Many people dye their hair in order to change its color. But what if you want to go back to your natural color? Can you use a clarifying shampoo or conditioner to remove the artificial color?
In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not clarifying shampoos and conditioners can remove hair color. We’ll also provide some tips on how to safely and effectively remove hair color at home.
So, read on to learn more about how to remove hair color with clarifying shampoo and conditioner!
What is a Clarifying Shampoo or Conditioner?
Clarifying shampoos and conditioners are designed to remove build-up from the hair. This build-up can come from products, minerals in the water, and even the environment. Clarifying shampoos and conditioners can help to restore the hair’s natural balance and make it look and feel healthier.
Most clarifying shampoos and conditioners are made with gentle surfactants that can remove build-up without stripping away the hair’s natural oils. This makes them a great choice for people who have dyed their hair, as they can help to remove the artificial color without damaging the hair.
However, it’s important to note that not all clarifying shampoos and conditioners are created equal. Some products may contain harsh chemicals or detergents that can strip away the hair’s natural oils and damage the hair.
Therefore, it’s important to read the labels carefully and choose a product that is designed for color-treated hair.
Can Clarifying Shampoo or Conditioner Remove Hair Color?
The short answer is: maybe. It depends on the type of dye used, as well as how long it has been in your hair. For example, semi-permanent dyes may come out after a few washes with a clarifying shampoo or conditioner. On the other hand, permanent dyes are more resistant to fading and may not be removed by clarifying products.
How Do Clarify Shampoo and Conditioners Remove Hair Color?
The main ingredient in these products is a surfactant. Surfactants are molecules that have a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a lipophilic (oil-loving) tail.
When you apply a clarifying shampoo or conditioner to your hair, the surfactants attach to the oils and dirt in your hair. The hydrophilic head of the molecule is attracted to the water, while the lipophilic tail is attracted to the oils. This causes the oils and dirt to be lifted away from the hair shaft and washed down the drain.
In addition to dirt and oil, clarifying shampoos and conditioners can also remove build-up from hair products, such as styling products, conditioners, and even dye. This is why clarifying products are often used to remove the artificial color from the hair.
Not all clarifying products will remove hair color, however. It depends on the ingredients used and the type of dye in your hair.
For example, some clarifying shampoos and conditioners use gentle ingredients that won’t strip away hair color. Others may contain strong detergents that can remove both natural and artificial colors from your hair.
If you’re unsure about whether a clarifying product will remove your hair color, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist. They can help you choose the right product and technique for removing the artificial color from your hair.
Things to Consider Before Clarifying Your Hair
There are a few things you should consider before clarifying your hair, such as:
- The type of dye used: As we mentioned before, some dyes are more difficult to remove than others. If you’ve used a semi-permanent or temporary dye, it’s likely that clarifying your hair will remove most, if not all, of the color. However, if you’ve used a permanent dye, clarifying your hair may not remove all of the colors.
- The health of your hair: If your hair is already dry, damaged, or brittle, clarifying it may make these issues worse. Clarifying can strip away natural oils and nutrients, so if your hair is in need of a little TLC, you may want to skip the clarifying shampoo or conditioner.
- How often you dye your hair: If you dye your hair frequently, clarifying it more often may be necessary to remove the built-up color. However, if you only dye your hair every so often, you may be able to get away with clarifying it less often.
- Your hair goals: Are you trying to achieve a certain hair color or style? If so, you’ll want to take that into consideration before clarifying your hair. For example, if you’re trying to achieve a light blonde color, clarifying your hair may help remove some of the darker pigment.
- The products you use: If you use a lot of styling products, such as hairspray, gel, or mousse, these can build up on your hair over time. Clarifying your hair can help remove these products and leave your hair feeling cleaner and lighter.
- Choose a clarifying shampoo or conditioner that is designed for color-treated hair: Not all clarifying shampoos and conditioners are created equal. Some are harsher than others and can strip away more color. If you’re concerned about removing too much color from your hair, opt for a clarifying shampoo or conditioner that is specifically designed for color-treated hair.
- Do a patch test first: Before clarifying your entire head of hair, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first. This will help you determine if you’re allergic to the product or if it’s too harsh for your hair.
To do a patch test, apply a small amount of the clarifying shampoo or conditioner to a small section of your hair. Wait a few minutes to see if you have any adverse reactions, such as itching, redness, or swelling. If you don’t have any reactions, you can proceed with clarifying your hair. - Don’t clarify your hair more than once a week: Clarifying your hair can strip away natural oils and nutrients, so it’s important to not do it more than once a week. If you clarify your hair more often than that, you may end up damaging it.
- Be patient: Clarifying your hair can take time, so be patient. It may take a few washes before you start to see results. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see an immediate difference.
How to Remove Hair Color With Clarifying Shampoo or Conditioner?
Things that you need:
- Clarifying shampoo or conditioner
- Plastic cap
- Plastic wrap
- Old towel
- Timer
If you want to remove hair color with a clarifying shampoo or conditioner, follow these steps:
- Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water. This will help open up the cuticle and allow the clarifying product to penetrate your hair shaft.
- Apply the clarifying shampoo or conditioner to your hair and scalp. Be sure to massage it well so that it can reach all of the dyed hair.
- Allow the product to sit on your hair for 5-10 minutes. This will give it time to work on the hair dye.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. You may need to repeat this step a few times to remove all of the colors.
- Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment. This will help repair any damage that was done to your hair during the clarifying process.
It’s important to note that clarifying shampoos and conditioners can be very drying to your hair. This is why it’s important to use a deep conditioning treatment afterward. If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, you may want to avoid using a clarifying product altogether.
How to Care for Your Hair After Clarifying It?
After you’ve clarified your hair, there are a few things you can do to help restore moisture and protect your hair:
- Use a leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can help to add moisture and protect your hair from further damage.
- Avoid heat styling: Heat styling, such as blow drying or flat ironing, can further damage your hair. If you must use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand.
- Limit your shampooing: Shampooing can strip away natural oils and moisture from your hair. If possible, only shampoo your hair once or twice a week. When you do shampoo, be sure to follow up with a conditioner.
- Use a protective hairstyle: Wearing your hair in a protective style, such as braids or twists, can help to keep it from being damaged.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals, such as those found in some hair dyes and relaxers, can damage your hair. If you must use them, be sure to use a deep conditioner afterward.
Alternative Methods for Removing Hair Color
If you don’t want to use a clarifying shampoo or conditioner, there are a few other methods you can try:
- Vinegar rinse: Vinegar is a natural acidic substance that can help to remove hair color. To use this method, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Baking soda: Baking soda is another natural substance that can help to remove hair color. To use, mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your hair and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing out.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice is one of the most popular natural hair lighteners out there. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water. Apply it to your hair, letting the mixture sit for 15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a natural acidic substance that can help to remove hair color. Mix equal parts vitamin C powder and water to make a solution. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it sit for 15 minutes. Wash your hair with warm water once you’ve rinsed it.
Conclusion
Clarifying shampoos and conditioners can be a great way to remove unwanted hair color. However, it’s important to use them carefully so that you don’t damage your hair in the process. Be sure to follow these tips to help keep your hair healthy and strong.
Have you ever used a clarifying shampoo or conditioner to remove hair color? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments below!
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