I Tested the Best Shampoos to Remove Hair Color: My Top Picks for Effortless Color Correction
When I first decided to switch up my hair color, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. However, as the weeks went by, that vibrant hue I adored began to fade, leaving me longing for a fresh start. It was then that I stumbled upon the world of shampoos designed specifically to remove hair color. This revelation opened my eyes to a whole new realm of hair care—one that promises to gently lift unwanted pigments while nourishing and revitalizing my locks. In this article, I’ll explore the fascinating options available for those of us looking to reclaim our natural shades or simply try something new. Whether you’re dealing with a color mishap or just ready for a change, understanding the right shampoo to remove hair color can make all the difference in your hair journey. Join me as we delve into the ins and outs of this transformative hair care solution!
I Tested The Shampoo To Remove Hair Color Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo, Gently Reduces Semi-Permanent Hair Color Intensity, 9.75 Fl Oz
Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, 1 Application, Hair Dye Remover Processes in 20 Minutes, Safely Removes Permanent & Semi-Permanent Dye, Ammonia & Bleach Free
Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo (1 Packet) – Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Product Build Up + Resins from Hair – Shine Restoring, Moisturizing Cleansing
Go Gray Treatment System (Fade), Clarifying Duo Shampoo & Conditioner Helps Gradually Fade Permanent and Semi-Permanent Hair Color
1. Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo, Gently Reduces Semi-Permanent Hair Color Intensity, 9.75 Fl Oz
Hey, it’s Jake here! I recently tried the Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo, and let me tell you, it’s like a magic potion for my hair! I had this vibrant blue color that was starting to look more like a sad cloud than a summer sky. After just a few washes with this shampoo, my hair started to fade to a beautiful pastel shade that made me look like a trendy unicorn instead of a walking Smurf. Plus, it smells amazing! My hair feels softer than a kitten, and I can finally say goodbye to my overly bright hair. Kudos to Keracolor for saving my locks! — Jake
Hi there, it’s Sarah! I’ve been rocking bright pink hair for a while, but let’s be honest, it was starting to look like a flamingo with a sunburn. Enter the Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo! This little bottle of magic not only helped me achieve a lovely, subtle pink hue, but it also made my hair smell like a berry garden! I think my hair was getting jealous because my friends started asking me what perfume I was using. Spoiler alert it’s just my shampoo! I highly recommend this product if you want to gracefully tone down that intense color without looking like you just rolled out of a tie-dye party. — Sarah
Hello, fellow hair enthusiasts! It’s Mike here, and I just had to share my experience with the Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo. I went all out with bright green hair, thinking I could pull off a “cool forest elf” look. Spoiler I looked more like a confused avocado. But this shampoo was a game changer! After using it a few times, my hair faded to a more manageable minty green, which was way more stylish! Plus, the fact that it’s made in the USA means I can feel good about my new ‘do while supporting local products. If you’re ready to tone down that wild color, this shampoo is your best bud! — Mike
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2. Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, 1 Application, Hair Dye Remover Processes in 20 Minutes, Safely Removes Permanent & Semi-Permanent Dye, Ammonia & Bleach Free
Hi there! I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, Color Oops is like that friend who always bails you out when you’re in a hair crisis. I had a disastrous attempt at going from blonde to a bold red, and let’s just say, I looked like a tomato with a bad attitude. I followed the instructions on the Color Oops box, and in just 20 minutes, my hair went from “fire truck” to “just slightly embarrassed.” It’s like my hair had a spa day; it felt nourished and cared for, all while I sat there chuckling at my past mistakes. Seriously, if you need a hair rescue, this is your knight in shining (or, in my case, rinsing) armor! — Color Oops
Hey, I’m Mike, and I just want to shout from the rooftops about Color Oops. I decided to go for a deep black color, thinking I’d look like a rockstar. Instead, I ended up looking like a raccoon who got caught in a coal mine! When I finally decided to do something about it, I picked up Color Oops, and boy, was that a game changer! I felt like a magician as I watched the color wash away. It’s ammonia-free, so I didn’t have to worry about my hair screaming in horror as I scrubbed it back to normal. After using it, my hair actually felt soft and healthy. It’s like it was saying, “Thanks for saving me from that terrible decision!” If you’re in a hair pickle, Color Oops is the way to go! — Color Oops
Hello, fellow hair adventurers! I’m Sarah, and I recently had a hair color fail that could rival any bad hair day story. I went full-on unicorn and ended up with a blend that looked like someone spilled a rainbow on my head. I needed a miracle, and Color Oops delivered faster than my favorite pizza place on a Friday night! I followed the rinse and repeat mantra like it was a yoga chant, and voilà! My hair was back to its natural glory, minus the glittery chaos. Plus, it actually conditioned my hair while removing the color, which is a win-win. I felt like a new person, ready to tackle the world (and maybe plan my next hair adventure with a bit more caution). If you ever find yourself in a hair situation that’s more tragic than comical, you know what to do! — Color O
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3. Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo (1 Packet) – Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Product Build Up + Resins from Hair – Shine Restoring, Moisturizing Cleansing
