So, you’ve found yourself staring into the mirror wondering, “What color brown will actually cover this orange hair?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Orange tones are a common (and often unwelcome) side effect of lightening previously color-treated hair. But the good news is that achieving a beautiful brown shade is absolutely within reach. It all comes down to understanding color theory and choosing the right shade of brown.
Understanding the Color Wheel: Why Orange Happens and How Brown Can Help
Before we dive into specific shades, let’s get a little technical (don’t worry, it’s fascinating stuff!). Hair color is all about pigments, and when you lighten your hair, you’re essentially lifting those pigments. The problem is, different pigments lift at different rates. Orange and yellow tones are the most stubborn, so they often stick around even after your desired level of lift is achieved.
[image-1|covering-orange-hair-color-wheel|color wheel showing complementary colors|A color wheel with arrows pointing from orange to blue, illustrating the concept of complementary colors in hair color correction.]
This is where the magic of the color wheel comes in. Opposite colors on the color wheel neutralize each other. Blue and green sit opposite orange, making them the secret weapons in your quest for brown hair perfection. By choosing a brown hair dye with the right balance of blue or green undertones, you can effectively counteract the orange and achieve a rich, true brown.
Choosing the Right Shade of Brown to Cover Orange Hair
Now that you’re a color theory pro, let’s talk specifics. Here’s a breakdown of brown shades and the undertones that make them ideal for covering orange:
- Light Brown: Look for shades described as “ash brown,” “cool brown,” or “mushroom brown.” These typically contain a balance of green and blue undertones to combat orange.
- Medium Brown: “Chocolate brown,” “chestnut brown,” and “caramel brown” are good options. These often have more red undertones, but the key is to find one with enough cool tones to balance the orange.
- Dark Brown: Opt for “dark chocolate brown,” “espresso brown,” or “almost black” shades. These tend to have naturally stronger cool undertones, making them effective at covering even stubborn orange.
[image-2|brown-hair-dye-options|different shades of brown hair dye|A selection of hair dye boxes in various shades of brown, highlighting the importance of choosing the right undertones to cover orange hair.]
Tips for Success:
- Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about going it alone, a professional colorist can assess your hair and recommend the perfect shade and technique.
- Do a Strand Test: Before committing to a full head of color, test the dye on a small, inconspicuous section of hair to ensure you’re happy with the results.
- Be Patient: It may take a couple of applications to completely neutralize stubborn orange tones, especially if you’re going lighter.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use box dye to cover orange hair?
Yes, you can achieve great results with box dye if you choose the right shade and follow the instructions carefully. - Will toning my hair get rid of the orange?
Toning can help neutralize unwanted warmth, but it might not completely eliminate strong orange tones on its own. - How long will it take to cover orange hair?
Depending on the severity of the orange and the desired brown shade, it may take one or two applications to achieve the desired result.
Remember: Covering orange hair with brown is definitely achievable. Armed with the right knowledge and a little patience, you’ll be rocking your dream brown hair in no time. And who knows, maybe this experience will inspire you to explore the fascinating world of color theory even further!
Need help finding the perfect color? Contact us! Our team of color experts at Color Box Hanoi is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at 0373298888, email us at [email protected], or visit us at 86 Cầu Giấy, Hanoi. We offer 24/7 customer support to answer all your color-related questions!
