How to get Hair Dye off the Skin? 6 Tips and Tricks

Say Goodbye to Stubborn Stains: Easy and Effective Ways to Remove Hair Dye From Your Skin

15th May, 2023

Coloring your hair at home can be a fun, creative, and cost-effective way to revamp your look. However, the process can sometimes result in accidental skin stains, leaving you with an unwanted reminder of your at-home hair coloring session.

Worry not, as we have compiled a comprehensive guide on effortlessly removing hair dye from your skin.

From gentle, natural remedies to more concentrated solutions, we will explore various methods to help you eliminate hair dye stains and confidently enjoy your fresh new hair color.

a woman wearing gloves and holding Hair Dye coloring brush


Coloring your hair at home offers various benefits but comes with specific challenges. One such challenge is the unintentional staining of your skin with hair dye. Don’t worry, though – this is a minor issue that can be resolved.

We’re here to provide simple and effective methods to remove hair dye on your skin, making it look like you never had an at-home coloring session.

Even if you’re a salon-goer, you might still need these tips to remove dye from your skin around the hairline. 

Follow this guide for safe, speedy, and hassle-free techniques that will help you erase any traces of mishaps, allowing you to flaunt your new hair confidently.

1. Utilize Petrolatum-based Products


Think of products like Vaseline as the key to preventing skin from being stained with hair dye. Gently apply a thin layer along your hairline before you begin the coloring process.

This petrolatum-based product will create a protective barrier, preventing the dye from accidentally staining your skin. Apply it as desired, but don’t get it on areas where you want the color to adhere, such as your hair.

2. Leverage Toothpaste


The following method uses toothpaste, especially non-gel, to remove hair color from your skin. Because baking soda is a component of toothpaste, in addition to its well-known ability to whiten nails, it may also be used to remove hair color stains from your skin.

Use the tip of your finger to dab some toothpaste on the discolored spot gently. Rub the region gently with a washcloth or a toothbrush with soft bristles to increase efficacy. The color should go out with the toothpaste when washing it off.

3. Try Nail Polish Remover


Try this one if you have dye on your hands. According to certain authorities, there are a few things to remember while using this procedure on your face.

First, use nail paint remover sparingly with a cotton ball because it might cause severe skin irritation. Before applying to a broader area, wait a moment to check for any reactions.

To be successful with this approach, you must move rapidly. You shouldn’t leave the polish remover on your skin for over a minute. To remove any nail polish remover residue, wash your hands thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes at all costs.

4. Exercise Patience


The most secure approach? Let time take its course! With time, hair dye stains on your skin will gradually fade and ultimately vanish. Most hair dyes disappear from the skin within a week or even less.

If the dye stains are in a less noticeable spot or not significant enough to draw attention, your ideal option might be to wait patiently.

Remember, we often judge ourselves more harshly than others – just because you can see the dye on your skin doesn’t imply others will notice it too!

5. Dish Soap and Baking Soda


Alternatively, mix equal parts of liquid dish soap and baking soda until well combined. The detergent helps lift stains from the skin, while the baking soda provides an abrasive effect (which might be too harsh for some skin types).

The baking soda helps remove dye-stained skin cells, revealing fresh layers beneath. Apply the dish soap and baking soda mixture to the stained skin, and use a makeup remover pad to scrub the solution in circular motions gently.

As always, take care to avoid eye contact to prevent irritation.

After a few minutes of scrubbing, rinse the area with warm water to remove all traces of the solution. If you experience any discomfort, especially a burning sensation, stop immediately. Over-exfoliating can be harmful!

Repeat the process as needed, and the dye should gradually lighten with each cleansing session. If you still don’t achieve the desired results, you might want to try another hair dye removal method.

6. Baby Oil or Olive Oil


Oils, such as baby oil or olive oil, can serve as effective hair dye removers because they help dissolve the color without being harsh or abrasive on the skin. They can even moisturize your skin while you scrub.

The drawback is that oils may not be as potent as other, more aggressive options, but it’s crucial to prioritize skin care, even if it means tolerating a few minor hair dye stains.

To test the oil technique, apply a generous amount of oil to the stained skin and massage it using your fingers (avoid contact with your eyes). It’s best to let the oil sit on the affected skin for as long as possible.

Since it’s neither corrosive nor abrasive, you can leave it on for 8 hours or more. Sleep on your back and let the oil work overnight, or apply it during your day off. To prevent staining your pillowcases and sheets, cover the oiled area with clean cotton fabrics like a headband or bandages while you sleep. If applying the oil to your hands, wear gloves to bed.

Instead of using a warm washcloth, rinse the area with running water. Add some extra soap or shampoo to help remove the oil from your skin.

You can try another hair dye removal method if the desired results are not achieved.

Recommended:

How Often Can You Die Your Hair And How To Stop Hair Fall After Colouring


Avoiding Hair Dye Stains


To avert hair dye from staining your skin during future coloring sessions, consider the following tips:

woman having hair dye


  • Wear gloves to shield your hands from the dye.
  • Create a barrier between your hairline and hair by applying a thick layer of moisturizing cream, petrolatum-based product, or lip balm around your hairline before using the dye.
  • Clean up any accidental spills immediately with a damp cotton swab, pad, or washcloth, as prompt removal can prevent staining.
  • If none of the home remedies work for removing dye from your skin, consider booking an appointment at a salon.


    Professional hair stylists and color experts have access to specially designed products that can eliminate stains. They may charge a nominal fee for this service, but it should effectively remove the stain from your skin.

FAQs


What is the fastest way to remove hair dye from skin?

Use a commercial hair dye remover or baby oil for quick results.

How can I remove hair dye from my skin at home?

Try using soap, baking soda paste, or a mixture of dish soap and vinegar to remove hair dye at home.

How do you remove permanent hair dye from skin?

Use oil-based products like baby oil or coconut oil to effectively remove permanent hair dye stains from the skin.

How do you remove hair dye from skin after it dries?

Apply a cotton ball soaked in hair dye remover or rubbing alcohol to the stained area to remove dried hair dye.

Does toothpaste remove hair dye?

Toothpaste can help, but it’s not as effective as other methods. Commercial hair dye removers or oil-based products are better choices.


The Bottom Line


Home hair coloring can be an enjoyable and budget-friendly way to experiment with your style, but accidental skin staining can detract from the experience. Thankfully, with the diverse range of methods presented in this guide, you can now effortlessly remove hair dye from your skin and fully appreciate your new hair color.

Remember to choose the most suitable technique for your skin type and sensitivity, and take preventative measures in the future to minimize the chances of staining. With these tips and tricks, you can confidently continue your hair coloring journey without lingering concerns.

Recommended:

Understanding and Managing Hair Loss After Surgery

References

[1] Style Caster (DIY Ways to Get Pesky Hair Dye Off Your Skin) https://stylecaster.com/feature/hair-dye-skin-coloring-hair-home-429571/ Published on May 28, 2020, Accessed May 15, 2023

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