If you’re not happy with the intensity of your hair highlights, there are a few things you can do to tone them down. One option is to use a toner. Toners are semi-permanent hair dyes that can be used to change the tone of your hair, making it lighter or darker. Another option is to use a color-depositing conditioner. Color-depositing conditioners are similar to toners, but they are less permanent and can be used to add subtle color to your hair. Finally, you can also use a clarifying shampoo to remove some of the color from your hair. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and can also help to strip away some of the color from your hair.
When choosing a toner or color-depositing conditioner, it’s important to select a product that is the right color for your hair. If you’re not sure what color to choose, you can always consult with a professional hairstylist. Once you’ve selected a product, follow the instructions on the package. Toners and color-depositing conditioners are typically applied to wet hair and left on for a certain amount of time. After the processing time is up, rinse the product out of your hair and style as usual. If you’re using a clarifying shampoo, simply shampoo your hair as usual. You may need to repeat the process several times to achieve the desired results.
The Benefits of Subtle Highlights
Subtle highlights offer a range of advantages that have made them a popular choice for hair color enthusiasts. These include:
Enhance Depth and Dimension: Subtle highlights create a natural-looking depth and dimension to hair, making it appear fuller and more vibrant. They add subtle contrast and texture, enhancing the hair’s overall appearance without overwhelming it.
Gradual Color Transition: In contrast to bold or chunky highlights, subtle highlights provide a gradual transition from your base color to the lighter strands. This subtle blending prevents harsh lines and creates a seamless, flattering effect on the hair.
Low Maintenance and Longevity: Subtle highlights are typically less noticeable as they grow out, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. They generally last longer than traditional highlights, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Reduce Damage: The use of bleach or lightening agents for subtle highlights is minimized, which reduces the potential for hair damage. The gentle process maintains the hair’s health and integrity.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Depth and Dimension | Creates a natural-looking fullness and vibrancy. |
| Gradual Color Transition | Subtle blending for a seamless and flattering effect. |
| Low Maintenance and Longevity | Minimal noticeable growth, reducing the need for touch-ups and extending lifespan. |
| Reduced Damage | Minimized use of bleach or lightening agents, preserving hair health and integrity. |
Identifying the Desired Tone
Before toning down highlights, it’s crucial to determine the desired result. Depending on your natural hair color, highlight tone, and personal preferences, you may opt for different approaches. Here are a few considerations to help you define the desired tone:
1. Assess Your Natural Hair Color:
Consider your natural hair shade and undertones when choosing a toner. For example, if you have cool-toned hair, you may prefer to use a toner with ash or violet hues to neutralize any unwanted warmth. On the other hand, if your hair is warm-toned, you might opt for a golden or honey-toned toner to enhance the natural warmth.
2. Evaluate the Highlight Tone:
Determine the level and tone of your highlights. Consider whether they are warm, cool, or neutral, and how they blend with your natural hair color. If your highlights are too brassy or yellow, you may need to use a toner with blue or purple pigments to counteract the yellow undertones. Alternatively, if your highlights are too cool or ashy, you may prefer a toner with warmer pigments, such as gold or peach, to balance out the tone. You can refer to a color chart to identify the specific pigments that will neutralize or enhance your desired tone.
3. Personal Preferences:
Ultimately, the desired tone is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different toner shades and techniques to find what suits you best. You may want to consult with a professional hairstylist to discuss your options and determine the most appropriate toner for your hair.
Choosing the Right Hair Colorist
Finding the right hair colorist is crucial for achieving the perfect toned-down highlights. Here are some tips for choosing the best professional:
- Get Referrals: Ask friends, family, or your regular hair stylist for recommendations.
- Check Online Reviews: Read reviews on websites like Yelp or Google to see what others have experienced.
- Look for Expertise and Experience: Look for a colorist who specializes in hair highlighting or corrective color services.
- Consult Their Portfolio: Examine the colorist’s portfolio to assess their skills and the types of results they can achieve.
- Schedule a Consultation: Book a consultation before your appointment to discuss your desired look and the colorist’s recommendations.
