Are you tired of your black hair color and want a new change? Do you want to restore your natural hair color or achieve a lighter shade? Stripping black hair color can be a daunting task, but it’s possible with the right approach. However, it’s important to remember that stripping black hair color can be a time-consuming and potentially damaging process. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and proceed with caution.
Before you begin the stripping process, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks. Black hair color is notoriously difficult to remove, and the stripping process can weaken and damage your hair. If your hair is already damaged or chemically treated, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist for guidance. Additionally, it’s essential to test a small section of your hair first to ensure that you don’t experience any adverse reactions.
There are various methods available for stripping black hair color, ranging from natural remedies to chemical treatments. Some popular natural remedies include using baking soda, vitamin C, and lemon juice. While these methods may be gentler on your hair, they often require multiple applications and may not be as effective as chemical treatments. Chemical treatments, such as color removers and bleach, are more potent and can remove black hair color more quickly. However, it’s important to use these products carefully and follow the instructions closely to avoid over-processing and damaging your hair.
Gather Necessary Materials
To effectively strip black hair color, it is crucial to gather the necessary materials beforehand. This process involves using chemical agents that can damage hair if not handled properly. Therefore, assembling the following items is essential:
Color Remover
The cornerstone of this process, a color remover, is a chemical product formulated specifically to lift artificial hair color. It is available in various strengths and formulations, each tailored to different hair types and the intensity of the black dye. It is vital to select a color remover that is suitable for your hair condition and the desired outcome.
Types of Color Removers
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Oil-based | Gently lifts color, suitable for damaged hair |
| Cream-based | Moderate strength, less damaging than oil-based |
| Powder-based | Strongest and quickest, suitable for stubborn dyes |
Choosing the Right Color Remover
Consider your hair’s health, the intensity of the black dye, and the desired level of lifting. If your hair is damaged or fragile, an oil-based or cream-based remover is more appropriate. For thick or coarse hair with stubborn dye, a powder-based remover may be necessary.
Prepare Your Hair
Protect Your Skin and Clothing
To prevent skin staining, apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly to your hairline, ears, and neck. Cover your clothing with an old towel or wear a smock to protect it from bleach spills.
Test a Small Strand
Before applying bleach to your entire head, test a small strand of hair hidden from view. This will help you determine how long to process the bleach and avoid over-bleaching.
Pre-Lighten Your Hair (Optional)
| Hair Type | Pre-Lightening Method |
|---|---|
| Virgin Black | Not necessary |
| Previously Dyed Black | Bleach bath or color remover |
| Box-Dyed Black | Bleach bath with stronger developer |
If your hair has been previously dyed black with box dye, it may be necessary to pre-lighten it with a bleach bath or color remover. This will help remove some of the artificial pigment and make it easier to strip the remaining color.
Apply Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a thick, greasy substance that can help to break down black hair color. To apply petroleum jelly to your hair, follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any dirt or oil.
- Towel dry your hair and then apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly to your hair, from the roots to the tips.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the petroleum jelly in for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
Tips for Applying Petroleum Jelly
- Be sure to apply the petroleum jelly evenly to your hair.
- If your hair is long, you may need to use more than one jar of petroleum jelly.
- If you have sensitive skin, test the petroleum jelly on a small area of your skin before applying it to your whole head.
How to Remove Petroleum Jelly
Once you have left the petroleum jelly in for the desired amount of time, you can remove it by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo. You may need to wash your hair several times to remove all of the petroleum jelly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| -Petroleum jelly is a gentle way to strip black hair color. | -Petroleum jelly can be greasy and difficult to wash out. |
| -Petroleum jelly is inexpensive and easy to find. | -Petroleum jelly may not be effective on all types of black hair color. |
| -Petroleum jelly is a natural product. | -Petroleum jelly can take several hours to work. |
| Color Remover Strength | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| Mild (10-20% bleach) | Semi-permanent dyes, lightly colored hair |
| Medium (20-30% bleach) | Permanent dyes, medium brown hair |
| Strong (30% or higher bleach) | Dark permanent dyes, black hair |
Begin Sectioning and Applying
Step 1: Choose a Stripper
Select a color remover specifically designed for black hair, such as Manic Panic Virgin Snow or Color Oops Extra Strength Color Remover.
Step 2: Protect Your Hair
Wear gloves and apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly or coconut oil to the hairline and ears to protect the skin from irritation.
Step 3: Section Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections, typically four sections for medium-length hair. Clip up each section except for the one you’re working on.
Step 4: Pre-bleach (Optional)
This step is recommended for dark black hair. Apply a bleach to the darkest areas of your hair, focusing on the roots and any previous color buildup. Process for 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Apply Stripper
a) Mix the stripper according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
b) Apply the stripper evenly to the hair sections, starting from the roots and working towards the ends.
c) Cover the hair with a plastic cap or wrap.
d) Process for the time specified in the instructions, typically 45-60 minutes, depending on the hair’s darkness and thickness.
e) Monitor the progress every 15 minutes to avoid over-processing.
Table: Stripping Time Based on Hair Darkness
| **Hair Darkness** | **Stripping Time** |
|—|—|
| Jet Black | 60-75 minutes |
| Dark Brown | 45-60 minutes |
| Medium Brown | 30-45 minutes |
Wait for Processing Time
Once you have applied the color remover, it’s crucial to let it process for the recommended time. This will vary depending on the product you’re using, but most will require 20-30 minutes. During this time, the formula will work its magic, breaking down the artificial color pigments.
It’s important to avoid leaving the color remover on for longer than recommended, as this can damage your hair. If you’re unsure about the processing time, refer to the instructions included with the product.
