How to Remove Black Hair Dye

Black hair color is fun to try but can be very difficult to remove.

Black hair dye is one of the hardest colors to remove from your hair. The artificial pigment permeates deep into the shaft of the hair, and can be very hard to remove without using harsh chemicals that will damage your hair. Before turning to bleach or a professional salon, there are several at-home remedies that are gentle on your hair and will help you remove the black hair dye.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Anti-dandruff shampoo
• Anti-residue shampoo
• Olive oil
• Dishwashing detergent
• Hair bleach kit

1. Use anti-dandruff shampoo or anti-residue shampoo as a first attack against black hair dye. If using the shampoo regularly does not quickly fade the black dye, try leaving the shampoo in overnight. When you wake in the morning, rinse the shampoo with warm water. Remember to use a deep conditioner to restore moisture to your hair when using these harsher types of shampoo.

2. Put warm olive oil on your hair, and leave it on for several hours or overnight. Rinse with warm water, and shampoo with one of the previous shampoos. The olive oil will not only help to pull the black dye out of your hair, but also will help to restore moisture.

3. Use a dishwashing detergent if the shampoos and olive oil have not produced the desired result. Dishwashing detergents are harsher than anti-dandruff or anti-residue shampoos, and will help to strip the black pigment out of your hair.

4. Consider bleaching your hair if the previous steps have not removed all of the black hair dye. Bleaching out black dye is a long process. Your hair will lighten first to dark brown, then red, orange, yellow and finally may approach white. No matter what brand you use, make sure not to leave bleach on your hair for longer than 60 minutes. Bleach is a very harsh chemical, and can easily damage your hair. After fully lightening your hair, it will be ready to recolor with a temporary or permanent hair dye.

5. Visit your favorite hair stylist. Going to a professional salon is always the safest course of action for the health of your hair. If you have any doubts about any of these steps, skip the stress and see your stylist as soon as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution when using a product on your hair.

References

• Mammal Hair: Removing Black Hair Dye
• Beauty Den: Black Hair Dye Removal: Removing Black Hair Dye