How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (2023)

Dyeing your hair a darker color can be a great way to change up your look, but sometimes things can go wrong.

If you dye your hair too dark by accident, or if it starts to fade and become darker than you wanted, you may be wondering how to lighten colored hair that is too dark?

Fortunately, there are several methods that you can use to lighten dyed hair safely and effectively.

In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to lighten hair that is too dark.

We will also discuss the pros and cons of each method so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Why did my hair dye turn out darker?

What to do if my hairdresser dyed my hair too dark?

Or you may have experienced this before – you’ve picked out a hair color from a box, only to find that once you’ve dyed your hair, the shade is noticeably darker than what was promised on the box.

It can be quite frustrating, especially if you were hoping for a specific color that you didn’t end up getting.

There are a few reasons why this can happen.

One possibility is that your hair was already dyed a dark color before you decided to dye it lighter.

When hair is already dark, it can be harder to achieve lighter shades – the dark color will often show through, resulting in a darker overall hue.

The color of your hair dye may have turned out darker because you did not mix it properly. For example, if you left the dye in for too long, it can result in a darker color.

Be sure to read the instructions on the hair dye bottle carefully to make sure you are mixing it correctly.

Another possibility is that the hair dye you used was not the right shade for your hair. If you are unsure about what color to use, consult with a professional stylist.

Whatever the reason may be, there are ways to lighten up dark hair color if you don’t like the results you get.

You can try using a clarifying shampoo, which can help to strip away some of the excess color.

You can also try using a bleaching kit designed specifically for hair – just be sure to follow the instructions carefully so that you don’t end up damaging your hair.

Now we will take a closer look at how to fix hair color that is too dark.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (1)

How to lighten permanent hair color that is too dark

If your hair is permanently dyed and it is too dark, you can use our tips:

1. Use a clarifying or lightening shampoo

If you’ve dyed your hair at home and it’s come out too dark, don’t panic!

There are a few ways you can lighten it without having to start over. First, try using a clarifying or lightening shampoo.

These shampoos are designed to help remove excess color from your hair, so they can be a great way to lighten up dyed hair that’s too dark.

First, wet your hair and then apply the shampoo to your scalp.

Rub it in and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse it out and then repeat if necessary.

You may also need to use a conditioner afterwards to help keep your hair from getting too dry.

Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully, as some of these shampoos can be quite harsh and may damage your hair if used incorrectly.

2. Use baking soda

Can you lighten hair dyed too dark with baking soda?

Yes, another tip to fade dark hair dye is baking soda.

To lighten hair dyed that is too dark, mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste.

Apply the paste to your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes.

Rinse the baking soda out of your hair and shampoo as usual. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get the desired results.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (2)

3. Use a color remover

Color remover is a product that can be used to lighten hair dye that is too dark.

There are two types of color removers: those that remove all color from the hair, and those that only remove the unwanted color.

Follow the instructions on the package, and be sure to perform a patch test before using the product on your entire head of hair.

After using a stronger color remover, you may need to re-dye your hair. Choose a shade that is lighter than your desired shade, and follow the instructions on the hair dye package.

4. Use bleach shampoo (bleach bath)

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (3)

If your hair is too dark after coloring, you can use a bleach bath to lighten it.

A bleach bath with shampoo is a great way to lighten hair that has been dyed too dark. It is a more gentle way to lighten the hair than bleaching and can be easily done at home.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Mix together equal parts of bleach and developer (1:1). Use 10-20 volume developers for gentler lift, or 30 for more intensive.
  2. Add the same amount of clarifying shampoo (can also be regular shampoo). If you need a gentler loft, add more shampoo (like 1:1.5 or 1:2 bleaching mix to shampoo).
  3. Wet your hair with warm water towel dry it so it’s damp, and apply the mixture evenly.
  4. Leave it on depending on a color you desire to achieve but no longer than 30 minutes, then rinse out thoroughly with cold water.
  5. Use a deep conditioner and avoid heat styling for the next few days.