To ensure even processing, gently massage your hair while the color remover is applied. This will help the formula penetrate all the strands and remove the dye evenly. You may also use a plastic shower cap to trap heat and enhance the processing time.
Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear to remove all traces of the color remover.
After rinsing, apply a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture to your hair. This will help repair any damage caused by the color removal process.
Tips for Processing Time
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Use a timer to ensure accurate processing.
- Massage your hair gently during processing.
- Use a shower cap to trap heat and enhance processing.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly after processing.
- Apply a deep conditioning treatment to restore hair moisture.
| Processing Time | Product Type |
|---|---|
| 20-30 minutes | Color remover cream |
| 30-45 minutes | Color remover powder |
| 45-60 minutes | Extra-strength color remover |
Rinse and Shampoo
Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. This will help remove any remaining hair color or developer.
Apply a clarifying shampoo to your hair and massage it gently. Clarifying shampoos are made to remove product buildup and dirt from your hair, so they will assist remove any remaining hair color or developer.
Rinse your hair again with warm water until the water runs clear. This will help remove any remaining shampoo and hair color.
Condition your hair with a deep conditioner. Deep conditioners are designed to restore moisture to your hair, so they will help to reduce any damage caused by the hair color removal process.
Leave the deep conditioner in your hair for the amount of time specified on the package. Typically, this will be around 5-10 minutes.
Rinse your hair again with warm water until the water runs clear. This will help remove any remaining deep conditioner.
7. Use a clarifying shampoo
A clarifying shampoo is a type of shampoo that is designed to remove product buildup from the hair. This type of shampoo can be helpful in removing black hair color, as it can help to lift the color from the hair shaft.
To use a clarifying shampoo, simply wet your hair and apply the shampoo to your scalp. Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair, and then rinse the shampoo out of your hair. You may need to repeat this process several times to remove all of the black hair color.
Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in using a clarifying shampoo to remove black hair color:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wet your hair. |
| 2 | Apply the clarifying shampoo to your scalp and hair. |
| 3 | Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair. |
| 4 | Rinse the shampoo out of your hair. |
| 5 | Repeat steps 2-4 until all of the black hair color has been removed. |
Treat and Condition Hair
8. **Deep Conditioning Mask:**
Apply a deep conditioning mask to your hair to replenish moisture and repair any damage caused by the stripping process. Leave the mask on for the recommended time, usually 20-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
| Recommended Deep Conditioning Masks: |
|---|
|
**Tips for Using a Deep Conditioning Mask:**
- Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the mask evenly through your hair.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap to enhance absorption.
- Apply heat (e.g., a blow dryer on low heat or a heating cap) to further penetrate the mask into your hair shafts.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to avoid product buildup.
Repeat as Needed
The number of applications required will depend on the darkness of your hair and the type of black dye used. If your hair isn’t lightening enough after a few rounds, take a week off and then try again. You don’t want to strip your hair too much, as this can damage it.
9. Condition Your Hair
Once you’re satisfied with the results, it’s important to condition your hair deeply. Stripping black hair color can be a harsh process, so it’s essential to replenish moisture. Use a deep conditioner or hair mask and leave it in for at least 30 minutes. This will help to repair any damage and leave your hair feeling soft and healthy.
| Time | Steps |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Apply deep conditioner or hair mask |
Care for Newly Lightened Hair
After stripping black hair color, your hair will be in a weakened state. It’s crucial to provide proper care to prevent further damage and maintain its health.
10. Deep Conditioning and Masks
Regularly use deep conditioners and hair masks to replenish moisture and restore strength to your lightened hair. Look for products containing nourishing ingredients such as argan oil, shea butter, and avocado oil. Leave-in treatments can also provide ongoing hydration.
Here’s a table summarizing the benefits of deep conditioning and hair masks:
| Benefits |
|---|
| Moisturize and strengthen hair |
| Repair damage and prevent breakage |
| Improve hair texture and shine |
Apply deep conditioners or masks once or twice a week, leaving them in for the recommended time according to the product instructions. For intense hydration, wrap your hair in a warm towel or shower cap to enhance absorption.
How To Strip Black Hair Color
Stripping black hair color can be a daunting task, but it is possible to do it at home with the right products and techniques. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to strip black hair color:
- Apply a color remover. Color removers are available at most beauty supply stores. Follow the instructions on the package carefully. The color remover will help to break down the black hair color.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly. Once the color remover has processed, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Make sure to remove all of the color remover from your hair.
- Apply a developer. A developer is a chemical that helps to lift the black hair color. Follow the instructions on the package carefully. The developer will help to lighten the black hair color.
- Rinse your hair again. Once the developer has processed, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Make sure to remove all of the developer from your hair.
- Condition your hair. After you have stripped the black hair color, it is important to condition your hair to help restore its moisture. Apply a conditioner to your hair and leave it in for 5-10 minutes. Then, rinse your hair with warm water.
Stripping black hair color can be a time-consuming process, but it is possible to do it at home with the right products and techniques.
People Also Ask About How To Strip Black Hair Color
How long does it take to strip black hair color?
The amount of time it takes to strip black hair color will vary depending on the type of color remover you use and the darkness of your hair. However, you can expect to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours stripping the black hair color.
What are the risks of stripping black hair color?
Stripping black hair color can damage your hair, so it is important to follow the instructions on the product packaging carefully. Some of the potential risks of stripping black hair color include:
- Hair breakage
- Dryness
- Fading
- Color bleeding
Can I strip black hair color at home?
Yes, you can strip black hair color at home with the right products and techniques. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product packaging carefully to avoid damaging your hair.
What is the best way to strip black hair color?
The best way to strip black hair color is to use a color remover specifically designed for black hair. These color removers are typically more effective than other types of color removers, and they are less likely to damage your hair.
