuticle to help remove dye molecules. But it can cause irritation and damage. Safer alternatives like monoethanolamine (MEA) work just as effectively.
Moisturizing Ingredients
Ingredients like oils, glycerin and conditioners offset the drying effects of hair color removers. Opt for a formula containing nourishing extracts, vitamins and proteins for healthy hair.
Correct Usage
Always follow directions closely for any remover product. Applying too much, leaving on too long, or using higher volumes of developer can damage hair.
The 5 Best Hair Color Removers
Based on the above criteria, here are the top-rated products for safely removing hair dye at home:
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Color Oops Extra Strength Hair Color Remover |
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| Scott Cornwall Decolour Hair Colour Remover |
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| L’Oreal Paris Colorist Secrets Haircolor Remover |
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| Godefroy 28-Day Color Remover Kit |
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| Bold Uniq Color Vanish Hair Color Remover |
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Tips for Using Hair Color Removers
Follow these tips to safely remove hair dye and minimize damage:
- Do an allergy test first to check for skin sensitivities.
- Protect hairline, ears and scalp with petroleum jelly to avoid irritation.
- Work in sections to thoroughly saturate hair with the remover.
- Use the included caps and gloves to avoid stains on skin and surroundings.
- Rinse hair very thoroughly after the recommended development time.
- Shampoo and deeply condition hair afterwards to restore moisture.
- Give hair a break before recoloring – at least 2-3 days for delicate hair.
What About Vitamin C to Remove Hair Color?
Making a vitamin C hair treatment is a popular DIY method for stripping dye. But is it effective? Here’s how it works:
- Crush vitamin C tablets into a fine powder and mix with shampoo.
- The acidic vitamin C works to oxidize color molecules and break bonds.
- Leave mixture on hair 30-60 minutes then rinse thoroughly.
Vitamin C can help lift some semi-permanent color. But it isn’t as strong at removing permanent dye. It also must be freshly mixed each time. Pre-made removers contain optimized formulas that work better and more safely.
Go Back to Your Roots
Removing unwanted hair color doesn’t need to be a scary process. The right hair color remover helps strip out artificial pigment gently and effectively. Just be sure to prep hair properly and nourish it afterwards. Follow the usage directions closely and you’ll be back to your natural color in no time.
With so many options on the market, it’s worth consulting reviews and seeking advice to find your perfect match. The removers mentioned above provide salon-quality results at home for all hair types. So you can change your color as often as you want without worry.
Your hair will thank you for choosing a gentle, non-damaging remover. So you can reinvent your look while keeping your strands healthy and strong.