5. Use vitamin C powder

To lighten hair dyed that is too dark with vitamin c powder, mix together 1 tablespoon of vitamin c powder with 1/2 cup of water.

Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it in for 20 minutes.

Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo it. Repeat the process if necessary.

You can also use lemon juice or baking soda instead of vitamin c powder. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get the desired result.

6. Use hydrogen peroxide

If your hair is dyed too dark with store-bought dyes, you can lighten it at home using hydrogen peroxide. Mix hydrogen peroxide and water in a 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle.

Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients. Spray the solution onto your hair. Wait 30 minutes.

Rinse the hydrogen peroxide from your hair with warm water. shampoo and condition your hair as usual. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired results.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (4)

7. Wash your hair more often

If you have dyed your hair too dark, washing it more often can help to lighten it. This is because the water will cause the color to fade slightly each time.

Try washing your hair everyday or every other day until you are happy with the results. You can also try using a clarifying shampoo to help strip away some of the color.

8. Lemon juice

Additionally, try using some lemon juice on your hair. Lemon is a natural bleaching agent and can help to lighten dyed hair. Simply combine equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and spritz it onto your hair.

Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before rinsing it out. Repeat this process every few days until you are satisfied with the results. Try spending time in the sun.

9. Spend more time under the sun

The ultraviolet rays can help to fade the color of your hair.

Just be sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand to prevent damage.

Try spending 15-30 minutes in the sun each day until you see the desired results.

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (5)

Finally, if all else fails, you can always head back to the salon and have them fix it for you.

They’ll be able to lighten your hair without damaging it and can even help you choose a new color that will better suit you.

So don’t despair if your hair comes out too dark after dyeing it at home – there are ways to fix it!

FAQ

How to lighten dyed hair without bleach?

Another alternative is to utilize apple cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar, both of which are simple and inexpensive. Rinse your hair in vinegar and then rinse it with cold water to lighten color and rejuvenate dull strands. To seal in moisture, apply a gloss or conditioner on top.

How to lighten dyed dark brown hair to medium brown?

To go from dark brown to medium brown highlights, you’ll need to bleach your hair color. You can lighten your hair color with bleach. Always keep in mind that your hair will lift only two tones at a time during a session.

How to lighten hair dyed too dark at salon?

If you want your hair to appear more natural, go immediately to a hairstylist and get a little balayage applied to break up the ends and make it seem more natural, or there are some professional treatments that remove the artificial pigment without affecting the hair’s health.

Summary

If you’ve dyed your hair at home and it’s come out too dark, don’t panic! There are a few ways you can lighten it without having to start over. First, try using a clarifying or lightening shampoo.

These shampoos are designed to help remove excess color from your hair, so they can be a great way to lighten up dyed hair that’s too dark. You can also use products that everyone has in their kitchen like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice.

If all else fails, you can always head back to the salon and have them fix it for you. They’ll be able to lighten your hair without damaging it and can even help you choose a new color that will better suit you.

Also read:

  • How to Mix Bleach and Developer
  • Does the Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar Really Work
  • Does Purple Shampoo Work on Natural Blonde Hair
  • Will Purple Shampoo Fix Green Hair
  • What Does Clarifying Shampoo Do to Colored Hair

Table of Contents

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (6)

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How Much 20 Volume Developer to Mix With Hair Color?

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (7)

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Does the Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar Really Work?

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work (8)

Allyson Carter

Ally is a professional hairstylist with more than 6 years of experience, but hair has been her passion since early childhood. Here, at Hair Spies, she blogs about all things hairdressing, hair tools, and everyday hair care. Read more about Allyson here.

FAQs

How to Lighten Hair Dyed Too Dark? 9 Methods That Work? ›

DIY Tip 4: Use a Clarifying Shampoo to Lighten Color That's Too Dark. “Use a clarifying shampoo, warm water, say a prayer and be patient that the color hopefully fades over several weeks,” says Papanikolas. Try the Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Hair Reset Clarifying Shampoo.

