Highlights can bring a touch of glamour to your hair, but what happens when they become too light or brassy? Bleaching and coloring can take a toll on your hair’s health, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. However, there are ways to tone down highlights without causing further damage. One effective method involves using a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner. These products contain pigments that counteract unwanted tones, such as yellow or orange, and help to restore the hair’s natural color.
If your highlights are particularly light, you may need to use a stronger color-correcting treatment. A toner can be applied to the hair to neutralize the brassy tones and create a more natural-looking result. Toners are available in a variety of shades, so you can choose one that matches your desired hair color. It’s important to follow the instructions on the product carefully, as leaving the toner on for too long can damage the hair.
In addition to using color-correcting products, there are a few other things you can do to tone down highlights. Avoid using hot tools, as these can further dry out the hair and make the highlights more noticeable. Instead, opt for air-drying or using a low heat setting on your blow dryer. You can also use a leave-in conditioner to help hydrate and protect the hair from damage. With a little care and attention, you can restore your highlights to their original glory and keep your hair healthy and vibrant.
How to Reduce Brassiness
Brassiness is a common problem for highlighted hair, especially if it’s been over-processed or exposed to harsh chemicals. The good news is, there are several ways to tone down brassiness and achieve a more natural-looking color.
1. Use a Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is specifically designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde hair. It works by depositing purple pigments into the hair, which cancels out the yellow and orange hues that cause brassiness.
To use purple shampoo, simply wet your hair and apply it as you would a regular shampoo. Leave it in for the amount of time specified on the bottle (usually 3-5 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
Note: Purple shampoo should only be used once or twice a week, as overuse can lead to purple hair.
| Benefits of Purple Shampoo |
|---|
| Neutralizes brassy tones |
| Enhances blonde color |
| Easy to use |
2. Apply a Blue Toner
A blue toner is a semi-permanent hair color that can be used to correct brassiness. It works by adding blue pigments to the hair, which neutralize the yellow and orange tones.
To apply a blue toner, follow the instructions on the package. Generally, you will need to mix the toner with a developer and apply it to your hair. Leave it in for the amount of time specified on the package (usually 15-30 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
3. Use a Clarifying Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo can help to remove product buildup and minerals from your hair, which can contribute to brassiness. Clarifying shampoos are typically more harsh than regular shampoos, so they should only be used once or twice a month.
To use a clarifying shampoo, wet your hair and apply it as you would a regular shampoo. Massage it into your hair and scalp, then rinse thoroughly.
Using Chemical Toners
Chemical toners are a more permanent solution for toning down highlights than using a developer-only toner. They contain ammonia or peroxide, which opens the hair cuticle and allows color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft. This results in a more intense and longer-lasting color change.
There are two types of chemical toners: demi-permanent and permanent. Demi-permanent toners last for 6-8 weeks, while permanent toners last for up to 8 weeks.
To use a chemical toner, you will need to:
- Mix the toner with a developer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the toner to your hair and leave it on for the recommended amount of time.
- Rinse the toner out of your hair and condition it.
- Adding warmth to the hair.
- Adding coolness to the hair.
- Neutralizing brassy or yellow tones.
- For blond highlights: Choose a purple or violet shampoo.
- For red highlights: Choose a green shampoo.
- For orange highlights: Choose a blue shampoo.
- Wet your hair and apply the shampoo to the highlighted areas.
- Leave the shampoo in for the recommended amount of time, usually 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly.
- Test a small section of hair first. Before applying the toner to your entire head, test it on a small section of hair to make sure you like the results. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises.
- Apply the toner evenly. When applying the toner, be sure to do so evenly throughout your hair. This will help to create a natural-looking result.
- Leave the toner on for the recommended amount of time. Each toner product will have its specific instructions for how long to leave it on. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid over-processing your hair.
- Rinse the toner thoroughly. Once the toner has been on for the recommended amount of time, rinse it thoroughly with cool water. This will help to remove any excess toner and prevent it from over-processing your hair.
- Condition your hair. After toning your hair, it’s important to condition it to help restore moisture and prevent damage. Use a conditioner that is specifically designed for color-treated hair.
- Use color-protecting shampoo and conditioner.
- Avoid washing your hair too often.
- Use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying or styling your hair.
- Get regular trims to remove any split ends that can make your hair look brassy.
- A toner that is the correct shade for your hair.
- A developer that is the correct volume for your hair.
- A mixing bowl and brush.
- Gloves.
- A towel.
- Put on your gloves.
- Mix the toner and developer according to the instructions on the package.
- Apply the toner to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends.
- Leave the toner on for the amount of time specified on the package.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly.
- Condition your hair.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, apply to damp hair, and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Lemon Juice: Mix lemon juice with water and apply to damp hair, leaving on for 20 minutes before rinsing.
