How To Get Hair Dye Off Your Scalp: 7 Key Methods Explained

Cute African American female wearing Splat hair dye from a professional colorist on dark brown curls.

No matter how careful you are when dyeing your hair, you’re likely to get some of the hair color on your scalp. These stains are unsightly and can really put a damper on your new hairstyle.

If you’re looking for a way to eliminate scalp stains, you’re in the right place.

How To Get Hair Dye Off Your Scalp: Step-by-Step

In this article, we will share how to get hair dye off your scalp with several no-fuss methods.

Key Takeaways

  • Natural Oils for Sensitive Skin. Utilize natural oils like coconut or baby oil to gently remove hair dye stains from the scalp. This method is effective for sensitive skin, avoiding skin irritation while moisturizing the hair.
  • Makeup Remover and Cotton Swabs. Apply makeup remover with cotton swabs in a circular motion to cleanse the scalp of permanent hair dyes. This is a great way for quick and effective stain removal, especially with oil-based makeup removers.
  • DIY Exfoliant for Dry Skin. Mix granulated sugar and olive oil to create a mild abrasive exfoliant, ideal for dry skin. This homemade solution helps remove excess hair dye and is gentle on the scalp.
  • Non-Gel Toothpaste and Soft-Bristled Toothbrush. For stubborn dye stains, use a small amount of non-gel toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This method is effective in lifting dye from the scalp without causing skin irritation.
  • Hair Color Stain Remover for Last Resort. If all else fails, use a hair color stain remover with a cotton swab, carefully avoiding the hair shaft. This is an effective way to remove leftover dye, especially suitable for at-home dye jobs.

1. Natural Oils

Natural oils may be your best bet to remove semi-permanent hair dye from your scalp. They break down the pigment in dyes, causing stains to fade while moisturizing and conditioning the hair. Moreover, you can use any natural oil you have on hand.

Although natural oils, like coconut oil, effectively eliminate stains from the scalp, this method is not a quick fix. It takes several hours to get substantial results.

But it is well worth it because the oil won’t leave your scalp dry and irritated as other methods can. Keep reading to learn how to use natural oils to get hair dye off your scalp.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Pour a small amount of oil directly onto the stained area of the scalp.
  2. Massage the oil gently into the affected area. 
  3. Repeat the steps above until all stained areas are covered.
  4. Cover your head with the plastic cap and let the oil sit for 4 to 8 hours. The longer, the better.
  5. Rinse scalp with warm water.
  6. Shampoo and condition hair.

Because this technique requires you to shampoo your hair, it should not be used on freshly dyed hair. To avoid losing color, wait at least 2 to 3 days after dyeing.

Happy American woman wearing a curly ponytail with her edges styled with baby oil and petroleum jelly.

2. Makeup Remover

It may seem strange to use makeup remover on your hair since it is designed to be used on the face. But this product is completely safe to use on the scalp.

Makeup remover contains active ingredients that are strong enough to cleanse the scalp of permanent hair dye within minutes.

To get the best results from this method, use a makeup remover formulated to remove waterproof makeup. These products have more stain-removing power than traditional makeup removers.

In addition, oil-based makeup removers are also more effective because oil helps to gently loosen the dye from the scalp.

Read on to learn how to use this product to clean dye stains from your scalp.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Saturate the cotton ball or cotton pad with makeup remover.
  2. Gently scrub the stained areas of the scalp.
  3. Repeat the steps above until the dye begins to loosen.
  4. Rinse the scalp with warm water.

Note: Many ladies have also had success using nail polish remover, rubbing alcohol, and dish soap to remove hair dye from stained skin, including their scalp.

Lovely African American girl with moisturizing cream on her face and hands wearing a light pink sweater.

3. DIY Exfoliant

Exfoliants provide a quick, natural way to remove semi-permanent dye stains from the scalp. They are abrasive, which helps remove dead skin cells from the scalp along with the hair color pigment.

Although exfoliants are safe and effective, they can irritate the scalp if used too frequently. So, you should only use this method once every three days until the stains disappear.

Additionally, try to wait at least 2 to 3 days after dyeing your hair to use your exfoliant because you’ll have to wash your hair after applying it.

