Have you ever found yourself with a hair color that didn’t quite turn out the way you had hoped? Maybe it’s too dark or too bright, or it just doesn’t suit your skin tone or personal style. Whatever the reason, you might be wondering how to fade permanent hair color so you can try again with a different shade or tone. Here are some quick tips and tricks for fading permanent hair color safely and effectively, without damaging your hair or scalp.
Understanding Your Hair Color and Type
Before you start trying to fade your permanent hair color, it’s important to understand the underlying factors that affect how color behaves on your hair, such as your natural hair color, texture, porosity, and previous treatments you’ve had done. These factors can affect how your hair reacts to lightening or darkening agents, and how much damage your hair is likely to sustain in the process.
Natural Hair Color
Your natural hair color is one of the most important factors to consider when trying to lighten or darken your hair with permanent color. If you have naturally dark hair, for example, it may be more difficult to lift to a lighter shade without causing damage or dryness. On the other hand, if you have naturally light hair, it may be easier to achieve a drastic change in color, but you may still need to take extra precautions to prevent damage or uneven results.
Hair Texture and Porosity
Your hair texture and porosity also play a major role in how color is absorbed and retained in your hair. If you have fine hair, for example, it may be more prone to damage from chemicals and heat treatments. If you have coarse hair, it may be more resistant to color and take longer to process. Similarly, if you have high porosity hair, it may absorb and release color more easily, while low porosity hair may be more resistant to change.
Tips and Tricks for Fading Permanent Hair Color
Use a Clarifying Shampoo
One of the easiest ways to start fading permanent hair color is to use a clarifying shampoo, which is designed to remove buildup and residue from your hair. Clarifying shampoos contain harsher detergents than regular shampoo, which can help to strip away some of the color molecules from your hair. However, you should be careful not to overuse clarifying shampoo, as it can also strip away natural oils and cause dryness or damage.
Try a Color Remover
If a clarifying shampoo isn’t enough to remove the color you want to fade, you may want to try a color remover. Color removers are designed to break down the color molecules in your hair and allow them to be washed away. However, they can be harsh on your hair and scalp, so you should follow the instructions carefully and avoid using them too frequently or for too long.
Lighten Your Hair with Hydrogen Peroxide
If you’re looking to lighten your hair color, you can also try using hydrogen peroxide, which is a common ingredient in hair bleach. Hydrogen peroxide can help to break down the melanin in your hair, which is responsible for your natural hair color. However, you should be careful not to use too much or too strong a solution, as it can burn your scalp and cause damage to your hair.
Toning Your Hair with Vinegar
If you’ve lightened your hair but want to change the tone or reduce brassiness, you can try toning your hair with vinegar. Vinegar is a natural acid that can help to neutralize unwanted tones and restore balance to your hair’s pH level. To use vinegar as a toner, mix equal parts vinegar and water, and apply it to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Saturate Your Hair with Oil
If you’ve tried other methods for fading your hair color but still haven’t achieved the desired result, you can try saturating your hair with oil. Oil can help to break down the color molecules in your hair and make them more likely to be washed away. To use this method, saturate your hair with a natural oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and leave it on for several hours or overnight. Then, wash your hair as usual.
Final Tips and Precautions
Be Patient and Gentle with Your Hair
Remember to be patient and gentle with your hair when trying to fade permanent hair color. It may take several treatments or methods to achieve the desired result, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Also, be gentle with your hair throughout the process, as harsh chemicals and rough treatment can cause damage and breakage.
Consult with a Professional
If you’re uncertain about how to fade your hair color or are worried about damaging your hair, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional stylist or colorist. They can provide expert advice and help you choose the best method for your hair type and color, and prevent any unnecessary damage or harm to your hair and scalp.
Use Protective Measures
Finally, always use protective measures when working with harsh chemicals or treatments. This includes wearing gloves and protective clothing, and covering your eyes and ears to prevent accidental exposure. You should also avoid using any products that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals, as they can further damage your hair and scalp.
Conclusion
If you’re unhappy with your permanent hair color, don’t despair! There are plenty of safe and effective ways to fade it and try again with a different shade or tone. Just remember to be patient, gentle, and use protective measures throughout the process. And if you’re ever unsure or need professional advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to a knowledgeable stylist or colorist.
Most Common Questions and Answers
- Q: How long does it take to fade permanent hair color?
- A: The time it takes to fade permanent hair color can vary depending on your hair type, color, and the method you use. Some methods, such as clarifying shampoo, may start to show results after just one wash. Others, such as oil saturation, may take several treatments over several days or weeks.
- Q: What is the safest way to fade permanent hair color?
- A: The safest way to fade permanent hair color is to use natural or mild methods, such as clarifying shampoo or oil saturation. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or treatments that can cause damage or breakage, and consult with a professional if you’re unsure or worried about the process.
- Q: Can I fade permanent hair color without damaging my hair?
- A: While some methods for fading permanent hair color can cause damage or dryness, there are ways to minimize the risk and protect your hair. For example, using natural or mild methods, such as oil saturation or vinegar toning, can be less harsh on your hair and scalp than using color removers or bleach. Additionally, using protective measures, such as gloves and clothing, can help to prevent accidental exposure and damage to your hair.
- Q: How can I prevent color fading in the future?
- A: To prevent color fading in the future, be sure to use color-safe products, avoid heat styling and sun exposure, and follow any aftercare instructions given by your stylist or colorist. You should also avoid overwashing your hair and use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to protect your color and maintain healthy hair.
References
- “How to Fade Hair Color That is Too Dark.” Healthline. Accessed January 10, 2022. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-fade-hair-color#ways-to-fade-perm-color
- “How to Safely Remove Hair Dye.” Byrdie. Accessed January 10, 2022. https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-remove-hair-dye-4768294
- “How to Fix Hair Color That is Too Dark.” Schwarzkopf. Accessed January 10, 2022. https://www.schwarzkopf.com/en/hair-color/hair-color-inspiration/dyeing/hair-dye-gone-wrong–what-to-do-when-your-hair-color-is-too-dark.html