How to Prepare Hair for Color to Minimize Damage and Ensure the Best Outcome

September 26, 2022

Nowadays hair dyes are less harmful than used to be and they contain some nourishing ingredients to counteract the damaging effect of ammonia and other chemicals. On the other hand, beauty companies continue to create innovative protective products to reduce the harmful effects of the dye chemicals and minimize the negative effects of regular coloring.

However, there are still some protective steps you can do yourself to go throw the coloring process with minimal damage and get the best possible results. Before any new color adventure, give your hair enough time to recover from previous color processing or any other chemical treatment. You can’t get the hair color of your dreams on overprocessed, lifeless hair.

A woman choosing a shade of color to dye hair

1. Don’t Wash Your Hair Two Days Before Coloring

Natural oils in your scalp and hair act as a barrier against harsh hair products and external factors. If you apply color to freshly washed hair, chemicals in hair dye can irritate your scalp and dry out your hair. That is why you shouldn’t dye your hair when it is squeaky clean. Excessively oily and dirty hair isn’t a good option too. Such hair won’t support the distribution of the dye. It is advisable to wash your hair two days before coloring to allow natural oils to form a protective coating on your scalp.

2. Clarify Your Hair Before Coloring

If you use many styling products, they can create build-up on your hair which may interfere with the dyeing process. Another kind of buildup can be caused by using hard water for washing your hair. To make your hair more acceptive to color make sure to remove any kind of buildup before applying the dye. The easiest way to remove buildup is to use a clarifying shampoo. If you have hard water in your shower a chelating shampoo is a better choice. Chelating shampoos are formulated to remove any kind of buildup, while most clarifying shampoos are made to remove only product build-up. Your last wash can be with clarifying shampoo 2 days before coloring, or you can clarify several days before coloring. Just make sure not to overuse styling products before your coloring session.

3. Use Coconut Oil Before a Color Job

Woman applying coconut oil before coloring hair

Coconut oil is a great hair moisturizer that can penetrate the hair shaft and protect your hair from chemical damage. Apply coconut oil the night before or at least several hours before coloring to allow your hair to fully absorb the oil. Rub the oil into the midshaft and ends of your hair. Your ends are the driest part of your hair and need the most protection. You don’t have to apply oil close to your roots. Your roots are protected by scalp natural oils and haven’t suffered from chemical damage by the previous coloring. After several hours of applying coconut oil, you can apply the dye with the coconut oil still in the hair. Your hair will be healthier and softer than usual.

4. Look for a Salon that Uses Olaplex

In recent years it has become a practice to protect the hair during the coloring process to minimize chemical damage. Your stylist will ask you to “upgrade” offering you a higher level of protection. If you make the color appointment, make sure that your colorist uses Olaplex or another bond builder to preserve the integrity of your hair. If you are going to do the coloring job on your own, use at-home bond repairing products to minimize the damage and repair broken and damaged bonds in your hair.

5. Do Patch/Strand Test

If you are planning to dye your hair at home, make sure to do a skin allergy test.

Patch Test: Always perform this test before coloring to see how your skin will react to dye chemicals. Apply a small amount of the color mixture with a cotton swab to the skin area inside of your elbow and leave it on for 48 hours. If you haven’t noticed anything strange in the tested area, you’re not allergic to your hair dye. If you notice any itching, swelling, or redness, this can be a sign of allergic reactions and you shouldn’t apply the product.

Strand test: At the same time, you can also do a strand test by dyeing a small section of hair to see what the color will look like. Use tin foil to wrap around the section to keep it from the rest of your hair. Leave the dye as long as directed on the box. Rinse and blow-dry it to see the effects. If you love what you see, you can dye your hair using your chosen hair dye. The strand test is a key if you are going to try a new shade because everyone’s hair takes to dye differently. This way you can be sure that you get the exact shade you want and adjust the timing if needed.

How-To Do a Strand Test by Splat Hair Dye

6. Consider Your Hair Porosity Level

How to Prepare High Porosity Hair for Color Treatment

If your hair is overly porous it may grab the color unevenly. Pigments will easily enter the cortex throw lifted cuticles while some parts of your hair may process color slower. Discuss the problem with your stylist. Hair colorists use porosity equalizers to even hair porosity before coloring. If you are going to dye your hair at home, make sure to use a neutral protein filler or a similar product to even your hair porosity and ensure the best outcome.

How to Prep Low Porosity Hair for Coloring

Low porosity hair has a tightly closed cuticle that may prevent hair products from entering the hair shaft. Such hair takes longer to process the color and you need more time than is indicated on the box to get the desired color. Clarifying step is important for low-porosity hair to remove the product buildup that sits on the surface. It would be helpful if you apply the pre-color treatment (such as Ion Pre-Color Treatment) to prime your hair for color and ensure better and more even absorption.

a woman with freshly colored hair enjoying freedom on a sunny day

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

My Ways to Fix Flat Hair

September 21, 2022

I have been dealing with super flat and fine hair all my life. For so long I had been desperately trying to figure out how to give my hair a more lifted look. Over the years, I learned that, although flat hair can be difficult to manage, there are a few things that help to reduce my frustration. Today I’m going to share my experience with flat hair and provide some tips that helped give my lifeless hair more volume and movement. But first, let’s go over the most common causes of flat hair.

Why Does Hair Look Flat?

Thin and fine hair: Thinning and fine hair are more likely to look flat than thick and dense hair.
Oily hair: When your oil glands are over-active, your hair can get oily and flat soon after washing.
Hair texture: Straight hair is more likely to look flat than curly hair. Curly strands take more space, giving more volume to your style.
Porosity level: Unprocessed strands create less friction and the hair is more likely to look flat than colored or otherwise chemically treated hair.
Inappropriate hair products: Moisturizing shampoos, 2-in-1 shampoos, hair oils, and sticky hairsprays can weigh down hair, making it look flatter.
Too many products: Hair can become flat if you overuse certain styling products. Too many products can create buildup which makes hair look heavy.
Hard water: Hard water in your shower can interfere with the cleansing action of your shampoo, reducing its efficiency. Plus, minerals from hard water can build up in your hair, weighing it down.

