Color-treated hair requires special care and attention to maintain its vibrancy and shine. However, sometimes we want to switch things up and experiment with a new color or go back to our natural hair color. This is where clarifying shampoos come in handy. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from the hair and scalp, including product residue, hard water minerals, and excess oil. They can also be effective at removing hair dye and color, making them an excellent choice for those looking to remove unwanted color from their hair.
When it comes to finding the best clarifying shampoo to remove color, there are a few critical things to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure the shampoo is safe for color-treated hair. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free and contain gentle, nourishing ingredients to ensure your hair doesn’t become dry or damaged. You’ll also want to pay attention to the strength of the shampoo. Some clarifying shampoos can be harsh and strip the hair of its natural oils, so it’s essential to choose a product that’s strong enough to remove color but gentle enough not to cause damage.
After researching and testing multiple clarifying shampoos, we’ve identified the top products on the market that effectively remove color and leave hair feeling clean and healthy. Whether you’re looking to remove a few highlights or go back to your natural hair color, our list of the best clarifying shampoos to remove color has got you covered.
Best Clarifying Shampoos to Remove Color
We understand how frustrating it can be to have hair color that just won’t budge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best clarifying shampoos specifically designed to remove color buildup. These shampoos are formulated to deeply cleanse the hair and remove any buildup that may be causing your color to fade or become dull. Our team has researched and tested these products to ensure they are effective and safe for all hair types. Below is our list of the best clarifying shampoos to remove color.
Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove color, Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo is a decent option that can help bring down the color intensity of semi-permanent direct dyes.
Pros
- Helps fade semi-permanent direct dyes
- Can lighten hair color
- Affordable price
Cons
- Can be drying to hair
- May not remove all color
- Scent may not be appealing
After using this shampoo a few times, we noticed that it did help fade the color of our semi-permanent direct dyes. It also seemed to lighten our hair color a bit. However, we did notice that it was quite drying to our hair, so we made sure to follow up with a conditioning hair mask.
While this shampoo did help fade our color, it didn’t remove it completely. We also weren’t fans of the scent, but that’s a personal preference. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable option to help fade your semi-permanent direct dyes, Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo is worth a try. Just make sure to follow up with a good conditioner to avoid drying out your hair.
OVERTONE Haircare The Fader Clarifying Shampoo
We highly recommend this product if you are looking for a gentle and vegan solution to fade your semi-permanent hair color without damaging your hair.
Pros
- Gently removes impurities and fades semi-permanent hair color to prep strands for a new hue
- Safe for all hair textures and types; It does not contain ammonia, parabens, or sulfates that will leave your hair feeling damaged
- The naturally nourishing plant-based formula will fade color while hydrating and protecting your strands; Removes build-up from the scalp, creating an ideal environment for healthy hair growth
Cons
- May not work effectively on all shades of hair
- Some users may not like the minty smell
- Packaging may vary
We found that The Fader Clarifying Shampoo by OVERTONE gently removed impurities and faded semi-permanent hair color without damaging our hair. It has a vegan and cruelty-free formula, making it a great alternative to traditional fading shampoos that are loaded with harmful chemicals. The plant-based formula is naturally nourishing and hydrating, leaving our hair feeling healthy and protected. The application is easy, and it works on all hair types and textures.
However, we did notice that it may not work effectively on all shades of hair, and some users may not like the minty smell. Additionally, the packaging may vary, which could be a concern for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend The Fader Clarifying Shampoo by OVERTONE as a gentle and effective solution to fade your semi-permanent hair color without damaging your hair.
Manic Panic Prepare to DYE Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a sulfate-free and vegan clarifying shampoo to remove color, Manic Panic Prepare to DYE Clarifying Shampoo is a great option.
Pros
- The blend of surfactants and bonding ingredients helps remove excess oils, styling product buildup, and hard water residue for a deep clean.
- The shampoo helps promote a healthy scalp and protects from UV rays.
- It is created with organic ginseng root extract, rosemary extract, sage extract, and a light grapefruit scent.
Cons
- The shampoo can dry out your hair, so it’s important to use a rich conditioner after.
- It may not remove color as effectively as other clarifying shampoos.
- The product is thick and may be difficult to pour out of the bottle.
In our experience, the Manic Panic Prepare to DYE Clarifying Shampoo did a great job of removing excess oils and buildup from our hair. We also appreciated the organic ingredients and the fact that it’s sulfate-free and vegan. However, it did leave our hair feeling a bit dry, so we made sure to use a rich conditioner after.
Overall, we would recommend the Manic Panic Prepare to DYE Clarifying Shampoo to anyone looking for a natural and effective clarifying shampoo to remove color buildup. Just be sure to use a conditioner to combat any dryness.
Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo
We highly recommend the Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo for anyone looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and resins from hair. This shampoo is perfect for those who use a lot of hair products or have hard water.
Pros
- Removes product buildup and resins effectively.
- Restores shine and moisture to hair.
- Suitable for color-treated and highlighted hair.
Cons
- May dry out hair if used too frequently.
- Some users may not like the smell.
- Expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos.
