Are you tired of dealing with unwanted orange tones in your hair? Whether you’ve recently dyed your hair blonde or have been struggling with brassy locks for years, toning down orange hair can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of orange hair, the different methods for toning it down, and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the perfect shade.
Understanding Orange Hair
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why orange hair occurs in the first place. There are several reasons why your hair may be turning orange, including:
Over-Processing
When you dye your hair, especially with bleach or high-lift colors, it can cause damage to the hair shaft. This damage can lead to the formation of warm, orange tones. Over-processing can also cause the hair to become porous, allowing the color to penetrate unevenly and resulting in an orange hue.
Using the Wrong Toner
Using a toner that’s not suitable for your hair type or color can also cause orange tones. For example, if you’re trying to achieve a cool, ash blonde color, using a toner with warm, golden undertones can result in an orange cast.
Mineral Buildup
Mineral buildup from hard water or using products that contain minerals like copper or iron can also cause orange tones. These minerals can deposit onto the hair shaft, resulting in an unwanted orange hue.
Toning Down Orange Hair: Methods and Techniques
Now that we’ve explored the causes of orange hair, let’s move on to the solutions. There are several methods and techniques you can use to tone down orange hair, including:
Using a Color Corrector
A color corrector is a type of toner that’s specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones. If you’re dealing with orange hair, you can use a color corrector with blue or purple undertones to counteract the warm tones.
Applying a Toner
A toner can help to adjust the tone of your hair and eliminate unwanted orange hues. There are many different types of toners available, including ammonia-free and demi-permanent options.
Using a Hair Mask
A hair mask can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, while also toning down orange hues. Look for a hair mask that contains ingredients like blueberry or chamomile, which can help to neutralize warm tones.
Step-by-Step Guide to Toning Down Orange Hair
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tone down orange hair:
Step 1: Determine Your Hair Type and Color
Before you start toning down your orange hair, it’s essential to determine your hair type and color. This will help you to choose the right products and techniques for your hair.
Step 2: Choose the Right Products
Once you’ve determined your hair type and color, you can start choosing the right products. Look for a color corrector or toner that’s specifically designed for your hair type and color.
Step 3: Apply the Color Corrector or Toner
Follow the instructions on the packaging to apply the color corrector or toner. Make sure to saturate your hair evenly and process the color for the recommended amount of time.
Step 4: Rinse and Condition
After processing the color, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color and hydrate your hair.
Step 5: Follow Up with a Hair Mask
To help maintain the color and tone of your hair, follow up with a hair mask once a week. Look for a hair mask that contains ingredients like blueberry or chamomile, which can help to neutralize warm tones.
| Product | Ingredients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Wella Color Charm Toner | Ammonia-free, contains blue and purple undertones | Helps to neutralize warm tones and achieve a cool, ash blonde color |
| Joico Vero K-Pak Chrome Toner | Contains antioxidants and plant extracts, ammonia-free | Helps to nourish and moisturize the hair while toning down orange hues |
Conclusion
Toning down orange hair can be a challenge, but with the right products and techniques, it’s achievable. By understanding the causes of orange hair and using a color corrector or toner, you can help to neutralize unwanted tones and achieve the perfect shade. Remember to follow up with a hair mask once a week to help maintain the color and tone of your hair. With a little patience and practice, you can say goodbye to orange hair and hello to a beautiful, vibrant color.
What causes orange tones in hair?
Orange tones in hair can be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of permanent hair dye, especially those with high levels of warm tones. When the cuticle of the hair is lifted during the dyeing process, warm tones can penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in an orange or brassy color. Additionally, sun exposure, hard water, and the use of certain hair products can also contribute to the development of orange tones.
To minimize the appearance of orange tones, it’s essential to use a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner, and to avoid using hot water when washing your hair. You can also try using a color-depositing treatment once a week to help neutralize warm tones and achieve a more balanced color.
How do I tone down orange hair at home?
Toning down orange hair at home can be achieved with the use of a color-correcting toner. There are many toners available on the market, ranging from purple-based toners to blue-based toners. To choose the right toner, consider the level of orange tone in your hair and the desired result. If you have a mild orange tone, a purple-based toner may be sufficient, while a more severe orange tone may require a blue-based toner.
When applying a toner at home, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head. This will help you determine the correct amount of time to leave the toner on and avoid over-toning your hair. It’s also recommended to use a conditioning treatment after toning to help moisturize and nourish your hair.
What is the best toner for orange hair?
The best toner for orange hair depends on the level of orange tone and the desired result. For mild orange tones, a purple-based toner such as Wella Color Charm T14 or Joico Vero K-Pak Chrome Toner can be effective. For more severe orange tones, a blue-based toner such as Wella Color Charm T18 or Redken Color Extend Magnetic Toner may be necessary.
When choosing a toner, consider the ingredients and the level of pigment. Look for a toner that contains ingredients such as antioxidants and plant extracts, which can help nourish and protect your hair. Also, consider the level of pigment in the toner, as a toner with high pigment can be more effective at neutralizing orange tones.
Can I use a semi-permanent dye to tone down orange hair?
Yes, a semi-permanent dye can be used to tone down orange hair. Semi-permanent dyes are a great option for those who want to achieve a temporary color correction without making a long-term commitment. Semi-permanent dyes can help deposit color onto the hair shaft, neutralizing warm tones and achieving a more balanced color.
When using a semi-permanent dye to tone down orange hair, it’s essential to choose a dye that is formulated for color correction. Look for a dye that contains ingredients such as purple or blue pigments, which can help neutralize orange tones. Also, consider the level of pigment in the dye, as a dye with high pigment can be more effective at achieving the desired result.
How long does it take to tone down orange hair?
The time it takes to tone down orange hair can vary depending on the level of orange tone and the desired result. If you have a mild orange tone, you may be able to achieve the desired result with a single toning treatment. However, if you have a more severe orange tone, it may take multiple treatments to achieve the desired result.
On average, a toning treatment can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of toner and the length of your hair. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head. This will help you determine the correct amount of time to leave the toner on and avoid over-toning your hair.
Can I tone down orange hair with natural ingredients?
Yes, there are several natural ingredients that can be used to tone down orange hair. One of the most effective natural ingredients is purple shampoo, which can help neutralize warm tones and achieve a more balanced color. Other natural ingredients that can be used to tone down orange hair include lemon juice, vinegar, and chamomile tea.
When using natural ingredients to tone down orange hair, it’s essential to be patient and consistent. Natural ingredients can take longer to achieve the desired result, and may require multiple treatments. It’s also essential to do a strand test before applying the natural ingredients to your entire head, as some ingredients can cause dryness or damage to the hair.
How do I maintain my hair color after toning down orange hair?
To maintain your hair color after toning down orange hair, it’s essential to use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner. Look for a shampoo and conditioner that contains ingredients such as antioxidants and plant extracts, which can help nourish and protect your hair. Also, consider using a color-depositing treatment once a week to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair.
It’s also essential to avoid using hot water when washing your hair, as hot water can cause the color to fade faster. Instead, use warm or cool water, and avoid using harsh hair products that can strip the hair of its color. By following these tips, you can help maintain your hair color and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.