- Honey: Apply pure honey to damp hair and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Baking Soda: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply to damp hair, and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing.
- Purple Shampoo: Regular use of purple shampoo can counteract yellow or brassy tones in highlights.
Chemical toners can be used to tone down highlights by:
The following table provides a general guide to the different types of chemical toners and their effects:
| Toner Type | Effect |
|---|---|
| Warm toners (red, orange, gold) | Add warmth to the hair |
| Cool toners (blue, violet, green) | Add coolness to the hair |
| Neutralizing toners (ash, beige) | Neutralize brassy or yellow tones |
It is important to note that chemical toners can damage your hair if they are not used correctly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid using toners too frequently.
Natural Tone-Down Methods
If you’re looking for a more natural way to tone down your highlights, there are a few methods you can try. These methods are gentle on your hair and can help you achieve a more subtle, blended look.
Use a toning shampoo
Toning shampoos are designed to deposit color onto your hair, which can help to blend your highlights and create a more even tone. They are typically used once or twice a week, and they can be left on for a few minutes before being rinsed out. There are many different toning shampoos available, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for your hair color and desired results.
Use a color-depositing conditioner
Color-depositing conditioners work in a similar way to toning shampoos, but they are typically less concentrated and left in for a longer period of time. This makes them a good option for people who want a more subtle change in color. Color-depositing conditioners can be used weekly or bi-weekly, and they can be left in for up to 20 minutes.
### Use a semi-permanent or permanent hair color
If you want a more drastic change in color, you can use a semi-permanent or permanent hair color. Semi-permanent hair color lasts for 4-6 weeks, while permanent hair color lasts until it grows out. Both types of hair color can be used to tone down highlights, but it’s important to choose a color that is close to your natural hair color. If you’re not sure what color to choose, consult with a professional hairstylist.
Color-Correcting Shampoos
Color-correcting shampoos are a great way to tone down highlights without using harsh chemicals. These shampoos come in a variety of shades, so you can find one that best matches your hair color. Color-correcting shampoos work by depositing pigments into the hair, which can help to neutralize unwanted tones. They are typically used once or twice a week, depending on how often you wash your hair. Apply the shampoo to damp hair, leave it in for the recommended amount of time, and then rinse it out. Avoid using color-correcting shampoo too often, as this can actually lead to over-toning and make your hair look dull.
Choosing the Right Color-Correcting Shampoo
The best color-correcting shampoo for you depends on your hair color and the tone you want to achieve. Here are a few general guidelines:
You can also find color-correcting shampoos that are specifically designed for highlighted hair. These shampoos typically contain a blend of pigments that are designed to neutralize unwanted tones and enhance the highlights.
Using Color-Correcting Shampoos
To use a color-correcting shampoo, follow these steps:
Avoid using color-correcting shampoo too often, as this can actually lead to over-toning and make your hair look dull. Use the shampoo once or twice a week, depending on how often you wash your hair.
Purple Mask Treatment
Purple mask treatments are designed to neutralize yellow and orange tones in highlighted hair, leaving it with a cooler, more toned-down appearance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a purple mask:
1. Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not wet.
2. Apply the Mask
Apply the purple mask evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the highlighted areas. Use your fingers or a brush to distribute the mask thoroughly.
3. Leave it in for 5-15 Minutes
The length of time you leave the mask in will depend on the intensity of the yellow or orange tones you want to neutralize. For more subtle toning, leave it in for 5-7 minutes. For stronger toning, leave it in for up to 15 minutes.
4. Rinse and Condition
Once the desired toning effect is achieved, rinse the mask thoroughly with cool water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help keep your hair soft and hydrated.
5. Use Heat to Enhance Toning
To enhance the toning effect of the purple mask, you can use heat to activate it. After applying the mask, cover your hair with a plastic cap and sit under a hooded dryer for 5-10 minutes. This will help the color penetrate more deeply into the hair shaft, resulting in a more intense toning effect.
| Desired Effect | Application Time |
|---|---|
| Subtle toning | 5-7 minutes |
| Moderate toning | 7-10 minutes |
| Strong toning | 10-15 minutes |
Blue Toner Applications
Blue toner can be used to neutralize orange and yellow tones in highlights. It’s a great option for cool-toned blondes who want to achieve a more natural or icy look. Blue toner can be applied in a variety of ways, depending on the desired result.
Toning Shampoo
Toning shampoo is a gentle way to add blue toner to your hair. It can be used as a regular shampoo, but it will gradually deposit blue pigment over time. This is a good option for people who want to subtly tone their highlights or who have fine hair that can’t handle stronger toning methods.
Blue Gloss
A blue gloss is a semi-permanent toner that can be applied to hair after it has been shampooed and conditioned. Blue glosses are more intense than toning shampoos, so they can achieve more dramatic results. They can also be used to correct brassiness or yellow tones in highlights.
