Introduction

When it comes to transitioning from Clairol Nicen Easy 8WR Natural Golden Auburn to a lighter shade, it's important to do so seamlessly and without introducing unwanted tones such as orange or yellow. This guide will explore the best methods to achieve a lighter shade, ensuring you maintain a balanced and natural appearance.

Options for Lightening 8WR Natural Golden Auburn

Mix with a Blonde Shade

If you wish to lighten your hair further without risking the appearance of warmth or unwanted colors, consider mixing 8WR Natural Golden Auburn with a lighter blonde shade from the same brand such as 9N Light Natural Blonde or 9WR Light Warm Golden Blonde. These lighter shades will help lift the overall color while maintaining the warm undertones.

Add a Developer

Using a higher volume developer, such as 30 or 40 volume, can help lift the color slightly. However, it's important to note that this technique also increases the risk of introducing warmth. A 20 volume developer is commonly recommended for grey coverage and can provide a gentler lift, making it a safer option for maintaining a cooler shade.

Use a Toning Product

If you find your mix leans too warm, apply a small amount of a blue or violet-based toner to neutralize any orange or yellow tones. Products like Wella Color Charm T18 Lightest Ash Blonde are effective for this purpose, providing a gentle way to achieve a cooler, more balanced tonal shift.

Consider a Custom Mix

For those experienced with color mixing, a custom blend can be crafted by combining 8WR Natural Golden Auburn with a cooler shade like a light ash or neutral blonde to offset the warmth. This method requires precise and careful adjustment to achieve the desired result.

Example Mix

Here is an example mix that can help you achieve a lighter shade without warmth:

1 part 8WR Natural Golden Auburn

1 part 9N Light Natural Blonde

20 volume developer (adjust based on desired lift)

Application Tips

Conducting a Strand Test

Always perform a strand test before applying any color to your hair. This will allow you to see how the color develops and ensure that it meets your expectations.

Following Instructions

Stick to the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application to avoid any potential errors.

Monitoring Color Development

Keep a close eye on the color development to avoid over-processing, which can lead to unsatisfactory results.

Professional Considerations

Although achieving a lighter shade without warmth is possible at home, it can be very challenging. Darker hair contains more red tones, and lifting it without proper techniques can result in an undesired warm or ginger/orange look.

To avoid these issues, it's advisable to consult with a professional hairdresser. They have the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively achieve your desired shade without compromising on quality or safety.

Key Points to Remember

Use a lighter blonde shade to avoid warmth. Elevate your lift with a higher volume developer cautiously. Neutralize warm tones with a toning product. Create a custom mix if you are experienced in color blending.

By taking these steps, you can achieve a lighter, more balanced shade of Clairol Nicen Easy 8WR Natural Golden Auburn without unwanted warmth or color shift.