So, you’ve taken the plunge and colored your hair, but the results aren’t quite what you envisioned. Instead of a rich auburn or a subtle copper, you’re staring at a reflection filled with excessive redness. Don’t panic! You’re not alone, and fortunately, there are several effective ways to tone down unwanted red tones in your hair, ranging from simple at-home remedies to professional salon treatments. This guide will walk you through the steps, products, and techniques you can use to achieve your desired hair color.
Understanding Why Your Hair Turned Red
Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand why your hair might have taken on an overly red hue in the first place. Several factors can contribute to this, and knowing the cause can help you choose the best toning method.
Natural Undertones: The Culprit Within
Every hair color has underlying pigments. Brunettes naturally possess red and orange undertones. When you lighten your hair, especially when going lighter than your natural shade, these underlying warm tones can become exposed and amplified. If your hair colorist didn’t account for these undertones, or if you’re coloring your hair at home, the red can become overly prominent.
Hair Dye Formulation and Application
The specific hair dye you used plays a significant role. Certain dyes, particularly those in red, auburn, or copper shades, are formulated with more red pigment. Even “brown” dyes can lean red if they contain a warm base. Uneven application, like missing sections or applying too much dye to certain areas, can also lead to an inconsistent color with patches of intense red.
Previous Hair Treatments and Damage
Previously dyed or chemically treated hair can react unpredictably to new color. Porous hair, often a result of heat styling or previous coloring, absorbs pigment more readily. This means that red pigments can latch on quickly and become difficult to remove. Damaged hair also struggles to retain color evenly, leading to uneven red tones.
Water Hardness and Environmental Factors
Believe it or not, your water quality can impact your hair color. Hard water, which contains high mineral concentrations like calcium and magnesium, can deposit these minerals onto your hair. These minerals can build up over time, causing your hair to appear brassy, red, or orange. Sun exposure and chlorine from swimming pools can also fade and alter your hair color, bringing out underlying red tones.
Assessing the Severity of the Redness
The extent of the redness will determine the best course of action. Is it a subtle hint of red you want to neutralize, or is it a vibrant, overwhelming red that needs a drastic correction? Carefully evaluate your hair in natural light to accurately assess the situation.
Slight Red Tinge: Gentle Toning Options
If the redness is minimal, you can often correct it with gentler methods. These methods typically involve using color-depositing shampoos, conditioners, and glosses that neutralize red tones without significantly altering your overall hair color.
Moderate Redness: Stronger Toning Solutions
For more noticeable redness, you’ll need to use slightly stronger toning products or techniques. This might involve using a dedicated hair toner, which contains pigments specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones. These products require careful application and monitoring to avoid over-toning.
Intense Redness: Professional Color Correction
If your hair is overwhelmingly red, particularly after a significant color change or a mishap with a box dye, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified colorist has the expertise and tools to safely and effectively correct your hair color without causing further damage. Color correction is a complex process that often involves multiple steps and specialized techniques.
Toning at Home: DIY Solutions for Reducing Redness
If you’re dealing with slight to moderate redness, you can try toning your hair at home. Here are several effective DIY methods:
Color-Correcting Shampoos and Conditioners: The Gentle Approach
Color-correcting shampoos and conditioners are a great way to subtly neutralize red tones with regular use. Look for products specifically formulated for brunettes or those labeled as “anti-red” or “green-toned.” Green is the opposite of red on the color wheel, making it effective for neutralizing unwanted red hues.
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How to Use: Use the shampoo and conditioner as directed, typically 2-3 times per week. Leave the shampoo on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing to allow the pigments to penetrate.
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Expected Results: You should notice a gradual reduction in redness over several weeks. These products are ideal for maintaining a toned color and preventing brassiness.
Hair Toners: A More Direct Approach
Hair toners contain pigments that directly counteract unwanted tones. For red tones, you’ll want to look for a toner with green or ash (blue-green) undertones. Toners are typically mixed with a developer, which helps to open the hair cuticle and allow the toner to deposit pigment.
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Choosing the Right Toner: Select a toner specifically formulated to neutralize red tones. Consult a color chart or seek advice from a beauty supply store to choose the correct shade.
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Developer Volume: Use a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) to minimize damage. The higher the volume, the more the developer will lift your hair color, which can potentially exacerbate the redness.
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Application and Timing: Apply the toner evenly to your hair, focusing on the areas with the most redness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for processing time. Check your hair frequently during processing to ensure you don’t over-tone. Over-toning can result in a muddy or greenish hue.
