How to Wash Out Semi-Permanent Color Fast

How to Wash Out Semi-Permanent Color Fast
Written By
Mary Ylisela
Mary Ylisela
Published: Apr 26, 2011
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
2 minute read

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.

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.

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.

Mary Ylisela

Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness…

Sponsored
LEAFtv Logo

LEAFtv is your destination for food, beauty, style and feel-good living, with how-tos and inspiration for everyday life.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.