Does Apple Cider Vinegar Strip Hair Color? What You Need To Know

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has become a popular natural hair care ingredient. Many people use ACV rinses or treatments to remove product buildup, add shine, reduce frizz, and improve scalp health.

But there is some debate around whether or not ACV is safe to use on color-treated hair. Some claim that the acetic acid in ACV can strip hair dye while others say it has no effect.

So does apple cider vinegar actually strip hair color? In this complete guide, we’ll explore the science behind ACV and hair dye, look at pros and cons, and provide tips for safely using ACV on colored hair.

How Apple Cider Vinegar Interacts With Hair Color

To understand if ACV removes hair dye, it helps to first look at how it works on a molecular level.

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which gives it a low pH between 2.8 and 3. This mildly acidic pH helps:

• Break up residue, buildup, and minerals from hard water that can dull hair’s shine
• Close the cuticle for increased smoothness and less frizz
• Remove dead skin cells and unclog follicles on the scalp

However, ACV’s acidity is relatively mild compared to other ingredients. It does not dramatically lift or strip away hair color like bleaches, ammonia, or high-alkaline relaxers can.

The acetic acid in ACV will not penetrate into the hair shaft or fully oxidize permanent hair dye the way more powerful chemical treatments do.

So in most cases, ACV will not completely strip permanent or demi-permanent hair color. However, there are a few potential effects to be aware of:

• May subtly fade some direct dyes or vibrant fashion shades over time with repeated use
• Can lift away temporary or semi-permanent tones if left on too long
• May reveal more of the natural underlying pigment as dye gradually fades

Overall, ACV is gentler on hair dye than many alkaline ingredients and recommendations to avoid it entirely are overly cautious. But proper usage is key.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe For Color-Treated Hair?

Apple cider vinegar can be safe for dyed hair when used properly. Here are some tips:

• Always Dilute – Mix 1 part ACV to 2-3 parts water to create a mild dilution. Using ACV full strength risks over-processing.

• Rinse Thoroughly – Leaving ACV sitting on hair overly long can cause more fading. Rinse diligently after the desired processing time.

• Limit Use – Stick to once a week maximum, and focus on the roots not lengths. Over-washing fades color quickly.

• Do A Strand Test – Try ACV on a small section first to spot check potential fading before applying all over.

• Adjust Processing Time – Sit under a shower cap for 5 minutes instead of 15-20 if concerned about lifting. Customize as needed.

• Consider Formulas – More permanent dyes require more caution than semi-permanent options which fade faster anyway.

With the proper usage techniques and realistic expectations, most people can use ACV as an occasional rinse or treatment on dyed hair without issues. Pay attention to how your particular hair responds.

Pros of Using Apple Cider Vinegar on Colored Hair

While ACV will not dramatically strip most dyes, especially with careful use, some still choose to avoid it altogether. However, ACV does offer several benefits that make it worth consideration for colored hair:

1. Improves Shine

The acetic acid in ACV is effective at smoothing down the cuticle layer of the hair. This helps reflect more light for increased shine and luminosity. This benefit is especially helpful for color-treated hair which can often look duller between salon visits.

2. Reduces Frizz

That same smoothing effect on the cuticle provides the added advantage of reducing frizz and flyaways. The closed cuticle means hair better retains moisture as well. Using ACV as a post-shampoo rinse can boost smoothness.

3. Removes Buildup

Product buildup is a common issue for colored hair. It can make hair look lackluster and even alter the tone. The gentle clarifying effect of ACV removes residue without stripping away color.

4. Adds Body

Permanent dyes can leave some people’s hair feeling limp. The light exfoliating effect of ACV can remove styling product accumulation and volumize the hair, renewing body and bounce.

5. Affordable Treatment

Unlike some clarifying shampoos or commercial treatments, ACV is extremely budget-friendly. A bottle costs just a few dollars. Frugal hair care fans appreciate the value.

Cons of Using ACV on Dyed Hair

While the risks of significant color stripping are low with attentive use, there are a few potential downsides to know:

1. Can Dry Hair Over Time

Since ACV has an acidic pH, overuse over time could potentially cause dryness or irritation. This is easily avoided by sticking to a maximum of 1-2 times per week. But excessive use is unwise.

2. Strong Scent

Some people find the strong vinegar scent of ACV off-putting. The smell dissipates once rinsed, but if you dislike strong odors, it could be unpleasant to use. Adding lemon juice or essential oils can help.

3. Results Vary

As with any hair treatment, results will vary based on your hair’s properties and dye type. Patch testing is wise to determine if your hair will react well before committing to consistent use.

4. Can Fade Vibrant Colors

If you have super vibrant fashion shades like mermaid blues or hot pinks, exercised added caution and strand testing. These very vivid colors have higher potential for subtle fading with acid ingredients.

How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar On Dyed Hair

Here is a simple step-by-step guide for safely incorporating ACV rinses or treatments into your routine for color-treated hair:

1. Mix – Dilute ACV by combining 1 part vinegar with 2-3 parts purified or filtered water. Adjust dilution as needed.

2. Apply – After shampooing and conditioning hair, pour or spray the ACV mix liberally onto damp hair. Work through sections with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

3. Process – Cover hair with a shower cap and allow the ACV to sit for 5-15 minutes. Start with less time and work upwards to avoid over-processing.

4. Rinse – Rinse hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the vinegar smell dissipates. Follow with a cold water rinse to seal the cuticle.

5. Condition – Apply your regular hair conditioner or mask to the mid-lengths and ends. Rinse after the recommended time.

6. Dry – Pat hair gently with a towel. Allow to air dry or use a hair dryer on a low heat setting.

7. Repeat – Use the ACV treatment 1-2 times per week at most. Less often for color maintenance.

Apple Cider Vinegar On Permanent Vs. Semi-Permanent Hair Dye

The effects of ACV can vary based on the type of hair dye:

Permanent Hair Color – Will likely not be dramatically impacted by ACV due to deeper penetration into the cortex. Still use gently. Avoid overlapping roots.

Semi-Permanent Hair Color – More at risk for subtle fading over time as these deposit on the cuticle. Use lower strength dilution and less processing time.

Fashion Colors – Vibrant dyes have greater potential for fading with acidic ingredients. Test carefully before regular use.

Root Touch Up – Apply ACV mainly to the scalp and roots to avoid lifting color on already treated mid-lengths and ends.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lighten Hair Color?

As explored above, ACV will not drastically lift permanent hair dye with occasional use. However, when used consistently over an extended period of time, the acetic acid can cause very subtle lightening and softening of color.

This gradual effect happens because trace amounts of dye molecules are weakened and washed away with repeated exposure to the vinegar.

For those looking to slowly transition their color or tone down an overly vibrant shade, an ACV rinse 2-3 times per week can gently lighten and soften color over the course of several weeks and months.

Things To Avoid To Prevent Hair Color Stripping

To keep dyed hair vibrant between salon visits, be cautious with ingredients and tools that aggressively lift color. Avoid:

• Clarifying shampoos
• Anti-dandruff shampoos
• Excessive heat styling
• Hot water
• Extended sun exposure
• Chlorine and salt water
• Over-washing hair

Read your hair product labels and steer clear of sulfates