Ever wondered if that vitamin C treatment you’ve heard so much about could actually turn your hair orange? You’re not alone. Many of us have turned to DIY hair remedies, especially with the rise of at-home beauty hacks. But before you grab those vitamin C tablets and start mixing up a concoction, let’s jump into what really happens when you apply it to your hair.
Understanding Vitamin C and Hair Color
Vitamin C is often touted for its numerous health benefits, but how does it interact with hair color? Let’s explore its properties and effects on hair.
What Is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant found in fruits like oranges, strawberries, and kiwi. It plays a crucial role in skin health and immune function. In cosmetics, it helps brighten skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation.
How Vitamin C Affects Hair
Vitamin C can alter hair color by stripping away artificial dyes due to its acidic nature. This property makes it popular for removing unwanted hair color without harsh chemicals. But, this effect may vary depending on the type of dye used and your hair’s condition.
Why People Use Vitamin C on Hair
People use vitamin C treatments to lighten their hair or correct dye mishaps effectively. For instance, mixing crushed vitamin C tablets with shampoo creates a natural clarifying treatment. This method is favored for being gentle compared to chemical-based products.
By understanding these aspects of vitamin C, you enable informed decisions about using it in your hair care routine.
Will Vitamin C Turn My Hair Orange?
Vitamin C treatments can impact hair color, but the result varies based on multiple factors. Understanding these elements helps decide if this method suits your hair care needs.
Factors That May Affect Hair Color Change
Several factors influence how vitamin C affects hair color. The concentration of vitamin C in the treatment, the duration it remains on hair, and the natural or artificial pigments present all play roles. For instance, higher concentrations and longer application times may lead to more noticeable changes.
How Hair Color History Plays a Role
Hair’s dye history significantly impacts vitamin C’s effect. Previously dyed or bleached hair reacts differently compared to virgin hair. If your hair has many layers of dark dye, for example, using vitamin C might reveal underlying tones rather than an orange hue.
The Science Behind Vitamin C and Hair Pigment
Vitamin C’s acidic nature breaks down artificial pigments in dyed hair. This process can lighten color-treated hair by dissolving dye molecules, particularly those from semi-permanent dyes. But, natural pigmentation usually remains unaffected due to its deeper integration into the hair shaft.
Materials Needed
Vitamin C Products
For the DIY hair treatment, use specific vitamin C products. The most common choice includes crushed vitamin C tablets which can be found in drugstores or online. Another option is to use powdered vitamin C, often labeled as ascorbic acid powder. Both forms are effective, though I find crushed tablets easier to manage when mixing with shampoo or water.
Hair Preparation Materials
Before starting the treatment, gather these materials: a mild clarifying shampoo, a non-metal bowl for mixing, and a plastic spoon or brush for application. Clarifying shampoo helps remove buildup and prepares your hair for the vitamin C mixture. It’s also helpful to have an old towel on hand to protect surfaces from any spills during the process.
Protective Gear
To ensure safety and cleanliness, wear protective gear like disposable gloves and an old shirt or cape to avoid staining your clothes. Gloves prevent the acidic solution from irritating your skin. Also, consider using a shower cap or plastic wrap to cover your hair while the treatment processes. This keeps everything contained and enhances the effectiveness of the treatment by retaining heat.
How to Use Vitamin C on Hair Safely
Using vitamin C on your hair can be an effective way to remove unwanted dye. Following the right steps ensures safe and satisfactory results.
Preparing the Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This removes any product buildup, allowing the vitamin C to penetrate more effectively. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry until damp but not dripping wet. Wearing an old shirt prevents accidental staining during the process.
Mixing the Vitamin C Solution
Crush 10-15 vitamin C tablets into a fine powder using a plastic spoon or place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Combine the powder with 1-2 tablespoons of clarifying shampoo in a non-metal bowl. Mix until you achieve a smooth, consistent paste.
Application Process
Apply the mixture generously onto your damp hair, starting from the roots and working towards the ends. Ensure even coverage by using your fingers or a plastic brush. Once fully covered, tuck your hair into a shower cap or wrap it with plastic wrap to retain heat and enhance effectiveness. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and condition well.
Potential Side Effects
Using vitamin C as a DIY hair treatment carries potential side effects. Understanding these can help you manage expectations and ensure a positive outcome.
Color Changes
Vitamin C treatments may cause color changes. For example, previously dyed or bleached hair might turn brassy or orange. This happens because the acidic nature of vitamin C breaks down artificial pigments unevenly. But, virgin hair usually remains unaffected. To minimize unwanted color changes, do a strand test first.
Hair Texture Alterations
Applying vitamin C can alter hair texture. Some users report their hair feeling dry or brittle after treatment. This is due to the stripping effect on natural oils and moisture. Hence, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore hydration and smoothness.
Scalp Sensitivity
Scalp sensitivity can arise from using vitamin C on your hair. Individuals with sensitive skin might experience itching or redness due to the acidity of the solution. If irritation occurs, rinse immediately and apply a soothing scalp serum or aloe vera gel to calm any discomfort.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Vitamin C treatments can sometimes lead to unexpected results. Here are some practical tips to address common problems.
