DIY Hair Lightening: How to Lighten Dyed Hair with Baking Soda

Lightening dyed hair can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re trying to avoid harsh chemicals and expensive salon visits. Fortunately, baking soda offers a gentler, more natural alternative for lifting color from your locks. While it won’t provide the dramatic results of bleach, baking soda can gradually lighten dyed hair, reduce brassiness, and remove product buildup, leaving your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using baking soda to lighten dyed hair, from understanding its properties to step-by-step instructions and essential aftercare tips.

Understanding Baking Soda and Its Lightening Properties

Baking soda, scientifically known as sodium bicarbonate, is a mild alkaline compound with a pH of around 9. This alkalinity is what allows it to lift color from hair. Unlike bleach, which aggressively oxidizes hair pigments, baking soda works by gently opening the hair cuticles and loosening the dye molecules. This makes it easier for the dye to be washed away, resulting in a gradual lightening effect.

It’s crucial to understand that baking soda is not a magic bullet. The lightening results you achieve will depend on several factors, including:

* **The type and intensity of the dye:** Permanent dyes are more difficult to remove than semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes.
* **The porosity of your hair:** Porous hair, which has more open cuticles, will lighten more quickly than hair with tightly closed cuticles.
* **The number of dye layers:** If you’ve repeatedly dyed your hair without completely removing the previous color, you may need multiple baking soda treatments to see noticeable results.
* **Your natural hair color:** Baking soda primarily lifts the artificial dye, so the underlying natural color will become more visible as the dye fades.

Benefits of Using Baking Soda to Lighten Dyed Hair

Compared to conventional hair lightening methods, baking soda offers several advantages:

* **Gentler on your hair:** Baking soda is less damaging than bleach or harsh chemical lighteners, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive scalps or damaged hair. However, it’s still important to use it with caution and avoid over-treating your hair.
* **Cost-effective:** Baking soda is an affordable household staple, making it a budget-friendly alternative to expensive salon treatments or specialized hair lightening products.
* **Removes product buildup:** Baking soda’s cleansing properties help to remove product residue, oils, and impurities from your hair, leaving it feeling cleaner and lighter.
* **Reduces brassiness:** Baking soda can help to neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones in dyed hair, resulting in a cooler, more balanced color.
* **Natural and readily available:** Baking soda is a natural ingredient that is easily accessible in most grocery stores and pharmacies.

Potential Drawbacks of Using Baking Soda on Hair

Despite its benefits, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks of using baking soda on your hair:

* **Can be drying:** Baking soda can strip moisture from your hair, especially if used excessively. It’s crucial to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to replenish lost moisture.
* **May not work on all hair types:** Baking soda may not be effective for lightening dark or deeply pigmented dyes. The results can vary depending on your hair type and the type of dye used.
* **Can alter hair texture:** In some cases, baking soda can alter the texture of your hair, making it feel rough or brittle. This is more likely to occur if you have fine or damaged hair.
* **Potential for scalp irritation:** If you have a sensitive scalp, baking soda may cause irritation or dryness. It’s recommended to perform a patch test before applying it to your entire head.
* **Uneven results:** It can be difficult to achieve perfectly even lightening with baking soda, especially if you’re not careful with the application.

Who Should Avoid Using Baking Soda on Their Hair?

While baking soda is generally considered safe for most hair types, certain individuals should avoid using it:

* **Those with severely damaged hair:** If your hair is already brittle, dry, or prone to breakage, using baking soda can worsen the damage. Focus on repairing and strengthening your hair before attempting to lighten it.
* **Those with sensitive scalps:** If you have a history of scalp irritation, eczema, or psoriasis, baking soda may exacerbate these conditions. Consult with a dermatologist before using it on your scalp.
* **Those who have recently permed or relaxed their hair:** Chemical treatments like perms and relaxers can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to damage from baking soda. Wait several weeks after a chemical treatment before attempting to lighten your hair.
* **Those who have recently used bleach:** Using baking soda immediately after bleaching your hair can lead to further damage and dryness. Allow your hair to recover from the bleach before attempting any additional lightening treatments.
* **Those with very dark or vibrant hair dyes:** Baking soda is less effective at lifting very dark or highly pigmented dyes like blacks, blues, or purples. You may need to explore alternative lightening methods.