a pretty woman with voluminous hairtyle sitting at a restaurant

How to Revive Flat Hair

Proper shampooing: I’ve noticed that if I apply shampoo only once, my hair will fall flat quickly. But if I apply shampoo twice and take time to massage my scalp well, my hair will be clean and feel fluffy for a longer amount of time. Using a shampoo brush is an added plus.
Skipping conditioner: I avoid using conditioner regularly because it makes my hair look flatter. I only apply conditioner after using a clarifying shampoo and I focus on applying it to the ends of my hair. I leave the conditioner on for 30 seconds or less before rinsing it off.
Volumizing shampoos: These shampoos give me the effect of slightly more voluminous hair. Even a small improvement can be helpful when you are struggling with the problem of flat hair. I use clarifying shampoo twice a month to remove buildup from volumizing shampoos and other products.
Shampoo rotation: After using the same shampoo for a long period I notice that it loses its effectiveness and begins to leave my hair feeling heavy. Rotating several shampoos helps to lift my flat-looking hair and adds more bounce and movement.
Blow-drying: Blow-drying gives more lift to my hair than air drying. Massaging the scalp in a circular motion with my hand while blow-drying helps to keep hair from falling flat quickly. Using a round brush works to lift the roots and creates a more voluminous look. Blow drying with my head upside down lifts the hair away from the scalp and helps my blowout last longer.
Dry shampoo: Dry shampoo eliminates excess sebum and dirt and gives my hair an extra boost of volume. In addition to soaking oil, it also absorbs sweat that can ruin my hairstyle and make the hair look heavy. I usually apply dry shampoo the day after washing and it keeps my hair from falling flat during the next two days.
Collagen supplements: Taking collagen pills makes my hair appear thicker and fuller. It may take about two months to see some improvement. When I stop taking the collagen, the positive effects start to fade gradually.
Perm: A mild perm is a great way to add some texture and lift to flat and thin hair. I am not a big fan of tight curls, so traditional perms are not an option. For me, a body wave perm is perfect for adding volume and natural waves.
Coloring: Colored hair is less prone to fall flat than virgin hair. The coloring process leaves hair more porous and increases the friction between hair fibers, which means your hair won’t fall flat as easily. However, before you decide to dye your hair, make sure you’re aware of the damaging effects of hair dyes and be careful to consider permanent coloring.
Appropriate haircut: Sometimes you just need the right haircut to revive your flat and lifeless strands and give your hair more body. It is much easier to keep short hair from falling flat than long hair. Short pixie and long angled bob are some good examples.
Gel: Hair gels helped me obtain good lift and hold when I had very short hair. Longer hair is hard to comb with gel residue in it and can break easily.
Hair rollers for volume: If you have long hair, try using large curlers. You won’t get curls, but you can get more lift and volume. You can also try using foam curlers overnight to wake up with voluminous hair in the morning.
Appropriate hairstyle: The right styling can resolve the problem of flat hair. Sometimes hair needs a little help to stay lifted. A double ponytail, top knot, or French twist are some examples.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Partial vs Full Balayage – Which One Is Right for You?

September 11, 2022September 8, 2022

So, you’ve decided to either get a balayage for the first time or to switch from foiling to the more lived-in color look. Great, but that’s just the beginning. What happens next is in the details and will leave you wondering, what type of balayage do I get and how much of it?

Thinking through the nuances of your balayage is a good first step before you find yourself sitting in your colorist’s chair utterly confused. Because everyone has had that moment when face-to-face with a colorist where they hear the words “would you like a full balayage or a partial balayage?” The responses can range from sitting tongue-tied with confusion to declaring “just do what you think is best,” only to be disappointed with the results.

So, here’s what you need to know about this beautiful color service and how much of it to get.

What is a Partial Balayage?

A partial balayage means you’re getting less of your hair colored. The general areas revolve around the face, the part line (or inches from it for the rooted look), and the crown of the head. Lightening only these areas will leave you with less of an overall blonde look, and more of a rooted, dimensional feel with higher contrast.

Should I Get a Full Balayage of a Partial Balayage?

To answer this, think through just how blonde you want to be and how much contrast between your natural color and the highlighted blonde you want to have. If you love seeing that “swirl” of colors when you wave your hair, stick with a partial balayage. If you want a more overall blonde look, shoot for the full balayage.

What is the Difference Between a Full Balayage and a Partial Balayage?

Largely it’s the placements of the highlights. A full Balayage will cover everything from face-framing to all of the interior portions of your hair in the back and on the sides, including the nape of the neck. This means when you pull it up into a ponytail, you’ll see blonde.

A partial balayage does not cover the interior portions of the hair. Partial Balayage primarily covers the crown, pieces around the face, and the top outermost layer of the hair. This means when you pull up the ponytail, you’ll see your natural color in the back and a mixture of natural and blonde in the front.

Is a Partial Balayage Worth It?

A partial balayage is worth it if you’re after dimension. Blonding this way means contrast. If you love contrast and don’t want to be too blonde, a partial balayage is the perfect service for you. The grow-out is amazing as well, so you’ll find yourself in the salon less and with a natural look until your next appointment.

How Do I Care for my Hair after a Balayage Service?

There are so many wonderful ways to care for your partial or full balayage post service. For starters, wait to wash your hair for about 24 hours. This way the color molecules have time to lock into your hair. Then when you go to wash with a color-safe and high-quality shampoo/conditioner, your hair will be ready for it.

The next care method for preserving your color is creating a foundation of products you trust. This means your shampoo, conditioner, heat protectant, and your oil. Other items can be added in later but creating a good package of 4 quality items will preserve your partial balayage.

Next is keratins. These treatments can build keratin protein back into the hair from root to tip. By filling in the porous spaces in your hair, it means your hair can receive a full or partial balayage with even, healthy coverage. Getting these treatments is one way to ensure your colorist is happy doing your hair!

back view of woman with partial balayage hair

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark

September 11, 2022August 31, 2022

Written by Evelyn Davies

So, you’re interested in professional color remover, and hairdresser tips for dark hair color removal? Well, you have just stumbled across some color correction advice straight from a professional hair colorist and hair blogger.

Removing dark hair color from your hair can be super challenging, even for hairstylists. So, I’ve put together a guide for different scenarios, helping you know how to fix too dark hair dye. Maybe you want to know if you can lighten your hair after dying it dark, or how to fade hair color that is too dark, depending if you have permanent dark, temporary hair color, or toner, we have detailed how to fix hair color that is a too dark guide below.

How to Fix Hair Color That Is Too Dark

So, my rules are, try to use the gentlest form of hair color removal for the scenario, removing dark hair color can really damage your hair.

If it’s permanent dark hair color, and it’s your only choice, use a bond rebuilder with bleach. You can color it all or gradually highlight the hair. Is it a one-off dark color/semi-permanent color pigment remover that could help remove tone without too much aggression? If it’s a toner, temporary or semi-permanent – shampoo, waiting, or a clear demi can help remove darker tones. But my number one rule is, always go to a hair professional, it could save your hair, and give you the best results. Read my reasons for this advice below –

How to Lighten Hair That Is Dyed Too Permanent Dark

In this scenario, I would judge what to do by 2 things. If the hair has been repetitively dyed dark over dark and if the canvas underneath is bleached/porous and possibly light.

