How to Strip Hair Color at home

If you’re looking for a change in your hair color, you might want to start by stripping it off first. Stripping the hair color is a process that involves removing the current pigments from your hair. This can be done if you’ve got a previous dye job that turned out differently or if you just want to start anew. 

So, scroll down and check out how to strip hair color effectively and safely. Keep reading!

Hair Type Considerations when stripping color


When removing hair color, it’s crucial to take your hair type into account as different hair types react uniquely to stripping products and processes. Fine hair, being more vulnerable to damage and breakage, requires a gentle stripper and caution against over-processing. Following up with a deep conditioner can help restore moisture and strength. Thick hair, on the other hand, is resilient but might necessitate a stronger stripper or a longer processing time. However, over-processing should be avoided to prevent damage and dryness. Curly hair, often more porous, can absorb stripping products readily, making even color removal a challenge; hence, a gentle stripper is essential, and a patch test is advisable. Color-treated hair is inherently delicate, so professional assistance is wise to prevent damage.

If you are unsure about how to strip your hair color safely, it is always best to consult with a professional stylist.

Products for stripping hair color at home

Color Remover Kits

Color remover kits are specially formulated products designed to remove or lighten hair color. They are available in various brands and can be found in most drugstores or beauty supply stores. These kits typically consist of a color remover, developer, and sometimes a conditioning treatment. Brands like Color Oops, L’Oreal ColorZap, and One ‘n Only Colorfix offer such kits. 

Clarifying Shampoo

While not as effective as dedicated color removers, clarifying shampoos can help fade semi-permanent hair color gradually over several washes. When you apply a clarifying shampoo to your hair, it can also help to strip away some of the surface color molecules from the hair shaft. This action is more effective for semi-permanent or temporary hair dyes that sit on the hair’s surface. To diminish your hair color, avoid clarifying shampoos labeled as “color-safe.”

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, and it has the ability to break down the oxidative hair dye molecules. When vitamin C is mixed into a paste and applied to the hair, it starts to reduce the dye molecules, causing the color to fade. This effect is more pronounced with semi-permanent or direct dyes that are deposited on the hair shaft.

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

Baking soda is abrasive in nature and can physically scrub away color molecules from the surface of the hair shaft. It can also affect the pH level of the hair, making it slightly more alkaline. Hair dye molecules often require an acidic environment to remain stable. By increasing the pH level, baking soda can weaken the bond between the dye molecules and the hair.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is an acid, typically containing acetic acid. When applied to the hair, its acidic nature can help break down the color molecules in hair dye, causing them to loosen and fade. While white vinegar alone may not completely strip all hair color, it can help fade or remove some of the color, particularly if you’ve recently dyed your hair or if you have semi-permanent hair color

How to Strip Hair Color Effectively

Step 1: Determine Your Hair’s Condition

Before starting the stripping process, you need to determine your hair’s condition. If it’s weak, damaged, or brittle because of previous chemical treatments, it may not be suitable for hair stripping. It’s best to consult with a professional stylist to assess your hair’s health before proceeding.

Step 2: Choose the Right Product

There are several products available that can help strip off hair color as we mention above. Some of them are more effective than others, so it’s essential to choose the right one. Most hair color removers are made of chemicals, so make sure to read the product’s label and instructions carefully before using it.

Step 3: Prepare for the Process

Prepare for the hair stripping process by wearing gloves and old clothes. Chemicals used in hair color removers can be harsh and irritating to the skin, so it’s crucial to protect yourself while applying the product. You may also want to cover your work area with old towels or newspapers to avoid staining.

Step 4: Apply the Product

Apply the product according to the instructions on the package. Depending on the product you use, the waiting time can vary from 20 minutes to an hour. Make sure to follow the guidelines to ensure the product’s effectiveness and minimize damage to your hair.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

After the recommended waiting time, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Use a clarifying shampoo to help remove any remaining product from your hair. Make sure to rinse your hair completely to avoid any chemical buildup.

Step 6: Condition Your Hair

Hair stripping can leave your hair dry and damaged, so it’s essential to condition your hair after the process. It helps restore moisture and prevent breakage. You may also want to use a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask to provide extra nourishment to your strands.

Stripping vs. bleaching

Stripping and bleaching are two distinct methods for lightening or removing hair color. Hair stripping involves using a chemical product that breaks down the color molecules in the hair, making it fade or lighten. It’s generally less damaging than bleach and is often used for removing temporary or semi-permanent hair color. On the other hand, bleaching is a more aggressive method that uses hydrogen peroxide to lift and remove color from the hair shaft. While it can be highly effective for lightening hair, it can also cause significant damage, particularly if overused or applied incorrectly. The choice between stripping and bleaching depends on factors such as the desired result, the current hair color, and the condition of the hair, with stripping being a milder option for color removal.

tips for stripping hair color

Stripping off hair color may seem like a straightforward process, but it can cause damage if not done correctly. It’s best to seek professional help from a reputable salon or stylist who can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the appropriate product and procedure.

