How do you remove self-tanner from hair? In short, to remove self-tanner from hair, you can use a clarifying shampoo, lemon juice, or baking soda mixed with water. Leave the solution in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly.
Repeat the process as necessary, until all self-tanner is removed. You can also consider using a product specifically designed to remove self-tanner from hair.
What Causes Self Tanner to Transfer to Hair?
Fake tanning products contain a high concentration of DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a colorless sugar that reacts with the amino acids in the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin.
This reaction causes the skin to darken, resulting in a tanned appearance. However, this same process can also cause the fake tan to transfer to your hair.
There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of fake tan transferring to hair, including:
Using too much product
Applying too much fake tanning product can increase the likelihood of transfer. This means that the product may rub off onto clothing, towels, sheets, or other surfaces, leaving visible stains.
To avoid this, it’s key to follow the instructions on the product carefully and apply a thin, even layer of product to the skin.
Not waiting long enough
It’s necessary to wait at least 6-8 hours after applying fake tanning products before showering, sweating, or getting wet. This allows the product time to fully develop and bond with the skin, which can help to reduce the risk of transfer.
If you need to shower or get wet before this time, consider using a water-resistant product or covering the treated areas with protective clothing.
Choosing the wrong product
Some fake tanning products are more prone to transfer than others. Look for products that are labeled as “transfer-resistant” or “non-transferable.” These products are specifically formulated to reduce the risk of transfer, and they may contain ingredients that help to bind the product to the skin.
When choosing a fake tanning product, it’s also essential to consider your skin type and tone, as some products may work better for certain skin types than others.
Common Household Ingredients for Removing Self Tanner from Hair
There are several household ingredients that can effectively remove self-tanner from hair. Some of the most common include:
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is an all-natural lightening agent that can effectively help remove self-tanner from hair. It works by breaking down the pigments in the self-tanner, making it easier to wash out. To use, simply mix lemon juice with water in a ratio of 1:1 and apply the mixture to the affected area. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle exfoliant that can help to remove self-tanner from hair. It operates by disintegrating the pigments in the self-tanner, facilitating its removal. To use, mix baking soda with water to form a paste, then apply the paste to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse completely with water.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a naturally acidic substance that can help break down self-tanner in hair. The acidity of the vinegar helps dissolve the pigments in the self-tanner, making it easier to wash out. To use, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, then apply the mixture to the affected area. Allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before thoroughly rinsing it with water.
Professional Products for Removing Self Tanner from Hair
If you’re unable to remove self-tanner from hair using common household ingredients, there are several professional products that can help. Some of the most effective include:
- Clarifying shampoos: Clarifying shampoos are specially formulated to remove excess build-up in hair, including self-tanner. When selecting a clarifying shampoo, look for ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium lauryl ether sulfate, which can effectively break down self-tanner and wash it away.
- Color removers: Color removers are designed to erase unwanted hair color, including self-tanner. These products work by breaking down the hair color molecules, making it possible to wash them away. Color removers can be used on all hair types and are especially effective for those who have multiple layers of self-tanner built up in their hair.
- Hair lightening: Hair lightening treatments involve the use of hydrogen peroxide to lighten the color of hair. This method is ideal for individuals who have an overall discoloration of their hair due to a fake tan. Hair lightening treatments can be done at a salon or at home, depending on the severity of the discoloration.
- Toning: Toning treatments can help to restore balance to the color of hair and remove any unwanted brassy or orange tones that are a result of fake tanning. To achieve the best results, look for toning treatments that contain purple or blue pigments, which neutralize warm tones. Toning treatments can be used at home or in the salon and are suitable for all hair types.
Prevention is better than cure
The best way to avoid the challenges of removing self tanner from hair is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent self tanner from transferring to your hair:
- Wear a hair covering: Wearing a hair covering, such as a shower cap or a headband, can help to prevent self-tanner from transferring to your hair.
- Apply self-tanner carefully: When applying self-tanner, be careful to avoid getting it on your hair. Use a tanning mitt to apply the product, and take care to avoid getting it on your hairline.
- Wait until self-tanner is dry: Allow your self-tanner to dry completely before getting dressed or touching your hair. This will help to minimize the amount of self-tanner that transfers to your hair.
- Wash your hair immediately: If you do get a self-tanner on your hair, wash it immediately to minimize the amount of time that it has to settle in.
The Bottom Line
Removing fake tan from hair can be a real challenge, but with the right approach and products, you can effectively restore your hair to its natural shade.
Whether you choose a DIY solution or a professional treatment, the important thing is to be patient and persistent. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have beautiful, sun-kissed hair in no time!