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Post-Toning Care: After toning, use a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and restore your hair’s pH balance. Avoid heat styling for a few days to prevent further damage.
Blue or Green Hair Masks: A Targeted Treatment
Blue or green hair masks can be used to deposit pigment and neutralize red tones. These masks are typically more conditioning than toners and can provide a boost of hydration to your hair.
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Application: Apply the mask to clean, damp hair, focusing on the areas with the most redness. Leave it on for the recommended time, usually 10-20 minutes.
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Frequency: Use the mask 1-2 times per week to maintain your desired tone.
DIY Toner with Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): A Natural Option
Apple cider vinegar can help balance your hair’s pH and remove mineral buildup, which can contribute to redness. It’s a gentle option, but results may be subtle.
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Preparation: Mix equal parts ACV and water.
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Application: After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair, making sure to saturate all strands. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
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Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
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Frequency: Use this treatment 1-2 times per week.
Henna and Indigo: A Natural Coloring Alternative
For those seeking a more permanent solution with natural ingredients, henna and indigo can be used to achieve darker, cooler tones. However, it’s important to note that henna is permanent and very difficult to remove. Indigo is often used in conjunction with henna to create brown or black shades.
- Important Considerations: Thoroughly research the process and understand the potential outcomes before using henna and indigo. Perform a strand test to ensure you achieve the desired color.
When to Seek Professional Help
While DIY toning can be effective for mild redness, there are situations where it’s best to leave the color correction to a professional.
Significant Color Correction Needed
If your hair is drastically red, or if you’re attempting a significant color change (e.g., going from red to blonde), it’s crucial to consult a professional colorist. Correcting these situations requires advanced techniques and a deep understanding of color theory.
Damaged Hair
If your hair is already damaged, attempting to tone it yourself could worsen the condition. A professional colorist can assess your hair’s health and use gentle techniques to minimize further damage.
Uncertainty About Products or Techniques
If you’re unsure about which products to use or how to apply them, it’s always best to seek professional advice. A colorist can guide you through the process and help you choose the right products for your hair type and color.
Previous Coloring Mishaps
If you’ve already had a coloring mishap, it’s crucial to consult a professional before attempting any further color treatments. Layering multiple color processes can lead to unpredictable results and potential damage.
Maintaining Your Toned Hair
Once you’ve successfully toned down the redness in your hair, it’s essential to maintain the color to prevent it from returning.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Color-safe shampoos and conditioners are formulated to be gentle on colored hair and prevent fading. Look for products that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip color from your hair.
Minimize Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage your hair and cause the color to fade faster. Reduce your use of heat styling tools, such as curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray.
Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Sun exposure can fade and alter your hair color. Wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray when spending time outdoors.
Avoid Chlorine
Chlorine can strip color from your hair and cause it to turn brassy or green. If you swim regularly, wear a swimming cap or apply a leave-in conditioner before getting in the pool.
Regular Toning Maintenance
Depending on how quickly your hair color fades, you may need to use a color-correcting shampoo or toner periodically to maintain your desired tone.
Choosing the Right Products: A Guide
Navigating the world of hair toning products can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of some key considerations:
Understanding Toner Levels and Undertones
Toners are available in various levels and undertones. The level refers to the lightness or darkness of the toner, while the undertone refers to the color pigment that the toner deposits.
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For Red Tones: Look for toners with green or ash (blue-green) undertones. These undertones will neutralize the red pigments in your hair.
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Toner Levels: Choose a toner level that is close to your current hair color. If you’re unsure, it’s best to go with a slightly lighter level, as you can always tone again to darken it.
Reading Product Reviews and Seeking Recommendations
Before purchasing any toning product, read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends or family. Pay attention to reviews that specifically address toning down red tones.
Performing a Strand Test
Before applying any toner or color-correcting product to your entire head, perform a strand test. This will allow you to see how the product affects your hair color and help you avoid any unwanted surprises. Choose a small, inconspicuous section of hair, such as underneath, and apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the strand after the recommended processing time and adjust the timing or product as needed.
Considering Ingredients
Pay attention to the ingredients in toning products. Look for products that are free of harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, parabens, and ammonia. Consider products that contain moisturizing ingredients, such as argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter, to help prevent dryness and damage.
Toning down unwanted red tones in your hair is achievable with the right approach. By understanding the causes of redness, assessing the severity, and choosing the appropriate toning method, you can achieve your desired hair color. Remember to proceed with caution, especially when using stronger toning products, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure about any step of the process. With patience and careful maintenance, you can keep your hair looking beautiful and vibrant.
Why did my hair turn red after dyeing it?