Ingredients and Supplies You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients and supplies:

* **Baking soda:** Plain baking soda is the star of the show. Make sure it’s fresh and free of any contaminants.
* **Water:** Use warm, distilled water to create the baking soda paste. Avoid using tap water, which may contain minerals that can interfere with the lightening process.
* **Shampoo (optional):** A clarifying shampoo can help to remove product buildup and prepare your hair for the baking soda treatment. Choose a sulfate-free option to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
* **Conditioner:** A moisturizing conditioner is essential to replenish moisture and prevent dryness after the baking soda treatment. Look for a deep conditioning formula for best results.
* **Applicator brush or gloves:** These will help you apply the baking soda paste evenly and protect your hands from irritation.
* **Mixing bowl:** A non-metallic bowl is ideal for mixing the baking soda paste.
* **Towel:** An old towel to protect your clothing from stains.
* **Hair clips:** To section your hair for easier application.
* **Shower cap (optional):** To trap heat and enhance the lightening process.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Lighten Dyed Hair with Baking Soda

Follow these step-by-step instructions to safely and effectively lighten your dyed hair with baking soda:

**Step 1: Perform a Strand Test**

Before applying the baking soda paste to your entire head, it’s crucial to perform a strand test to assess how your hair will react. This will help you determine the appropriate concentration of baking soda, the processing time, and whether the treatment is suitable for your hair type.

1. Select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair, such as underneath the nape of your neck.
2. Prepare a small amount of baking soda paste according to the instructions below.
3. Apply the paste to the strand of hair and leave it on for the recommended processing time (typically 15-30 minutes).
4. Rinse the paste thoroughly and observe the results. If the strand test reveals excessive dryness, damage, or unwanted color changes, discontinue use.

**Step 2: Prepare the Baking Soda Paste**

There are several ways to prepare the baking soda paste, depending on your hair type and desired results. Here are two popular methods:

**Method 1: Baking Soda and Water Paste**

This is the simplest and most basic method.

1. In a non-metallic bowl, mix baking soda and warm water to form a paste. Start with a ratio of 1:3 (one part baking soda to three parts water) and adjust as needed to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. The paste should not be too runny or too thick.
2. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the baking soda is dissolved and there are no lumps.

**Method 2: Baking Soda and Shampoo Paste**

This method combines the lightening power of baking soda with the cleansing properties of shampoo.

1. In a non-metallic bowl, mix baking soda and shampoo (preferably clarifying and sulfate-free) to form a paste. A ratio of 1:1 is a good starting point, but you can adjust the amount of shampoo to achieve your desired consistency.
2. Stir the mixture well until the ingredients are fully combined.

**Step 3: Apply the Baking Soda Paste to Your Hair**

1. Dampen your hair with warm water. This will help the baking soda paste to penetrate your hair more effectively.
2. Section your hair into manageable parts using hair clips. This will ensure even application of the paste.
3. Using an applicator brush or gloved hands, apply the baking soda paste to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Make sure to coat each strand of hair thoroughly and evenly.
4. If you’re targeting specific areas of your hair, such as the roots or ends, focus the application on those areas.
5. Once you’ve applied the paste to your entire head, gently massage it into your hair and scalp to ensure even distribution.

**Step 4: Process the Baking Soda Paste**

1. After applying the paste, cover your hair with a shower cap (optional). This will trap heat and enhance the lightening process.
2. Leave the baking soda paste on your hair for 15-30 minutes, depending on the intensity of the dye and your desired level of lightening. Check your hair periodically to monitor the progress and avoid over-processing.
3. For the first application, it’s best to start with a shorter processing time and gradually increase it with subsequent treatments, if necessary.

**Step 5: Rinse and Condition Your Hair**

1. After the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until all traces of the baking soda paste are removed. Make sure to remove all residue, as any remaining baking soda can dry out your hair.
2. Apply a generous amount of moisturizing conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends. Leave the conditioner on for 5-10 minutes to replenish lost moisture.
3. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with cool water. Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticles and lock in moisture.

**Step 6: Dry and Style Your Hair**

1. Gently pat your hair dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously, as this can cause damage and breakage.
2. Allow your hair to air dry as much as possible. If you must use a hairdryer, use a low heat setting and a diffuser attachment to minimize heat damage.
3. Style your hair as usual.

