Orange hair can be a nightmare, especially if it wasn't the look you were going for. Whether you accidentally dyed your hair orange or it turned that way after lightening it, don't worry, you can tone it down to a more natural shade. In this guide, we'll show you how to tone your orange hair at home in a few simple steps.
Table of Content
- Description
- How to Tone Your Orange Hair at Home
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips to Keep in Mind
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Toning
Description
Before we dive into how to tone your orange hair, let's talk about what causes hair to turn orange in the first place. Hair can turn orange if it's not lightened enough before applying a blonde or light ash color. This is because the underlying pigment in hair is usually red or orange, especially if you have dark hair. When you try to dye your hair blonde, the red or orange pigment is exposed, resulting in a brassy, orange tone.
The good news is that you don't have to live with orange hair forever. You can tone it down to a more natural-looking shade at home with the right products and techniques. Here's how:
How to Tone Your Orange Hair at Home
The key to toning orange hair is to use a hair toner that will neutralize the orange pigment and give your hair a more natural-looking color. Hair toners are usually purple or blue-based, which means they will cancel out the orange tones and give your hair a cooler, ashier shade.
Here's what you'll need:
- A hair toner in a shade that complements your hair color (try a purple toner if your hair is on the yellow side or a blue toner if it's more orange)
- A developer (make sure it's the right strength for your hair, usually 20 or 30 volume)
- A mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- Shampoo and conditioner
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to tone your orange hair:
- Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue. This will help the toner penetrate better.
- Mix the toner and developer according to the instructions on the products. Use a 1:2 ratio (one part toner, two parts developer).
- Put on gloves and apply the toner mixture to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Make sure to saturate your hair evenly.
- Leave the toner on for the recommended time (usually 20-30 minutes), or as instructed on the product. Check your hair every 5-10 minutes to see if it has reached the desired shade.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Apply a moisturizing conditioner to your hair and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off. This will help hydrate your hair and prevent it from drying out.
- Style your hair as usual and enjoy your new, toned-down color!
Tips to Keep in Mind
Here are some tips to help you get the best results when toning your orange hair:
- Choose the right toner shade for your hair color. If your hair is more yellow, go for a purple toner. If it's more orange, opt for a blue toner.
- Make sure to use the right developer strength for your hair. If your hair is damaged or fragile, use a lower volume developer (10 or 20). If it's healthy and strong, you can use a higher volume (30 or 40).
- Apply the toner evenly and saturate your hair well. This will ensure that the toner works evenly and you get a consistent color throughout your hair.
- Don't leave the toner on for too long, or it may over-tone your hair and make it look dull or grayish.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
FAQs
Q: Can I tone my orange hair with home remedies?
A: While there are some home remedies that claim to tone down orange hair (such as using vinegar or baking soda), we recommend using a hair toner specifically designed for that purpose. Home remedies can be unpredictable and may cause more harm than good if not used properly.
Q: How often can I tone my hair?
A: It's best to wait at least 4-6 weeks between toning sessions to avoid over-processing your hair. Toning too often can weaken your hair and cause breakage or damage.
Q: Can I tone my hair if it's been previously colored?
A: Yes, you can tone your hair even if it has been previously colored. Just make sure to choose a toner that complements your current hair color and follow the instructions carefully.
Hair Care After Toning
After toning your hair, it's important to take good care of it to maintain its health and color. Here are some tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Avoid using hot tools or styling products that can damage your hair, such as flat irons or curling wands. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray first.
- Get regular trims to prevent split ends and breakage.
- Avoid exposing your hair to chlorine or saltwater, as it can cause the color to fade or change.
- Use a color-depositing shampoo or conditioner to refresh your color between toning sessions.
With these tips and techniques, you can easily tone your orange hair at home and achieve a more natural-looking shade. Remember to choose the right toner and developer for your hair, apply it evenly, and take good care of your hair afterward. Happy toning!