Hair salons won’t tell you this. 8 hacks for turning hair back to original color at home
Getting Back to Your Natural Hair Color — The Easy Way
Changing up your hair color can be a fun way to express yourself, but after a while, you might find yourself wanting to return to your natural look. Whether it’s the maintenance, cost, or just a desire for a fresh start, going back to your original hair color can feel incredibly refreshing. While salons offer professional solutions, there are also plenty of simple and budget-friendly ways to begin the process at home—many of which rely on natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals.
How Hair Dye Actually Works
Before diving into removal methods, it’s helpful to understand how hair dye affects your strands. Your natural hair shade is determined by melanin—a pigment made up of two main types: eumelanin (which produces brown and black tones) and pheomelanin (responsible for red and yellow hues).
When you dye your hair, the new pigment molecules penetrate the hair shaft and alter the natural melanin. The goal in removing dye is to gently lift the artificial color without stripping away or damaging the hair’s natural structure.
Easy At-Home Methods for Fading Hair Dye
If you’re looking to gradually fade your hair color and transition back to your natural tone, try these eight home remedies:
1. Baking Soda and Shampoo
Baking soda acts as a natural exfoliant and works well with a clarifying shampoo to lift color from your hair. Mix equal parts of each, apply to wet hair (especially the dyed areas), and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. You may need several treatments over a few weeks. Always follow up with a good conditioner to maintain moisture.
2. Vitamin C Treatment
Vitamin C is known to help break down dye molecules. Crush some Vitamin C tablets and mix with clarifying shampoo to form a thick paste. Apply to damp hair, cover with a shower cap, and leave it on for 30 to 60 minutes. Rinse well. This method is ideal for semi-permanent dyes and can be repeated weekly.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar’s natural acidity helps gently fade color while also boosting shine. Combine equal parts ACV and water. After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair, leave it for a few minutes, and rinse. It’s great for balancing scalp pH, too.
4. Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice
Coconut oil hydrates, while lemon juice provides a natural lightening effect. Mix them in equal amounts and apply to your hair. Leave on for several hours—or overnight for stronger results. This method gently fades color while conditioning your strands.
5. Honey and Cinnamon Hair Mask
Honey contains small traces of hydrogen peroxide, and cinnamon boosts its effect. Combine honey, cinnamon powder, and a splash of olive oil into a thick paste. Apply to damp hair, cover with a cap, and let it sit for at least an hour before rinsing. It’s a slow but safe and nourishing way to lighten dyed hair.
6. Chamomile Tea Rinse
Perfect for lighter hair shades, chamomile tea can help restore your natural blonde tones. Brew a strong batch, cool it, and use it as a final rinse after washing your hair. Let your hair air dry in the sun for added brightening. Repeat regularly for gradual results.
7. Coffee or Black Tea Rinse (for Dark Hair)
For brunettes or those with darker shades, strong coffee or black tea can help deepen and even out fading dye. Brew, cool, and apply to damp, clean hair. Leave it on for about an hour before rinsing. Repeat weekly for best results.
8. Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Designed to remove buildup, clarifying shampoos are excellent at gently fading dye over time. Use once a week for gradual color lifting. They can be drying, so always follow with a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair healthy.
Loving Your Natural Look Again
Once your natural color begins to shine through, be sure to nourish it properly. Stick with sulfate-free shampoos, condition regularly, and trim split ends to keep your hair looking its best. Returning to your natural hair color isn’t just a physical change—it’s also a chance to embrace and celebrate your original beauty with confidence.