How can I make my permanent hair dye fade faster? ›

Fade while you shower, swim, and stroll

1. Frequent, Hot Showers — A healthy head of hair usually doesn't require washing it every day, and by washing less, you preserve more color. Wash your hair as often as possible: any time your hair gets wet you should see a little color loss, and hot water should help it along.

How can I lift my dark hair dye at home? ›

Quick and Easy Ways to Remove Hair Dye
  1. Use a clarifying shampoo. If you need to remove hair dye fast, reach for a clarifying or anti-dandruff shampoo. ...
  2. Make a paste with baking soda. Baking soda is another product that can be used to remove hair color. ...
  3. Vinegar rinse.
Oct 27, 2022

Does 9 developer lighten hair? ›

30 volume developer (9% peroxide)

Lightens up to 3 levels. Used for dyeing and also for lightening hair. Suitable for coloring grey hair. The most often it is mixed with permanent color and lightening cream or powder.

Will Dawn dish soap lighten dyed hair? ›

Licensed cosmetologist Laura Dale says, “Dawn dish soap has a high pH level so it opens the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to be washed away and can, therefore, be used to remove or lighten hair color on your hair.

How do you strip hair color without damaging it? ›

"Baking soda works as a scrubbing agent," Bergamy explains. "[It will] gently strip off the color from the surface of the hair without damaging the quality of your strands." This option is best for fresh hair color that's only one to four days old, so consider it a method for when you're having immediate regret.

How do you lift box dye in your hair? ›

Ways to Get Box Dye Out of Hair
  1. Try a Clarifying Shampoo.
  2. Consider Scheduling a Salon Appointment.
  3. Use a Color-Removing Product.
  4. Malibu C CPR.
  5. BlondMe All Blondes Detox Shampoo.
  6. Pulp Riot Cream Bleach.
  7. Ouai Detox Shampoo.
Oct 3, 2022

Will apple cider vinegar lift hair color? ›

No evidence suggests that apple cider vinegar shampoos strip hair color. You can safely use apple cider vinegar shampoo instead of regular shampoos or as a clarifying treatment to remove buildup from the hair and scalp. Apple cider vinegar is gentle and suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair.

What lightener lifts 9 levels? ›

Blond Brilliance Express Nine Lightener is an on or off the scalp dust free lightening powder. The extra strength and extra moisturizing formula provides up to nine Levels of lift in lightning speed!

What developer lightens hair the most? ›

Known to be the strongest developer that makes the biggest impact, 40 Volume lifts up to four levels and lightens hair quickly. It is often used with Satin Bleach to remove dark color pigment from natural hair or with high-lift color to create highlights or vibrant blondes.

How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to lighten hair? ›

Once you're satisfied with the color, cover your neck and shoulders with a clean towel you don't mind staining. Then saturate your hair with the hydrogen peroxide solution and leave it on for 15 minutes to an hour. Rinse your hair well.

Can you lighten dark permanent hair color? ›

The safest option for lightening dark hair is to use a special shampoo. A lightening or clarifying shampoo can lift the color and help you get the desired result.

Does adding conditioner to permanent dye make it lighter? ›

Permanent hair dye that needs a developer won't mix well with conditioner, and it can make the dye bond unevenly to your hair. You can use conditioner to make your fantasy color lighter, or even pastel. However, it might fade faster than usual.

How long does it take for dark permanent hair dye to fade? ›

Permanent black hair dye also lasts around 6 to 8 weeks before fading. Permanent hair dyes works similarly to demi-permanent dye, except for the presence of an alkalizing agent. The alkalizing agent opens the cuticle and swells the cortex, leaving the hair's natural pigment vulnerable to the peroxide.

How can I make my permanent hair dye brighter? ›

How to Make Hair Dye More Vibrant
  1. Add Color to Your Shampoo. If you have leftover hair dye, add it to your shampoo! ...
  2. Use a Depositing Shampoo. If you have no leftover color, you can use a color depositing shampoo to add color with each wash.
  3. Boost Color with Conditioning Treatment.
Mar 11, 2022

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