Are you feeling stuck with a hair color you no longer love? Or you want to fade your hair color at home but leave your hair feeling soft and healthy. Whether you're dealing with a dye mishap or simply want to start fresh, finding the right shampoo for stripping hair color is key.

In this article, we will explore the top shampoo options that effectively help fade or remove hair dye, allowing you to achieve a blank canvas for your next hair color experiment.

Bring on the magic in clarifying shampoos

Clarifying shampoos are a highly effective solution for eliminating buildup of hair products and excess oils from your hair. They can also be used to gradually fade hair dye over time. The formula used in clarifying shampoos typically includes ingredients that help break down and fade hair color.

These shampoos differ from regular shampoos in that they are specially formulated to remove buildup from your hair and scalp. They contain ingredients such as apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil which have cleansing and purifying properties that help to remove hair color and restore hair health.

If you want to dye your hair, it's important to choose a shampoo and conditioner or hair mask specifically formulated for color-treated hair to help maintain its vibrancy and longevity; and in case you change your mind, opt for a shampoo for to effectively fade the color.

If you're looking to remove the color from your hair or lighten it, using a specialized shampoo strip can help effectively remove the color and achieve your desired hair transformation.

"It is important to note that clarifying shampoos are stronger than regular shampoos, and therefore should not be used on a daily hair care routine. Overuse of anti-residue shampoos can lead to the removal of natural oils from the hair, which can result in dryness", says a specialist in color treatments at a top salon.

What is a good stripping shampoo?

A good hair stripping shampoo is formulated to remove all types of buildup from the hair, including product buildup, minerals, and other impurities. Some of the key characteristics of a good stripping shampoo include:

1. Deep cleaning action:

A good stripping shampoo is designed to penetrate the hair shaft and effectively remove dirt and buildup. It should have a strong cleansing action that cuts through oils, waxy substances, and other residues that can weigh down the hair.

2. Gentle formulation

While a stripping shampoo is meant to deeply cleanse the hair, it should still be gentle enough to avoid damaging the hair. The shampoo should be free of harsh sulfates and other ingredients that can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.

3. Moisturizing properties

To counter the drying effects of a stripping shampoo, it should contain moisturizing ingredients that help hydrate and nourish the hair. Ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or argan oil can help to restore moisture, leaving hair soft, shiny, and healthy. These ingredients in shampoo is gentle enough for everyday use.

4. pH balanced

The best stripping shampoos are pH balanced to ensure they don't alter the natural pH of the scalp. This helps to maintain a healthy scalp environment and promote healthy hair growth.

5. Professional-grade color stripping agents

These hair treatments are loaded with harsh chemical agents to lighten hair, unlike clarifying shampoo that strips off the color pigments from the hair comparatively gently. It also clears off deep-rooted dirt and grime from the hair, making the tresses squeaky clean. And if you use a clarifying shampoo to remove hair dye the right way, it can even be a healthy detox for your scalp and hair.

6. Clear shampoo

Clear shampoo is a brand of shampoo known for its focus on scalp health and providing nourishment to the hair. Using a Clear shampoo to remove hair color may leave the hair feeling rough or dry, but this is a normal side effect of the cleansing process.

To maximize the shampoo's effectiveness to cover up the color, it's important to apply it evenly throughout the hair and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. While Clear shampoo may not remove all types of hair color, it can be a gentler and less harsh option than other methods such as bleaching or using color-removing products.

7. Use anti-dandruff shampoos cautiously

Anti-dandruff shampoos contain active ingredients such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, and selenium sulfide, which are specifically designed to target the fungus or yeast that causes dandruff.

These ingredients can also strip your hair color, particularly if they contain a high concentration of active ingredients. Not only do these shampoos tackle dandruff, but they also fade hair dye. So, if you want to leave your hair feeling clean, fresh, and free from visible flakes and fade away dye, this may be an easy solution!

8. What shampoos will strip hair color?

The scalp and hair shaft is the foundation for healthy hair, promoting strong and vibrant strands. Shampoos with harsh sulfates and clarifying shampoos can potentially strip hair color and damage the hair shaft.

