How to Remove Color Dye on the Face

Gentle dye removal methods may be as effective as harsh chemical products

When working with color dye, such as hair dye or food coloring, it is possible that some might end up on your skin, even your face. There are many methods for removing color dye from your face; some are more involved and expensive than others. Each dye removal method depends upon the type of dye involved and your skin type. Try the methods that use products that you already own first and work your way down the list until you find a method that works for your skin.

Things You'll Need

• Leftover dye
• Soap
• Shampoo
• Warm water
• Soft Cloth
• Toothpaste
• Old toothbrush
• Dishwashing soap
• Baking soda
• Hair dye remover
• Cotton Ball
• Nail polish remover

Instructions

1. Rub a tiny bit of leftover dye on the stained area of your face using small circular motions. While this may seem counterintuitive, the dye will latch onto the remaining color particles, pulling them up toward the skin's surface where they can be removed. Rub the area for a few seconds, then rinse with warm water. Wash the area immediately with soap or shampoo and rinse a second time. Dry your face with a soft cloth.

2. Dab a bit of toothpaste onto your face if the stain still remains. Dampen a soft cloth or soft bristled toothbrush with warm water and use it to scrub the toothpaste into the area. Let it sit for five minutes. Rinse the toothpaste off with warm water.

3. Mix equal parts dishwashing liquid soap with baking soda to create a soapy paste if the toothpaste is unsuccessful. If available, use a soap that contains lemon extract. The acidity in the lemon will aid in breaking down the dye more quickly. Apply the paste to the affected area and gently rub for one minute. Rinse the mixture off to determine if it was helpful.

4. Purchase a hair dye remover from a local salon or drugstore. Hair dye removers are available as a liquid or come in wet-wipe form. Read all directions and warnings on the package before use. Apply the liquid dye remover to your skin using a wet cloth and rub it gently back and forth for one minute. If using a dye remover wet-wipe, place it over the dyed skin's surface and gently rub for one minute. Rinse the area with warm water.

5. Wet a cotton ball with nail polish remover and wipe the cotton ball over the area repeatedly to remove the dye stain. Use caution when applying the nail polish remover as this product can cause irritation to the skin. Keep it away from your eyes, nose and especially your mouth. Rinse it off with warm water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• If your skin becomes irritated after one of these methods, apply a moisturizing lotion over the area.

• Use caution with all products as they may irritate the skin.

• Keep all products away from sensitive areas including eyes, nose and mouth.

References

• Helpful Health Tips: How To Remove Hair Dye From Skin
• BellaSugar: Four Ways to Keep Hair Color on Your Hair, Not Your Face
• TipKing: How To Remove Hair Color Stains From Your Skin