Super Effective Hair Dye Remover: Baking Soda & Dish Soap Power Wash

Updated at: 03/01/2025

Tired of that disastrous hair dye job? Stuck with an unwanted color that just won't budge? You're not alone! Many people find themselves searching for effective, yet gentle, ways to remove unwanted hair dye at home, often resorting to expensive and potentially damaging salon treatments. But what if we told you there’s a surprisingly powerful, and budget-friendly, solution lurking in your kitchen cabinets? This article explores the surprising effectiveness of a simple baking soda and dish soap power wash for removing unwanted hair dye. This method offers a gentler alternative to harsh chemical removers, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a less damaging approach.

This surprisingly effective hair dye remover utilizes readily available ingredients to lift unwanted color without the harsh chemicals found in commercial products. Forget the expensive salon visits and potential hair damage – we’ll guide you through a simple, step-by-step process that will help you reclaim your desired hair color. Ready to get started and banish that unwanted shade? Let's dive into the detailed instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Baking soda
  • Anti-dandruff shampoo
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Shower cap or plastic bag
  • Bowl
Safety Guidelines
  • Perform a strand test before applying the mixture to your entire head. This helps check for allergic reactions and assesses how the mixture affects your hair color.
  • Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, flush immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
  • Baking soda is highly alkaline and can dry out your hair. Use a deep conditioner afterwards to replenish moisture and minimize damage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dish Soap and Baking Soda Mixture

    • Combine three tablespoons of baking soda, four tablespoons of anti-dandruff shampoo, and one tablespoon of dishwashing soap in a bowl until smooth.
    Combine three tablespoons of baking soda, four tablespoons of anti-dandruff shampoo, and one tablespoon of dishwashing soap in a bowl until smooth.
    Prepare the Dish Soap and Baking Soda Mixture

  2. Apply the Mixture to Hair

    • Apply the mixture to DRY hair, ensuring complete saturation.
    • Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic bag.
    Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic bag.Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic bag.
    Apply the Mixture to Hair

  3. Let it Sit

    • Leave the mixture on for approximately 20 minutes.
    Leave the mixture on for approximately 20 minutes.
    Let it Sit

  4. Rinse and Condition

    • Wash your hair thoroughly with warm water.
    • Condition your hair as usual.
    Condition your hair as usual.Condition your hair as usual.
    Rinse and Condition

Read more: How Hair Bleach Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • This method can be used for up to three consecutive days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too Much Baking Soda

Reason: Excessive baking soda can dry out and damage your hair, leading to breakage and irritation.
Solution: Use a smaller amount of baking soda and increase the amount gradually if needed, always following the recipe's ratio.

2. Leaving the Mixture On For Too Long

Reason: Overexposure can strip your hair of its natural oils and proteins, resulting in weakened and damaged strands.
Solution: Strictly adhere to the recommended processing time in the recipe.

3. Ignoring a Patch Test

Reason: Failing to perform a patch test can lead to allergic reactions or severe scalp irritation.
Solution: Always test the mixture on a small, hidden section of hair before applying it to the whole head.

FAQs

Will this method damage my hair?
Yes, it's possible. Baking soda is very drying, and repeated use or overly aggressive scrubbing can cause damage, breakage, and dryness. This method is best used sparingly and followed by a deep conditioning treatment.