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The use of semi-permanent hair color is an effective way to determine if a new hair color is for you. Once the hair color is applied, it typically fades within six weeks, giving you enough time to decide if you like the color without making a long-term commitment. If the semi-permanent hair color you've used creates a change that's too drastic for you and you can't imagine waiting six weeks for it to fade, it can be washed out faster.

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Pour 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil into a microwavable bowl. Microwave the oil for one minute, until it's hot but can still be touched.

Smooth the hot olive oil over your hair. Apply the olive oil from the roots to the ends, ensuring you've coated your hair. Wrap plastic wrap around your hair to keep the heat in, then place a warm towel around the plastic wrap. Leave the olive oil on your hair for 20 to 30 minutes to help loosen semi-permanent hair dye.

Stand under the shower or hold your head beneath running water. Rinse your hair to wet it thoroughly.

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Wash your hair with volumizing shampoo. The shampoo expands the hair shaft, making it easier for semi-permanent hair color to be removed. Shampoo your hair two or three times, as needed, to wash out the olive oil residue and hair dye.

Rinse your hair for several minutes under hot water to remove any remaining hair color. Towel dry your hair. If any semi-permanent hair color remains, repeat these steps, until you've removed as much dye as possible.

Tip

Condition hair after stripping the color out as excessive shampooing will remove natural oils.

Use a commercial hot oil treatment in place of heated olive oil, if preferred.

Warning

When in doubt, see a hair professional for help with hair color disasters.