Hair Turned Orange – What to Do Now?
If your hair turns orange after a vitamin C treatment, apply a toner specifically designed for neutralizing brassy tones. Look for products with blue or purple pigments, as these counteract orange hues effectively. In severe cases, consult a professional colorist who can provide targeted solutions based on your hair’s condition. Also, avoid heat styling tools until the issue is resolved to prevent further damage.
Minimizing Potential Damage
Dryness or brittleness may occur post-treatment. To minimize this, use a deep conditioning mask immediately after rinsing out the vitamin C mixture. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes to restore moisture and elasticity. Avoid using harsh shampoos that strip natural oils; instead, opt for sulfate-free options. Regularly applying leave-in conditioners can also help maintain hair health.
Alternatives to Vitamin C Treatments
Consider other gentle methods like using clarifying shampoos once a week if you prefer not to use vitamin C treatments. These shampoos effectively remove buildup without altering hair color drastically. Alternatively, explore natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar rinses or chamomile tea soaks, which offer mild lightening effects without causing significant dryness or damage. Always perform strand tests when trying new treatments to ensure desired results.
Tips and Warnings
Best Practices for Safe Application
Performing a strand test is crucial to predict how your hair will react to vitamin C. Mix 10-15 crushed tablets with clarifying shampoo until smooth, then apply to a small section. Cover hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap to enhance the treatment’s effectiveness by retaining heat. Leave for 30-60 minutes before rinsing thoroughly and conditioning. This ensures you can see potential color changes or texture alterations without risking your entire head of hair.
When to Avoid Using Vitamin C on Hair
Avoid using vitamin C treatments if your hair is severely damaged or overly processed from frequent dyeing and bleaching. Hair in this state is more susceptible to dryness and breakage, which could worsen with acidic solutions. Also, refrain from applying vitamin C if you have scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis, as the acid may exacerbate irritation or discomfort.
Consulting with a Professional
Before undertaking significant changes, consult with a professional colorist when uncertain about at-home treatments involving vitamin C. They provide personalized advice based on your hair’s condition and history of chemical treatments. Besides, professionals offer alternatives that achieve similar results without risking unwanted side effects such as turning hair orange or causing excessive dryness.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Vitamin C can be a handy tool for your hair care routine, especially if you’re looking to strip away unwanted color gently. While there are some risks like turning your hair brassy or orange mostly in previously dyed or bleached hair doing a strand test can help avoid surprises.
Remember to follow the steps carefully and condition your hair well afterward. If you’ve got any doubts always consult a professional. Happy experimenting and may your hair adventures be bright and beautiful!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can vitamin C turn my hair orange?
Vitamin C can potentially turn previously dyed or bleached hair orange by breaking down artificial pigments unevenly. Virgin hair typically remains unaffected. Performing a strand test before full application is recommended to predict any color changes.
How does vitamin C remove unwanted hair color?
Vitamin C’s acidic nature breaks down the artificial pigments in dyed hair, especially semi-permanent dyes, making it an effective method for removing unwanted hair color without harsh chemicals.
What materials do I need for a DIY vitamin C hair treatment?
You’ll need crushed vitamin C tablets or powdered ascorbic acid, a mild clarifying shampoo, a non-metal bowl, a plastic spoon or brush for application, disposable gloves, an old shirt, and a shower cap or plastic wrap.
How long should I leave the vitamin C mixture on my hair?
It’s recommended to leave the mixture on your hair for 30-60 minutes to achieve desired results. Always perform a strand test first to determine the best duration for your specific hair type and history.
Will using vitamin C dry out my hair?
Yes, using vitamin C can cause dryness or brittleness in your hair due to its acidic nature. Following up with a deep conditioning treatment is essential to restore moisture and maintain healthy hair texture.
Are there any side effects of using vitamin C on my scalp?
Individuals with sensitive scalps might experience itching or redness from the acidic solution. If irritation occurs, rinse immediately and apply a soothing product like aloe vera gel. Avoid use if you have scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
What should I do if my hair turns brassy or orange after treatment?
If your hair turns brassy or orange, apply a toner with blue or purple pigments to neutralize the tones. Consulting a professional colorist is also advisable if significant color correction is needed.
Can I use vitamin C treatments on severely damaged hair?
It’s not recommended to use vitamin C treatments on severely damaged hair as it can exacerbate dryness and brittleness. Consult a professional colorist for personalized advice before attempting any significant changes.
Are there alternatives to using vitamin C for clarifying my hair?
Yes, alternatives include using clarifying shampoos or natural remedies like apple cider vinegar rinses. Always perform strand tests with new treatments to ensure they produce desired results without adverse effects.
Should I consult a professional before using vitamin C on my hair?
Consulting a professional colorist is highly recommended before undertaking significant changes with DIY treatments like vitamin C applications. This ensures you achieve desired results while minimizing risks of unwanted side effects.