Several factors can contribute to unwanted red tones after coloring your hair. One common reason is underlying pigments in your natural hair. Brunettes, in particular, often have warm undertones of red, orange, and yellow. When you lighten your hair, these undertones are revealed. If the dye you used didn’t have enough neutralizing agents (like green or blue) to counteract those warm tones, the red can become prominent.
Another cause could be the use of dyes with a red base, even if the intended color wasn’t specifically red. Some dyes use red pigments to create depth and richness, especially in brown and auburn shades. Furthermore, fading can reveal red tones. As the artificial color fades, the smaller red dye molecules tend to remain in the hair longer than other colors, leading to a reddish hue over time.
How can I identify if I have too much red in my hair?
The most obvious sign is a noticeable reddish tint, especially in sunlight. Look at your hair in natural light, both indoors and outdoors, to get a clear view of the color. Compare it to photos of the intended color or a color swatch you had initially aimed for. If your hair looks significantly redder than expected, it’s likely you have excessive red tones.
You can also assess your hair’s appearance over time. If the red becomes more prominent after washing or with each passing week, it’s a clear indication that the red pigments are becoming more visible as other colors fade. Consider also how your hair looks against your skin tone. If the red makes your complexion look ruddy or uneven, it’s likely that the red is overpowering your overall look.
What is a toner, and how does it work to neutralize red?
A toner is a product designed to neutralize unwanted undertones in hair, such as red, orange, or yellow. It works by depositing complementary pigments onto the hair shaft to counteract the unwanted colors. For red tones, toners typically contain green pigments. These green pigments cancel out the red, bringing the hair closer to a neutral or cooler tone.
Think of the color wheel. Colors opposite each other neutralize each other. Green is opposite red, blue is opposite orange, and purple is opposite yellow. Toners utilize this principle to balance the hair color. They are typically demi-permanent, meaning they deposit color without significantly lifting the natural hair color. They coat the hair shaft rather than penetrating deeply, making them a relatively gentle option for color correction.
What type of toner should I use to get rid of red tones in my hair?
For effectively toning down red tones, you’ll generally need a green-based toner. Look for products specifically labeled as “ash,” “cool,” or “neutral” in shade. These terms often indicate that the toner contains green or blue-green pigments that will counteract red. The intensity of the green should be appropriate for the level of redness in your hair.
If the redness is very strong, you might need a toner with a more potent green pigment. However, it’s generally best to start with a gentler toner to avoid over-correcting and ending up with a greenish tinge. Demi-permanent toners are generally safer than permanent options for home use, as they are less likely to cause damage. Always perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head to ensure you achieve the desired result.
Can I use a color-depositing shampoo or conditioner to tone down red?
Yes, color-depositing shampoos and conditioners can be helpful for maintaining a toned color and reducing the appearance of red. Look for products specifically formulated to neutralize red tones. These often contain green pigments that deposit onto the hair with each wash, gradually toning down the redness. They are a gentler alternative to toners and can be used more frequently.
These products are particularly useful for maintaining the results of a toner application or preventing red tones from becoming too prominent in the first place. While they won’t completely eliminate intense red tones, they can significantly improve the overall color and keep it looking cooler. Remember to choose a product that’s designed for your hair color level and undertones for best results.
How often can I tone my hair to remove red without causing damage?
Toning frequency depends on the toner type and your hair’s condition. Demi-permanent toners are generally less damaging than permanent dyes, but repeated application can still lead to dryness and breakage, especially if your hair is already damaged. As a general guideline, wait at least 4-6 weeks between full toner applications to allow your hair to recover.
In between toner applications, use color-depositing shampoos and conditioners to maintain the desired tone and prevent the red from resurfacing. These products are much gentler and can be used more frequently, sometimes even with every wash. Pay close attention to your hair’s health. If you notice dryness, breakage, or increased sensitivity, reduce the frequency of toning treatments and focus on deep conditioning and moisturizing.
When should I seek professional help to correct red tones in my hair?
If you’ve attempted to tone your hair at home with little success, or if the red tones are very stubborn and intense, it’s best to consult a professional hair colorist. They have the expertise to accurately assess your hair’s undertones, color history, and condition. They can then formulate a customized color correction plan to safely and effectively neutralize the red without causing further damage.
Furthermore, if you’ve experienced significant color banding or unevenness after attempting to correct the red yourself, professional intervention is crucial. Correcting these issues requires advanced color knowledge and techniques that are best left to experienced stylists. Attempting to fix these problems yourself can often lead to more damage and a less-than-desirable result.