Removing blue hair dye can be a challenging process, but with the right technique and patience, it’s possible to bleach blue dye out of your hair safely. Whether you’re looking to return to your natural color or switch to a new shade, this guide will walk you through the steps to lighten or remove the unwanted blue dye.
Why Blue Hair Dye is Difficult to Remove
Blue dye is notoriously tough to remove because of its vibrant, pigmented nature. Blue, along with other darker or bright colors like purple or green, often penetrates the hair shaft deeply, making it harder to fade or strip out. Additionally, the color molecules in blue dye are larger and more stubborn compared to lighter shades.
Step-by-Step Guide to Bleaching Blue Dye Out of Hair
1. Assess Your Hair’s Condition
Before beginning the bleaching process, assess the health of your hair. Bleaching can be harsh, especially on hair that’s already been dyed multiple times or is prone to damage.
- Tip: If your hair is in poor condition (dry, brittle, or overly processed), consider doing a deep conditioning treatment before you begin or opt for a gentler color-removal method.
2. Prepare the Necessary Products
To bleach out the blue dye, you’ll need the following:
- Bleaching powder
- Developer (10-20 volume recommended for a less intense lift)
- Shampoo (preferably clarifying)
- Deep conditioner or hair mask
- Plastic mixing bowl and applicator brush
- Gloves
- Plastic shower cap or cling film
- Towel and old clothing
Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area, as bleaching can release strong fumes.
3. Mix the Bleach and Developer
Follow the instructions on your bleaching powder and developer. Generally, you’ll mix the bleach powder with the developer in a 1:2 ratio, but always check the specific instructions for your products.
- Tip: Choose a 10 or 20 volume developer if you only need to lift the color slightly. If you’re looking for a stronger lift, a 30 volume developer can be used, but it can be more damaging.
4. Apply the Bleach to Your Hair
- Start applying the bleach mixture to your hair in sections, focusing on the blue-dyed areas first.
- Work from the ends to the roots to avoid applying bleach directly to your scalp, which can cause irritation. If your roots are not heavily dyed, you can apply the bleach to the rest of the hair afterward.
- Use the brush to ensure even application.
5. Monitor the Bleach Process
- Leave the bleach on for about 20-45 minutes, depending on your hair’s condition and the level of color removal needed. Keep an eye on the process to avoid over-bleaching or damaging your hair.
- Tip: If the blue is particularly stubborn, you might need to repeat the bleaching process. However, avoid leaving the bleach on for too long, as it can cause significant damage to your hair.
6. Rinse and Wash Your Hair
After the bleaching process is complete, rinse the bleach out with lukewarm water. Follow up with a clarifying shampoo to remove any remaining bleach and dye residue.
- Tip: Wash your hair twice to ensure all bleach and color are completely removed.
7. Condition Your Hair
Bleaching can be drying, so follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or deep conditioning treatment to restore your hair’s moisture and shine.
- Tip: Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 20 minutes to allow it to fully penetrate your hair and replenish lost moisture.
8. Repeat If Necessary
If you find that the blue dye is still visible or your hair hasn’t lightened enough, you may need to repeat the process. However, it’s essential to wait at least a week between bleach treatments to give your hair time to recover and minimize damage.
Alternative Methods for Removing Blue Dye
If you’re hesitant to bleach your hair or want a gentler method, there are several alternatives you can try before resorting to bleach:
1. Vitamin C Treatment
- Crush 10-12 Vitamin C tablets and mix them with shampoo to create a paste. Apply the paste to your hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing. The acid in Vitamin C helps lift color from the hair.
2. Color Remover
- Commercial color removers, like Color Oops or other color-stripping products, can be effective in removing artificial hair color. These products are generally less harsh than bleach and can fade the blue dye more gently.
3. Clarifying Shampoo
- Use a clarifying shampoo to gradually strip the color. This may take a few washes but can help fade the blue over time. Make sure to follow up with a deep conditioner to prevent dryness.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Hair After Bleaching
- Deep Condition Regularly: Bleaching strips natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry. Use a rich deep conditioner or hair mask weekly.
- Use a Heat Protectant: If you need to style your hair, always use a heat protectant to avoid further damage.
- Trim Regularly: Bleached hair is more prone to split ends, so trim your hair every 6–8 weeks to keep it healthy.
Conclusion
Bleaching blue dye out of your hair can be a time-consuming process, but with the right approach, it’s possible to safely and effectively lighten or remove the color. Whether you choose to bleach your hair or use a gentler method like vitamin C treatments or color removers, it’s essential to protect your hair’s health by following up with moisturizing treatments and regular trims. Always be patient and give your hair time to recover between treatments.