Try These Hair Color Removers When You Want to Fix a Dye Job

Whether your latest drugstore hair dye session didn't turn out quite as you expected or you're just ready for a change, sometimes removing the artificial dye from your hair is the first step to getting the look you really want. But what if you can't get to the salon? Enter: the best hair color removers. These products are designed to help you lift artificial color from your hair right at home.

To be clear, removing hair dye is a tricky process, so your best bet is to leave it to the pros. "Lifting color from your hair takes time, skill, and precision to execute even for a seasoned professional," warns Lo Wheeler Davis, a blonding expert/educator and brand ambassador for the salon haircare brand Kenra. While a professional colorist will take a customized approach to your color correction needs, over-the-counter color removal solutions typically offer a one-size-fits-all approach, and many contain harsh chemicals that can do more damage than good. "I recommend seeing a licensed professional for any type of hair color removal," Davis says.

All this said, if you're determined to remove color from your hair at home, there are plenty of DIY products on the market. Some are designed to lift permanent artificial hair color, while others will only work on semi-permanent dyes. Looking for formulas that don't contain harsh ingredients like ammonia and bleach? We've got you covered. You'll also find gentler alternatives like special shampoos, which can help soften harsh hues without completely stripping the dye from your hair. Keep reading to find some of the best hair color removers for every situation. And if you're looking for general hair-dye inspiration, check out these fall hair color ideas and the best red hair with highlights looks.