Specifically, look for shampoos that contain sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, or ammonium lauryl sulfate. These ingredients can be very drying and can cause color to fade faster.

Understanding these characteristics will definitely help you to say goodbye to dull, lifeless hair and hello to revitalized tresses!

If you're looking to remove or fade your hair dye, you have several home-based options available that can work just as effectively as professional products.

While you may not return your hair to its natural color, these products can strip away the current dye, making it easier to apply a new color. The most effective options for removing hair dye are artificial color removers and deep-cleaning shampoos.

To help you find the perfect shampoo for your better dyed hair care routine, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best clarifying shampoos that remove hair color available on the market.

We have also assessed the popularity of the products and why, that is: their effectiveness of deep cleansing shampoo to remove buildup, whether they are suitable for all hair concerns and hair types, and their unique features such as color preservation, invigorating scents, or scalp stimulation.

This post includes affiliate links. To learn more, please check out the full disclosure with all the details.

OUAI Detox Shampoo

This clarifying treatment is designed to eliminate product buildup, hard water residue, dirt, and oil from your hair. It is recommended to use it once or twice a week for best results. Consider it as a fresh start for your hair, and you can repeat the process next week. The shampoo is highly concentrated and formulated with apple cider vinegar to restore your hair's health after being overworked

Pros

• Deep Cleansing formulation to help in removing product buildup, excess oils, and impurities from the hair and scalp
• Refreshing Formula to lighten hair color and leaves the hair feeling clean, light, and revitalized
• Nourishing Ingredients like apple cider vinegar, hydrolyzed keratin, and jasmine extract, without stripping it of its natural oils
• Suitable for All Hair Types makes it a versatile option for anyone looking to clarify their hair

Cons

• Potential Dryness : Some users with already dry or sensitive hair may find that the deep-cleansing properties of the shampoo can lead to slight dryness. It is important to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask.
• Scent Sensitivity: While many users appreciate the fragrance of the shampoo, individuals who are sensitive to strong scents may find it overpowering.

Popularity

OUAI Detox Shampoo has gained popularity among individuals who are looking for a powerful clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and refresh their hair. The brand OUAI, founded by celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin, has a strong following and is known for its high-quality hair care products.

The sleek packaging, effective cleansing abilities, and nourishing ingredients of OUAI Detox Shampoo have contributed to its popularity among beauty enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable clarifying shampoo option.

Nexxus Clean and Pure Clarifying Shampoo

Clean & Pure offers one of the best clarifying, hydrating shampoo that contains a unique blend of elastin protein and marine minerals called ProteinFusion. This blend helps to moisturize and nourish hair, to get your hair back to being smooth and healthy-looking.

Pros

• Deep Cleansing formulation
• Gentle Formula for all types of hair
• Weightless Feel and fades color without leaving hair heavy or greasy

Cons

• Deep Cleansing formulation
• Potential Dryness and will need nourishing conditioner or hair mask to restore moisture.
• Not for Daily Use to avoid over-stripping the hair.

Popularity

This shampoo has gained immense popularity among hair care enthusiasts. The brand's reputation for producing high-quality products, combined with the shampoo's effectiveness, has contributed to its success. Many users appreciate its ability to remove buildup, revitalize the hair, and leave it feeling refreshed. Additionally, its versatile formula makes it suitable for a wide range of hair types, further boosting its popularity.

Kenra Clarifying Shampoo

This shampoo is designed to remove buildup from styling products, hard water, and other impurities that can dull the hair. It contains a blend of botanical extracts that help to soothe and nourish the scalp while restoring the hair's natural shine.

Pros:

• Gets rid of buildup from styling products and hard water
• Botanical extracts for conditioning hair, nourish and soothe the scalp
• Restores hair's natural shine and manageability

Cons:

• Some users may find it too drying for daily use
• The scent may not appeal to everyone

Popularity

Kenra Clarifying Shampoo is popular among individuals who use a lot of styling products and are seeking a deep cleansing solution. Its ability to cleanse buildup while maintaining scalp health has contributed to its popularity.

