Are you tired of your hair color but do not want to commit to a permanent change? Look no further!
Here’s a guide on how to fade hair color. We will walk you through the art of safely fading your hair color. Whether you want to lighten a semi-permanent hair color or gradually fade your hair color over time, we’ve got you covered. With a few effective techniques and simple yet powerful methods, you can say goodbye to unwanted hues and hello to a beautiful hair transformation.
Understanding the Fading Process
Before we dive into the methods of how to fade hair color, it’s important to understand how the process works. Hair color fading occurs naturally over time as you wash your hair and expose it to various environmental factors.
However, if you’re looking for a faster fading process, there are steps you can take to speed up the transition.
1. Pick the Right Shampoo
One of the most effective ways to fade hair color is by using a clarifying shampoo designed for this purpose. Look for a pH-balanced shampoo that is formulated to gently remove impurities from your scalp without causing damage.
One popular option is oVertone’s The Fader Shampoo, which is safe for all hair types and textures. It’s sulfate- and paraben-free, ensuring that your strands won’t feel dried out like they would with traditional clarifying shampoos.
2. Follow up with a Colorless Deep Conditioner
While fading your hair color, avoid using any pigmented products like daily conditioners or coloring conditioners. Instead, opt for a colorless deep conditioner that will keep your strands healthy as you fade.
A colorless hair mask is a great option for maintaining moisture without adding any additional color.
3. Harness the Power of Everyday Activities
Believe it or not, several everyday activities can naturally fade hair color. You can expedite the fading process by incorporating these activities into your routine.
Here are a few strategies you can try:
- Frequent, Hot Showers: Wash your hair as often as possible. You should see a little color loss each time your hair gets wet. Hot water can also help speed up the fading process. However, be aware that hard water, which contains a higher level of minerals, can contribute to color loss even faster.
- Swimming: Taking a lap in the swimming pool can be your secret weapon for fading hair color. Chlorine will strip color out of hair. Just be sure to follow up with a post-swim wash using a colorless deep conditioner to counteract any drying effects.
- Getting Some Sun: Spending long periods of time in direct sunlight can cause your color to fade faster. If you’re going for a walk or spending time outdoors, consider leaving your hat at home and letting your strands soak up some rays.
While exposure to the sun alone may not fade your hair as quickly as other options, when combined with a fader shampoo, hot showers, and pool time, it can definitely help speed up the process.
4. Use Toning Conditioners
If there’s still a trace of color left in your hair after fading, you can use toning conditioners to neutralize it.
A range of toning conditioners can tone out any small traces of color left on your head. For example, if there’s a little red or pink left in your hair, a Green Toning Conditioner can tone it out. A Blue Toning Conditioner, on the other hand, can tone out traces of orange.
Before using toning conditioners, start off with a strand test to ensure uniform application and correct any specific areas that need correcting.
5. Consult a Professional Stylist
If you’ve tried the above methods and there’s still a tint of color in your hair that you want to remove, it may be time to consult a professional hairstylist.
A professional direct pigment or hair color remover can effectively remove semi-permanent hair dye before any bleach or lighteners. It’s best to leave this process to the professionals to avoid damaging your hair.
How Fast Will My Color Fade?
The speed at which your hair shade fades depends on several factors.
The frequency of hair washing, the type of water you’re washing your hair in, and the amount of sun exposure you’re getting all play a role in the fading process.
Additionally, your hair texture and porosity and the intensity of the color you’re trying to fade also contribute to how quickly the color will fade.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, you can expect a single application of a lighter color to fade out faster than a darker color that you’ve been maintaining with regular washes using pigmented products.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Hair After Color Removal
Once you’ve successfully faded your hair color, it’s important to maintain and care for your hair to keep it healthy and vibrant.
Here are tips to ensure your hair remains in optimal condition:
Hydration is key
Keep your hair hydrated by using moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks. This will help replenish moisture and minimize potential damage.
Limit heat styling
Excessive use of heat styling tools will cause further damage to your hair, especially after color removal. Try to limit them and opt for heat-free hairstyles whenever possible. Should you need to use these tools, consider using protective hair sprays.
Protect from UV rays
UV rays can fade hair color and cause damage. Protect your hair by wearing hats or using hair products with SPF.
Regular trims
Schedule regular trims to prevent split ends and keep your hair healthy. This will also help maintain the integrity of your faded hair color.
Final Thoughts
Safely fading your hair color is possible with the right techniques and products. By using a clarifying shampoo, following up with a colorless deep conditioner, incorporating everyday activities that naturally fade color, utilizing toning conditioners, and seeking professional help, you can achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
Embrace the journey of fading your hair color and enjoy the transformation as you transition to your next desired look.