After using this shampoo, our hair felt clean and refreshed. We noticed a significant difference in the amount of buildup and residue in our hair. The shampoo effectively removed all of the product buildup and left our hair feeling soft and shiny.
One thing to keep in mind is that this shampoo may dry out your hair if used too frequently. We recommend using it once a week or every other week, depending on your hair type and how much product you use.
Overall, the Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality clarifying shampoo. While it may be more expensive than other options, it is well worth the investment for the results it provides.
Kenra Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove color, Kenra Clarifying Shampoo is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Restores hair’s natural radiance
- Removes dulling deposits & build-up
- Ideal for hard water and well water
Cons
- May not be suitable for daily use
- Can leave hair feeling dry if overused
- Some users may not like the honey scent
After using this shampoo, we noticed a significant improvement in the shine and radiance of our hair. It effectively removed all the buildup and dulling deposits, leaving our hair feeling clean and fresh. It’s also gentle enough to use on colored hair, making it a great option for those who have highlights or bleached hair.
One thing to keep in mind is that this shampoo may not be suitable for daily use, as it can leave your hair feeling dry if overused. Additionally, some users may not like the honey scent, although we found it to be quite pleasant.
Overall, we highly recommend Kenra Clarifying Shampoo for anyone looking to remove color and buildup from their hair. It’s a great option for those who live in hard water areas or swim frequently, and it’s gentle enough to use on all hair types.
Rida Hair Research Institute Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove color, then the Rida Hair Research Institute Clarifying Shampoo is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Scientifically proven scalp renewal
- Continual calm and comfort
- Rapid revitalization from day one
Cons
- Not suitable for color-treated hair
- Unclear directions on the bottle
- Medicinal smell
We tried this shampoo and found that it was effective in removing buildup and impurities from the scalp. The formula is backed by science and is designed to naturally block DHT, restore balance, and nourish damaged tresses. We noticed increased hydration and boosted blood circulation for healthier hair growth.
One of the best things about this shampoo is that it provides continual calm and comfort. With each application, it alleviates itching, irritation, and redness. The ongoing impact of active ingredients addresses underlying discomfort factors, consistently delivering a calm and relieved scalp after the second use.
We also encountered rapid revitalization from day one. The detox shampoo uses a potent formula that deeply detoxifies, targeting scalp impurities for restored balance, reduced flakiness, and soothing relief that continues with each use.
However, it’s important to note that this shampoo is not suitable for color-treated hair. The directions on the bottle are also unclear, so it may take some experimentation to figure out the best way to use it. Additionally, the shampoo has a medicinal smell that may not be pleasant for everyone.
Overall, if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove color and provide numerous benefits for your scalp, the Rida Hair Research Institute Clarifying Shampoo is definitely worth checking out.
Joico K-PAK Daily Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove color, then Joico K-PAK Daily Clarifying Shampoo is a great option to consider. It’s sulfate-free and paraben-free, making it a safer choice for your hair.
Pros
- It removes chlorine and buildup from your hair, leaving it looking and feeling cleaner.
- It helps repair and prevent breakage, which is essential if you’ve recently colored your hair.
- It boosts shine, making your hair look healthier and more vibrant.
Cons
- It can be drying if you use it too often, so it’s best to use it once or twice a week.
- It may strip the color out of your hair if you use it too frequently.
- It may not work well on all hair types, so it’s important to test it out before using it regularly.
We’ve used Joico K-PAK Daily Clarifying Shampoo and found that it works well to remove buildup and chlorine from our hair. It left our hair feeling clean and refreshed, without stripping away too much moisture. We also noticed that our hair looked shinier and felt stronger after using it.
However, we did find that it can be drying if used too frequently, so we recommend using it once or twice a week at most. Additionally, it may not work well on all hair types, so it’s important to test it out before using it regularly.
Overall, we think Joico K-PAK Daily Clarifying Shampoo is a great choice if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove color. It’s effective, safe, and affordable, making it a great value for your money.
Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a gentle clarifying shampoo to remove hair build-up and residue, Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo is a great option.
Pros
- Instantly removes up to 90% of heavy, dulling residue caused by shampoos, conditioners and styling products
- Gently cleanses hair and helps boost volume by instantly rinsing away build-up
- Mild formula recommended for all hair types, even color-treated hair
Cons
- May leave hair feeling dry if used too frequently
- Some users may not like the scent
- Bottle size may be too small for those with long hair
After using this shampoo, we noticed that our hair felt lighter and cleaner. The shampoo was easy to apply and lathered well, making it easy to rinse out. We also appreciated that it didn’t irritate our scalp or leave any residue behind.
One thing to keep in mind is that this shampoo is meant to be used only once a week, as it may leave hair feeling dry if used too frequently. Additionally, the scent may not be to everyone’s liking, but it does not linger after rinsing. Finally, those with longer hair may find the bottle size too small for their needs.
Overall, we recommend Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo for those looking for a gentle and effective clarifying shampoo.
