what happens if you don't wash all the dye out of your hair

It’s really fun coloring your hair, as you get different styles and don various colors to make a statement! However, we all probably know how harmful dyeing our hair can be in the long run, which is why it’s crucial to learn all about what should be done to avoid consequences that can ruin your hair’s health in the long run.

One common question people ask is, “what happens if you don’t wash all the dye out of your hair?” Most beginners would wonder about this, as it may be difficult getting everything out, not knowing that there may still be dye in their hair.

Read on as I show you more about this!

What Happens If You Don’t Wash All the Dye Out of Your Hair?

Let’s get straight to the point: When you don’t wash the dye out of your hair completely, then your hair may fall flat and become dull. This happens because of the color deposits that stay in your hair when not washed properly.

These color deposits won’t only cause poor hair health, but they may even end up changing your hair color when left behind. For instance, if you applied a darker shade and you don’t wash it off completely, then it may end up turning into a lighter shade.

Besides that, your hair will end up smelling bad from the reaming dye, also becoming very stiff. Basically, you’re bound to get opaque hair that won’t move as much because it gets stiffer, so the hair is heavier and won’t flow naturally.

But why does it happen? How do color deposits create so many negative effects on both my hair health and color?

Obviously, there are chemicals present in the dye, and some of them harsh chemicals. One of the worst chemicals in the dye is ammonia, which is the culprit of what happens to your hair, which also includes the smell. And no matter how much you try to cover the smell; it will remain in your hair if not washed well!

That is why it’s absolutely crucial to not only wash your hair and completely remove the dye but to also learn how to do so.

You’ll know if your hair still has traces of dye and color deposits if:

  • Your towel is stained as you wipe your hair after color treatment
  • After a day of application, you notice it feels hard and limp, similar to porcupine barbs
  • When you use a hairdryer, there is a weird mist that comes out of your hair, similar to candles burning
  • There is an unpleasant smell that comes from your hair a few days after the color treatment

Read more: How Often Can You Dye Your Hair Without Damaging It?

Bonus Tips on Washing Your Hair After Dyeing It

Are you a bit confused with what you should do to wash your hair properly and get rid of the dye and color deposits? Here are a few tips you can follow:

  • The frequency of washing your hair depends on the dye you use. With semi-permanent dye, you can take it out after one wash, provided that you follow the steps carefully. With permanent dyes, it may take weeks before it’s ready to wash off.
  • When getting rid of the hair dye completely, there are three basic steps, which are: Emulsion, Shampooing, and Conditioning. Emulsion is done by wetting your hair with warm water, gently massaging the hair and scalp for 10 minutes or so, removing stains that were left. Then, wash your hair until there is no coloring coming out.
  • With shampooing, use sulfate-free shampoo and make sure it’s applied all over the scalp, among other areas of your hair. Rub for 5 minutes before washing it off, then follow it up with conditioners made for post-colorization. This will help make the hair softer and look better.
  • If you couldn’t wash the dye off completely after one wash, you can repeat the process until there are no more colors coming out as you dry your hair with a towel.

Do you want to learn more about how to wash your hair after applying dye? Check out this helpful video:

Wrapping It Up

Applying dye to your hair is a crucial step to coloring your hair, and washing it off after the process is just as important. When doing so, there are vital steps to follow so you’re assured that all chemicals from the dye are washed off. That way, you will have shiny and beautiful hair with the color you’ve been aiming for!

I hope that this article answers your question, “what happens if you don’t wash all the dye out of your hair?” Now that you know the answer, make sure that you know how to wash out all the dye from your hair to prevent such consequences.