What Do You Mix With Hair Color? A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving Your Desired Shade

Mixing hair color can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the world of hair dyeing. But fear not! With a little knowledge and the right tools, you can create stunning hair colors that reflect your personal style.

This guide will delve into the world of hair color mixing, exploring the various techniques, color theory, and essential tips for achieving the perfect shade. We’ll also address common questions and concerns, ensuring that you’re equipped with the confidence to experiment and create your dream hair color.

Understanding Hair Color Mixing

The process of mixing hair color involves blending different shades to create a unique hue that perfectly complements your skin tone and personal style. This involves understanding color theory and knowing how different colors interact with each other.

Color Wheel and Color Theory

Hair color mixing relies on the color wheel, a visual representation of the primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. Here’s a breakdown of the color wheel and its application to hair color mixing:

Primary Colors: These are the base colors from which all other colors are derived. In hair color, these are typically blue, red, and yellow.
Secondary Colors: Created by mixing two primary colors in equal parts. In hair color, these are typically green (blue + yellow), orange (red + yellow), and violet (red + blue).
Tertiary Colors: Created by mixing a primary color with an adjacent secondary color. These colors add depth and complexity to the hair color.

Understanding the color wheel is crucial for determining which colors to mix to achieve your desired shade. For example, adding a touch of yellow to a brown hair color will create a warmer, more golden tone, while adding blue will create a cooler, more ash-toned result.

Color Levels and Tones

Hair color is also categorized by levels and tones:

Levels: Represent the lightness or darkness of the color, ranging from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde).
Tones: Describe the underlying warmth or coolness of the color. Common tones include ash, beige, copper, gold, and red.

When mixing hair color, it’s important to consider both the level and the tone of the colors you’re blending. For example, if you want to create a cool blonde, you’ll need to use a level 10 blonde with a cool, ash-toned base.

Key Factors to Consider Before Mixing Hair Color

Before you start mixing colors, keep these factors in mind:

Your Natural Hair Color: The starting point of your hair color journey. It determines the foundation for the desired shade.
Desired Hair Color: The final color you envision. This may involve subtle changes or dramatic transformations.
Hair Texture and Condition: The overall health and condition of your hair will influence how well the color takes and the final result.
Hair Dye Type: Different types of hair dyes (permanent, semi-permanent, temporary) have different pigment levels and longevity.
Skin Tone and Undertones: Understanding your skin tone and undertones is crucial for choosing a hair color that complements your complexion.

Techniques for Mixing Hair Color

Now that you understand the basics of color theory, let’s dive into the practical aspects of mixing hair color. Here are some common techniques:

1. Using a Color Chart

Hair color manufacturers often provide color charts that showcase various shades and their corresponding mixing ratios. These charts are incredibly helpful for beginners, providing a visual guide for creating specific colors.

2. Mixing Developer and Color

Most permanent hair dyes come in two parts: developer and color. The developer is a chemical that opens the hair cuticle, allowing the color molecules to penetrate. The color is the pigment that provides the desired shade.

To mix permanent hair dye, you’ll typically follow these steps:

Gather your materials: Developer, color, mixing bowl, applicator brush, gloves, and a timer.
Choose your color: Refer to the color chart for mixing ratios based on your desired shade.
Mix the developer and color: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the amount of developer and color to mix.
Apply the dye: Section your hair and apply the mixed dye using an applicator brush.

3. Mixing Pre-Made Colors

For semi-permanent or temporary hair dyes, you might already have various pre-made colors at your disposal. You can mix these colors in a mixing bowl to create custom shades. Remember to start with a small amount and gradually add more color until you achieve the desired shade.

Common Questions Answered

1. What color do I mix with brown hair to get a lighter shade?

To lighten brown hair, you’ll need to use a developer and a lighter shade of brown or blonde hair color. The developer will lift the existing color, while the lighter shade will provide the desired base for the lighter color.

2. What color cancels out purple hair?

To cancel out purple hair, you’ll need to use a color that is its complementary color on the color wheel, which is yellow. You can use a yellow toner or a yellow-based hair dye to neutralize the purple pigment.

Pro Tip: [link: how to darken red hair color]

3. What color goes with cocoa brown hair?

Cocoa brown hair is a versatile shade that can be paired with various colors, including:

Warm Tones: Caramel, honey, amber, and copper.
Cool Tones: Ash brown, chestnut, and mahogany.
Red Tones: Burgundy, auburn, and mahogany.

Pro Tip: [link: what color goes with cocoa brown]

Conclusion

Mixing hair color is a journey of experimentation, creativity, and learning. Understanding color theory, mastering mixing techniques, and considering the key factors discussed in this guide will empower you to create stunning hair colors that reflect your individual style. Remember, the key is to start with a small amount and gradually adjust until you achieve the perfect shade.

Don’t be afraid to try new colors and experiment! Embrace the process and have fun creating your dream hair color.

FAQ

1. What are the best hair color brands for mixing?

There are many great hair color brands available, but some popular choices include Redken, Wella, and L’Oreal.

2. How long should I leave mixed hair dye on my hair?

The processing time for mixed hair dye can vary depending on the brand and desired shade. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific hair dye you’re using.

3. Can I mix different types of hair dyes?

It’s generally not recommended to mix different types of hair dyes (permanent, semi-permanent, temporary) as they have different chemical compositions and might not react well together.

4. How can I avoid brassiness when lightening brown hair?

To minimize brassiness, use a developer with a low volume (10 or 20 volume) and a cool-toned hair dye. You can also use a toner or a color-depositing conditioner with ash tones to neutralize the brassiness.

5. What are some tips for maintaining my mixed hair color?

To maintain your mixed hair color, use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoid heat styling as much as possible, and touch up your roots regularly.

6. What should I do if I don’t like the color I mixed?

If you’re unhappy with the color you mixed, there are a few things you can do:

Use a color-depositing conditioner: These conditioners can help to add a subtle layer of color without damaging your hair.
Use a color remover: Color removers can help to lift unwanted color, but they can be harsh on your hair.
See a professional hairstylist: A professional can help to correct unwanted color or create a custom shade that meets your preferences.

Pro Tip: [link: what color cancels out purple hair]