Can I go back to my natural hair color after bleaching?

Author: Ayla Rolfson III  |  Last update: Monday, January 5, 2026

Getting your hair back to its natural shade depends on the current state of your hair as well as its health. Oftentimes, returning to your natural color takes several sessions with a colorist unless you're planning to let your hair grow out.

Can bleached hair go back to original color?

When hair is bleached, the natural pigment (melanin) is removed, which can result in a lighter or even yellowish tone. The hair itself won't regain its original color once it has been bleached. However, over time, new hair growth will come in with its natural color, while the bleached hair will remain lighter.

Can you go back to your natural hair color after dying it?

Yes, you can return to your natural hair color, but the process will depend on your current hair color and how you want to achieve that. Here are some common methods: Growing It Out: If you're willing to be patient, you can simply let your hair grow out.

Can your hair go back to normal after bleaching?

Yes, it is possible to completely recover from hair dye/bleach damage, as long as the scalp has not been burned, scarred or damaged in any way. Best wishes to all.

What color cancels out bleached hair?

Violet and purple are the best colors to get rid of oxidation. You haven't bleached enough levels of your hair to get all the 'pigment', 'color' out of your hair. That's what that brassy color is. It's like a rust that lingers when there's still color left.

HOW I GREW OUT MY DAMAGED BLEACHED HAIR | MY HAIR TRANSFORMATION

Can you put dark color over bleached hair?

If you want to dye your bleached hair or highlights darker, pay attention to a few things to ensure you achieve the right colour. Care for your hair well eight days prior to dyeing to close your hair cuticles as much as possible. Choose a lighter and warmer colour than the one you aim to achieve.

Can you remove color from bleached hair?

Color Remover only removes hair color that is darker than your natural hair color. This means that it cannot remove bleached hair. If your hair has been bleached blond or your color has been lighter than your natural hair color, your natural pigment has been chemically lightened.

How to get natural color back after bleaching?

Steps
  1. Let your bleached hair grow out for about 2 months. If you just got your hair re-bleached, let it grow out for a couple of months so you can see your natural hair color. ...
  2. Pick a red or gold demi-permanent color for your hair. ...
  3. Choose a hair dye that matches your natural roots.

How long should I wait to dye my hair again after bleaching?

"Experts advise waiting at least 2 weeks (technically 15 days) before dyeing it again. However, this is the minimum amount of time and, in some cases, you may need to extend that period to 4 weeks.

What hair dye is best for bleached hair?

Applying Manic Panic on bleached hair provides much better performance from your chosen colour as the hair is a lot more porous making it easier for it to absorb and keep the colour lasting for longer.

How long does it take for hair to go back to natural color?

On average, hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm) monthly. So, if you have shoulder-length hair and want to completely grow dyed hair to your natural color, it may take approximately 12 to 18 months. However, keep in mind that this timeline can be shorter or longer based on individual circumstances.

How to strip hair back to natural color?

Use a clarifying shampoo

If you need to remove hair dye fast, reach for a clarifying or anti-dandruff shampoo. These are like a deep cleanse for your hair. The harsh chemicals in these shampoos will strip your hair of color. They work by stripping away not just dirt and oil, but also any unwanted hair dye.

How to remove bleach from hair?

While the bleach itself cannot be undone, you can combat these side effects by using a pre-shampoo deep conditioning treatment on a weekly basis. This may help your bleached hair grow out more easily and quickly. Apply your deep conditioner to dry or wet hair and let it sit in for at least 20-30 minutes.

How do I go back to my natural hair color?

3 Additional Ways To Get Back to Your Natural Hair Color
  1. Grow out your hair. Growing your hair out is both the most effective and least damaging way to return to your natural color (though, depending on how quickly your hair grows, can take some time). ...
  2. Dye your hair—again. ...
  3. Opt for a short hairstyle.

Why won't my hair take color after bleaching?

When you bleach your hair you strip it of its natural pigments, which means it won't react to dye in the same way. Dye can come out darker than you would assume and you may need to use a protein filler. Speak to your stylist and be sure you're choosing the right colour and products for you.

How long does it take for bleached hair to go back to natural?

On average, hair grows about half an inch per month. Therefore, it can take several months to years to grow out bleached hair, depending on your hair length and growth rate.

Can I put a dye over bleached hair?

When you bleach your hair you strip it of its natural pigments, which means it won't react to dye in the same way. Dye can come out darker than you would assume and you may need to use a protein filler. Speak to your stylist and be sure you're choosing the right colour and products for you.

Can I put permanent color over highlights?

Yes, it is possible to apply an all-over color over existing highlights. However, there are a few factors to consider before proceeding: 1. Starting Color: The starting color of your highlights will affect the outcome when applying an all-over color.

Can I put brown box dye over bleached hair?

Yes, but if you dying it more than 2 levels darker you may need to use a filler. Filler is a color that replaces the underlying pigment in the hair.

How do I go back to Brown after bleaching?

How to Go From Blonde to Brown Hair
  1. Step 1: Don't Go Too Dark at Home. ...
  2. Step 2: Find a Professional You Trust. ...
  3. Step 3: Start With Clean Hair. ...
  4. Step 4: Use a Filler Shade First. ...
  5. Step 5: Apply Brown Dye. ...
  6. Step 6: Finish With a Hair Glaze.

How soon can I dye my hair after bleaching?

When can I dye my hair after bleaching it? In many cases, it is okay to dye your hair immediately after dyeing. However, many hair experts recommend waiting at least a week or two before coloring your hair. If you want to be cautious, extend it to four or five weeks.

Do I need a filler to go from blonde to brown?

If you're starting from a platinum blonde, your stylist will need to fill your hair—adding in the color molecules that are missing and allowing them to bond to the clear base—with pigment before adding the brunette color you're going for.

What cancels out bleached hair?

If your lousy bleach job has come out more yellow, you'll need a purple toner. Purple shampoo can help neutralize the yellow. If your hair is orange, you'll need a blue toner. Try a blue shampoo to tone the brassiness and get rid of the orange.

How soon can I recolor my hair if I don't like the color?

Generally speaking though, it's best to wait 4-6 weeks before having another color treatment – in most cases, this is enough anyway and reduces the risk of hair damage. There are some exceptions, but in general, it's better to err on the side of caution and wait for this long.

What shampoo washes out hair dye?

Sulphate-rich shampoos are ideal for stripping hair since they help to release the colour - especially with dark or vibrant colours. These include clarifying or deep cleansing shampoo or anti-dandruff shampoo.

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