Can I Use Box Dye on My Hair?: A Comprehensive Guide for Achieving Ash Blonde
Deciding on the right hair dye can be a daunting task, especially when you have specific color goals in mind. This article aims to help you understand whether box dye is suitable for achieving a cool light ash blonde and provides alternative methods for getting the best results.
Box Dye: An Effective but Harsh Option
While box dye can provide quick results, it is important to consider the impact on your hair. Box dye typically contains a strong developer, making it harsh on your hair and often resulting in a washed-out, lackluster finish. From the pictures you have provided, it appears that your natural hair is a rich golden blonde, and although box dye may lighten your hair, it is unlikely to achieve the desired ash blonde hue.
Understanding Your Desired Color
Based on your description, you are seeking a cool light ash blonde, which is a delicate and vibrant shade. Unfortunately, box dye does not typically yield these results reliably, as the process often lacks the precision and customization needed to achieve such a specific color.
Tips for Achieving Your Desired Color
Knowing your hair's natural characteristics and previous bleaching experiments, here are some steps you can take to achieve your cool light ash blonde:
Step 1: Brighten and Neutralize Golden Tones
To target the golden tones in your hair, you can begin with a brightening shampoo. One option to consider is a purple shampoo, which can help neutralize golden tones and add a cooler undertone to your hair. This can be a non-invasive way to brighten your hair and prepare it for further bleaching or dyeing.
Step 2: Lighten Your Hair
Lightening Process: Aim to lighten your hair to a very pale, almost yellow hue. You can use a professional-grade bleaching powder, such as L'Oréal Quick Blue Powder Lightener. This product is designed to be gentler on skin, retain moisture, and is easier to apply than other harsher options.
Processing: Use a 20 volume developer for a shorter processing time. It is essential to wash and shampoo your hair thoroughly, as incomplete rinsing can lead to an unwanted yellow or orange cast. Avoid conditioning your hair at this stage to prevent further dullness.
Step 3: Tone Your Hair
Toning Process: For toning, use a combination of Wella T18, Wella T14, and Wella Cooling Violet 050 toner. Mix half a bottle of each toner and a few caps full of the cooling violet, as the T14 is already ashy in nature. Developer is used in this process to add color rather than bleach, making it safer for your hair.
Usage: Use a larger bottle of 20 volume developer to process the toner, or a less harsh 10 volume developer for gentler results. Applying these products correctly can help achieve the desired ash blonde effect.
Where to Purchase Hair Dye Products
A number of retailers offer the necessary products for your hair dyeing needs. Online options like Sally Beauty, Amazon, , and eBay can be convenient for purchasing hair dye and related products. Professional hair salons and beauty supply stores are also reliable sources for these products.
Professional Assistance
Given the complexity of achieving an ash blonde, consider seeking assistance from a professional. A skilled beautician can provide personalized advice and direct guidance, ensuring that the process is both effective and gentle on your hair. Your local salon may offer such services or be able to recommend a professional.
Remember, achieving the perfect hair color is a combination of selecting the right products, following the correct process, and, if necessary, enlisting the help of a professional. With the right approach, you can achieve the vibrant, cool ash blonde you have in mind, while also taking good care of your hair.