Best Shampoos to Remove Hair Dye at Home

Did your latest colour not quite go according to plan, or maybe just fancy a change? Whichever one it is, you’re likely desperate to remove as much of it as possible and restart again from a fresh clean state – sound familiar? Well you’re in the right place!

In Cliphair's hair care guide, you’ll discover some of the best shampoo to remove hair dye that you can use at home. Though you might not like to hear it, ultimately the best way to effectively strip hair colour is by booking an appointment with your hairdresser. But – there are some effective at-home hair-dye removers and shampoo that do the trick too. Although it may not return your hair to its natural colour completely, it can fade out the current dye, making it easier to add a new colour on top.

1. Best Shampoos To Strip Colour From Hair (back to index)

The shampoo you use to strip your hair must contain a high amount of sulphate to be effective. Here’s a list of the top recommended shampoos to fade out hair colour: 

Unless you’re eliminating the original colour completely, opting for a shampoo stripper is a more mild alternative to bleach. 

2. Bleaching Versus Stripping Hair (back to index)

Bleaching and stripping are two unique chemical processes for removing hair colour. Bleaching removes natural pigmentations in the hair to make it lighter while stripping removes existing dye to return the hair to its natural colour (or as close to it as possible).

It’s not possible to dye your hair a lighter shade than the current colour it is, so bleaching or stripping is a necessary process to obtain the desired colour. 

Based on the present colour and desired final result, your hairdresser will determine the best procedure of the two on a case-by-case basis. Without either method, it is essentially impossible to change its current colour to something that appears lighter.

3. What Shampoo Strips Hair Colour? (back to index)

Hair dye can be removed or faded with a deep-cleaning shampoo or an artificial colour remover. There are various approaches and DIY suggestions existing. Sulphate-rich shampoos are ideal for stripping hair since they help to release the colour - especially with dark or vibrant colours. These include clarifying or deep cleansing shampoo or anti-dandruff shampoo. Click here to find out "how to make your own clarifying shampoo".

However, the best way to strip hair colour is always by going to a professional hairdresser or colour specialist first.

4. Does Clarifying Shampoo Strip Colour? (back to index)

The quick answer is yes. Clarifying shampoo does strip hair, but it may take a few washes to achieve the ideal result. Clarifying shampoo contains a chemical formula that will slowly lift and fade hair dye from your hair without causing lasting damage. The accumulation of residue and unwanted colour are eliminated from the hair cuticles – arguably, this is one of the best ways to strip hair yourself without visiting a salon.

5. So, How Do Clarifying Shampoos Actually Work? (back to index)

Products, such as dyes, hairsprays, and even chlorine from swimming pools, build up on your hair and scalp – this can leave your hair looking dull and greasy. Using a clarifying shampoo not only strips the hair dye ready for a new colour but gives it a fresh start – almost like a detox for your hair!

Clarifying shampoo strippers work by taking away excess product from your hair and scalp while the ingredients work to help break down the dye attached to your hair. It targets the added colour of your hair without impacting its natural hues.

Like regular shampoo, you lather it into your hair to cleanse and follow it with a rinse – this may take a few washes to lift the colour effectively. Be sure to always follow this up with a deep conditioner or moisturising hair mask to rebalance the natural oils and prevent dry hair in order to alleviate any damage and keep your hair healthy and radiant.

6. And What Are The Benefits Of Clarifying Shampoo? (back to index)

There are plenty of benefits to using a clarifying shampoo. The main, being is if you’re looking to strip your hair for a new colour, it will do just that – slowly over up to 5 washes. Additionally, it helps to remove impurities and the build-up of product on the hair and scalp. It also eliminates tint from any exposure to chlorine and resets hair back to its natural state.

7. Can Anti-Dandruff Shampoos Remove Hair Colour? (back to index)

Similarly to clarifying shampoos, the intense formula of anti-dandruff shampoos can strip hair colour slowly over time. Unfortunately, anti-dandruff shampoo can leave your hair very dry too. As a result, using a hair mask to restore moisture to the hair is absolutely vital. Like clarifying shampoo, it will take a few rounds of wash, rinse and repeat to gradually fade the colour out over time.

Here are a handful of tried and tested anti-dandruff shampoos that help to strip dyed hair: 

• Boots Anti Dandruff Classic Shampoo
• Kérastase Anti Dandruff / Specifique Bain Anti-Pelliculaire Shampoo
• Head & Shoulders Classic Clean 2In1 Anti Dandruff Shampoo

8. Can You Use Clarifying Shampoo On Hair Extensions? (back to index)

We advise not using Clarifying Shampoo on Human Hair Extensions as it contains alcohol and sulphate which are both damaging to extensions. However, if you have a hair dye disaster or apply too much purple shampoo you may need it. It should only be used in this situation not as a everyday shampoo, and after using you should apply a strong, restorative conditioning hair mask to return moisture to the hair.

9. Best Hair Masks For Dry Damaged Hair (back to index)

The best hair mask can save your dry and damaged strands quickly. After going through the stripping process, it’s essential to treat your hair to ensure minimal damage to your natural locks. Here are some of the UK’s best-rated hair masks that will help refresh and revive your stripped hair:

It’s recommended that you leave your mask in for a good few hours to ensure the hair is fully restored to a soft and healthy shine.

Whether you’re looking to dye your hair for the first time or completely change colour, we hope this helps you get there.

Remember, if your at-home attempts have fallen short. Seek advice from a professional hairdresser or colour specialist who will get your hair back on track.

10. Conclusion (back to index)

From subtle shifts to full-blown rainbows, your hair is your canvas. Now equipped with the knowledge to remove unwanted hues and unlock vibrant possibilities from Cliphair, go forth and express yourself fearlessly! Remember, healthy hair is the foundation for every colour adventure, so be kind to your locks and embrace the joy of constant transformation.

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