In this section, you’ll find instructions on making and applying your own scalp exfoliant.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Add 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the bowl. Use a spoon to mix the ingredients.
  2. Gently massage the exfoliant into your scalp using your fingers.
  3. Let the exfoliant sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the scalp with warm water.
  5. Shampoo and condition hair.

4. Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are powerful cleansers that activate within seconds to lift stains from semi-permanent and permanent dyes. In this section, we will explain how to use these ingredients to remove the tint from your scalp.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda in the bottle.
  2. Carefully pour the mixture onto the stained areas of the scalp.
  3. Massage the solution into the scalp and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Rinse the scalp thoroughly with warm water.
Woman pointing down with fingers wearing a fluffy sweater with 3B natural curls.

5. Toothpaste

Toothpaste’s stain-fighting power is not limited to your teeth. Thanks to its lightning ingredients, it can also lift semi-permanent dye stains from your scalp.

However, the stain-lifting process is not immediate, so this method may have to be repeated several times. Moreover, toothpaste doesn’t just remove the dye; it removes a layer of skin along with it.

So, it should be applied no more than three times per week. Below are instructions on how to scrub your scalp with toothpaste.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto the toothbrush.
  2. Gently brush the stained areas of the scalp using the toothbrush.
  3. Repeat the above steps on all stained sections of the scalp.
  4. Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water.
African American female wearing natural make-up and diamond earrings while dancing.

6. Hair Color Stain Remover

Hair color stain removers, like Malibu Color Pigment Remover and Ion Hair Color Remover, are a foolproof way to instantly remove stains from the scalp. These cleansers work well on both semi-permanent and permanent dyes.

However, many of these stain removers contain alcohol that can be drying to the scalp. So, be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to prevent scalp irritation.

Because these stain removers are formulated to remove the color from both the scalp and hair, you have to apply them carefully to avoid losing your new hair color.

Keep reading to learn the trick to removing stains from your scalp while keeping your hair color vibrant.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Saturate the end of the Q-tip with the hair color stain remover.
  2. Gently rub the Q-tip into the stained areas of the scalp. Be careful not to rub the solution on your hair directly to avoid losing color.
  3. Repeat the above steps until the stains begin lifting.
  4. Rinse your scalp thoroughly with warm water.
A black woman with her face covered with her hands wearing dark brown 3B naturally curly hair.

7. Use the Hair Dye Itself

Using hair dye to remove hair dye seems counterintuitive, but it actually works. When you apply fresh dye over the dried layer on the scalp, the color reactivates, lifting the stain right out.

This hack works on all dyes, including semi-permanent and permanent. Here’s how you can use your dye to clear your scalp of any remaining color.

What You’ll Need

Instructions

  1. Dampen hair and scalp with water.
  2. Rub a small amount of dye onto the stained areas of the scalp.
  3. Gently massage the dye into the scalp.
  4. Rinse the dye out with warm water.
  5. Shampoo and condition hair.

What Happens If I Do Nothing?

While most people try their best to remove hair dye stains from their scalp and skin, some people decide to let the color fade on its own. Though leaving dye residue on your scalp is low risk, there are some consequences you’ll want to be aware of.

Stains Will Fade on Their Own

If you leave hair dye on your scalp, the pigment will gradually fade as the skin cells on your scalp shed. This process takes about one to two weeks.

May Cause Minor Scalp Irritation

You could experience minor scalp irritation, including mild itching and burning, if you leave a large amount of dye on your scalp. This irritation is caused by the harsh chemicals found in dyes.

Could Cause Buildup

Leaving behind a thick layer of dye on your scalp could cause minor buildup as you apply more products to your hair. If this buildup is left untreated, it could require harsh cleaners to remove.

Key Takeaways

Welcome to our FAQ section about removing hair dye from your scalp. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions that will help you safely and effectively handle hair dye stains.

What Gets Hair Dye off of Scalp?