Consider the Following Factors When Choosing a Colorist:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience: | A colorist with extensive experience in hair highlighting will have a deep understanding of the techniques and products needed to achieve the desired results. |
| Education: | Look for colorists who have undergone specialized training or certification in hair highlighting and color correction. |
| Technical Skills: | The colorist should be proficient in various highlighting techniques, such as balayage, foilyage, and babylights, and be able to blend colors seamlessly. |
| Communication: | The ability to communicate effectively and understand your vision for your hair is essential for a successful outcome. |
Selecting the Appropriate Hair Coloring Technique
Choosing the right hair coloring technique is crucial for effectively toning down highlights. Here are the key factors to consider:
Toning
Toning involves applying a semi-permanent dye or toner that deposits color molecules onto the hair’s surface. This method is ideal for subtle color adjustments, blending highlights, and restoring hair’s natural tone. It lasts for 6-8 weeks.
Glazing
Glazing uses a semi-transparent color glaze that adds shine and enhances hair’s overall tone. Unlike toning, glazing does not significantly alter the hair’s color but rather adds depth and dimension. It washes out in 4-6 weeks.
Demi-Permanent Coloring
Demi-permanent coloring is a blend between permanent and semi-permanent dyes. It deposits color deeply into the hair shaft, lasting up to 24 washes. This technique provides more coverage and color correction for darker highlights.
Permanent Coloring
Permanent coloring involves using a dye that contains ammonia to lift the hair’s natural pigment and deposit new color. This method should be used with caution for toning down highlights, as it can potentially damage the hair if overused.
Choosing the Right Technique Based on Highlight Color
| Highlight Color | Recommended Technique |
|---|---|
| Light to Medium Blonde | Toning or Glazing |
| Medium to Dark Blonde | Demi-Permanent Coloring |
| Dark Highlights | Demi-Permanent or Permanent Coloring |
Employing Olaplex or Other Bond-Protecting Treatments
Bond-protecting treatments, such as Olaplex, can help reduce damage caused by the highlighting process. These treatments work by strengthening the hair’s bonds, preventing breakage and frizz. They can also help restore the hair’s natural shine and elasticity.
To use Olaplex or a similar treatment, follow these steps:
- Apply the treatment to the hair after highlighting.
- Leave the treatment on for the recommended amount of time, usually 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse the treatment out thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Blow dry and style the hair as usual.
Bond-protecting treatments can be used on all hair types, but they are particularly beneficial for highlighted hair. They can help extend the life of the highlights and keep the hair looking healthy and vibrant.
| Treatment | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Olaplex | Strengthens hair bonds, reduces breakage and frizz, restores shine and elasticity |
| Wellaplex | Protects hair from damage during chemical services, improves hair elasticity and strength |
| K18 Leave-In Repair Mask | Rebuilds broken hair bonds, increases hair strength and resilience, improves shine and texture |
Blending Highlights with Lowlights
Lowlights are a versatile tool for toning down highlights and creating a more natural-looking hair color. By strategically placing lowlights throughout the hair, you can seamlessly blend the highlights and create a multidimensional effect.
How to Apply Lowlights
- Decide on the desired depth of the lowlights. For a subtle effect, choose a shade one or two levels darker than your natural hair color. For a more dramatic look, opt for a shade three or four levels darker.
- Section the hair into small sections and apply the lowlight color to each section. Make sure to apply the color evenly from roots to tips.
- Process the color for the recommended time, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse the hair thoroughly and condition as usual.
Tips for Blending Highlights and Lowlights
- Use lowlights that are complementary to your highlight color. For example, if your highlights are warm, choose lowlights with cool undertones.
- Place lowlights in strategic locations to enhance the shape of your face. For instance, add lowlights around the hairline to frame your face or use them to create a more lifted look at the crown.
- Don’t over-process the lowlights. If you leave the color on for too long, you may end up with overly dark, unnatural-looking lowlights.
Here’s a table summarizing how to blend highlights and lowlights based on your hair color:
| Hair Color | Highlight Color | Lowlight Color |
|---|---|---|
| Blonde | Light blonde | Dark blonde |
| Brunette | Light brown | Medium brown |
| Red | Copper | Dark red |
Using Semi-Permanent Dye to Enhance Softness
Semi-permanent dyes are a less damaging alternative to permanent dyes, as they do not contain ammonia or peroxide. They are ideal for toning down highlights without altering the natural hair color. The dye molecules deposit color on the hair’s surface, creating a temporary hue that gradually fades over time. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a subtle change or are unsure about committing to a permanent color.