Bleach and Toner
For a more permanent solution, you can bleach your highlights and then tone them with blue toner. This method will give you the most intense results, but it can also damage your hair if it’s not done properly. It’s best to consult with a professional hair stylist if you’re considering this method.
Here is a table summarizing the different blue toner applications and their benefits:
| Application | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Toning shampoo | Gentle, gradual toning |
| Blue gloss | Semi-permanent, more intense toning |
| Bleach and toner | Permanent, most intense toning |
Gray-Toning Products
Gray-toning products are designed to subtly neutralize unwanted warm tones and create a cooler, more natural shade. These products typically contain blue or violet pigments that work to counteract the orange and yellow tones often found in highlighted hair.
Here are some of the most commonly used gray-toning products:
Toning Shampoos and Conditioners
Toning shampoos and conditioners are a great option for those who want to gradually tone down their highlights. These products are typically used once or twice a week and can be left on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Some popular toning shampoos and conditioners include:
– Aveda Blue Malva Color Conditioner
– Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
– Redken Color Extend Brownlights Blue Toning Shampoo
Toning Masks
Toning masks are a more intensive form of gray toning than shampoos and conditioners. These products are typically applied once a week and left on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing.
Some popular toning masks include:
– Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
– Kérastase Blond Absolu Masque Ultra-Violet
– Davines Alchemic Silver Mask
Toning Glosses
Toning glosses are a semi-permanent way to tone down highlights. These products are typically applied at a salon and can last for 4-6 weeks.
Some popular toning glosses include:
| Brand | Product |
|---|---|
| Wella | Color Charm Toner in T18 Lightest Ash Blonde |
| Redken | Shades EQ Gloss in 09V Violet |
| Schwarzkopf | Igora Vibrance Activator in 0-50 Cool Silver |
Avoiding Over-Processing
The key to toning down highlights without damaging your hair is to avoid over-processing. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
| Signs of Over-Processing | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Hair feels dry and brittle | Use a deep conditioner and avoid heat styling |
| Hair has a straw-like texture | Get a trim to remove damaged hair |
| Hair is prone to breakage | Avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet and use a gentle brush |
Maintaining Desired Tone
Once you’ve achieved your desired tone, it’s important to maintain it. Here are a few tips:
Toning Your Hair at Home
If you’re looking to tone your hair at home, there are a few things you’ll need:
Once you have all of your supplies, you can follow these steps:
|
Type of Hair |
Toner Volume |
|---|---|
|
Fine hair |
10-volume developer |
|
Medium hair |
20-volume developer |
|
Coarse hair |
30-volume developer |
It’s important to note that toning your hair at home can be tricky, so it’s always best to consult with a professional stylist if you’re not sure what you’re doing.
Professional Salon Treatments
Professional hair stylists can employ a variety of techniques to tone down highlights, including:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Toner | A semi-permanent dye that adds color and neutralizes unwanted tones. |
| Glaze | A clear or tinted treatment that adds shine and smooths the hair’s surface. |
| Demi-permanent Color | A low-commitment color that fades gradually over time. |
| Root Touch-Up | Applying color to the roots to blend the highlights with the natural hair. |
| Balayage | A freehand painting technique that creates soft, blended highlights. |
| Ombre | A gradual transition from one hair color to another, creating a natural-looking effect. |
| Keratin Treatment | A smoothing treatment that can reduce frizz and restore shine. |
| Protein Treatment | A strengthening treatment that repairs and protects damaged hair. |
10. Home Remedies
While professional treatments offer more precise results, several home remedies can help tone down highlights:
How To Tone Highlights Down
Blonde highlights are a great way to add some extra dimension and brightness to your hair. But if you’re not careful, they can also end up looking brassy or yellow. If you’re looking to tone down your highlights, there are a few things you can do.
One option is to use a toner. Toner is a semi-permanent hair color that can be used to correct unwanted tones in your hair. If your highlights are too brassy, you can use a toner to add some blue or purple tones. This will help to neutralize the brassiness and give your hair a more natural look.
Another option is to use a color-correcting shampoo. Color-correcting shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair. If your highlights are too yellow, you can use a color-correcting shampoo with blue or purple tones. This will help to tone down the yellow and give your hair a more natural look.
If you’re not sure which method is right for you, you can always consult with a professional hairstylist. They can help you choose the best way to tone down your highlights and get the look you want.
People Also Ask About How To Tone Highlights Down
How long does toner last in hair?
Toner is a semi-permanent hair color, so it will last for several weeks. The exact amount of time will vary depending on the type of toner you use and how often you wash your hair.
Can I tone my own highlights at home?
Yes, you can tone your own highlights at home. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your hair.
What are the different types of toners?
There are two main types of toners: direct and indirect. Direct toners are applied directly to the hair, while indirect toners are mixed with developer before being applied.