To remove hair dye from the scalp, use natural oils like baby oil, a makeup remover, or a DIY exfoliant made from sugar and olive oil. These methods are effective for different skin types and work by breaking down the dye’s pigments. Non-gel toothpaste applied with a soft-bristled toothbrush can be used for stubborn stains. If these methods don’t work, you can use specially-made hair dye stain removers to solve the problem.

What Gets Hair Dye off Your Head?

Removing hair dye from your head can be achieved through several methods. You can use natural oils, makeup remover, a DIY sugar and olive oil exfoliant, non-gel toothpaste, or a commercial hair dye stain remover. These options cater to different skin types and levels of sensitivity. They ensure the effective removal of hair dye without causing skin irritation. It’s important to select a method that suits your skin type and scalp’s sensitivity.

Does Hair Dye Wash Off the Scalp?

Hair dye can eventually wash off the scalp, but this process is gradual and depends on the type of dye used and your hair care routine. Using anti-dandruff shampoo or a mild abrasive like a sugar and olive oil exfoliant can expedite the removal of dye from the scalp. Regular washing with these products can help lift the dye from the hair cuticles and scalp over time.

What Happens if Hair Dye Gets on Scalp?

If hair dye gets on the scalp, it can lead to temporary staining of the skin. This is generally harmless. However, some individuals may experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. These issues can be magnified if the dye is left on for an extended period. It’s advisable to remove the dye promptly using gentle methods. Natural oils or makeup removers are often good options to prevent discomfort or staining.

How to Keep Hair Dye Off Scalp?

To prevent hair dye stains on the scalp, apply a barrier cream or petroleum jelly along the hairline and ears before starting the dyeing process. Wearing gloves can also help apply the dye more precisely, reducing the risk of getting dye on the scalp. For those doing an at-home dye job, having a damp towel on hand is beneficial. The towel lets you immediately wipe off any dye that may accidentally come in contact with the scalp.

What Naturally Removes Hair Dye?

Removing hair dye with natural methods can be achieved through several methods. For example, you can use natural oils, like baby oil or olive oil, which break down the dye pigments, or a DIY exfoliant made from sugar and olive oil. These ingredients effectively gently lift the dye from the hair cuticle and skin without causing irritation. Additionally, you can use an anti-dandruff shampoo known for its dye-removing properties. It’s another natural way to gradually fade hair dye from the hair.

What Removes Permanent Hair Dye From the Skin?

To remove permanent hair dye from the skin, use a makeup remover formulated for waterproof makeup. Another method is to gently scrub the stained area with a non-gel toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Using a DIY sugar and olive oil exfoliant for a natural approach can help lift the dye. A commercial hair dye stain remover is recommended for its targeted effectiveness in more stubborn cases.

What Gets Black Hair Dye off Skin?

Removing black hair dye from the skin can be challenging due to its strong pigments. Natural oils like olive or baby oil can help loosen the dye. Applying a makeup remover, especially an oil-based one, can effectively dissolve the dye. For tougher stains, a mixture of baking soda and dish soap applied gently can aid in lifting the dye off the skin. It’s essential to use these methods with care to avoid skin irritation.

Does Vaseline Remove Hair Dye From Skin?

Vaseline doesn’t directly remove hair dye from the skin but acts as a protective barrier to prevent staining. Before dyeing your hair, apply Vaseline to your hairline and ears. This will significantly reduce the chance of dye getting on your skin. If you already have stains, Vaseline might help loosen the dye. You can also try using a makeup remover or a gentle scrub. However, Vaseline alone is not a strong dye remover.

Related Articles

Lingering hair dye stains can be a pain, especially when they’re on the scalp. But with a bit of time and patience, you can remove them right at home. We hope this article gives you the tips and information you need to remove dye stains from your scalp with ease.

Kenneth Byrd, with a BS in Accounting and Management Information Systems and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has over 15 years of experience and is a recognized authority in hair care. Co-founder of Curl Centric® and Natural Hair Box, Kenneth has dedicated himself to promoting ethical and scientifically-backed hair care practices. Rigorous editorial guidelines, industry recognitions, and features in numerous media outlets evidence his expertise. Kenneth’s commitment to transparency, quality, and empowerment has positioned him as a trusted voice in the field, empowering readers to confidently embrace their natural beauty.

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