Fixing Brassy Hair After Coloring: Comprehensive Strategies
Brassy hair can be a frustrating challenge to deal with, especially after an enthusiastic hair color application. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to manage and neutralize the brassiness, ensuring your hair returns to its desired complexion. This article explores different approaches, including managing your tone, using specific shampoos, applying semi-permanent products, and pursuing long-term solutions. Let's dive into the details of these strategies:
Managing Your Color
Determine Your Brassy Tone
When hair turns brassy, the tones can range from yellowish orange to copper. Typically, those with darker blonde shades will exhibit copper-toned brassiness, while lighter blonde shades tend to have more yellow tones. It's important to identify which category your hair falls into, as this will help you target your brassiness more effectively. Keep in mind that it is possible to have both yellow and copper toned brassiness in your hair color.
Use Blue or Purple Shampoos
To neutralize brassiness, it's recommended to use violet or blue shampoos. These products work by counteracting the brassy tones because blue and purple are opposite orange and yellow on the color wheel. You can find a variety of options, from affordable drug store versions to pricier salon brands.
If you cannot determine your brassy tones, or if they seem to be both yellow and copper, using a shampoo with both purple and blue tones can be a good choice. Some popular drug store brands include Shimmer Lights purple shampoo, while popular salon brands include Joico Color Balance Purple shampoo and Matrix Total Results So Silver shampoo.
Alternate with Color-Treated Hair Products
Avoid using blue or purple shampoos every day, as they can cause your hair to take on a lilac or light blue tint. Instead, alternate with hair care products designed for color-treated hair. These products help you preserve your color and fight brassiness without relying on blue or violet pigments. Opt for shampoos, conditioners, masks, and more to support your hair's health and longevity.
Also, avoid using alcohol-based hair care products, as they can accelerate color fading and dry out your hair.
Applying Semi-Permanent Products
Boost Color with Foam Gloss
For a quick fix, consider using a foam gloss. These lightweight foams are easy to apply, especially if you're in the shower. They boost color and shine while breaking down brassy tones. Application is quick and effective. However, be aware that these products are gentle and can be used as often as you like, although using them once a week is sufficient. For those with an ash or silver hair tone, applying the mousse every day might be beneficial.
Foam glosses are primarily found at beauty supply stores, but some drugstores also stock them.
Refresh Color with Temporary Rinse
Another method is to use a temporary rinse, which is applied to your hair after shampooing and towel drying. Apply the product, comb through for even distribution, wait 20 minutes, and then rinse it out without shampooing. This product is often sold exclusively at beauty supply stores, so you may need to visit one.
When applying a temporary rinse, wear rubber gloves to protect your skin. The rinse will help refresh your color and tone down brassiness.
Treat Brassiness with Semi-Permanent Toner
Semi-permanent toners are a great option for long-lasting results. They come in liquid or cream form and last about a week or a few shampoos before fading. These toners do not contain harsh chemicals, making them safe and gentle on your hair. You can use them weekly, and there are reasonably priced drugstore versions available.
Apply the toner to clean, dry hair, leave it on until you achieve your desired color, and results should last 3-6 shampoos. Avoid shampooing immediately after using a semi-permanent toner, but you can safely condition immediately after.
Longer Lasting Solutions
Enhance Your Color with Lowlights
If other methods haven't proven effective, consider lowlighting. This involves dyeing darker streaks into your hair, adding dimension and neutralizing brassy tones. An experienced hair stylist should perform this procedure, making it slightly more expensive. Nevertheless, the results can be very striking and may be worth considering.
Try a Demi-Permanent or Permanent Toner
Demi-permanent or permanent toner solutions offer longer-lasting results. Apply the toner in small sections, starting at the top and working your way down, until you achieve full coverage. Monitor the dye closely and rinse it thoroughly.
Minimize Fading
Even with optimal treatment, brassiness can still occur due to fade. To minimize fading, preserve your color. Smoothing serums and other similar products can help seal your hair cuticle, maintaining the integrity of your hair hue. Always condition your hair very well, as this also helps seal the hair cuticle and protects your color.
By following these comprehensive strategies, you can effectively manage and neutralize brassiness in your colored hair, ensuring it retains its vibrant and desired appearance.