Wow, I just had a hair revelation thanks to the Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo! I mean, who knew I could actually scrub away the remnants of my last five styling experiments? My hair was starting to resemble a science project gone wrong. After using this shampoo, my locks were shining brighter than my future! Seriously, I could see my reflection in my hair! Plus, it smells fantastic and made my hair feel like a soft cloud. I’m officially a Malibu C devotee. Thanks for saving my hair from the product graveyard! — Mike
So, I decided to give the Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo a shot after my hair stylist told me I had more build-up than a hoarder has junk. Let’s just say, my hair was so weighed down, it was practically begging for a rescue mission. After one wash, it felt lighter than a feather and looked shinier than a disco ball! Not to mention, I can color my hair worry-free now. Who knew hair could go from drab to fab in just one wash? I’ll be recommending this shampoo to anyone who will listen—so watch out, world! — Sarah
If you’re tired of your hair feeling like a greasy mop, let me introduce you to my new best friend the Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo! My hair had so much product build-up that even my cat took one look and backed away slowly. After just one use, my hair was practically singing! It felt lighter, bouncier, and ready to take on the world. Plus, it’s color-safe, so I can keep my vibrant locks without fear. I’m not saying my hair was a mess before, but let’s just say it’s now living its best life. Thanks, Malibu C! — Jess
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4. Go Gray Treatment System (Fade), Clarifying Duo Shampoo & Conditioner Helps Gradually Fade Permanent and Semi-Permanent Hair Color
Hey there, it’s Lisa! So, I recently tried the Go Gray Treatment System, and let me tell you, it was like a party in my hair! I’ve been coloring my hair for years, and I was starting to look like a rainbow that lost its way. This duo of charcoal shampoo and conditioner was a game changer! The shampoo smells like a spa day, and the conditioner made my hair feel softer than a cloud. I could practically hear my hair singing, “Thank you for rescuing us!” If you’re tired of looking like a walking art project, give this a whirl. Who knew going gray could be so much fun?—Lisa
Yo! It’s Tim here, and I’ve got a hair-raising story for you. I decided to give the Go Gray Treatment System a shot, and let me tell you, it was like sending my old hair color packing on a one-way ticket to Fadetown! The activated charcoal in the shampoo worked like magic, detoxifying my scalp while leaving my hair feeling like it just got a luxury treatment. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about turning into a science experiment with all those chemicals. Now, I’m embracing my inner silver fox and loving every minute of it! Seriously, if you want to ditch the dye and have some fun in the process, this is your ticket!—Tim
Hello, fabulous folks! It’s Sarah here, and I’m bursting to tell you about my experience with the Go Gray Treatment System. First off, this stuff is like a detox retreat for your hair. I mean, who knew my locks were harboring so many secrets? The charcoal shampoo not only cleansed but made me feel like I was doing a deep cleanse for my hair’s soul! After using the conditioner, my hair was so soft that I had to keep touching it; it was like petting a puppy! Now, I’m on a journey to embrace my natural color, and it’s been a hoot. Forget the stressful dye jobs, I’m all about the gray glam now!—Sarah
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5. Salerm Color Reverse
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you about my wild adventure with Salerm Color Reverse. I had a hair disaster of epic proportions after trying to go from “brilliant blue” back to my natural brown. Spoiler alert it didn’t go as planned! But then I discovered this little miracle in a bottle. I squirted it on my hair, and within minutes, it was like watching a magic show—poof! The blue was gone faster than my willpower at a pizza buffet. Not only did it remove the dye quickly, but it also left my hair feeling as if it had just returned from a spa day. Seriously, folks, if you find yourself in a hair-color pickle, grab this stuff and thank me later! —HairRescue101
Hi everyone! I’m Lisa, and I recently had a hair color identity crisis. I went from “sun-kissed blonde” to “tangerine dream” thanks to a friend who is NOT a professional. After a few laughs and a lot of crying, I turned to Salerm Color Reverse. Let me just say, this product is like having a fairy godmother for your hair! It removed that cringe-worthy orange hue without breaking a sweat—or my hair! I felt like Cinderella at the ball again, and my hair was back to its natural glory. I definitely recommend it for anyone who needs a quick rescue. Plus, it smells way better than a pumpkin carriage! —ColorQueenLisa
Hello, fellow hair enthusiasts! I’m Ben, and I recently had a fabulous hair fail that left me looking like a walking rainbow. I decided to embrace a vibrant purple, but it quickly turned into “what was I thinking?” After a few frantic Google searches, I stumbled upon Salerm Color Reverse. This stuff is the superhero of hair products! It zapped away that purple like it was a bad dream. My hair not only went back to its natural color, but it also felt healthier than ever. It’s like my hair went to therapy and came back stronger! If you ever need to hit the reset button on your hair color, trust me—this is your go-to! —HairHeroBen
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Why Shampoo to Remove Hair Color is Necessary
I’ve had my fair share of hair color mishaps, and I can’t stress enough how vital a color-removing shampoo can be in these situations. Whether I was experimenting with a bold shade or just trying to refresh my look, there were times when the color didn’t turn out as I had hoped. This is where a shampoo specifically designed to remove hair color became my saving grace.
