Understanding the Challenge
* Porosity: Highlighted hair is more porous than virgin hair because the lightening process damages the hair's cuticle. This means it absorbs and releases color differently. It can grab onto color more readily and release it faster.
* Precision: Shades EQ is a demi-permanent color, meaning it doesn't lift the hair's natural pigment. However, it still deposits color, and you need to target *only* the highlighted strands.
* Damage Control: Any color removal process carries a risk of damage, especially to already-processed hair. Minimizing damage is the top priority.
Techniques to Consider (Used by Professionals):
* Color Remover Specifically for Demi-Permanent Color:
* How it works: These products are designed to break down the dye molecules of demi-permanent colors like Shades EQ, allowing them to be rinsed away. They usually contain reducing agents that shrink the color molecules.
* Application: The color remover is *meticulously* applied to *only* the highlighted strands. A small tint brush and a very steady hand are essential. The surrounding hair is kept clean and covered to prevent any accidental removal.
* Monitoring: The stylist carefully monitors the process, checking the highlighted strands frequently to ensure the desired amount of color is removed without over-processing.
* Rinsing: Thorough rinsing is crucial to remove all traces of the color remover.
* Neutralization: Many color removers require a neutralizing step to stop the chemical process and prevent re-oxidation of the color molecules.
* Bleach Wash (Soap Cap):
* How it works: This is a very diluted bleach mixture used to gently lift a small amount of color. It is riskier than color remover and should only be done by someone with lots of experience.
* Mixture: A very weak mixture of bleach, developer (usually a low volume like 10 vol), and shampoo is created.
* Application: Applied only to the highlights, constantly monitored, and rinsed quickly. The shampoo helps emulsify the bleach, making it gentler.
* Important Considerations: This method is risky for highlighted hair because it can easily lead to damage or over-lightening. It's more difficult to control than a color remover. It is also not advisable to attempt at home.
* Clarifying Shampoo:
* How it Works: Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup, including some color molecules.
* Application: While not a guaranteed solution, several washes with a clarifying shampoo *might* help fade the Shades EQ, especially if it was a recent application. Use warm (not hot) water, which helps open the hair cuticle.
* Important Considerations: This is the gentlest option but also the least effective for a significant color change. It is safe to use at home and can also be tried after the other methods to remove the remaining toner.
* Moisturize After: Use a deep conditioner after clarifying to replenish moisture, as clarifying shampoos can be drying.
Important Precautions & Considerations:
* Strand Test: *Always* do a strand test before applying any color remover or bleach mixture to the entire head. This will help you assess how the hair will react and prevent unwanted results. Test the product on a small, inconspicuous section of the highlighted hair.
* Hair Condition: Assess the overall health of the highlighted hair. If it's already damaged, proceed with extreme caution or postpone the removal until the hair is in better condition. Use protein treatments to fortify the hair if necessary before attempting removal.
* Low and Slow: It's better to repeat a gentle process multiple times than to use a harsh method that causes significant damage.
* Professional Consultation: The best advice is to consult with a professional stylist who specializes in color correction. They can assess your hair's condition, determine the most appropriate method, and perform the removal safely and effectively.
* Avoid Hot Tools: Refrain from using heat styling tools (flat irons, curling irons, etc.) for a few days before and after the color removal process, as heat can further damage the hair.
* Deep Conditioning: Deep condition the hair regularly after the removal to replenish moisture and restore its health.
Why DIY is Risky:
* Uneven Application: Achieving precise application on individual highlights is extremely difficult at home. You're likely to get the product on the surrounding hair, leading to unwanted color changes.
* Over-Processing: Without proper training, it's easy to over-process the hair, causing damage, breakage, and potentially irreversible color changes.
* Incorrect Product Selection: Choosing the wrong color remover or bleach mixture can lead to disastrous results.
In summary, while there are techniques for removing Redken Shades EQ from highlighted hair, it's a complex process that's best left to a professional. They have the expertise, products, and tools to remove the color safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of damage and ensuring a satisfactory outcome.