If the dark hair dye is a buildup of years and years of dark permanent hair color applications, it will be super difficult to remove. It can be done but requires patience and money. As a stylist, I like to try and remove color in the gentlest way possible. For me, I like to use everything that could lift out a permanent dark color, before resulting in using bleaches. This is to keep the health of your hair, as removing color/lightening from permanent dark hair color is very invasive to the structure of the hair.

Use Hair Lightener to Remove Permanent Dark Color

So, you’ve tried everything to remove dark from your hair but lightening bleaches and it’s your last resort? Sometimes bleach is the only way to go with permanent hair color removal.

If you have to use a lightener, please consider working with a bond rebuilder while lightening the hair. This will help push the results further and avoid compromising the condition too much. My favorite on the market is Olaplex, I notice a significant difference in the condition of the lightened hair whilst using this bond rebuilder. Bleaches can lift color up to 9 levels, depending on color history so bleach is a powerful product.

Using a Bond Rebuilder while Removing Hair Color That’s Dyed Too Dark

There are many bond rebuilders on the market, usually, they are added into a color formula or lightening bleach to help keep the hair in good condition while treating them with chemicals.

It replaces broken bonds whilst coloring, so perfect to counteract aggressive bleaches. Please remember that using bond re-builders helps the process they are not a magic formula that means you can defy the laws of hair color, speak to your hair colorist about your hair lightening options. Also, bond rebuilders sometimes have a treatment-only option so you can top up the broken bonds in-between color treatments or, take a top-up product home to keep on top of your hair condition.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark

If the hair Has been colored dark as a one-off and you were previously light, you may be able to use some more gentle forms of hair color removal, also if your hair is slightly porous, this can help with the color to fade.

So, you tried something new and you can’t get on with it. Removal of darker colors is still difficult, but you may get away with the use of a color pigment remover. These claim to remove the artificial color pigment and leave the hair’s natural pigment. However, if you have used permanent color, that process sometimes removes your natural pigment slightly and replaces artificial tones in the hair. So, what’s left underneath may not be your natural tone. I recommend booking a color removal with a second color process to tone the results you get. Actually, with any color removal, I recommend 2 appointments in one sitting as it is color correction.

How to Remove Toner That Went Too Dark

Sometimes this can be a simple fix that requires patience. You can use more aggressive shampoos, semi-permanent dyes, or wait for the natural fade of a toner.

It happens from time to time we experiment, and our results are not as expected. If you’re thinking toner made my hair too dark, I usually recommend a clarifying shampoo and a good hair treatment. Continual use of a clarifying shampoo can remove toners, but also remove moisture in the hair so please balance this with a good moisture treatment to keep your hair shiny and smooth. Toners are a semi-permanent tone, that usually fades out and lasts 2-5 weeks, so I would consider waiting it out too.

How to Correct Too Dark or Bright Hair Color That’s More Temporary

So, if your hair color is way too intense, but it’s a toner, semi-permanent or temporary color, I have seen hairdressers use an alternative technique with demi-permanent clear color.

The place where hair color particles sit determines if hair color is temporary, semi, or permanent. The stronger the color the deeper it goes into the hair structure. By using a demi-permanent, it can push out temporary or semi-color. Not always, but it’s worth a try, I have used a demi clear so it has no tone but gives the shine effect to hair and if you use this over light tones, can pull the toner out.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

How to Put In Tinsel Hair and How to Care for It

September 11, 2022August 19, 2022

Bold, bright, rainbow shimmer or subtle monochromatic hues –if you want to bump your self-care and enhance beauty at the same time, hair tinsel or “fairy hair” is a cheap and effective method for 2022.

What is Hair Tinsel Exactly?

Hair tinsel is typically made from polymer fiber (a sort of plastic/fabric) or polyester, while higher quality tinsel is made of silk. That means it’s flexible and lightweight, so it will move just like your hair without you noticing it.

It’s applied to the hair by tying it by hand or using a small hand-tied knot (or a tool to help) near the scalp. The results of the knot are so small, that the attachment isn’t noticeable. What’s noticed is the beautiful slight strand of hair that sparkles or shimmers as your hair moves.

How to Attach Hair Tinsel to Hair

Now you might remember the decade encapsulating Y2K, low-rise jeans, and shimmery strands you could bead-snap into your hair using a small plastic machine no better quality than an easy-bake-oven. But just as time improves technology, the techniques for applying hair tinsel have upgraded as well. So how exactly do you get Hair Tinsel in your hair?

For professional results, you can book an appointment with an extension expert who uses the micro rings to secure tinsels near the roots. With this method, tinsel strands will last longer than when using the tie technique. It’s cost-effective as well since you’ll only need a few strands to decorate your hair in just the right way.

Knotting the tinsel to your hair by hand requires some practice to master it. The knots will hold tighter if you take one small bit of hair and only two to three strands of tinsel and tie them. Another good thing if you take less hair is that the knots will be less noticeable.

Hair Tinsel Tutorial! Video by SweetHearts Hair

If you’re into doing it yourself, there are amazing hair tinsel application kits sold on places like Amazon at very affordable prices. These are perfect for DIY connoisseurs with easy-to-follow instructions and all the tools you’ll need to get started and apply them all on your own. There are also a lot of video tutorials on hair tinsel on YouTube.

DIY SPARKLY GLITTER TINSEL HAIR Video by Sophie Hannah

How to Care for Hair Tinsel

What’s really amazing about these beautiful shimmery or diamond studded strands, is the care. With minimal effort, you can add these to your hair without worry or concern.

After reading the manufacturer’s instructions or discussing a care routine with your extension expert, you can wash, dry, and even curl on low heat settings if the hair tinsel you get is heat resistant. When shampooing your hair, take extra care to gently massage your roots around the knots or beds.

In terms of care, hair tinsel goes unnoticed. You can treat it like the rest of your hair, so you don’t have to make significant changes in your everyday routine. But in terms of effect? These bits of gorgeous color, sparkle, or shimmer leave a significant impact.

Can You Curl Hair Tinsel

If the tinsel you use is heat resistant, you can curl your hair with tinsel in it with a flat iron or curling wand.

Plastic tinsel can be curled by stretching. You can curl it this way even before attaching it to your hair. Apply more pressure if you want tighter curls and less pressure for softer curls.

How Long Will Hair Tinsel Stay In the Hair?

If you place them correctly hair tinsels will stay in your hair for 2-6 weeks depending on your hair type, what are they made of, and how you take care of them. Tinsels made of silk have greater durability and they will last longer in thick hair than in fine hair types.

