Common Sense Observations

How to remove hair dye from skin

There is more to it than just buying the box of hair dye and putting it on. Way more! One of the worst things that can occur when coloring your own hair is the dreaded ring-around-the-face color stain. That is, processed hair dye which has gone into the pores of your skin. Argh! Having been a colorist for 22 years I’ve not only seen it all, but tried ALL the removal remedies as well.

Removing hair dye from skin
There are several ways you can keep this from occurring in the first place. And if it does occur, there are several tips for removing it. Of course, I’ll start with not letting it happen in the first place.

Protect the perimeter – This is number one! Before you even think about applying your own hair dye, choose a day that you have not washed your hair, or your face. The extra oil in your skin is going to act as a protective barrier to the hair color. If you have washed your hair and face, you can still protect it by applying a very thin layer of petroleum jelly around the perimeter of your face and neck. Don’t forget those ears!

If you don’t have petroleum jelly, you can also use hair conditioner or shampoo. Just make sure you put it on thin. Shampoo can stop the processing of the hair color, so make sure you don’t get it on your hair. Apply carefully, only on the skin. I’ve also found that a nice thin layer of thick moisturizer works too.

Even if you’re at the salon, don’t hesitate to remind your colorist. You’ll be sorry if she gets in a hurry and forgets. She probably has access to some brand name products found only at beauty supply stores. Some work well, others don’t. If she’s good, she’ll use the good stuff – plus not let it happen in the first place.

Just so you know – Black hair color dye is the worst. Even the best perimeter protection won’t totally keep this color of hair dye from soaking into your skin a little. Good news is, in the coming week after shampooing at home several times, it will come off.

After the fact removal – At home colorist will want to save the dye not used on your hair. Take a junk soft cloth, wrap it around your index finger and dip the tip of your finger into the hair dye. Now rub this into the stain around your face or the stains on your neck or ears. Don’t use a lot. The saying is “color removes color.” Or, hair dye removes hair dye. You will actually see it coming off.

Shampoo can be used the same way. In fact, if you get into the shower to do the final color rinse, make sure you scrub a little extra around the perimeter of your face and neck – don’t forget those ears.

And for goodness sakes, don’t ever apply hair dye without wearing gloves! But if you do – try making a concoction of clothes washing detergent, dandruff shampoo and a little hair conditioner. Wash your hands, rinse really well, and then follow up with some good hand lotion.