How LOréals Hi-Lift Brown Affects Previously Dyed Hair
I recently dyed my hair with LOréals Hi-Lift Brown, and it changed my dark black hair to a rich dark brown. My roots are starting to show, and I'm considering touch-up. Will applying the dye to the rest of my hair lighten it even further?
Understanding Hi-Lift Dyes
When you apply a dye like LOréals Hi-Lift Brown to already dyed hair, it typically won't lift the color further, especially if your hair is already dark brown. Hi-lift dyes are designed to lighten natural hair but may not significantly change the color of previously dyed hair. Here are a few important considerations:
Color Deposit and Root Lift
Color Deposit: Applying the dye to the entire head will likely deposit more color on the previously dyed sections, making them a richer brown, but it won't lighten them further. The dye will more effectively lift the roots, which are still dark.
Strand Test: Before applying the dye to the entire head, consider doing a strand test. This will help you see how your previously dyed hair reacts to the new application. A strand test can simulate the overall outcome and save you from costly mistakes.
Maintenance: If you want to maintain a consistent color, you can apply the dye to your roots every 4-6 weeks as they grow in.
Seeking a Lighter Overall Shade
If you're looking for a lighter overall shade, you might want to consider different products or techniques such as highlights or balayage. These methods can create dimension without a full dye application, giving you the desired effect without the risk of over-lightening your hair.
Understanding the Science Behind Hi-Lift Dyes
Color Deposit: The key to understanding why hi-lift dyes may not work as expected on previously dyed hair lies in the concept of color deposit.
Color Barrier: When you apply a new dye to hair that has already been dyed, particularly with a dark brown, the artificial dye pigments in the previously dyed hair act as a barrier. The peroxide in the developer used to activate the dye can't penetrate deep enough to oxidize the melanin in the hair cortex, leading to minimal color lift. Instead, the dye will deposit more pigment on top of the existing color, creating a deeper, richer shade.
Strand Test: To ensure the new dye will work as expected, performing a strand test is crucial. This test allows you to see how the new dye interacts with your already dyed hair. It can help you avoid unsatisfactory results and unnecessary trips to the salon.
Maintenance: To maintain a consistent color, you can apply the dye to your roots every 4-6 weeks as they grow in. This regular touch-up will keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
Professional Considerations
Salons typically avoid lifting colored hair with permanent hair color because they can't guarantee whether the hair will lift at all. Dye remover or bleach would be more reliable for safely removing dye buildup without further damaging your hair.
While developers can oxidize and remove dye pigments effectively, they also introduce new pigments. Therefore, using clear permanent hair color (which still has oxidation properties but doesn't add pigment) might be a safer option for maintaining your desired shade.
Understanding the science behind hi-lift dyes and taking the necessary precautions can help you achieve the best results for your hair dyeing journey.
Conclusion
Applying LOréals Hi-Lift Brown to previously dark brown hair is unlikely to lighten it further. While it will deposit more color, creating a richer shade, it won't significantly change the overall tone. A strand test can help you gauge the outcome, and regular touch-ups every 4-6 weeks can maintain a consistent color.