Make sure not to tag them when shampooing and brushing hair. Put your finger to make pressure on the knot when brushing. Hand-tied tinsel may fall when the hair strand it is tied to falls out naturally. Tinsels attached as the micro ring extensions can last longer, but make sure to check them by hair extensionists periodically.

Does Hair Tinsel Damage Hair?

When attached and maintained properly and hair tinsels won’t damage your natural hair. However, you need to be gentle when shampooing your hair. Don’t vigorously massage your roots where the tinsels are attached to your hair. For the same reason carefully comb and brush your hair and don’t brush the area behind the knots or beds to avoid pulling your hair.

As with any other type of hair extension, you shouldn’t wear tinsel hair extensions longer than two months without consulting your stylist.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Perm or Color First and How Long to Wait Between Perm and Color Service

September 11, 2022August 16, 2022

Madonna in the 80s wore a signature look that inspired women and men in droves to get spiral perms for an overly excited amount of volume.

Things have deflated into larger ringlets and soft waves with less volume for a more natural effect here in 2022.

But the biggest questions people are asking about perms have to do with color. Can you dye permed hair? Can you highlight your permed hair? What about getting a perm and a color service at the same time? Can you perm hair that’s already dyed or visa versa? Let’s get into some answers about perming and hair coloring.

a beautiful woman with highlighted permed hair

How Do Perms Work?

Imagine your hair made up of tiny, connected molecules that can create a shape depending on how they are attached. In its most basic form, a perm occurs when your natural hair bonds are broken and then reformed with chemicals into a different shape. This alteration is permanent and produces a lot of impact on the hair. Your hair-care routine will be vital to the health of your hair after a perm.

Can You Do a Perm and Color at the Same Time?

You can’t get a perm done at the same time as a color service, and it’s not recommended at all to both a perm and highlight the hair on the same day.

With highlights, there is a chemical activator that opens the cuticle of your hair to let in the bleach. The bleach goes to work on your color pigments, altering them by breaking them down. Color services differ from highlights in that molecules are deposited into the hair or on top of it to create a new tone. Both chemical services work at deep levels in the hair, which is why they aren’t compatible with a perm on the same day.

If you do both treatments at the same time, the hair color may turn out differently than expected and is usually a bit lighter than indicated on the package. Color may also fade faster than normal. This happens because the cuticles can’t close properly to seal the color. Neither the curls nor the color would turn out the way you wanted.

How Long After a Perm Can You Dye Your Hair?

You should wait at least two weeks after perming service to dye your hair.

The reason for getting your perm first has to do with the integrity of your hair. You will want to see how well your hair reacts to these chemicals and what kind of condition it’s left in. If it’s healthy, you can move forward with a color service two weeks or more down the road. It’s not, however, recommended to do color or highlight services in conjunction with a perm. This waiting is necessary because perm and permanent dyes contain strong chemicals. Coloring your hair right after permanent waving could overprocess your hair and make it susceptible to damage.

Can You Apply Semi-Permanent Color After a Perm?

Even if you use a semi-permanent dye, it is not recommended to dye your hair immediately after the perm service.

After a perm, the hair is very porous, and it is necessary to wait at least a week for the cuticles to settle down. Overly porous hair won’t absorb semi-permanent color evenly. Semi-permanent dyes won’t damage hair because they only deposit color without involving strong chemicals. However, the outcome probably wouldn’t be what you had expected.

How Long Should You Wait After a Perm to Get Highlights?

You should wait at least two weeks after a perm to apply highlights to your hair.

Highlights involve the use of bleach, which can damage permed hair and leave it overly porous. It is recommended that chemical treatments performed in a short time frame should be performed only by a professional cosmetologist.

But there are still ways to get both a perm and a highlighted look – highlighted hair extensions.

Use the perm to create the curl pattern you want, then if you’re happy with your perm, go get highlighted extensions! It’s the perfect solution for people who want the texture of a perm with the highlights of their dreams. But make sure to work with a trained extension expert for the best results.

Can You Perm Colored or Highlighted Hair?

If your hair is overly bleached or damaged from frequent color services, you are not a good candidate for perm service.

Too many chemical treatments can result in severe hair damage, split ends, and breakage. It is also possible that a perm would make hair a bit lighter looking. After dyeing, your hair needs a rest. Also, make sure to do a chunk test before perming service. It is always advisable to consult a hair professional before using any sort of chemical treatment on your hair.

Nowadays, there are mild perms formulated for colored hair. Carefully read the label to ensure that the product is meant for color-treated hair.

In recent years, with the revolution of bond restoration treatments such as Olaplex, it is possible to do permanent waving on recently dyed hair. Olaplex restorative treatment is applied by a hair professional to prepare hair for perm service. Olaplex allows hairstylists to do multiple chemical treatments with minimal damage.

Modern Perms

Modern perm formulas are gentler and ammonia-free. The curlers are larger and vary in size. This way you can get loose curls that vary in size and look more natural. You can choose between beach waves, spiral curls or just to get more volume and texture for longer-lasting hairstyles. Modern perms are less damaging to hair and last shorter than traditional perms. Your hair will grow out nicely without being too obvious.

If you haven’t heard of the viral hair trend that involves a perm on medium-length men’s hair (cheekily coined “the merm”), then you’re welcome. Now you have heard about it.

What’s incredible about this trend isn’t so much that men get perms, but that perms have always found a way to stay relevant.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

How to Avoid Hot Roots when Coloring Hair

September 11, 2022August 11, 2022

Written by Evelyn Davies

Hot roots, what are they? How to avoid hot roots and a hair color guide directly written by a hairdresser. Maybe you need a little color correction advice or just need a slight formula tweak.

So, the term hot roots is an easy way to describe a color that has not quite gone the way you or your stylist was planning. I also refer to hot roots as root glow. It basically means the root of the hair is warmer, lighter, or brighter than the rest of your color, and it can happen for a number of reasons.

Hot Roots when Bleaching Hair

So, if you have bleached your hair with a lightener and your hair was previously natural, you can end up with a brighter cleaner blonde on the root and not throughout the mid-ends. Hot roots on a super light blonde may look like your mid-lengths are golden/warm, but it could be down to timing.

Hairdresser coloring hair roots of bleached hair

Why Did the Hot Roots Happen?

When lightening hair, heat speeds up the process, giving a stronger/lighter/brighter effect. So, if you apply a lightener to the scalp first before ends, you can end up with a “hot roots” effect. This is an example on virgin hair, un-chemically processed. The heat from the scalp will accelerate the lightening process, leaving you with uneven brighter blonde hot roots.

If the hot roots are bright and the ends appear warmer, the issue was – the application would have given a more consistent result if the lightener was applied around 1″ away from the scalp, focusing on the areas where it takes longer to lift bright. Then going back in on the root to lift the areas later. Reapplying bleaches on the mid-lengths and ends is not an advisable thing to do, so if you can avoid hot roots when lightening your hair, please try to.

