Blonde hair can be a stunning and eye-catching color, but it can also be prone to unwanted brassy tones. These tones can appear as a result of various factors, including sun exposure, hard water, and the use of certain hair products. If you’re struggling with brassy tones in your blonde hair, don’t worry – there are several ways to get rid of them and achieve a more natural, ashy blonde color.
Understanding Brassy Tones
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand what causes brassy tones in blonde hair. Brassy tones are a result of the hair’s natural pigment, warm tones, and the presence of red or yellow undertones. When the hair is exposed to heat, sun, or certain chemicals, these undertones can become more pronounced, leading to an unwanted brassy color.
The Science Behind Brassy Tones
To understand why brassy tones occur, let’s take a look at the science behind hair color. Hair color is determined by the presence of two types of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for brown and black colors, while pheomelanin produces red and yellow colors. When the hair is lightened, the eumelanin is removed, leaving behind the pheomelanin. This is why blonde hair often has a warm, yellowish tone.
The Role of Warm Tones
Warm tones are a significant contributor to brassy tones in blonde hair. Warm tones are caused by the presence of red or yellow undertones in the hair. These undertones can be natural or acquired through the use of certain hair products or exposure to heat. When warm tones are present, they can accentuate the brassy color, making it more noticeable.
Causes of Brassy Tones
Now that we understand the science behind brassy tones, let’s take a look at some of the common causes:
- Sun exposure: The sun’s UV rays can cause the hair to become lighter and more prone to brassy tones.
- Hard water: Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as copper and iron, which can deposit onto the hair and cause brassy tones.
- Using the wrong hair products: Using hair products that contain warm tones or are not formulated for blonde hair can exacerbate brassy tones.
- Heat styling: Heat styling can cause the hair to become damaged and more prone to brassy tones.
- Swimming in chlorinated water: Chlorine can cause the hair to become dry and brittle, leading to brassy tones.
Solutions to Get Rid of Brassy Tones
Now that we’ve covered the causes of brassy tones, let’s take a look at some solutions to get rid of them:
Color Correction
Color correction is a process that involves applying a toner to the hair to neutralize brassy tones. There are several types of toners available, including:
- Purple toners: Purple toners are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones. They work by depositing purple pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
- <strong_Blue toners: Blue toners are designed to neutralize orange and red tones. They work by depositing blue pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
- Violet toners: Violet toners are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones. They work by depositing violet pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
How to Apply a Toner
Applying a toner is a relatively simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Shampoo your hair: Before applying a toner, make sure to shampoo your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup.
- Apply the toner: Apply the toner to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.
- Leave it on: Leave the toner on for the recommended amount of time, usually 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse and condition: Rinse the toner out of your hair and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
Using Shampoos and Conditioners
Using the right shampoos and conditioners can help to neutralize brassy tones and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant. Here are some tips:
- Look for color-correcting shampoos and conditioners: Color-correcting shampoos and conditioners are designed to neutralize brassy tones and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
- Use a purple shampoo: Purple shampoos are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones. They work by depositing purple pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair and can help to reduce brassy tones.
Top 5 Shampoos for Brassy Hair
Here are the top 5 shampoos for brassy hair:
- Bumble and bumble Color Minded Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy tones and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
- Joico Violet Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones. It works by depositing violet pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetic Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to attract and neutralize brassy tones. It works by using a magnetic technology that attracts the warm tones and neutralizes them.
- Pravana Purple Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones. It works by depositing purple pigment onto the hair, which counteracts the warm tones.
- Wella Professionals Color Save Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy tones and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Home Remedies
If you’re looking for a more natural solution to get rid of brassy tones, here are some home remedies you can try:
- Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can help to neutralize brassy tones and balance the pH of your hair. Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice can help to lighten and neutralize brassy tones. Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.
- Honey and olive oil: Honey and olive oil can help to moisturize and nourish your hair, reducing the appearance of brassy tones. Simply mix equal parts honey and olive oil and apply it to your hair as a mask.
Conclusion
Getting rid of brassy tones from blonde hair can be a challenge, but there are several solutions available. From color correction to using the right shampoos and conditioners, there are many ways to neutralize brassy tones and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant. Remember to always use a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a toner to neutralize brassy tones. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful, ashy blonde color that you’ll love.
What causes brassy tones in blonde hair?
Brassy tones in blonde hair are often caused by the presence of warm pigments, particularly yellow and orange tones. These tones can be a result of various factors, including the use of permanent hair dyes, excessive heat styling, and exposure to sunlight. When blonde hair is exposed to these factors, the cuticle layer of the hair shaft can lift, allowing warm pigments to penetrate and deposit onto the hair, resulting in an unwanted brassy tone.