If you decide to do it yourself, make sure to read the product instructions carefully and follow them strictly. Before proceeding with the entire process, conduct a strand test on a small hair section to ensure the stripper is effective and doesn’t cause any adverse reactions. Furthermore, remember to provide your hair with deep conditioning post-stripping to counteract potential dryness and damage, restoring moisture and strength. Wear protective gloves and clothing and avoid leaving the product on your hair for longer than recommended.

FAQ

  1. Can you strip permanent hair dye? Yes, permanent hair dye can be stripped with a hair color remover. Keep in mind that the process can be damaging to the hair, so it’s crucial to take extra care of your strands after the procedure.
  2. How long should you wait before coloring your hair after stripping the previous color? It’s recommended to wait for at least two weeks before applying any new hair color after stripping the previous one. This allows your hair time to recover and prevents further damage.
  3. Can you use hair color remover on freshly dyed hair? It’s best to wait for at least a week before using a hair color remover on freshly dyed hair. This gives the pigments time to settle and ensures that the stripping process is more effective.
  4. Can you strip hair color from bleached hair? Yes, you can strip hair color from bleached hair using a hair color remover. However, bleached hair is already damaged and may become even more fragile after the stripping process. Make sure to condition your hair properly after the procedure.

Final Takeaway

Stripping off hair color may seem like a daunting task, but it can be achieved successfully with the right product and procedure. It’s essential to remember that the process can be damaging to the hair, so it’s crucial to take extra care of your strands before and after the stripping process.

Consulting with a professional stylist is always recommended, but if you decide to do it yourself, make sure to read the product instructions carefully and follow them strictly. With proper care and attention, you can achieve the hair color you desire.

How Long Does Demi Permanent Hair Color Last?

Are you considering a change in hair color but don’t want to commit to something permanent? Or do you simply want to refresh your current hair color without damaging your hair too much? If so, demi permanent hair color may be just what you’re looking for. In this article, we will explore how long does demi permanent hair color last? and how to make it last longer.

What is Demi-Permanent Hair Color?

Demi-permanent hair color is a type of hair dye that typically lasts longer than semi-permanent hair color but not as long as permanent hair color. It’s formulated with a gentle developer, which allows the dye molecules to penetrate the hair shaft without lifting the cuticle layer. This makes it less damaging than permanent hair color, as it doesn’t require bleach or ammonia. Instead, it adds color to your hair while also conditioning it.

Benefit of Demi Permanent color

Less Commitment 

Unlike permanent color that requires extensive regrowth maintenance, demi-permanent color gradually fades over time, allowing you to experiment with different shades without a long-term commitment.

Gentle on Hair

Demi-permanent color is ammonia-free and has a lower developer volume compared to permanent color. This makes it less damaging to the hair’s structure.

Natural-Looking Fade

As demi-permanent color fades, it tends to transition into softer, more natural-looking shades. This eliminates the need for constant touch-ups and creates a graceful and subtle change over time.

Enhanced Shine and Gloss

Demi-permanent color often includes conditioning agents that can enhance the hair’s shine and overall appearance. The color application can leave your hair looking more vibrant and lustrous.

Blend and Cover Gray Hair

 If you have a small percentage of gray hair, demi-permanent color can effectively blend these gray strands with your natural color, creating a harmonious look. It doesn’t provide full gray coverage like permanent color, but it can soften the appearance of grays.

Color Correction and Experimentation

If you’ve had a color mishap or want to adjust the tone of your current color, demi-permanent color can help correct these issues without a drastic commitment. 

Low Maintenance Regrowth

Since demi-permanent color fades gradually, you won’t experience a distinct regrowth line. This reduces the urgency for frequent touch-ups, giving you more time between color applications.

Variety of Shades

Demi-permanent color offers a wide range of shades to choose from, allowing you to achieve subtle changes or bold transformations based on your preferences.

Less Allergic Reactions

The absence of ammonia in demi-permanent color reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions or scalp irritations, making it a safer option for individuals with sensitive skin.

Versatile Application

Demi-permanent color can be used for all-over color, highlights, lowlights, or even to refresh the vibrancy of faded permanent color.

How Long Does Demi-Permanent Hair Color Last?

Demi-permanent hair color offers a middle ground between temporary and permanent color options, providing a balance of longevity and versatility. This type of hair color typically lasts longer than temporary color but not as long as permanent color. 

