You’ve just dyed your hair a vibrant shade of red, but now you’re having second thoughts. Or maybe your at-home dye job didn’t go as planned and you’re left with brassy highlights instead of cool blonde. You’ve heard that clarifying shampoos can remove hair color, but is that true? And if so, how does it work?
What is a Clarifying Shampoo?
Clarifying shampoos are designed to deep clean your hair and scalp by removing product buildup, excess oil, and other impurities. They contain chelating agents that bind to minerals in hard water, as well as sulfates that create a lather to lift away dirt and grime. While regular shampoos clean your hair, clarifying shampoos provide a deeper cleanse, leaving your hair feeling squeaky clean and refreshed.
How Does Clarifying Shampoo Affect Hair Color?
Clarifying shampoos can, in fact, fade hair color. This is because they are more powerful than regular shampoos and can strip away the color molecules from your hair strands. However, the extent to which a clarifying shampoo will remove hair color depends on several factors, including:
- Type of hair color: Semi-permanent and temporary hair colors are more susceptible to fading than permanent hair colors.
- Hair porosity: Porous hair tends to absorb and lose color more easily than non-porous hair.
- Frequency of use: Using a clarifying shampoo frequently will accelerate the fading process.
Can You Use Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Unwanted Hair Color?
Yes, a clarifying shampoo can be used to help remove unwanted hair color, especially if it’s a semi-permanent or temporary dye. It’s important to note that clarifying shampoo won’t completely strip your hair of permanent hair color, but it can help to fade it and make it easier to remove with other methods.
Here are some tips for using clarifying shampoo to remove unwanted hair color:
- Wet your hair thoroughly: Before applying the clarifying shampoo, make sure your hair is completely wet. This will help the shampoo to distribute evenly and prevent any harsh spots.
- Apply generously: Use a generous amount of clarifying shampoo and work it into a lather. Focus on the areas where the unwanted color is most concentrated.
- Leave it on for a few minutes: Allow the clarifying shampoo to sit on your hair for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- Condition your hair: Clarifying shampoos can be drying, so it’s essential to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
When Not to Use Clarifying Shampoo
While clarifying shampoos can be helpful for removing unwanted hair color, they can also be harsh on your hair, especially if you have color-treated, dry, or damaged hair. Here are some instances when you should avoid using clarifying shampoo:
- Immediately after coloring your hair: Wait at least 72 hours after coloring your hair before using a clarifying shampoo to allow the color to set.
- If you have dry or damaged hair: Clarifying shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils, which can further dry out and damage already dry or damaged hair.
- If you have a sensitive scalp: Some people may experience irritation or redness from using clarifying shampoos.
Other Ways to Fade Hair Color
If you’re not comfortable using a clarifying shampoo to fade your hair color, there are other methods you can try:
- Wash your hair more frequently: Washing your hair more often will help to speed up the natural fading process.
- Use a color-fading shampoo: There are shampoos specifically designed to fade hair color. These shampoos contain ingredients that gently lift color molecules from the hair shaft.
- Try home remedies: There are a number of home remedies that can help to fade hair color, such as lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar. However, it’s important to use these remedies with caution, as they can be drying and damaging to your hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often can I use a clarifying shampoo?
A: For most people, using a clarifying shampoo once or twice a month is sufficient. If you have oily hair, you may be able to use it more often. However, if you have dry or damaged hair, it’s best to use it sparingly.
Q: Can clarifying shampoo lighten my natural hair color?
A: Clarifying shampoo is not designed to lighten your natural hair color. It can, however, remove buildup and impurities that can make your hair look dull.
Q: Will clarifying shampoo damage my hair?
A: If used correctly, clarifying shampoo should not damage your hair. However, it can be drying, so it’s important to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. If you have dry, damaged, or color-treated hair, it’s best to use clarifying shampoo sparingly.
Q: What are some good clarifying shampoos for removing hair color?
A: There are many great clarifying shampoos on the market. Look for shampoos that are specifically designed to remove buildup and impurities, and that are free of sulfates and parabens.
Conclusion
Clarifying shampoos can be an effective way to fade hair color, especially if it’s semi-permanent or temporary. However, it’s important to use them with caution, as they can be drying and damaging to your hair. If you’re not sure whether or not to use a clarifying shampoo, it’s best to consult with your hairstylist.
Need more hair color advice? Check out our articles on how to temporarily color hair and why does my hair not hold color.
For personalized hair care advice and services, contact Color Box Hanoi at 0373298888, email [email protected], or visit our salon at 86 Cầu Giấy, Hanoi. Our team of hair color experts is available 24/7 to assist you in achieving your desired hair color.
