How to Remove Permanent Box Dye from Your Hair: A Comprehensive Guide
If you recently dyed your hair lighter and ended up with a reddish or orangish hue, you're in the right place. Removing permanent box dye can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and patience, you can get closer to your original hair color. In this guide, we cover the best methods to reverse your colored hair to its natural state.
Introduction to Hair Dye Removal
The very best way to remove permanent box dye is to let it grow out. There isn't a magic product that can strip the artificial color and instantly revert your hair to its natural appearance. However, you can take steps to mitigate the damage and make the process smoother.
Let It Naturally Grow Out
The most natural and gentle approach is to simply let the newly dyed hair grow out. This method requires patience but is often the best solution. Once the dyed hair has grown out, you can take extra care of your hair to help it regain its natural shine and strength.
Here are a few natural remedies to help your hair recover:
Eat gelatin-rich foods: Jello, gummies, or bone broth can help rebuild your hair and improve its shine and strength. Gelatinous mixture from hollow bones: Consuming gelatinous substances supports hair health.Color Extractors for Darker Hair
If the color is too dark, you may need to use a hair dye remover. Some products are bleach-based, while others are sulfur-based. These color extractors help remove the artificial pigment without stripping your hair too much. However, if the new color is too light, you may need to fill the hair with a demi-permanent color before applying a permanent color to areas with regrowth. This process ensures that the new color blends seamlessly with your natural hair.
Popular Color Removal Products
For those seeking a more quick-fix solution, Vanish is a well-known product for removing old hair dye. Sometimes, multiple applications are needed, but many swear by its effectiveness. It's also recommended to use this product before any significant hair color change to remove the previous dye.
DIY Hair Dye Removal Treatments
For those looking for natural DIY solutions, here are a few vinegar-based or salt-based treatments that can help remove hair dye:
Treatment 1: White Vinegar Mixture
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons of white vinegar and 3 tablespoons of warm water.
Steps: 1. Mix the vinegar and water thoroughly. 2. Apply the mixture over the dyed hair and wear a shower cap. 3. Leave the mixture on for 15 minutes. 4. Shampoo and rinse well.
Remarks: The acidic properties of vinegar help to remove dye from the hair.
Treatment 2: Epsom Salt and Baking Soda Soak
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt and 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
Steps: 1. Mix both ingredients in a basin. 2. Soak your hair in the mixture for 15 minutes. 3. Wash and rinse your hair thoroughly.
Remarks: Epsom salt is a magnesium sulfate compound, and baking soda is a natural cleansing agent, both of which help to remove dye from the hair.
Treatment 3: Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons each of baking soda and lemon juice.
Steps: 1. Mix the baking soda and lemon juice together. 2. Apply the mixture to your hair for 3 minutes. 3. Wash and rinse your hair thoroughly.
Remarks: Baking soda acts as a natural cleansing agent, while the citric acid in lemon juice helps to naturally whiten the hair.
Treatment 4: Vitamin C and Warm Water Mix
Ingredients: Equal proportion of vitamin C mixed with warm water.
Steps: 1. Apply the mixture evenly to your hair. 2. Leave it on for about 15 minutes. 3. Wash and rinse your hair thoroughly.
Remarks: Vitamin C has the ability to remove hair dye and is very safe.
Treatment 5: Hydrogen Peroxide and Warm Water
Ingredients: Equal proportion of hydrogen peroxide and warm water.
Steps: 1. Spray the mixture evenly on your hair. 2. Leave it on for 20 minutes. 3. Wash and rinse your hair thoroughly.
Remarks: Hydrogen peroxide is used as an antiseptic, oxidizer, and bleaching agent, making it a mild solution for removing hair dye.
Conclusion
Removing permanent box dye is a challenging process, but with careful application of the right techniques and patience, you can gradually restore your hair to its original color. Remember to always test any new treatment on a small patch of your hair first to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse reactions.
Whether you decide to let your hair grow out or opt for professional assistance, taking care of your hair in the meantime is crucial. By following these tips, you can help your hair recover and regain its natural beauty.