In addition to these external factors, brassy tones can also be caused by the natural pigment of the hair itself. For example, individuals with darker natural hair colors may be more prone to brassy tones when they lighten their hair, as the warm pigments in their natural color can still be present even after lightening. Understanding the underlying cause of brassy tones is crucial in determining the best course of action for eliminating them.
How can I prevent brassy tones from forming in my blonde hair?
Preventing brassy tones from forming in blonde hair requires a combination of proper hair care and maintenance. One of the most effective ways to prevent brassy tones is to use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner. These products are specifically formulated to neutralize warm pigments and maintain the cool, ashy tones of blonde hair. Additionally, using a color-depositing treatment once a week can help to maintain the desired tone and prevent brassy tones from forming.
Another way to prevent brassy tones is to minimize heat styling and use a heat protectant spray when styling with heat tools. This will help to prevent the cuticle layer of the hair shaft from lifting and allowing warm pigments to penetrate. Furthermore, wearing a hat or using a hair product with SPF can help to protect the hair from sun damage, which can also contribute to brassy tones. By following these tips, individuals with blonde hair can help to prevent brassy tones from forming and maintain their desired hair color.
What is the best way to remove brassy tones from blonde hair?
The best way to remove brassy tones from blonde hair is to use a toner. A toner is a type of hair color product that is specifically designed to neutralize warm pigments and achieve a desired tone. There are various types of toners available, including purple-based toners, blue-based toners, and violet-based toners. The type of toner used will depend on the individual’s hair color and the desired result.
When using a toner to remove brassy tones, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to the entire head. This will help to ensure the desired result and prevent any damage to the hair. Additionally, it’s recommended to use a toner in conjunction with a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the desired tone and prevent brassy tones from returning.
Can I use a purple shampoo to remove brassy tones from my blonde hair?
Yes, a purple shampoo can be used to remove brassy tones from blonde hair. Purple shampoo is a type of color-correcting shampoo that is specifically designed to neutralize warm pigments and maintain the cool, ashy tones of blonde hair. The purple pigment in the shampoo helps to counteract the yellow and orange tones that can cause brassy tones, leaving the hair with a more desirable color.
When using a purple shampoo to remove brassy tones, it’s essential to use it correctly. The shampoo should be used once or twice a week, depending on the individual’s hair type and the level of brassy tones. It’s also recommended to leave the shampoo on the hair for 3-5 minutes before rinsing to allow the purple pigment to penetrate the hair shaft. However, overusing a purple shampoo can cause the hair to take on a purple tint, so it’s essential to use it in moderation.
How often should I tone my blonde hair to maintain the desired color?
The frequency of toning blonde hair to maintain the desired color will depend on various factors, including the individual’s hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. On average, it’s recommended to tone blonde hair every 4-6 weeks to maintain the desired color. However, this can vary depending on the individual’s hair growth rate, sun exposure, and use of heat styling tools.
It’s also essential to consider the type of toner used and the desired result. For example, if a more dramatic color change is desired, it may be necessary to tone the hair more frequently. On the other hand, if a more subtle color change is desired, toning the hair less frequently may be sufficient. It’s recommended to consult with a professional hairstylist to determine the best toning schedule for your individual needs.
Can I tone my blonde hair at home, or should I visit a professional hairstylist?
While it’s possible to tone blonde hair at home, it’s generally recommended to visit a professional hairstylist. A professional hairstylist has the training and experience to determine the best toner for your individual hair type and desired color. They can also apply the toner correctly and make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired result.
At-home toning can be unpredictable, and it’s easy to make mistakes that can result in unwanted color changes or damage to the hair. Additionally, a professional hairstylist can provide personalized recommendations for maintaining the desired color and preventing brassy tones from forming. However, if you do choose to tone your hair at home, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to the entire head.
Are there any at-home remedies that can help to remove brassy tones from blonde hair?
Yes, there are several at-home remedies that can help to remove brassy tones from blonde hair. One of the most popular remedies is to use a mixture of baking soda and shampoo. The baking soda helps to neutralize the warm pigments that cause brassy tones, leaving the hair with a more desirable color.
Another at-home remedy is to use a vinegar rinse. The acidity in the vinegar helps to close the cuticle layer of the hair shaft, which can help to prevent warm pigments from penetrating and causing brassy tones. However, it’s essential to use these remedies in moderation and in conjunction with a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the desired tone and prevent brassy tones from returning.