7 Ways To Get The Red Out Of Your Hair

Tips on removing red from hair
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We’ve all been there: you get your hair colored, and it comes out a little too red for your taste. Or, you’ve been swimming in a chlorinated pool, and your hair has turned a brassy orange. Whatever the cause, there are a few things you can do to get the red out of your hair. This article will present three effective methods using baking soda, lemon juice, and purple shampoo, providing simple and straightforward instructions to help you achieve your desired hair color with ease.

First, you can try using baking soda. Baking soda is a natural cleanser that can help to remove the red tones from your hair. To use baking soda, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of water. Apply the mixture to your hair and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, rinse your hair thoroughly. You may need to repeat this process several times to get the desired results. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to dilute the baking soda mixture with more water.

Another way to get the red out of your hair is to use lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten the red tones in your hair. To use lemon juice, mix 1/2 cup of lemon juice with 1 cup of water. Apply the mixture to your hair and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, rinse your hair thoroughly. Again, you may need to repeat this process several times to get the desired results.

Understanding the Causes of Reddish Hair

Reddish hair can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural hair color, sun exposure, and chemical treatments. Here’s a closer look at each of these causes:

Natural Red Hair

Red hair is caused by a pigment called pheomelanin. Pheomelanin is produced by the melanocytes, which are cells in the skin that produce melanin. Melanin is responsible for the color of hair, skin, and eyes. People with red hair have a higher concentration of pheomelanin in their hair than people with other hair colors.

The amount of pheomelanin in a person’s hair is determined by genetics. However, there are other factors that can also affect hair color, such as sun exposure and chemical treatments.

Hair Color	Pheomelanin	Eumelanin
Red	High	Low
Blond	Low	Low
Brown	Low	High
Black	None	High

Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

Selecting the appropriate shampoo and conditioner is crucial for effectively removing red tones from hair. Opt for color-correcting or brass-busting shampoos formulated with blue or purple pigments to counteract the unwanted warmth. These shampoos work by neutralizing red undertones and leaving hair with a cooler, more natural hue. Here is a table that summarizes some recommended products:

Shampoo	Conditioner
L’Oréal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Shampoo	L’Oréal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Conditioner
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Shampoo	Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Conditioner
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo	Matrix Total Results So Silver Conditioner

When using a color-correcting shampoo, apply it to damp hair and leave it on for the recommended time (usually 3-5 minutes). Rinse thoroughly to remove any excess pigment and follow up with a conditioning mask to restore moisture and prevent dryness.

Using a Color-Correcting Conditioner

Color-correcting conditioners are a great way to tone down unwanted brassy or red hues in your hair. These conditioners contain pigments that counteract the red tones, leaving you with a cooler, more natural-looking color.

To use a color-correcting conditioner, simply apply it to your hair after shampooing and let it sit for the recommended amount of time. Rinse it out thoroughly and style as usual.

Choosing the Right Color-Correcting Conditioner

When choosing a color-correcting conditioner, it is important to select the right one for your hair type and color. Here is a guide to help you choose the right product:

Hair Color	Conditioner Type
Blonde	Purple conditioner
Brown	Green conditioner
Red	Blue or purple conditioner

It is also important to note that color-correcting conditioners are not permanent and will wash out over time. To maintain your desired color, you will need to use the conditioner regularly.

Applying a Red Pigmentation Neutralizer

Red pigmentation neutralizers are specially formulated color-correcting products designed to counteract reddish tones in the hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using them:

1. Determine the Underlying Pigmentation

Assess the underlying pigmentation of your hair to determine the appropriate shade of neutralizer to use. For example, golden undertones require a violet-based neutralizer, while orange undertones need a blue-based one.

2. Prepare Your Hair

Wash and towel-dry your hair. Avoid using any styling products, as they can interfere with the neutralization process.

3. Apply the Neutralizer

Section your hair into small, manageable parts. Apply the neutralizer evenly from root to tip, using a brush or applicator bottle. Leave on for the recommended time, typically 5-15 minutes.

4. Fine-Tune the Neutralization

Monitor the progress of the neutralization every few minutes. The longer you leave the neutralizer on, the stronger the color correction. To fine-tune the results, consider the following:

Desired Tone	Adjustment
Less redness	Leave on for a longer duration.
More warmth	Rinse out sooner.
Subtle correction	Apply to only the most affected areas.