Tips for Maximizing Results and Minimizing Damage

To achieve the best possible results and minimize potential damage, follow these tips:

* **Start with clean hair:** Applying the baking soda paste to clean hair will allow it to penetrate more effectively and produce better results. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo before the treatment to remove product buildup.
* **Use warm water:** Warm water helps to open the hair cuticles and allow the baking soda to lift the dye more easily.
* **Apply evenly:** Ensure that the baking soda paste is applied evenly to your hair to avoid uneven lightening. Use an applicator brush or gloved hands to ensure thorough coverage.
* **Don’t over-process:** Leaving the baking soda paste on for too long can dry out or damage your hair. Monitor your hair closely during the processing time and rinse it off as soon as you achieve your desired level of lightening.
* **Deep condition regularly:** Baking soda can be drying, so it’s crucial to deep condition your hair regularly to replenish lost moisture. Use a moisturizing hair mask or leave-in conditioner after each baking soda treatment.
* **Avoid heat styling:** Heat styling can further dry out and damage your hair, especially after a baking soda treatment. Limit your use of heat styling tools and always use a heat protectant spray when you do use them.
* **Protect your hair from the sun:** Sunlight can fade dyed hair and exacerbate dryness. Wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray when spending time outdoors.
* **Be patient:** Lightening dyed hair with baking soda is a gradual process. It may take several treatments to achieve your desired level of lightening. Don’t expect dramatic results after just one application.
* **Listen to your hair:** If you notice any signs of damage, dryness, or irritation, discontinue use and consult with a hair care professional.

Aftercare Tips for Lightened Hair

After lightening your hair with baking soda, it’s essential to follow a proper aftercare routine to maintain the health and appearance of your hair:

* **Use a sulfate-free shampoo:** Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on your hair and won’t strip away its natural oils. This will help to prevent dryness and maintain the color of your hair.
* **Condition your hair regularly:** Conditioning your hair after each shampoo is essential to replenish lost moisture and prevent dryness. Use a moisturizing conditioner or deep conditioner to keep your hair soft and hydrated.
* **Use a leave-in conditioner:** A leave-in conditioner can provide extra hydration and protection for your hair throughout the day. Apply it to damp hair after washing and conditioning.
* **Avoid washing your hair too frequently:** Washing your hair too often can strip away its natural oils and dry it out. Try to wash your hair only when necessary, and use a dry shampoo in between washes to absorb excess oil.
* **Get regular trims:** Trimming your hair regularly will help to remove split ends and prevent breakage. This will keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
* **Consider using a hair oil:** Hair oils can provide extra nourishment and shine to your hair. Apply a small amount of hair oil to the ends of your hair to prevent dryness and split ends.

Alternative Hair Lightening Methods

If baking soda isn’t working for you, or if you’re looking for faster or more dramatic results, consider these alternative hair lightening methods:

* **Lemon juice:** Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can lighten hair. Apply lemon juice to your hair and expose it to sunlight for a few hours. Be careful not to overdo it, as lemon juice can be drying.
* **Honey:** Honey contains trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide, which can help to lighten hair. Mix honey with water or conditioner and apply it to your hair for a few hours.
* **Chamomile tea:** Chamomile tea has mild lightening properties. Steep chamomile tea and use it as a hair rinse after washing your hair.
* **Hydrogen peroxide:** Hydrogen peroxide is a stronger bleaching agent than baking soda or lemon juice. Use it with caution and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your hair.
* **Bleach:** Bleach is the most effective way to lighten hair, but it can also be the most damaging. If you’re considering using bleach, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist.

Conclusion

Lightening dyed hair with baking soda can be a gentle and cost-effective way to remove unwanted color and refresh your locks. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively lighten your hair at home. Remember to be patient, listen to your hair, and prioritize moisture to maintain its health and shine. While baking soda may not provide the dramatic transformation of bleach, it offers a natural alternative for subtle lightening and improved hair health. Always perform a strand test before applying any treatment to your entire head, and adjust the process to suit your individual hair type and desired results. With a little patience and care, you can achieve a lighter, brighter, and healthier head of hair using the power of baking soda.