Will Vitamin C and Clarifying Shampoo Lighten Black Henna Dye on My Hair?
Removing black henna dye from your hair can be a challenging task, but using vitamin C and clarifying shampoos is a common method people try. This article breaks down how this combination can work, its effectiveness, and alternative methods for achieving the desired results.
Understanding the Mechanism
Vitamin C: Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, can act as a mild bleaching agent. It helps to break down the dye molecules in henna, potentially lightening the color. This can be achieved by crushing vitamin C tablets, mixing them with water to form a paste, and then applying it to your hair for about 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
Clarifying Shampoo: Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and can strip some color from dyed hair. They contain stronger surfactants than regular shampoos, effectively removing excess dye and buildup.
Application Methods
For Vitamin C: Crush vitamin C tablets and mix with water to create a paste. Apply this paste to your hair, leaving it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
For Clarifying Shampoo: Use the clarifying shampoo several times in a row, allowing it to sit on your hair for a few minutes each time to maximize its effects. This method helps to remove dye build-up and improve overall hair health.
Considerations and Safety
Results: The effectiveness of this combination can vary based on factors such as hair type, the specific henna product used, and the duration of the dye application. Additionally, black henna can sometimes contain additional dyes or chemicals that may not respond to these treatments as regular henna would.
Henna Type: Be aware that black henna can contain additional dyes or chemicals, so the treatment might not be as effective as it is for regular henna.
Hair Health: Frequent use of clarifying shampoos can cause dryness, so it is recommended to follow up with a good conditioner or hair mask.
Strand Test: Before applying the mixture to your entire head, do a strand test to see how your hair reacts to the treatment.
Alternative Methods
If these methods do not yield the desired results, you might consider consulting a professional stylist. They can provide safer and more effective alternatives for removing or lightening the dye. Another effective method involves:
Neutralizing Metallic Salts and Removing Henna
Step 1: Neutralize Metallic Salts
Begin by shampooing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove hair buildup. Blow dry or air dry until completely dry. Soak your hair with high-proof vodka (e.g., Everclear) for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with hot water, shampoo with a clarifying shampoo, and then deep condition.
This process breaks down metallic salts into sodium ethoxide and hydrogen sodium ethoxide, which are ethanol-soluble, allowing for safe rinsing with water. Perform this in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling hydrogen gases.
Step 2: Remove the Henna
Apply a mixture of olive oil and coconut oil, covering your hair with a shower cap for at least 2 hours. Rinse your hair with hot water and shampoo with a clarifying shampoo. This method requires patience due to the fade-resistant nature of henna. Usually, after about 4 treatments, your hair will become significantly lighter.
Remember, these methods may not be effective for all hair types and may require adjustments based on your personal experience and hair characteristics.