When using semi-permanent dye to tone down highlights, it is important to choose a shade that is close to your natural hair color. This will help blend the highlights seamlessly, creating a more natural-looking result. It is also advisable to test the dye on a small strand of hair before applying it to your entire head, to ensure that you are happy with the outcome.
Here are the steps involved in using semi-permanent dye to tone down highlights:
| Step 1 | Prepare your hair by washing it with a clarifying shampoo to remove any dirt or buildup. |
|---|---|
| Step 2 | Apply the semi-permanent dye to your hair, following the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| Step 3 | Leave the dye on for the recommended amount of time, which usually ranges from 15 to 30 minutes. |
| Step 4 | Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. |
| Step 5 | Condition your hair to restore moisture and shine. |
Maintaining Subtle Highlights for Longevity
Achieving the perfect balance of subtle highlights can be challenging, but with proper care and maintenance, you can prolong their longevity and keep your locks looking vibrant.
Control Washing Frequency
Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, including those that protect your highlights. Limit washing to 2-3 times per week, using gentle shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair.
Use Sulfate-Free Products
Sulfates are harsh surfactants found in many shampoos that can fade hair color rapidly. Opt for sulfate-free formulas that cleanse without stripping your highlights.
Protect from Heat
Heat can accelerate highlight fading. Use a heat protectant spray before styling and avoid excessive use of hot tools. Allow your hair to air-dry whenever possible.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Chlorine and saltwater can damage highlights and cause discoloration. Rinse your hair thoroughly after swimming or spending time in saltwater and use a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue.
Tone Regularly
Toning is essential for maintaining subtle highlights. A toner neutralizes unwanted tones, brightens color, and keeps highlights looking fresh. Visit your colorist every 4-6 weeks for a toner touch-up.
Use Color-Enhancing Masks
Weekly hair masks can help revitalize highlights and boost their longevity. Look for masks specifically designed for color-treated hair that contain ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil.
Minimize Sun Exposure
UV rays can fade highlights over time. Wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair when outdoors and limit sun exposure during peak hours.
Touch Up Sparingly
Highlight touch-ups can help maintain vibrancy, but avoid over-processing. Only touch up when necessary to prevent damage and brassiness.
Regular Trims
Split ends can make highlights look dull and unkempt. Regular trims remove damaged hair and keep your highlights looking sharp and healthy.
Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo can be used occasionally to neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones that can develop in highlighted hair over time.
How To Tone Down Hair Highlights
If you’ve ever gotten highlights and then regretted them, you know how frustrating it can be. Highlights can be too harsh, too brassy, or just not the right color for your skin tone. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to tone down your highlights and get the look you want.
One option is to use a toner. Toners are semi-permanent hair color that can be used to change the tone of your hair. They come in a variety of colors, so you can find one that will work well with your highlights. Toners can be applied at home or in a salon. If you’re not sure how to use a toner, it’s best to consult with a professional.
Another option is to use a color-correcting shampoo. Color-correcting shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair. They come in a variety of colors, so you can find one that will work well with your highlights. Color-correcting shampoos can be used at home, but it’s important to follow the directions carefully.
If you have brassy highlights, you can use a blue or purple shampoo. Blue and purple shampoos are designed to neutralize orange and yellow tones in your hair. They can be used once or twice a week, but it’s important not to overuse them, as they can cause your hair to become dry and brittle.
If your highlights are too harsh, you can use a toning conditioner. Toning conditioners are designed to add moisture and shine to your hair, while also toning down the color. They can be used once or twice a week, and they can help to make your highlights look more natural.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to tone down highlights?
The amount of time it takes to tone down highlights will vary depending on the method you use. If you use a toner, it will typically take about 20-30 minutes. If you use a color-correcting shampoo, it will take longer, as you will need to use it multiple times. Toning conditioners can be used more frequently, so you will see results more quickly.
Can I tone down highlights at home?
Yes, you can tone down highlights at home. However, it’s important to follow the directions carefully, as using the wrong products or techniques can damage your hair. If you’re not sure how to tone down your highlights at home, it’s best to consult with a professional.
Will toning down highlights damage my hair?
Toning down highlights can damage your hair, but the risk is relatively low. If you use a toner, it’s important to use a low-volume developer, as high-volume developers can damage your hair. Color-correcting shampoos and toning conditioners are less likely to damage your hair, but it’s still important to use them according to the directions.