MopTop Detox Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo to remove color, MopTop Detox Shampoo is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Removes unhealthy buildup from hair
- Suitable for all hair types and textures
- Free of harmful chemicals
Cons
- May require a larger amount of product for some hair types
- A bit pricey compared to other clarifying shampoos
- Some users may not like the scent
MopTop Detox Shampoo is a great shampoo to use to remove color from your hair. It’s effective at removing buildup caused by minerals, silicone, wax, chlorine, and shea butter. The shampoo is suitable for all hair types and textures, so you don’t have to worry about it damaging your hair or scalp. Plus, it’s free of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, insoluble silicones, phthalates, and dyes.
To use the shampoo, simply massage it into wet hair until you achieve a rich lather, then rinse completely. For best results, detoxify your hair every 4-6 weeks. Some users may need to use a larger amount of product for their hair type, but overall, the shampoo is super concentrated and provides maximum value.
One downside to the shampoo is that it’s a bit pricey compared to other clarifying shampoos on the market. Additionally, some users may not like the scent of the shampoo. However, if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that’s effective, safe, and suitable for all hair types, MopTop Detox Shampoo is definitely worth considering.
Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove color and build-up, Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo is a great choice.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients like peppermint and sorrel leaf extracts that gently cleanse the hair and scalp.
- Suitable for all hair types and can be used regularly to keep hair feeling refreshed and detoxed.
- Free from silicones, parabens, petrochemicals, and sulfates, and is also cruelty-free and vegan.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with dandruff as it can make the scalp feel oily.
- Has a goopy consistency that may require using more product than usual.
- Some users may find that it doesn’t clarify hair as well as other products.
We’ve personally used Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo and found that it’s effective in removing build-up and leaving hair feeling clean and refreshed. The shampoo is easy to work with and has a pleasant scent that’s not overpowering. We also appreciate that it’s made with natural and ethical ingredients and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or animal products.
One thing to note is that the shampoo may not be suitable for those with dandruff as it can make the scalp feel oily. Additionally, the goopy consistency may require using more product than usual, which can be inconvenient. Some users may also find that it doesn’t clarify hair as well as other products.
Overall, if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that’s gentle on your hair and the planet, Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo is definitely worth trying out.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best clarifying shampoo to remove color, there are a few features you should consider to ensure you get the most effective product for your needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Hair Type
The first thing to consider when choosing a clarifying shampoo is your hair type. Different shampoos are designed for different hair types, so it’s important to find one that will work well with your hair. If you have dry or damaged hair, for example, you’ll want to look for a shampoo that’s formulated to be gentle and moisturizing. If you have oily hair, on the other hand, you’ll want a shampoo that can effectively remove excess oil and buildup.
Ingredients
Another important factor to consider when choosing a clarifying shampoo is the ingredients. Look for a product that contains ingredients that are known to be effective at removing color, such as sulfates or clarifying agents like apple cider vinegar. However, be sure to also look for ingredients that are gentle and won’t damage your hair, such as natural oils or plant extracts.
Frequency of Use
Clarifying shampoos can be harsh on your hair if used too frequently, so it’s important to consider how often you’ll be using the product. If you only need to remove color occasionally, look for a shampoo that’s designed to be used once a week or less. If you’ll be using the shampoo more frequently, look for a gentler formula that won’t damage your hair with repeated use.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the shampoo. Clarifying shampoos can range from very affordable to quite expensive, so it’s important to find a product that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean a better product, so be sure to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase.
By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to find the best clarifying shampoo to remove color for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best clarifying shampoo to get rid of hair color?
There are many clarifying shampoos available in the market that claim to remove hair color. However, the best clarifying shampoo to get rid of hair color depends on the type of hair color, the condition of your hair, and your personal preference. Some popular clarifying shampoos for removing hair color include Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo Two, and Kenra Clarifying Shampoo.
Does clarifying shampoo remove hair color?
Yes, clarifying shampoo can remove hair color. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from hair and scalp, which can include hair color. However, the extent to which clarifying shampoo removes hair color depends on the type of hair color and the amount of buildup on your hair.
Will Olaplex clarifying shampoo strip hair color?
Olaplex clarifying shampoo is designed to remove buildup from hair and scalp without stripping hair color. It is formulated with a patented bond-building technology that helps to protect and strengthen hair while removing buildup. However, it is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product on your hair to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
What happens if I use clarifying shampoo on dyed hair?
Using clarifying shampoo on dyed hair can cause the color to fade faster than usual. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from hair and scalp, which can include hair color. If you want to maintain your hair color, it is recommended to use a color-safe shampoo that is specifically formulated for dyed hair.
How long should I leave clarifying shampoo in to remove hair dye?
The length of time you should leave clarifying shampoo in to remove hair dye depends on the product you are using and the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some clarifying shampoos can be left in for up to 5 minutes, while others may need to be rinsed out immediately. It is always recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Which brand of clarifying shampoo is best for removing hair color?
There are many brands of clarifying shampoo that are effective at removing hair color. Some popular options include Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo Two, and Kenra Clarifying Shampoo. It is recommended to choose a clarifying shampoo that is specifically formulated for your hair type and meets your personal preferences.
