None of us haven’t made those mistakes. The intention was to have the hair dyed in “Midnight Espresso” but surprisingly, the result was “Gothic Ink”. Maybe now the “Sun-Kissed Auburn” you see is more like a glaring orange. Before you decide to cut all your hairs off or put on a hat, take a moment to calm down. How can I remove permanent hair color without causing a disaster to my hair? Not easy but still doable.
The "Damage Meter" Comparison
Not all removal methods guarantee safety for everyone. Here is a quick reference to your choices:
The Vitamin C "Kitchen" Trick
If you are searching for a method of permanent hair color removal without a chemical odor, definitely give this a shot. Maya, my cousin, was in the same boat as you and she resorted to this method when she overly darkened her hair for a wedding.
Start crushing about 20 Vitamin C tablets until you get a powder of fine granules.
Mix the powder with a large anti-dandruff shampoo squeeze.
Put the mixture on damp hair, cover your head with a shower cap, and let it stay for 45 minutes.
What the acid in Vitamin C does is breaking the bond where the color attaches to the hair. It is not a miracle, but it can hardly be that a technician made a mistake twice by a shade or two.
When to Call a Pro
Here’s the thing: stop if your hair already feels like straw. Permanent dyes not only color your hair, but they change its structure too. If you still continue to remove it, then you will cause breakage. After years of black hair dye multiple boxes usage, a pro "color correction" is the only way to rescue your hair. It’s definitely a money move, but still worth way less than a wig!
The Bottom Line
To sum things up, you don't have to stay forever in this situation. You can fade hair with shampoos that are strong, carry out the Vitamin C hack for a gentle lift or get a sulfur-based remover if you want a 'blank slate'. But always remember to put on a deep conditioner—your hair will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does baking soda remove hair dye?
Yes, but it is highly abrasive. It can be compared to scrubbing your hair with salt. In case you decide to use it, combine it with shampoo and at the same time, provide your hair with a heavy hair mask.
Q: Can I re-dye my hair immediately after removing color?
I wouldn't if I were you. Your hair is "porous" right after removal, so that it will take in the next color way too fast and will probably turn out darker than expected. Give it a week before your next dye job.
Q: Will dish soap work?
Only if you are in a very tight spot. It’s a strong degreaser that takes off everything. Yet, your hair will feel like a bird’s nest after its use. Employ it only in your final choice!