Ending up with orange hair after a coloring session can be a nightmare. Whether you were aiming for a vibrant copper or a subtle honey blonde, unwanted orange tones can throw off your entire look. But don’t panic! Fixing orange hair color is entirely possible with the right approach and a little patience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to neutralize those brassy tones and achieve the hair color of your dreams.
Understanding Why Hair Turns Orange
Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand the culprit behind the orange hue. Hair color is determined by the presence of underlying pigments. When you lighten your hair, you’re essentially lifting these pigments. However, different pigments lift at different rates.
Orange and yellow tones are the most stubborn and tend to linger even after the other pigments have faded. This is particularly common if you have naturally dark hair, as these underlying pigments are more concentrated. Other factors that contribute to orange hair include:
- Hard Water: Minerals in hard water can react with hair dye, leading to brassiness.
- Product Buildup: Residue from styling products, chlorine, and pollution can also cause unwanted warmth.
- Sun Exposure: The sun’s UV rays can oxidize hair color, making it appear brassier.
How to Fix Orange Hair at Home
If you’re dealing with mild orange tones, several DIY methods can help neutralize them:
1. Toning Shampoo and Conditioner
Investing in a good-quality toning shampoo and conditioner is your first line of defense against brassiness. Look for products specifically designed to neutralize orange or yellow tones. Blue and purple shampoos work best for counteracting orange, while purple shampoos are ideal for tackling yellow hues.
Pro Tip: For optimal results, leave the toning shampoo on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing.
2. DIY Blue or Purple Rinse
For a more potent toning treatment, try a blue or purple rinse. You can find these at most drugstores. Mix the rinse with water according to the instructions and apply it to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing.
Important: Remember that these rinses can stain, so protect your clothes and bathroom surfaces.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar is a natural clarifying agent that can help remove product buildup and mineral deposits, which can contribute to brassiness. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water and pour it over your hair after shampooing and conditioning. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
4. Color-Depositing Hair Mask
Color-depositing hair masks are a great way to add pigment back into your hair while also providing deep conditioning. Choose a mask with blue or purple pigments to neutralize orange tones. Apply the mask to damp hair and leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing.
When to Visit a Professional
While at-home remedies can be effective for mild cases, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals, especially if:
- You have significant orange tones: If your hair is very orange, home remedies might not be strong enough to correct the problem.
- You recently bleached your hair: Bleaching is a harsh chemical process that can leave your hair porous and vulnerable to damage. It’s best to let a professional handle color correction in this case.
- You’re unsure about the right approach: Color correction can be tricky, and using the wrong products or techniques can worsen the problem. A professional colorist has the expertise and experience to assess your hair and determine the best course of action.
Professional Color Correction Options
A skilled colorist can utilize various techniques to neutralize orange hair color:
- Toning: Similar to toning shampoos and rinses, professional toning treatments use stronger pigments to counteract unwanted tones.
- Glazing: A hair glaze deposits a translucent layer of color onto the hair, helping to correct uneven tones and add shine.
- Color Correction: This involves using a combination of techniques, such as bleaching, toning, and coloring, to completely transform the hair color.
Preventing Orange Hair in the Future
Once you’ve achieved your desired hair color, here are some tips to prevent those pesky orange tones from returning:
- Use Color-Safe Products: Switch to shampoos, conditioners, and styling products formulated for color-treated hair. These products are gentler and help prevent color fading.
- Invest in a Shower Filter: A shower filter can remove minerals from your water that can contribute to brassiness.
- Protect Your Hair from the Sun: UV rays can fade and oxidize hair color. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
- Schedule Regular Touch-Ups: If you color your hair regularly, be sure to schedule touch-up appointments with your stylist every 4-6 weeks to maintain your color and prevent fading.
Conclusion
Fixing orange hair color requires a combination of understanding the underlying causes, choosing the right solutions, and practicing proper hair care. While at-home remedies can address mild brassiness, seeking professional help is crucial for significant color correction. By taking a proactive approach and following these tips, you can confidently banish orange tones and embrace vibrant, healthy-looking hair.
Remember, achieving your dream hair color is a journey, and Color Box Hà Nội is here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of experienced colorists is dedicated to providing personalized solutions that enhance your natural beauty and leave you feeling confident and radiant.
FAQs
Q: Can I use baking soda to fix orange hair?
While baking soda is a natural cleaning agent, it’s not recommended for fixing orange hair. Baking soda is highly alkaline and can disrupt the pH balance of your hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and further color distortion.
Q: How long does it take to fix orange hair?
The time it takes to fix orange hair depends on the severity of the problem, the chosen method, and your hair’s condition. Mild brassiness might be addressed in one or two sessions, while significant color correction might require multiple appointments.
Q: Can I dye over orange hair?
It’s generally not advisable to dye over orange hair without first neutralizing the unwanted tones. Applying more color without addressing the underlying issue can result in muddy or uneven results. It’s best to consult with a professional colorist for guidance.
Need Expert Help?
Struggling to achieve your desired hair color? Color Box Hà Nội is here to help! Contact our team of expert colorists at 0373298888 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a consultation. We’re located at 86 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội, and our dedicated customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you.