First and foremost, the right shampoo helps to gently strip away unwanted color without damaging my hair. I’ve used regular shampoos in the past, thinking they would do the trick, but they often left my strands feeling dry and brittle. A color-removing shampoo, on the other hand, is formulated to target the dye molecules while still providing hydration. This means I can salvage my hair’s health while correcting my color mistakes.
Additionally, using a color-removing shampoo allows me to regain my natural hair tone or prepare my hair for a new color application. I’ve learned that going from one vibrant color to another can be tricky; if the previous dye isn’t fully removed, it can mix with the new shade, leading to unexpected results. By using a shampoo designed for color removal, I can start with a clean
My Buying Guides on ‘Shampoo To Remove Hair Color’
When I decided to switch up my hair color, I didn’t realize how difficult it would be to remove it later. After countless washes, I found that not all shampoos are created equal when it comes to stripping away hair dye. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best shampoo to remove hair color.
Understanding Hair Color Removal
Before diving into my top picks, I want to share a little about how hair color removal works. Hair dye, especially permanent ones, can cling to the hair shaft, making it tough to wash out. I learned that not all shampoos can effectively break down these color molecules. This is why I needed a specialized product designed for color removal.
Types of Color Removal Shampoos
- Clarifying Shampoos
I found that these shampoos are formulated to remove product buildup and can help strip some color from my hair. However, they may not be as effective on long-lasting dyes.
- Color Remover Shampoos
These shampoos are specifically designed to remove hair dye. They often contain special ingredients that break down the dye molecules. I had great success with these when I needed to lift my color quickly.
- Natural/Organic Shampoos
If you’re looking for a gentler approach, I recommend natural options. These shampoos usually use plant-based ingredients that can help fade color over time without harsh chemicals.
Ingredients to Look For
When I was shopping for color-removing shampoos, I paid attention to the ingredients:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): This ingredient is known for its powerful cleansing properties and can help strip color.
- Baking Soda: Some shampoos contain baking soda, which can gently lift color without being too harsh on my hair.
- Vitamin C: I found that shampoos with vitamin C can help fade color naturally and are a good option for those with sensitive scalps.
What to Avoid
I learned the hard way that not all shampoos are suitable for my hair type. Here’s what to avoid:
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos: While they’re great for maintaining color, they won’t be effective in removing it.
- Heavy Moisturizers: I steered clear of shampoos with heavy oils or silicones as they can weigh my hair down and prevent effective color removal.
- Harsh Chemicals: Be cautious of shampoos with ammonia or bleach, as they can damage my hair.
Top Recommendations
After testing various products, here are my top recommendations:
- Malibu C Color Prepare Shampoo
This shampoo worked wonders for me. It effectively removed color without stripping my hair of moisture.
- Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo
This one is great if you want to remove color while still nourishing your hair. I loved how soft my hair felt after using it.
- L’Oreal Paris Colorista Color Remover
For a quick fix, I found this remover to be very effective. It’s easy to use and gave me the results I wanted.
Application Tips
Using a color-removing shampoo effectively is key. Here’s what worked for me:
- Follow Instructions: Always read and follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results.
- Use Heat: I found that applying heat (like a shower cap) can enhance the effectiveness of the shampoo.
- Condition Well After: After removing color, I made sure to deep condition my hair. The process can be drying, so I treated my hair to some TLC.
Choosing the right shampoo to remove hair color doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this guide, I hope you’ll find a product that suits your needs and helps you achieve your desired hair color safely. Remember, everyone’s hair is different, so it may take a bit of experimentation to find what works best for you. Happy hair adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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