On average, demi-permanent hair color can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. However, as the color gradually fades, it tends to become softer and more subdued, resembling a natural highlight rather than an abrupt change. This characteristic is due to the fact that demi-permanent color doesn’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply as permanent color does.

Factors that influence the longevity

Hair Type and Condition

Demi-permanent hair color generally lasts longer on healthy hair that has not been damaged by previous chemical treatments. If your hair is dry or damaged, the color may fade more quickly.

Shade and Color Depth

Lighter shades and pastels tend to fade faster than darker shades. Vibrant, bold colors may also fade more quickly than neutral shades.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To make your hair color last longer, you should take good care of your hair after coloring it. This includes using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, avoiding hot tools as much as possible, and protecting your hair from the sun.

Generally, demi-permanent hair color lasts between 4 to 6 weeks. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. With proper maintenance, you may be able to extend the life of your hair color by a few weeks.

Demi-Permanent and Other Types of Hair Color

If you’re still unsure whether demi-permanent hair color is right for you, here are some comparisons between demi-permanent hair color and other types of hair color:

Demi-permanent vs. Semi-permanent

Semi-permanent hair color typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks and doesn’t contain a developer. This means it won’t lift the cuticle layer but will simply coat it with color. Demi-permanent hair color, on the other hand, contains a gentle developer and can last up to 6 weeks.

Demi-permanent vs. Permanent

Permanent hair color typically lasts until it grows out or is cut off. It can also lighten your natural hair color by lifting the cuticle layer with bleach or ammonia. Demi-permanent hair color, on the other hand, does not require bleach or ammonia and will gradually fade over time.

Demi-permanent vs. Henna

Henna is a natural hair dye made from the leaves of the henna plant. It can last up to 6 weeks and will gradually fade over time. However, it can be difficult to achieve vibrant, bold colors with henna, and it may not work on all hair types.

Tips to Make Your Hair Color Last Longer

If you want to make your demi-permanent hair color last as long as possible, here are some tips:

  • Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent the color from fading too quickly.
  • Avoid hot tools such as curling irons and straighteners, as heat can cause the color to fade more quickly.
  • Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a UV protection spray.
  • Don’t wash your hair too often, as this can strip the color from your hair.
  • Consider using a color depositing conditioner or hair mask to refresh your color between touch-ups.

By following these tips, you should be able to extend the life of your demi-permanent hair color by a few weeks.

Best At-Home Demi-Permanent Color Kits

  • Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Color is ammonia-free and infused with aloe and coconut oil, leaving hair softer and shinier than most permanent colors. It is available in a wide range of shades, so you can find the perfect one for your hair.
  • L’OrĂ©al Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color offers great coverage and results with rich tones. It also has a conditioning formula that helps to protect your hair.
  • Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Coverage Nourishing Color Creme is a demi-permanent hair color that offers 100% gray coverage. It is also enriched with avocado oil and shea butter to help nourish and protect your hair.
  • Wella Color Charm Demi-Permanent Gel Hair Color is easy to apply and produces natural-looking results. It is also free of ammonia and peroxide, so it is gentle on your hair.
  • Redken Shades EQ Demi-Permanent Equalizing Conditioning Color Gloss is designed to enhance your natural hair color or add subtle highlights. It is also conditioning and helps to protect your hair from damage.

FAQs 

  1. Is demi-permanent hair color damaging to hair? No, demi-permanent hair color is generally less damaging than permanent hair color, as it doesn’t require bleach or ammonia to lift the cuticle layer. However, like any hair dye, it can cause some damage if used too frequently or on damaged hair.
  2. Can I use demi-permanent hair color on previously colored hair? Yes, you can use demi-permanent hair color on previously colored hair. 
  3. Can demi-permanent hair color cover gray hair? Demi-permanent hair color can help blend and cover gray hair, but it may not provide full coverage. If you have a lot of gray hair, you may want to try permanent hair color for more complete coverage.
  4. How often should I touch up my demi-permanent hair color? The frequency of touch-ups depends on how quickly your hair grows and how quickly the color fades. On average, you may need to touch up your hair every 4 to 6 weeks. 
  5. Can I lighten or darken my hair with demi-permanent hair color? Demi-permanent hair color can only darken your hair, not lighten it. If you want to go lighter, you’ll need to use a permanent hair color or bleach. However, demi-permanent hair color can help enhance or deepen your natural hair color without causing damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, demi-permanent hair color can be a great option for anyone who wants to refresh their hair color without committing to something permanent. It lasts longer than semi-permanent hair color but isn’t as damaging as permanent hair color. With proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your demi-permanent hair color and keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy. If you’re considering using demi-permanent hair color, we hope this article has answered all of your questions and given you the information you need to make an informed decision.