Fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair can be a challenging and frustrating experience, especially for those who are new to hair coloring. Brassy tones can appear after coloring your hair, particularly if you have used a high-lift blonde dye or if your hair has been previously colored. In this article, we will explore the causes of brassy orange highlights and provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix them.
Understanding the Causes of Brassy Orange Highlights
Brassy orange highlights on dark hair are often caused by the presence of warm tones in the hair. These warm tones can be the result of several factors, including the use of high-lift blonde dyes, previous coloring, or the natural warm tones present in the hair. When the hair is colored, the warm tones can become more pronounced, resulting in brassy orange highlights.
The Role of Porosity in Brassy Orange Highlights
The porosity of the hair also plays a significant role in the development of brassy orange highlights. Hair porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. If the hair has low porosity, it may be more difficult for the color to penetrate evenly, resulting in warm tones becoming more pronounced. On the other hand, if the hair has high porosity, it may absorb too much color, leading to an uneven color distribution.
Other Factors Contributing to Brassy Orange Highlights
Other factors that can contribute to brassy orange highlights include the use of hot water, which can open up the hair cuticle and allow warm tones to escape, and the use of certain hair products, such as shampoos and conditioners that contain sulfates or other harsh chemicals. These products can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and itchiness, and causing the warm tones to become more pronounced.
Fixing Brassy Orange Highlights: A Step-by-Step Guide
Fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair requires a combination of the right products, techniques, and patience. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Determine the Cause of the Brassy Orange Highlights
The first step in fixing brassy orange highlights is to determine the cause of the problem. If the brassy tones are the result of a recent coloring job, it may be necessary to wait for a few weeks before attempting to fix the problem. If the brassy tones are due to previous coloring or natural warm tones, it may be possible to fix the problem immediately.
Step 2: Choose the Right Products
The next step is to choose the right products to fix the brassy orange highlights. There are several products available on the market that are specifically designed to neutralize warm tones and eliminate brassy orange highlights. These products include color-correcting shampoos and conditioners, toners, and color-depositing treatments.
Step 3: Apply a Color-Correcting Treatment
Once the right products have been chosen, the next step is to apply a color-correcting treatment. This can be done in the form of a toner or a color-depositing treatment. The treatment should be applied to the entire head of hair, or just to the affected areas, depending on the severity of the brassy orange highlights.
Using a Toner to Fix Brassy Orange Highlights
A toner is a product that is used to neutralize warm tones and eliminate brassy orange highlights. Toners are available in a range of different shades, from purple to blue, and can be applied to the hair in the form of a shampoo, conditioner, or treatment. When using a toner to fix brassy orange highlights, it is essential to choose a toner that is the opposite of the brassy tone. For example, if the brassy tone is orange, a blue-based toner should be used.
Using a Color-Depositing Treatment to Fix Brassy Orange Highlights
A color-depositing treatment is a product that deposits color onto the hair shaft, helping to neutralize warm tones and eliminate brassy orange highlights. Color-depositing treatments are available in a range of different shades and can be applied to the hair in the form of a shampoo, conditioner, or treatment. When using a color-depositing treatment to fix brassy orange highlights, it is essential to choose a treatment that is the opposite of the brassy tone.
Maintenance and Prevention: How to Keep Brassy Orange Highlights at Bay
Once the brassy orange highlights have been fixed, it is essential to take steps to prevent them from returning. This can be done by using the right products, avoiding hot water, and minimizing the use of harsh chemicals.
Using the Right Products to Prevent Brassy Orange Highlights
Using the right products is essential in preventing brassy orange highlights. This includes using a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner, as well as a color-depositing treatment. These products can help to neutralize warm tones and keep the hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Avoiding Hot Water and Harsh Chemicals to Prevent Brassy Orange Highlights
Avoiding hot water and harsh chemicals is also essential in preventing brassy orange highlights. Hot water can open up the hair cuticle and allow warm tones to escape, while harsh chemicals can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and itchiness. By using warm or cool water and minimizing the use of harsh chemicals, it is possible to keep the hair looking healthy and prevent brassy orange highlights from returning.
In conclusion, fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair requires a combination of the right products, techniques, and patience. By understanding the causes of brassy orange highlights, choosing the right products, and applying a color-correcting treatment, it is possible to eliminate brassy orange highlights and achieve a healthy, vibrant head of hair. Additionally, by taking steps to prevent brassy orange highlights, such as using the right products and avoiding hot water and harsh chemicals, it is possible to keep the hair looking its best and prevent brassy orange highlights from returning.