Hot Roots on Colored Dark Hair

So, this example is when you colored your hair dark in the past, and originally it was great, but now you get hot roots and don’t know why. This can be one of two things.

1 – Permanent dark color reapplied over permanent dark color until it has built up over time in the ends, giving the desired lighter look on the roots but making them look like hot roots.

2 – trying to go a lighter shade over dark permanent hair color.

Scenario number 1 is maybe more for the home hair dye readers. Reapplication of dark over dark can create a dark build-up in the ends. Sometimes almost looking black. Making the roots stand out and hot. Coloring hair permanently dark adds tone to the hair, so if you continue over the same strands the color becomes dense. However, the roots have no previous color, so they can go the desired color, or glow brighter depending on the natural color.

Scenario 2 is going to require more knowledge than putting a lighter shade over a dark one. I wish coloring hair was that easy but it is not. You need a clean canvas to go lighter, so you will need to remove permanent color before going lighter, otherwise, you will just continue to get hot roots.

Roots Look Hot but Just Warmer

So maybe this situation isn’t a level of darkness issue and is more tonal. You have possibly decided to change your color to something warmer, but the color history in the rest of the hair dulled the effect, and the clean roots glowed and became hot roots.

How to fix the hot roots? For this example, it’s a little easier, you’re not looking to lift or darken the hair, but to just neutralize the hot roots. You could add what we hairdressers call a base tone, or natural tone to take the edge off the glowing roots.

How to Avoid Hot Roots Altogether

Well, if you’re not going for a color change and you know the possibility of hot roots can be an issue for you, I recommend balancing the color. By this what I mean is using a demi/semi-permanent on the mid-ends, and only permanent at the root. This way you avoid build-up and then avoid hot roots, so long as you stick to the same/similar shades.

My Advice for Your Hot Roots Research

Go to the salon. Speak to a colorist. This stuff isn’t as easy as putting paint on the hair and it magically changes, this is a study we have done for years. Researching the color wheel, learning about chemicals, the structure of hair, and the laws of color, it isn’t easy for a stylist to correct, let alone somebody with no study in this field. This guide is to give you answers, not to encourage you to home color.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

What Is The Best Semi-Permanent Hair Color to Cover Gray?

September 11, 2022August 4, 2022

When you first start going gray, it might seem like your only options are to embrace it gracefully or to commit to regular upkeep with permanent coloring. However, semi-permanent hair dyes are a great alternative, providing users with more flexibility to camouflage their strands of salt and pepper. These hair dyes can be used on their own or in combination with permanent hair dyes to reduce exposure to some of the harsh chemicals often found in permanent dyes.

Semi-permanent dyes are gentler on hair and wash out more quickly than permanent dyes do; this makes for a less harsh look when roots grow out, and it provides users with more opportunity to experiment with their look without the commitment to a permanent dye color.

Pros and Cons of Semi-Permanent Hair Dye

Using semi-permanent colors to cover grays has its advantages and limitations.

Pros

The biggest advantage of using semi-permanent paints is the absence of harsh chemicals that you will find in permanent dyes. Not only do semi-permanent colors not damage the hair, but they also condition your locks and add softness and shine.
Semi-permanent dyes are easier to use without the help of professionals because they come ready to use and you only need to follow the instruction.
Applying a semi-permanent color does not make the commitment to regular dyeing in a certain shade because the color will fade after a few shampoos, and you can replace it with a different shade. Semi-permanent color is a good choice for special occasions when you want to refresh your hair color without committing.
If you are planning to transition to gray hair, and are reluctant to commit to permanent color, you can experiment with semi-permanent colors and test different shades.

Apart from these advantages, semi-permanent colors also have some limitations and cons.

Cons

For the color to show on the hair, it is necessary to lighten the hair, especially if your hair is dark and you want to go lighter or use a fashion color.
Semi-permanent dyes only deposit pigment on the outside of the hair shaft, so they wash out with shampooing and need to be applied more often than permanent dyes.
Semi-permanent colors are not always efficient at covering gray hair, especially if your hair is of low porosity and does not absorb dyes well.
Although the dying product comes ready to use, the application can be messy. Most semi-permanent colors tend to stain your towels and pillowcases.

Does Semi-Permanent Color Cover Grays?

How well the semi-permanent color will cover gray hair depends on the color and the type of your hair.

Porous gray hair can be a good canvas for semi-permanent dyes. If your hair is porous, the color will be absorbed more easily and may last longer.

If you have fewer gray hairs, it will be easier to achieve the effect of coverage and blending with the rest of your hair.

If you have a lot of grays and the rest of your hair is light, it will be easier to find a shade that will color both your gray hair and the rest of your hair.

If you have dark hair that’s starting to grey semi-permanent color can be a fun way to camouflage your grays. It will look like you have vivid highlights instead of your grey streaks. If you like changing your look, this can bring some freshness into your everyday life. Go ahead, you deserve some fun these days.

Best Semi-Permanent Hair Colors for Gray Coverage

This post contains links to Amazon. The publisher may get paid if You purchase something through the links without additional costs to You.

When purchasing a semi-permanent dye, you should stick to reputable brands and stay away from cheap unknown brands. Some so-called semi-permanent days can burn your scalp. I learned it the hard way (B…..).

1. Clairol Professional Beautiful Advanced Gray Solutions, Semi-Permanent Hair Color for Gray Coverage

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Be aware that this semi-permanent color is not intended to cover hair that is 100% gray. This product will successfully cover and blend grays if you have up to 50% gray hair. For a higher percentage of gray, it will be hard to obtain the desired blending effect.

This mild semi-permanent dye does not contain ammonia and peroxide. You also do not need to apply heat to activate the desired color. The color develops with the help of oxygen from the air. Finally, instead of drying out the hair, it will leave your locks feeling soft and shiny.

Additional plusses are that the product doesn’t have an unpleasant smell and won’t make a huge mess in your bathroom.

The shades are marked by numbers from 1 to 10 starting from black as the darkest to platinum blonde as the lightest one. Shades are inter-mixable.

The achieved gray coverage lasts up to 12 shampoos. If you wash your hair frequently, the color may fade faster. Rain and sweat will not cause the color to bleed.

How to Use

The dye comes ready to use which is very convenient. It is advisable to wear gloves as the dye will stain your hands and nails.

The color should be applied to freshly washed and towel-dried hair. The hair must be damp to accept the color. Leave the product on for 25 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water without using shampoo.

If you have long, thick hair, you may need to purchase 2 bottles. If you don’t use all the content from the bottle, you can save leftovers. Just close the bottle well and store it in a dry and cool place.