Once you achieve the desired tone, rinse out the neutralizer thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Removing Excess Iron or Copper

If you have excess iron or copper in your hair, it can cause it to turn red. This can happen if you have been using hard water to wash your hair, or if you have been taking iron or copper supplements. To remove excess iron or copper from your hair, you can try the following methods:

Use a clarifying shampoo. A clarifying shampoo is a type of shampoo that is designed to remove buildup from your hair. This can help to remove excess iron or copper from your hair, and it can also help to prevent it from turning red.
Use a chelating agent. A chelating agent is a type of chemical that can bind to metal ions, such as iron and copper. This can help to remove excess iron or copper from your hair, and it can also help to prevent it from turning red.
Use a vinegar rinse. A vinegar rinse is a mixture of water and vinegar that can be used to remove excess iron or copper from your hair. Vinegar is a natural chelating agent, so it can help to bind to metal ions and remove them from your hair.
Use a lemon juice rinse. A lemon juice rinse is another type of natural chelating agent that can be used to remove excess iron or copper from your hair. Lemon juice is also acidic, which can help to remove buildup from your hair.
Use a baking soda rinse. A baking soda rinse is a type of alkaline rinse that can be used to remove excess iron or copper from your hair. Baking soda can help to neutralize the acidity of your hair, and it can also help to break down buildup.

Method	How to use
Clarifying shampoo	Wet your hair and apply the shampoo. Massage it into your scalp and hair, and then rinse it out.
Chelating agent	Mix the chelating agent with water according to the package directions. Apply it to your hair, and then rinse it out.
Vinegar rinse	Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 cup of water. Apply it to your hair, and then rinse it out.
Lemon juice rinse	Mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 1 cup of water. Apply it to your hair, and then rinse it out.
Baking soda rinse	Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of water. Apply it to your hair, and then rinse it out.

Brightening Hair with Lemon Juice or Vitamin C

Lemon juice and vitamin C are natural ingredients that can help to brighten hair and reduce brassiness. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which is a mild bleaching agent. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect hair from damage.

To brighten your hair with lemon juice or vitamin C, simply mix the juice of one lemon or a few vitamin C tablets with 1 cup of water. Apply the mixture to your hair and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with water and style as usual.

You can use lemon juice or vitamin C to brighten your hair every 1-2 weeks. However, it is important to note that lemon juice can be drying, so it is important to condition your hair after each treatment.

Tips for Using Lemon Juice or Vitamin C to Brighten Hair

If you have dry hair, you can add a little bit of olive oil or coconut oil to the lemon juice or vitamin C mixture before applying it to your hair.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to do a patch test before applying lemon juice or vitamin C to your hair. To do a patch test, apply a small amount of the mixture to a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours. If you experience any redness or irritation, do not use the mixture on your hair.
Lemon juice can cause your hair to become lighter over time if you use it regularly. If you are not sure how your hair will react to lemon juice, start by using it once a week and gradually increase the frequency of use as needed.
If you have very dark hair, you may not see significant results from using lemon juice or vitamin C to brighten your hair.
Lemon juice can be used to brighten both natural and colored hair.
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that it is not stored in the body. Therefore, it is important to consume vitamin C regularly to maintain its benefits.

Adding Blue or Purple Toner

To neutralize the red tones in your hair, you can apply a blue or purple toner. These toners are semi-permanent hair dyes that gently deposit blue or purple pigments onto the hair shaft, effectively canceling out the red tones. Blue toners are best suited for hair with warm red tones, while purple toners are more effective for hair with cooler red tones.

When choosing a toner, it’s crucial to consider the shade of red you wish to neutralize. If you’re dealing with a vibrant shade of red, you may need to use a stronger toner to achieve the desired result. On the other hand, if the red tones are more subtle, a milder toner will suffice.

Here’s a table summarizing the types of toners based on the shade of red:

Red Tone	Toner Type
Warm Reds	Blue Toner
Cool Reds	Purple Toner
Red-Orange	Blue-Green Toner
Red-Purple	Violet Toner

For optimal results, follow the instructions on the toner packaging carefully. Typically, you’ll need to apply the toner to clean, dry hair and leave it on for the recommended amount of time. Rinse the toner thoroughly and style your hair as usual. If necessary, you can reapply the toner after a few weeks to maintain the desired level of color correction.

Avoiding Over-Washing

Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness and color fading. Limit shampooing to 2-3 times per week and use lukewarm water to avoid further damage.

Iron-Containing Water

Iron in water can react with hair color, causing it to turn brassy or orange. If you have hard water, consider using a clarifying shampoo, or installing a water softener to remove excess minerals.

Chelating Shampoo

Chelating shampoos are formulated to remove mineral buildup from hair, including iron. Use a chelating shampoo once a week to help prevent color distortion.

Water Filtration System

Installing a water filtration system can remove iron and other impurities from your water, reducing the risk of color changes.

Color-Protecting Conditioner

Using a color-protecting conditioner after shampooing can help seal in color and minimize fading, including brassiness caused by iron.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals that can damage hair color. Add a few drops of lemon juice or diluted vitamin C serum to your shampoo or conditioner.