Kérastase Bain Divalent

This shampoo is specially formulated for oily to combination hair, effectively eradicates excess oil and product buildup while maintaining hydration. It is one of the best shampoos for ensuring pH balance to protect the scalp’s natural moisture barrier and contains a blend of purifying ingredients and nourishing vitamins

Pros

• Cleaning shampoo to remove hair color that is specifically formulated for oily to combination hair
• Eradicates excess oil and product buildup
• pH balanced to protect the scalp's moisture barrier

Cons

• May not provide enough hydration for very dry hair
• Relatively higher price point

Popularity

Kérastase Bain Divalent is popular among individuals with oily or combination hair who struggle with excess oil and scalp issues. Its ability to regulate oil production while maintaining hydration has garnered a loyal following for shampoo strips hair.

Color Oops Hair Color Remover

This product aims to get rid of hair dye - both permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes - without damaging colored hair. It works by breaking down the dye molecules and lifting them out of the hair shaft. It is recommended to follow up with a clarifying shampoo to further lighten the hair.

Pros

• Lighten the hair color for both permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes
• Breaks down dye molecules without damaging the color of your hair

Cons

• Results may vary depending on the individual's hair type and dye used
• Some users may experience dryness or hair texture changes after use

Popularity

Color Oops Hair Color Remover is popular among individuals as one of the best clarifying shampoos to remove unwanted hair color without bleach or harsh chemicals. Its ability to effectively lift color and versatility with different dye types has made it a popular choice.

PHILIP B. Peppermint Avocado Volumizing & Clarifying Shampoo

Effortlessly eliminate excess color from hair tips, tackle stubborn stains on clothing, and swiftly erase tint from the skin with this versatile solution of Peppermint Oil, mixed with rare plant extracts.

Pros

• For normal to oily hair as well as thin, limp, flat or very fine hair
• Helps fade semi-permanent hair dye over time
• Gets rid of buildup and leaves hair shiny and healthy
• Suitable for regular use without excessive drying

Cons

• Not specifically designed for hair dye removal, may not be as effective on permanent dyes
• Results may vary depending on the individual's hair type and color saturation

Popularity

A gentle clarifying shampoo enriched with Avocado Oil for men and women. Its ability to cleanse the hair while maintaining its overall health and shine has gained it popularity among those seeking a gentle color fading option.

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Formula Shampoo

This classic clarifying shampoo is a favorite among many. It effectively removes residue and buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils, leaving it clean and refreshed.

Pros

• Results may vary depending on the individual's hair type and color saturation
• Effectively removes residue and buildup
• Doesn't strip the hair of natural oils
• Leaves hair clean and refreshed

Cons

• Some may find the scent to be strong

Popularity

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Formula Shampoo is highly popular due to its effectiveness in removing buildup without drying out the hair. It is also widely available and affordable.

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo

Infused with argan oil and keratin, this clarifying shampoo gently cleanses the hair while nourishing and strengthening it. It restores hair's natural shine and manages to maintain moisture balance.

Pros

• Infused with nourishing argan oil and keratin
• Gently cleanses and strengthens the hair
• Restores natural shine

Cons

• Some users with oily hair may find it too heavy

Popularity

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo to lighten hair is popular among those seeking a clarifying shampoo that also provides nourishment and moisture to the hair. Its reputation for delivering salon-quality results has contributed to its popularity.

Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo Three

Ideal for frequent swimmers or those with hard water buildup, this shampoo deep cleanses the hair, removing chlorine, minerals, and product buildup. It leaves the hair soft, manageable, and ready for further styling.

Pros

• Shampoo that strip color and deeply cleanses and removes chlorine and mineral buildup
• Some users with oily hair may find it too heavy
• Leaves hair soft and manageable
• Ideal for swimmers and hard water areas
• Removes chlorine

Cons

• May leave the hair feeling slightly dry

Popularity

Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo Three is highly popular among swimmers and individuals living in areas with hard water which causes damage to your hair. Its ability to effectively remove chlorine and mineral buildup makes it a top choice.

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

Formulated with natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, this clarifying shampoo removes impurities, excess oil, and dandruff while maintaining the pH balance of the scalp. It promotes healthy hair growth and adds volume.