2. WELLA Color Charm Paints Semi-Permanent Hair Dye

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The product comes in 18 semi-permanent inter-mixable shades, including a clear one. This semi-permanent dye will cover greys. How the color will look on the rest of the hair depends on your current color. If you have dark hair and want to cover gray, this could be a fun way to camouflage your greys. The color will show through on gray hair so you can have colored highlights. If you use Chrome shade it can color your grays in shiny silver color.

If you want the color to show on the rest of your hair, you will need to pre-lighten your dark hair, like with any other fashion colors. If you do not bleach dark hair, the color will not be visible on it.

The color will last up to 12 washes if you use mild shampoos and don’t wash your hair frequently.

How to Use

Put the dye in a bowl and use gloves. Apply the product to clean dry hair with a color brush. Comb through if you want to distribute dye evenly through your entire hair. Leave on for 20 minutes or a bit longer for gray hair. Rinse until the water is clear. Apply conditioner and rinse it thoroughly.

3 ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye

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ARCTIC FOX color is formulated with vegan ingredients that won’t dry or damage your hair. This dye can be used often because it conditions the hair and restores shine. The product is ready to use without mixing or adding other ingredients.

Although the dyes are not intended specifically for gray hair, it is possible to cover gray hair or blend your grays, making them less visible. There is also the option to dye your grays in vibrant colors so that they look like brightly colored highlights.

To achieve better coverage, use darker and more pigmented dyes, that can deposit color on unbleached gray hair. ARCTIC FOX has a line of colors for unbleached hair.

If you have dark hair with some grays and use vivid color, the dye will leave a subtle tint in your dark hair and color your grays in vivid color. This can look cool if you like this kind of color adventure. With washing, your grays will turn pastel, giving your hair lots of dimensions.

The color may last between 4-8 weeks on bleached hair and 2-6 weeks on unbleached hair. The color longevity depends on washing frequency and your hair care regimen.

How to Use

Since the product comes ready to use, it is easy to apply it. Use gloves and protect the hairline with coconut oil. Use a color brush and apply the dye to clean the dried hair. Wrap your hair in a plastic cap and leave the product to work for half an hour or longer. Rinse your hair well and use a conditioner.

How to Make Semi-Permanent Color to Hold on Gray Hair

Unbleached hair doesn’t take the color well. Here are some basic recommendations on how to make your gray hair take color and how to make the color last longer.

Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo before applying the dye. Oil and product build-up can interfere with the dying process, and you can get uneven color. Clean hair will be more ready to absorb the color.
After rinsing the dye from the hair, do not wash your hair with shampoo. Just rinse the dye thoroughly with lukewarm water and apply the conditioner. Then rinse the conditioner thoroughly with lukewarm to cool water.
After dying, wait a few days before washing your hair with shampoo. Use a mild shampoo and wash your hair only when necessary. Make sure that the water you use to wash your hair is not hot.
Use a dry shampoo in between shampooing as it doesn’t encourage color fading like a liquid shampoo.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

12 Hairstyles for Business Women

September 11, 2022July 28, 2022

Appropriate Hairstyles for Work

Picking a hairstyle for the workplace can be a daunting task. Not only do you need to go over the basic guidelines provided in your professional setting, but you’ll want to effectively communicate your drive and passion with your look. There are a variety of hairstyles to think through, but ultimately the one you choose will speak to your unique personality and what you plan to bring to the table in a professional setting.

Hairstyles for Working Women

1. A Sleek High Pony

In a fast-paced work environment, you can’t go wrong with a sleek ponytail. With minimal styling effort, this look will get you through your day in style and without the fuss of hair falling in your eyes.

2. The Power Bob

Clean, strong lines in your bob-length haircut are a beautiful way to say, precision is important to you. When you want to communicate meticulous attention to detail on the job, make sure your hairstyle speaks volumes.

3. Balayage in the Workplace

Sometimes the best work attire is a great hairstyle. Keep things relevant and fresh by focusing on modern color. Balayage speaks volumes in an environment where you need to communicate forward thinking and modern simplicity.

4. The Undone Bob

It looks effortless, modern, balanced, and chic. The undone bob goes with any style of work attire and carries a professional yet creative vibe.

5. Natural Waves Equals Natural Charisma

Letting your hair wear its natural texture in the workplace showcases your charisma. Where once letting your hair air dry evoked unfavorable descriptions, times have changed, and we see the personality and beauty of natural waves in the workplace.

6. A Shaved Undercut

What’s cool about this look is not just the look itself, but its versatility. Need a day where your look is less “edgy?” Just flip your hair to the opposite side to cover up the shaved portion. Or wear it as is. Either way, this look is creative and edgy and great for communicating confidence on the job.

7. A Long Pixie

There hasn’t been a decade so far where some version of the long pixie hasn’t been “in.” For the workplace, this look is manageable and takes very little time to style while still looking professional and chic.

8. Professional Women and Braided Hairstyles

Black Business Professional Women and Braided Hairstyles

Not only do braids accentuate beauty for black women in a business professional setting, but they carry a history unlike any other. Proudly wearing various braid styles in the work setting is something that carries a profound effect.

9. Side Braid

Braids are in, and they are the perfect way to keep your hair neat while also showcasing beauty. Taking only minutes to style, it’s a perfect look for your everyday work wear.

10. Grey Elegance

Natural, grey hair color doesn’t speak to age, but elegance. Wearing a chic style and sporting your natural grey color is a great way to carry yourself professionally in the workplace.

11. A Platinum Pixie Cut

A platinum pixie cut has always been cutting edge, no matter what decade it’s in. Wearing this style is a strong way to communicate that you’ve got things under control.

12. The beauty of Natural Texture

There’s no better way to showcase your creativity and ambition than by wearing the beauty of your own natural hair texture. When you want to reveal your confidence, opt for natural curls styled with moisture-based products.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

When Is The Right Time to Wash Your Hair Before and After Coloring?

September 11, 2022July 23, 2022

Should You Wash Hair Before Color Appointment?

Neither squeaky clean hair nor dirty hair with a lot of sweet and product buildup is ideal for coloring. For best results, it is recommended that you wash your hair a day or two before permanent coloring.

The right time for washing depends on what type of color you are going to use and the condition of your hair and scalp. When it comes to permanent coloring, hair professionals don’t recommend applying color to freshly washed hair.

a woman choosing to use or not to use shampoo

Natural oils produced on your scalp act as a protective barrier against dye chemicals. If your hair is freshly washed, the dye chemicals would additionally dry out the hair, which may result in damage and hair breakage. To avoid any damage to your hair and scalp, you shouldn’t wash your hair right before coloring. An unwashed scalp is less exposed to chemicals which helps prevent burning and itching.

