So, you’ve rocked the orange hair, and now you’re craving a change. Good news! Orange hair is actually a surprisingly versatile base for new colors. Whether you’re dreaming of going lighter, darker, or exploring a whole new color family, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding the Color Wheel: Your Guide to Dyeing Over Orange Hair
Before we dive into specific colors, it’s helpful to understand a bit about color theory. Think back to art class and the color wheel:
- Opposite Colors Neutralize: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel can cancel each other out. This is especially important when dealing with orange hair, as its opposite, blue, plays a key role in neutralizing unwanted brassy tones.
- Warm and Cool Tones: Understanding whether a color has warm or cool undertones helps predict how it will look on your orange base.
Best Colors to Dye Over Orange Hair
Various hair dye color swatches laid out on a table
Here are some of the best color options for transforming your orange locks:
1. Brunette and Darker Shades
Want to go darker? You’re in luck! Orange hair is a great base for achieving rich brunette shades.
- Chocolate Brown: A universally flattering option that beautifully covers orange tones while adding warmth and dimension.
- Dark Auburn: Enhance the natural warmth of your orange hair with reddish-brown hues for a multi-dimensional look.
- Black: Yes, you can go black! Just be prepared for a longer process to ensure the orange is fully neutralized, and consider a professional for the best results.
Pro Tip from Sarah Thompson, Master Colorist: “When going darker over orange hair, I always recommend using a dye with cool or neutral undertones to prevent any unwanted brassiness from peeking through.”
2. Red and Copper Tones
Already rocking warm tones? Embrace them!
- Deep Copper: Adding more copper tones will deepen your current color, resulting in a vibrant, fiery look.
- Burgundy: This rich, sophisticated shade complements the warm undertones of orange hair beautifully.
- Violet-Red: For a touch of cool, try a violet-red. The violet helps neutralize the orange while adding a unique twist.
3. Blondes
Going blonde over orange hair requires a bit more work but is definitely achievable.
- Strawberry Blonde: This warm, peachy blonde blends beautifully with orange tones for a natural-looking result.
- Honey Blonde: A bit darker than strawberry blonde, honey blonde offers a warm, sun-kissed look.
- Ash Blonde: For a cooler blonde, opt for an ash blonde. It requires careful toning to neutralize orange, so consulting a professional is recommended.
Pro Tip: “Bleaching is often necessary when going lighter, especially with orange hair. I always advise clients to invest in a good quality hair mask and deep conditioner to keep their hair healthy throughout the process.” – Sarah Thompson, Master Colorist
Factors to Consider When Dyeing Over Orange Hair
- Your Hair’s Current Condition: If your hair is damaged, it’s best to address that before dyeing.
- The Intensity of the Orange: The vibrancy of your orange hair will impact how easily it’s covered.
- Your Desired Color: Some colors require more processing than others.
- Professional vs. DIY: For drastic changes or if you’re unsure, consult a professional stylist.
Conclusion
Dyeing over orange hair opens up a world of color possibilities. By understanding color theory and considering your hair type and desired result, you can confidently transform your look. Whether you choose a rich brunette, a fiery copper, or a sun-kissed blonde, embrace the journey of hair color exploration!