Ammonia and Bleach

Avoid using ammonia-based hair dyes or bleach, as these chemicals can break down the hair structure and make it more prone to color fading.

Color-Correcting Products

If your hair has already developed brassiness from iron exposure, consider using a color-correcting shampoo or conditioner that contains blue or purple pigments to neutralize the unwanted tones.

Mineral Water Hardness	Recommended Washing Frequency
Soft Water	2-3 times per week
Moderately Hard Water	1-2 times per week
Hard Water	Once a week

Maintaining Color with Regular Treatments

To maintain the vibrancy of your hair color and prevent it from fading, it’s essential to incorporate regular treatments into your hair care routine. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Use color-protecting shampoo and conditioner: Opt for products specifically formulated to protect and enhance colored hair. They often contain ingredients that seal in color and prevent fading.

2. Avoid harsh chemicals: Excessive use of hot tools, strong shampoos, or harsh styling products can strip away color. Exercise caution when using these products and consider using heat protectants.

3. Touch up roots regularly: As your hair grows, the roots will naturally return to its original color. Regular touch-ups will keep the color even and prevent unflattering roots.

4. Get a toner or glaze: A toner or glaze can refresh your hair color and neutralize any unwanted tones. They are typically less damaging than full-on hair dye and can last up to a few weeks.

5. Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning treatments provide deep nourishment and hydration to colored hair. They help keep the hair looking healthy, vibrant, and less prone to fading.

6. Avoid direct sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause hair color to fade. Wear a hat or use UV protection hair products when spending extended periods outdoors.

7. Use cool water for washing: Hot water can open up hair cuticles, allowing color to escape. Instead, use cool or lukewarm water to preserve your hair color.

8. Avoid over-washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils and color molecules. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days or as needed.

9. Choose the right hair care products: For color-treated hair, it’s crucial to select products specifically designed for your hair type and color. Refer to the table below for a comprehensive guide to recommended products:

Product Category	Recommended Ingredients
Shampoo	Color-protecting formula, sulfate-free, pH-balanced
Conditioner	Color-enhancing formula, nourishing, detangling
Toner/Glaze	Demi-permanent color, neutralizes unwanted tones, refreshes color
Deep Conditioner	Intense moisture and nourishment, repairs damage, prevents fading
Heat Protectant	Protects hair from heat damage, prevents color fading
UV Protection Products	UV filters, antioxidants, shields hair from sun damage

Seeking Professional Hair Color Correction

If you’re not comfortable attempting home remedies, or if the red doesn’t fade after a few washes, it’s best to seek professional help. A professional colorist can use a variety of techniques to neutralize the red, such as:

1. Color-Correcting Toner

A toner is a semi-permanent hair color that can be used to neutralize brassy tones. A blue or purple toner can help to cancel out the red, leaving you with a more natural-looking color.

2. Gloss

A gloss is a demi-permanent hair color that adds shine and vibrancy to the hair. A gloss can also be used to correct color, and a blue or purple gloss can help to tone down the red.

3. Hair Color Removal

If the red is particularly stubborn, a colorist may need to remove it completely using a chemical hair color remover. This is a more drastic option, but it can be effective in removing unwanted color.

4. Olaplex Treatment

Olaplex is a hair treatment that helps to repair damaged hair. It can be used before or after color correction to help protect the hair from further damage.

5. Extra Shampoo

A 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner can’t clean hair as effectively as a single-use shampoo. It’s better to use a clarifying shampoo that removes product buildup.

6. No To Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is good for blond hair. If your hair is darker, the purple shampoo can add an unnatural color when you try to get the red out.

7. Blue Shampoo

Blue shampoo is the way to go. It neutralizes orange and yellow tones in hair, and it’s gentle enough for everyday use.

8. Hair Mask

A protein-packed hair mask helps to strengthen hair and reduce breakage. Deep conditioning treatments can also help restore moisture to hair that has been damaged by color correction.

9. Avoid Heat To Your Hair

Heat styling can damage hair, making it more prone to breakage. Allow your hair to air dry whenever possible, and use a heat protectant spray when using hot tools.

10. Patience

Color correction can take time, especially if the red is particularly stubborn. Be patient and don’t try to rush the process. Your hair will eventually return to its natural color.

How To Get The Red Out Of My Hair

If you’re not happy with the red tint in your hair, there are a few things you can do to get rid of it. One option is to use a color-correcting shampoo. These shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair, and they can be very effective at removing red.

Another option is to use a demi-permanent hair color. Demi-permanent hair colors are less damaging than permanent hair colors, and they will fade over time. This can be a good option if you’re not sure whether you want to commit to a permanent change.

If you’re looking for a more natural way to get rid of red in your hair, you can try using lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent, and it can help to lighten your hair and remove red tones. To use lemon juice, simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto your hair and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with water and shampoo.