A lot of sweat in your hair can also interfere with the dying process. If you have been exercising, you should wash your hair to eliminate the buildup of sweat and oil and then wait a day or two before applying the dye.

If you do not have a buildup of hair sprays, gels, and other products in your hair, wash your hair with a mild shampoo for 1 to 2 days before visiting the salon. Gently massage the scalp without scratching the skin. The scratches are susceptible to irritation when dye chemicals get in contact with your scalp. A light oil coating formed during the next two days will shield your scalp and hair from strong dye chemicals such as ammonia and peroxide.

Should You Use Clarifying Shampoo Before Coloring

If you have a buildup from dry shampoo, hair oils, and other hair products, this could prevent the color from absorbing into your hair. In the case of heavy buildup, use deep cleansing shampoo and wait at least 2 days before dying. Since deep cleansing shampoo strips natural oils, you must wait until sebum-producing glands restore the natural protective oil layer. Don’t use any hair product before the coloring service.

a stylist washes client's hair in the salon

Hair Washing Before Bleaching

If hair coloring service involves bleaching regrown hair, natural oils can be vital for protection. Bleach is a very harsh agent, and a fresh wash can lead to severe scalp irritation. You should refrain from washing your hair for 2-3 days before bleaching. This waiting period will give enough time for your oil glands to build a protective oil layer on your scalp.

Should You Wash Your Hair Before Semi-Permanent Coloring?

If you are going to use semi-permanent color, your hair must be clean and free from product buildup. Product residues can affect the dye’s ability to adhere to the hair. Semi-permanent colors can be applied to freshly washed hair, as these dyes don’t contain chemicals that could irritate the skin or dry out your hair. After washing, wait no longer than 24 hours to apply semi-permanent color. Don’t use any styling product before the coloring service.

It is always a good idea to talk to your colorist before visiting the salon to see what they suggest for your specific service.

woman with semi-permanent color in the salon

Can You Wash Your Hair Immediately After Dying It?

You shouldn’t wash your hair immediately after coloring. The cuticles are not completely closed immediately after the dying process and the shampooing will wash out some dye molecules. The cuticle takes about 72 hours to fully reseal and lock in your fresh color. Try to refrain from washing your hair until that period ends.

After coloring your hair with semi-permanent dye, rinse out the dye with lukewarm to cool water. Wait three days before washing your hair with shampoo. This three-day non-washing period will allow dye molecules to adhere better to the hair, so the color will be vibrant for longer. Since your hair was clean before applying the semi-permanent color, waiting shouldn’t be a problem.

How Often Should You Wash Colored Hair?

Do not wash dyed hair too frequently because water opens the cuticles, and a bit of color will be washed away with each shampoo. Wash your hair only when it is dirty. 2 washes per week are acceptable for colored hair and shouldn’t cause premature color fading. Use shampoos intended for colored hair and avoid those that contain sulfate-based detergents. Set the water temperature to lukewarm or cooler as hot water lifts the cuticles allowing color to be washed out.

While you should avoid dry shampoo immediately before coloring, this product is an inevitable part of your post-color hair care regimen. Dry shampoos keep excess oil under control and help you delay your wash frequency. Dry shampoos don’t open the cuticles like liquid shampoos, so they won’t speed up color fading. Invest in a quality dry shampoo intended for colored hair and formulated without harmful chemicals. Oil-absorbing powder formulas are gentler and eco-friendlier than aerosol dry shampoos.

Reduced washing frequency is especially important after semi-permanent color treatment. This color is short-lived and washes easily with shampooing. Only use mild shampoos designed for colored hair and avoid washing hair with hot water. Dry shampoo is a lifesaver for semi-permanent color. You can go a few extra days without shampooing which helps extend the life of your color.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Color Remover vs Bleach: Which One is Better for Your Hair?

September 11, 2022July 19, 2022

Color correction can be one of the most essential yet time-consuming and expensive services. There are costly steps to take when something has gone awry with your hair color.

But we’ve all been there. Maybe the advertising for that new black hair dye caught your attention “want perfect hair? Try the new black silk color line and leave of legacy of envy behind you …” Black silk? Envy? Sounds perfect, except in the end you’re crying in your colorist’s chair.

Is Color Remover Better Than Bleach?

In this situation and many more like it, one of the first steps to correct color is to remove what was put on that caused the problem i.e. the infamous “black silk.”

You might be wondering how do you remove hair dye? The two most common ways are either color remover or bleach.

So, what’s better, bleach or color remover? One reason many professionals turn to color remover instead of bleach for dye removal is that color remover is good at just binding to the dye molecules to remove them while leaving your natural color pigments alone in the hair.

Bleach on the other hand strips everything out of your hair, even the naturally occurring color pigments and not just the dye molecules.

Consequently, color removal is a gentler approach than bleaching. You should opt for a color stripper whenever it could provide you with the base for a new, desired color. You will get a kind of pre-bleached look which you then can re-color. Keep in mind that color removers can’t reverse the effects of the bleaching process.

If you want to go lighter than your natural color, color removers won’t do the job. Since color removers can’t lighten the natural color, fake blondes still need bleach to lighten regrown roots and maintain their blonde shade.

What Kinds of Color Removers are There?

Some color strippers are supposed to remove permanent/oxidative hair dyes, while others work for removing direct dyes which just stain the outermost layer of your hair.

One of the most popular permanent dye removers is the Malibu CPR Color Pigment Remover. It’s a professional-grade color remover that contains ingredients that use natural properties to remove unwanted color pigments. It removes mineral buildup and permanent dye from hair while preserving the integrity of your hair. Generally speaking, this brand is trusted for its ability to do the job.

Another permanent dye stripper is the Color Oops Extra Strength Remover. It’s specifically designed to target permanent hair color removing dye molecules from your hair shaft, although it’s not the best option for removing vivid colors. This bleach-free formula leaves hair ready to immediately take a new color. Most other removers ask you to wait to reapply.

Some color removers are formulated to strip semi-permanent colors. Color X-Change Phase-Out Gentle Dye Decolorizer is a mild vitamin C-based decolorizer that is supposed to be left in your hair overnight. You may need several applications until you reach a good base for your desired new color shade.

smiling girl after using color remover for semi-permanent dyes

How Bleach Removes Hair Color?

The way bleach works is by entering the hair cuticle with the help of another ingredient (the developer). Once it’s inside, it can attach to the natural hair pigments and change them, making them colorless.

The result of this process means dark hair can get lighter. Or medium hair can get lighter. Or light hair can get lighter until a certain point called “platinum,” where there are no more natural pigments to change.

But with the change in those natural pigments, you also deplete the integrity and strength of the hair. This is why bleach is a more drastic measure to take when considering color removal.

hairdresser using bleach to lighten hair regrowth

How Does Color Remover Work?