Pros

• Contains natural apple cider vinegar to remove impurities
• Balances the pH of the scalp
• Promotes healthy hair growth and adds volume

Cons

• Some may find the scent too strong

Popularity

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is popular for its use of natural ingredients and its ability to restore the scalp's pH balance. It has gained a reputation for promoting healthy hair growth and leaving the hair with a noticeable volume boost.

Kinky-Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo

Perfect for curly and kinky hair types, this clarifying shampoo gently cleanses without stripping away natural oils. It removes product residue and buildup, leaving the hair soft, defined, and moisturized.

Pros

• Specifically designed for curly and kinky hair types
• Gently cleanses without stripping natural oils
• Defines and moisturizes the hair

Cons

• May not be as effective for individuals with straight or fine hair

Popularity

Kinky-Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo is highly popular among individuals with curly and kinky hair. Its ability to cleanse and moisturize without weighing down the hair has made it a favorite choice if you wear natural hair styles.

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo

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Infused with charcoal and coconut oil, this clarifying shampoo detoxifies the scalp, removing impurities and excess oil. It also provides a gentle exfoliation, promoting a healthy scalp environment for hair growth.

Pros

• Contains detoxifying charcoal and nourishing coconut oil
• Cleanses and exfoliates the scalp
• Promotes a healthy scalp environment for hair growth
• Treatment for Dry & Itchy Scalp
• Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up removal

Cons

• May not be suitable for sensitive scalps

Popularity

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is popular due to its unique combination of detoxifying and nourishing ingredients. It is highly sought after by individuals looking to improve scalp health and promote hair growth.

Pantene Pro-V Damage Detox Clarifying Shampoo

Specifically formulated to repair and protect damaged chemically treated hair, this clarifying shampoo removes impurities and buildup while replenishing essential nutrients. It leaves the hair clean, smooth, and resilient.

Pros

• Repairs and protects damaged hair
• Removes impurities and buildup
• Leaves hair smooth and resilient

Cons

• Some users may find it to be less effective for severe buildup

Popularity

Pantene Pro-V Damage Detox Clarifying Shampoo is popular for its ability to repair and protect damaged hair. Its reputation for providing a thorough cleanse and restoring hair's health has made it a go-to choice for those with damaged locks.

Pureology Purify Shampoo

Ideal for color-treated hair, this clarifying shampoo gently removes buildup and impurities without stripping away the hair's color. It maintains vibrancy and keeps the hair looking fresh and vibrant.

Pros

• Designed for color-treated hair
• Effectively removes buildup without fading color
• Maintains vibrancy and keeps hair looking fresh
• Softens and Deeply Hydrates Dry Hair 

Cons

• Cons:
• Relatively higher price point
• Some users may find it less moisturizing for dry hair

Popularity

Pureology Purify Shampoo is popular among individuals with color-treated hair who want a clarifying shampoo that won't compromise their hair color. Its ability to cleanse effectively without stripping color has contributed to its popularity among those who value hair color preservation.

Deep cleansing shampoos

Similar to clarifying shampoos to remove color, deep cleansing shampoos can penetrate the hair shaft and remove stubborn hair dye. These shampoos often have a stronger detergent formula to effectively unclog and remove buildup from hair follicles. They also typically contain ingredients such as tea tree oil or salicylic acid to help remove excess oil and dirt from the scalp.

Deep cleansing shampoos should be used sparingly, as frequent use can strip hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and damage. They are best used once a week or after prolonged exposure to hard water, chlorine, or styling products.

When using a deep cleansing shampoo, it is important to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to restore the hair's natural balance. formula that targets color molecules, helping to gradually fade the color.

When using any of these products, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to not leave the product on for longer than recommended.

Last Thoughts

In a nutshell, each of these products presents distinctive features and advantages, catering to those seeking the finest clarifying shampoo for hair color removal or hair rejuvenation.

The appeal of these products fluctuates according to their performance, their intended consumer base, and their standing in the industry. When choosing the ideal product, it's crucial to take into account factors such as your hair type, color, and desired results.

With the right shampoo, you can easily and safely remove unwanted hair dye and start fresh with a new color.

Get started – choose the perfect product for your needs now!

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