HOW TO REMOVE SEMI-PERMANENT COLOR AT HOME (SAFELY)
When you’re ready for a fresh canvas—whether to correct a shade, reduce brass, or go natural—knowing how to safely remove semi-permanent color is crucial. Overtone’s damage-free system means you have options: clarifying, gradual fade, or gentle corrective methods. Here’s your step-by-step guide.
1. CLARIFYING SHAMPOO METHOD
Why It Works
Clarifying shampoos strip oils and buildup—and with them, some pigment.
Recommended Product:
The Fader Clarifying Shampoo
Steps:
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Wet Hair with Warm Water. Warmth opens cuticles.
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Lather The Fader. Massage into roots and lengths.
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Wait 3 Minutes. Let active ingredients work.
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Rinse & Repeat. Two to three passes accelerate fade.
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Follow with The Gloss. Use a 5-minute session to restore moisture.
2. BAKING SODA & ANTI-DANDRUFF SHAMPOO
Why It Works
Zinc pyrithione and sodium lauryl sulfate can gently strip pigment.
DIY Mix:
1 tbsp baking soda + 2 tbsp anti-dandruff shampoo
Steps:
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Combine Ingredients. In a bowl, mix into paste.
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Apply to Damp Hair. Focus on dyed areas.
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Massage & Wait 5–7 Minutes. Use fingertips to work the paste in.
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Rinse Thoroughly. Follow with ColorCare Sulfate-Free Shampoo to rebalance.
3. VITAMIN C HAIR MASK
Why It Works
Ascorbic acid breaks down pigment molecules.
DIY Mask:
Crush 10–15 vitamin C tablets into 2 tbsp shampoo
Steps:
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Mix & Apply. Combine in a bowl, apply to damp hair.
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Process 20 Minutes Under Cap. Use a warm towel or hairdryer on low.
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Rinse & Condition. Finish with The Gloss or Color Depositing Treatment Mask to rehydrate.
4. GRADUAL FADE TECHNIQUE
Why It Works
Allowing color to naturally wash out over multiple shampoos minimizes damage.
Routine:
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Alternate The Fader with ColorCare Sulfate-Free Shampoo
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Follow every other wash with The Gloss
5. WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
If you’ve used high-pigment neon or pastel shades and the DIY methods aren’t enough, consult a stylist for a low-damage corrective service—such as a glaze reduction or professional color remover.
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FAQs FROM THE OVERTONE COMMUNITY
Q: Can I speed up the fade without damage?
A: Use The Fader once, then shampoo with ColorCare, following with The Gloss to protect hair.
Q: Will baking soda ruin my hair?
A: Infrequent use (1–2 times) is safe when followed by deep conditioning.
Q: Does vitamin C work on all colors?
A: Best on reds and pastels; darker colors may require multiple treatments.