Are you tired of your highlights and want to go back to your natural hair color? Or perhaps you’re looking to change up your hairstyle and want to remove your existing highlights? Whatever the reason, getting rid of highlights can be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods you can use to remove highlights from your hair, including at-home remedies and professional salon treatments.
Understanding Highlights
Before we dive into the methods for removing highlights, it’s essential to understand how highlights work. Highlights are sections of hair that have been lightened using a chemical process. This process involves applying a lightener or bleach to the hair, which penetrates the hair shaft and breaks down the pigment. The result is a lighter, more vibrant color.
Types of Highlights
There are several types of highlights, including:
- Foil highlights: This is the most common type of highlight, where the hair is sectioned and wrapped in foil before the lightener is applied.
- Balayage highlights: This type of highlight involves painting the lightener onto the hair in a sweeping motion, creating a more natural, sun-kissed look.
- Lowlights: This type of highlight involves applying a darker color to the hair to create depth and dimension.
At-Home Remedies for Removing Highlights
If you’re looking to remove your highlights at home, there are several remedies you can try. Keep in mind that these methods may not be as effective as professional salon treatments, and may require multiple applications to achieve the desired results.
Color-Correcting Shampoo
One of the easiest ways to remove highlights at home is to use a color-correcting shampoo. These shampoos are specifically designed to neutralize and remove unwanted tones from the hair. Look for a shampoo that is formulated to remove highlights and follow the instructions carefully.
Baking Soda and Shampoo
Another at-home remedy for removing highlights is to mix baking soda with your regular shampoo. The baking soda helps to neutralize the alkalinity of the hair and remove the highlight color. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with your regular shampoo and apply to your hair. Leave on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient used to remove highlights from hair. However, it’s essential to use it with caution, as it can be harsh on the hair. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and apply to your hair. Leave on for 10-20 minutes before rinsing.
Professional Salon Treatments for Removing Highlights
If you’re looking for a more effective and long-lasting solution to remove your highlights, consider visiting a professional salon. There are several treatments you can try, including:
Color Correction
Color correction is a process that involves applying a color corrector to the hair to neutralize and remove unwanted tones. This process can be used to remove highlights and achieve a more natural color.
Color Removal
Color removal is a process that involves using a color remover to break down and remove the highlight color from the hair. This process can be used to remove both permanent and semi-permanent highlights.
Bleach or Lightener Removal
If you have bleach or lightener highlights, you may need to use a specialized removal treatment to remove the color. This process involves applying a remover to the hair to break down and remove the bleach or lightener.
Aftercare for Removed Highlights
Once you’ve removed your highlights, it’s essential to take good care of your hair to maintain the health and integrity of the hair shaft. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:
Moisturize
Removed highlights can leave the hair feeling dry and brittle. To combat this, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair hydrated and nourished.
Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage the hair, especially after removing highlights. Avoid using heat styling tools for at least a week after removing your highlights to allow the hair to recover.
Use a Color-Protecting Shampoo
If you’ve removed your highlights and want to maintain a natural color, use a color-protecting shampoo to keep the color looking vibrant and healthy.
Conclusion
Removing highlights from your hair can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right methods and aftercare, you can achieve a natural, healthy-looking color. Whether you choose to try at-home remedies or visit a professional salon, remember to take good care of your hair to maintain the health and integrity of the hair. With a little patience and the right techniques, you can say goodbye to unwanted highlights and hello to a beautiful, natural-looking color.
| Method | Effectiveness | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Color-Correcting Shampoo | Moderate | $10-$20 |
| Baking Soda and Shampoo | Mild | $0-$5 |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Harsh | $5-$10 |
| Color Correction | High | $50-$100 |
| Color Removal | High | $50-$100 |
| Bleach or Lightener Removal | High | $50-$100 |
Note: The costs listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the location and salon.
What are the common methods for removing highlights from hair?