Color removers are definitely a gentler way to get rid of unwanted color. Most color removers don’t contain peroxide and won’t damage your hair in any way. Color strippers dissolve artificial color pigments, allowing you to wash them away.

Some mild color lifters are more like hair masks and need multiple applications to get the results you are aiming for. If your natural hair doesn’t need lightening a color remover is a safer way to go. They are generally safe for use at home, although a hair color specialist will easier get you back to your natural hue.

Unlike a color remover, bleach is a strong chemical that should be only used by hair professionals. Applying bleach improperly can damage the hair cuticles and leave your strands dry and overly porous. If you decide to remove unwanted colors yourself, a color stripper is a safer option.

Can You Use Bleach After Color Removal?

Since color removers only reverse the effects of hair coloring, the integrity of your hair won’t be compromised due color removal process. However, it is not recommended to bleach hair immediately after color removal. Wait at least one week and do deep conditioning treatment to restore lost moisture. If your hair is generally in good condition, it will be ready for bleaching service after a week. To stay on the safe side, let a professional colorist lighten your hair.

How to Moisturize Dry Hair After Bleaching or Color Removal

Moisture is one of the best ways to maintain the health of your hair after a more intense service like bleaching. Here are some ways to increase and/or maintain a healthy amount of moisture after using bleach:

Don’t use shampoos that contain sulfates, parabens, sodium chloride, or drying alcohol.
Invest in quality conditioners, leave-in conditioners, and hair masks. Be sure to use them regularly.
Always use a quality heat protectant after shampoo and conditioner.
Use Olaplex or other bond repairing products to revitalize and strengthen hair and minimize the chances of breakage.

Although milder than bleach, color removers can also leave your hair dry. Use a hydrating hair mask to restore lost moisture and make the new color shade look more glamorous.

Charming brunette woman with freshly colored hair

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

How to Remove Semi-Permanent Hair Dye at Home? 4 Methods

September 11, 2022July 14, 2022

Semi-permanent dyes are gentle alternatives to permanent colors. These non-damaging dyes only coat the outside of the hair shaft with pigments and wash out gradually with every shampooing. The fading process can last anywhere from 6 to 10 shampoos depending on the coloring product you are using, your hair porosity, and your washing habits.

Although semi-permanent dyes fade much faster than permanent hair color, bright semi-permanent colors are not always easy to remove from the hair. If your hair is overprocessed with bleach, the pigment can get absorbed into your strands and hang in there for a while. Over time, you can expect to have an uneven color as some areas with healthy hair fade faster than those with over-bleached hair. The stubborn semi-permanent dye that has reached the cortex fades slowly and may be very difficult to remove.

If you are not thrilled with your actual color, the safest way to get rid of it is to leave color removal to a color specialist. A skilled colorist and professional color stripping products make results more predictable.

A girl with faded semi-permanent blue color — Source

How to Strip Semi-Permanent Hair Dye

1. Semi-Permanent Hair Color Removers

If you opt for removing your color at home, make sure to use products that will not damage your hair. You can use gentle, peroxide-free color strippers that lift the semi-permanent color, without harming your hair or skin.

Other safe ways to remove unwanted color at home include using color-lifting properties of baking soda and vitamin C and washing hair with a deep-cleansing shampoo.

girl with blue-semi-permanent hair color

The Gentlest Color Stripper: Color X-Change Phase-Out Gentle Dye Decolorizer

Why this product?

It removes the color without damage.
Doesn’t contain bleach
Free of cruelty
Made in the USA

This vitamin C-based color fading treatment comes in two small pockets. The first of them is a dye decolorizer, while the second one is a conditioning mask that is formulated to restore hydration after color removal.

For medium-length hair of average density, one packet will do. You should mix the content with warm water until the mixture turns into a gel. Apply the gel to freshly washed towel-dried hair (no conditioner). Cover your head with a shower cap, and leave the treatment overnight. Wash in the morning and much of the color will come out with shampoo.

The product doesn’t contain bleach and wouldn’t hurt your hair at all but you may have to use it a couple of times to lift the stubborn semi-permanent color.

The drawback is the smell which is unpleasant but not overpowering. Some people may experience slight itching on the scalp, so if you have a sensitive scalp, try to work it through the length of the hair and don’t rub it into your scalp.

2. How to Remove Semi-Permanent Hair Dye with Baking Soda

Thanks to its alkaline properties, baking soda can lift the cuticle and remove semi-permanent dyes or slightly fade permanent dyes.

The ingredients you will need:

2 tablespoons of baking soda
1 cup of water
1 tablespoon OF apple cider vinegar

Steps:

Mix baking soda and other ingredients in water to form a paste.
Wash your hair with warm water to open the cuticle and then apply the paste.
Apply the paste and let it sit in your hair for 15 to 20 minutes.
Rinse off the paste with water.

It may take a few washes to see the noticeable results.

Baking soda doesn’t contain moisturizing ingredients you’ll find in shampoos and conditioners and using it multiple times may leave your hair feeling dry. Use the paste sparingly and do deep conditioning treatments to restore lost moisture.

Young girl with pastel semi-permanent hair color

3. How To Use Vitamin C and Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Hair Dye?

Clarifying shampoos contain more cleansing agents and less nourishing ingredients than regular shampoos. Sulfate-based clarifying shampoos are known for their capability to strip natural oils and color from the hair. Make sure not to use a color-safe formula for color-removing purposes.

To boost the color stripping potential of clarifying shampoos, use warm water to saturate your hair. The heat will raise the cuticle and trapped color pigments will wash out easier. Apply shampoo to create leather and put on a shower cap. Wait for about 10 minutes to let the shampoo work. Then thoroughly rinse your hair until the water becomes clear.

You may need to repeat clarifying process until your current color fades to a softer shade that can be easily recolored. To avoid over-drying your hair, make sure to deep condition and clarify no more than necessary.

4. Vitamin C Hair Color Remover

Hair colorists know about hair lightening properties of vitamin C and often use it in their color-stripping mixtures. Since vitamin C is a natural substance, you can safely add it to your shampoo and use it for color lightening and color fading purposes.

The simplest method is to use vitamin C in powder form and mix it with your clarifying shampoo. Wrap the hair with a plastic cap and leave the mixture to work for 30-60 minutes.

If you don’t have vitamin C powder, you can crash vitamin C tablets and mix the powder with the shampoo you will apply. Vitamin C helps to break down pigments, so you can wash them out of your hair.

Although the methods we mention are natural, make sure to do lots of conditioning to restore lost moisture and make your hair ready for a new color adventure.

Disclaimer: All content on this blog is created for informational purposes only. It would be best if you didn’t use it as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.