So, you’ve gone and done it – taken the plunge into the fiery world of orange hair. Maybe it was intentional, a bold statement of your vibrant personality. Or perhaps it was an unexpected turn of events, a DIY dye job gone awry. Whatever the reason, you’re now faced with the question: What Color Toner To Use On Orange Hair?
Don’t fret! Whether you’re aiming to neutralize unwanted brassiness, enhance your current shade, or achieve a completely different tone, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to conquer those orange hues and achieve your desired hair color.
Understanding Toner and its Role in Hair Color
Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what toner actually is and how it works its magic on orange hair. In simple terms, hair toner is like a magic wand for your hair color. It’s a demi-permanent hair color that deposits pigment onto the hair shaft without lifting the natural color, unlike permanent hair dye.
Why is this important for orange hair?
Orange hair often results from unwanted warm pigments being revealed, especially after bleaching or lightening. Toner comes into play by neutralizing these unwanted tones. Think of it as color theory in action – using opposite colors on the color wheel to cancel each other out.
Choosing the Right Toner for Orange Hair
Now, the million-dollar question: what color toner should you use to combat that orange? The answer depends on the shade of orange you’re dealing with and your desired result.
1. Neutralizing Brassy Orange Hair
For brassy orange tones, your goal is to counteract the excessive warmth. Look for these toner shades:
- Blue-Based Toners: These are your best bet for neutralizing orange, as blue sits directly opposite orange on the color wheel.
- Ash-Based Toners: Ash tones contain a blend of blue and violet pigments, effectively canceling out both orange and yellow undertones.
2. Enhancing Orange Hair
If you’re rocking a vibrant orange and want to amplify its vibrancy, try these toners:
- Red Toners (for a red-orange hue): These will intensify the red undertones in your orange hair, creating a bolder, more fiery look.
- Copper Toners (for a copper-orange hue): Copper toners add warmth and depth to orange hair, resulting in a rich and dimensional shade.
3. Transforming Orange Hair
For a complete color makeover, you have a few options:
- Lightening and Toning: If you’re aiming for a lighter shade like blonde, you’ll need to lighten your hair first to remove as much orange pigment as possible. Then, use a toner to achieve your desired blonde tone.
- Going Darker: You can use a darker permanent hair dye to cover the orange completely. Consult with a professional stylist for best results, as this can be a tricky process.
The Toner Application Process
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer the expertise of a professional stylist, understanding the toner application process is crucial.
- Strand Test: This is non-negotiable! Apply the toner to a small, inconspicuous section of hair first to assess the color payoff and ensure you’re happy with the result.
- Preparation: Wear gloves and protect your clothing. Mix the toner with developer according to the product instructions.
- Application: Apply the toner evenly to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down.
- Processing Time: Follow the product instructions for processing time, checking the color regularly.
- Rinsing and Conditioning: Rinse the toner thoroughly until the water runs clear, then condition your hair as usual.
Woman Applying Hair Toner
Tips for Maintaining Your Toned Hair
Congratulations on conquering the orange! Now, let’s keep your new color vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible.
- Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner: These are specially formulated to prevent color fading and maintain the vibrancy of your toner.
- Wash your hair less frequently: Every wash cycle can strip away hair color. Try extending the time between washes with dry shampoo.
- Protect your hair from heat: Heat styling can accelerate color fading. Always use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying, straightening, or curling.
- Schedule regular toner refreshers: Depending on the toner used and your hair porosity, you may need to refresh the toner every 4-6 weeks to maintain the desired color.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toning Orange Hair
1. Can I use purple shampoo to tone orange hair?
While purple shampoo is great for neutralizing yellow tones in blonde hair, it’s not as effective on orange. It might slightly tone down the brassiness, but for significant results, a blue-based toner is recommended.
2. Can I tone my hair at home or should I see a professional?
Toning can be done at home with the right products and knowledge. However, if you’re unsure about the process or dealing with a major color correction, seeking professional help is always a good idea.
3. How long does toner last on orange hair?
The longevity of toner depends on factors like hair porosity, toner type, and hair care routine. Generally, it can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks.
4. What happens if I leave toner on my hair for too long?
Leaving toner on for too long can result in unwanted color results, such as a greenish or grayish cast. Always follow the product instructions for processing time.
5. Can I tone my hair if it’s already damaged?
If your hair is severely damaged, it’s best to consult a professional stylist before toning. Toning can be drying, so it’s important to ensure your hair is healthy enough to handle the process.
Ready to Transform Your Orange Hair?
Toning orange hair doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge and tools, you can achieve the hair color of your dreams. Remember to choose the right toner for your desired outcome, follow the application instructions carefully, and maintain your toned hair with proper care.
Need more personalized advice on your hair color journey? Our expert team at Color Box Hanoi is here to help! Contact us today at Số Điện Thoại: 0373298888 or [email protected], or visit us at 86 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you achieve your hair goals.