There are several methods for removing highlights from hair, including using a color corrector, bleach, or a hair color remover. A color corrector is a product that is specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones in the hair, while bleach is a stronger solution that can be used to completely remove highlights. A hair color remover is a gentler option that can be used to remove highlights without causing damage to the hair.
It’s essential to note that the method used to remove highlights will depend on the type of highlights, the condition of the hair, and the desired outcome. For example, if you have permanent highlights, you may need to use a stronger solution like bleach, while semi-permanent highlights can be removed with a color corrector or hair color remover. It’s always best to consult a professional stylist before attempting to remove highlights from your hair.
How do I prepare my hair for highlight removal?
Before attempting to remove highlights from your hair, it’s crucial to prepare your hair properly. This includes washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup, and towel-drying your hair to remove excess moisture. You should also perform a strand test to determine the best method for removing the highlights and to check for any allergic reactions to the products you plan to use.
In addition to preparing your hair, you should also gather all the necessary products and equipment, including gloves, a tint brush, and a plastic cape. It’s also a good idea to have a conditioning treatment on hand to apply to your hair after the highlight removal process to help restore moisture and shine. By properly preparing your hair and having all the necessary products and equipment, you can ensure a successful highlight removal process.
What are the risks associated with removing highlights from hair?
Removing highlights from hair can be a damaging process, especially if you use harsh chemicals like bleach. Some of the risks associated with removing highlights include dryness, breakage, and frizz. You may also experience color fade or uneven color distribution, especially if you don’t use a high-quality color corrector or hair color remover.
To minimize the risks associated with removing highlights, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and applying a conditioning treatment after the process. You should also consider consulting a professional stylist, especially if you have previously colored or damaged hair. A professional stylist can help you determine the best method for removing highlights and minimize the risks associated with the process.
Can I remove highlights from my hair at home?
Yes, it is possible to remove highlights from your hair at home, but it’s not always recommended. Removing highlights can be a complex process, and if you don’t have experience with hair color correction, you may end up with uneven color distribution or damage to your hair. However, if you have previously colored or highlighted your hair at home and are comfortable with the process, you can try removing highlights using a color corrector or hair color remover.
If you do decide to remove highlights from your hair at home, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and applying a conditioning treatment after the process. It’s also essential to perform a strand test before applying the product to your entire head to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions.
How long does it take to remove highlights from hair?
The time it takes to remove highlights from hair can vary depending on the method used, the length and thickness of the hair, and the desired outcome. On average, the process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours. If you’re using a color corrector or hair color remover, the process typically takes around 20-30 minutes, while bleach can take longer, typically around 1-2 hours.
It’s also essential to consider the time it takes to prepare your hair for the highlight removal process, including washing and towel-drying your hair, and applying a conditioning treatment after the process. Additionally, if you’re removing highlights from a large section of hair, the process may take longer than if you’re only removing highlights from a small section.
Can I remove highlights from my hair without damaging it?
It is possible to remove highlights from your hair without damaging it, but it requires careful planning and execution. To minimize damage, it’s essential to use a high-quality color corrector or hair color remover, and to follow the instructions carefully. You should also take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and applying a conditioning treatment after the process.
In addition to using the right products and taking necessary precautions, it’s also essential to consider the condition of your hair before attempting to remove highlights. If your hair is already damaged or over-processed, it may be more prone to breakage or dryness during the highlight removal process. In this case, it’s best to consult a professional stylist who can help you determine the best method for removing highlights and minimizing damage.
What are the alternatives to removing highlights from hair?
If you’re not ready to commit to removing your highlights entirely, there are several alternatives you can consider. One option is to tone your highlights to a different color, which can help to neutralize unwanted tones and create a more natural look. Another option is to use a color-depositing treatment to add moisture and shine to your hair, while also helping to blend your highlights with your natural color.
Additionally, you can also consider getting a gloss treatment, which can help to add shine and depth to your hair, while also helping to blend your highlights with your natural color. These alternatives can be a great way to update your look without committing to a full highlight removal process. It’s always best to consult a professional stylist to determine the best alternative for your hair type and desired outcome.