Some key points to remember when fixing brassy orange highlights include:
- Choosing the right products is essential in fixing brassy orange highlights. This includes using a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner, as well as a toner or color-depositing treatment.
- Avoiding hot water and harsh chemicals is also essential in preventing brassy orange highlights. Hot water can open up the hair cuticle and allow warm tones to escape, while harsh chemicals can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and itchiness.
By following these tips and taking the time to understand the causes of brassy orange highlights, it is possible to achieve a healthy, vibrant head of hair and keep brassy orange highlights at bay.
What causes brassy orange highlights on dark hair?
Brassy orange highlights on dark hair can be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of high-lift hair dyes, improper application of hair color, or the presence of warm tones in the hair. When dark hair is lifted too aggressively, the warm tones that are naturally present in the hair can become over-emphasized, resulting in an unwanted brassy or orange color. Additionally, using a hair dye that is too light for the individual’s hair type or using a developer that is too strong can also contribute to the development of brassy orange highlights.
To avoid brassy orange highlights, it is essential to choose a hair dye that is suitable for the individual’s hair type and to follow the instructions carefully. A hair professional can help determine the best course of action for achieving the desired color and can take steps to prevent brassy orange highlights from occurring in the first place. By taking the time to properly assess the hair and choose the right products, individuals can help ensure that their hair color turns out looking healthy, vibrant, and free from unwanted warm tones. Regular touch-ups and maintenance can also help to prevent brassy orange highlights from becoming a problem.
How can I fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair at home?
Fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair at home can be a bit of a challenge, but it is possible with the right products and techniques. One approach is to use a toner specifically designed to neutralize warm tones and eliminate brassy orange highlights. These toners can be applied at home and can help to adjust the color of the hair to a cooler, more ashy tone. Another option is to use a color depositing treatment, which can help to deposit cool tones into the hair and cancel out the warm tones that are causing the brassy orange color.
It is essential to note, however, that fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair at home can be a bit of a trial-and-error process, and it may take some experimentation to find the right products and techniques. It is also crucial to follow the instructions carefully and to do a strand test before applying any products to the entire head of hair. This will help to ensure that the desired results are achieved and that the hair is not damaged in the process. By taking the time to research and choose the right products, individuals can help to fix their brassy orange highlights at home and achieve the hair color they desire.
What are the best products to use for fixing brassy orange highlights on dark hair?
There are several products that can be used to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair, including toners, color depositing treatments, and color correctors. Some popular products include purple-based shampoos and conditioners, which can help to neutralize warm tones and eliminate brassy orange highlights. Other products, such as blue-based toners, can help to cancel out warm tones and achieve a cooler, more ashy color. It is essential to choose products that are specifically designed for dark hair and to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the desired results.
When choosing products to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair, it is crucial to consider the individual’s hair type and the level of brassy orange color that needs to be corrected. For example, individuals with very dark hair may need to use a more intense toner or color corrector to achieve the desired results, while those with lighter hair may be able to use a more subtle product. By taking the time to research and choose the right products, individuals can help to fix their brassy orange highlights and achieve a healthy, vibrant hair color. Regular use of these products can also help to maintain the desired color and prevent brassy orange highlights from returning.
Can I use hair dye to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair?
Yes, hair dye can be used to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair, but it is essential to choose the right type of dye and to apply it correctly. A demi-permanent or semi-permanent hair dye can be used to tone down brassy orange highlights and achieve a more natural-looking color. These types of dyes are gentler than permanent dyes and can help to deposit color into the hair without causing further damage. It is crucial to choose a dye that is one to two shades lighter than the desired color, as this will help to neutralize the warm tones and eliminate the brassy orange color.
When using hair dye to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully and to do a strand test before applying the dye to the entire head of hair. This will help to ensure that the desired results are achieved and that the hair is not damaged in the process. It is also crucial to consider the condition of the hair and to use a pre-color treatment if necessary. By taking the time to choose the right dye and apply it correctly, individuals can help to fix their brassy orange highlights and achieve a healthy, vibrant hair color that looks great and lasts.
How long does it take to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair?
The amount of time it takes to fix brassy orange highlights on dark hair can vary depending on the severity of the color and the products or techniques used to correct it. In some cases, brassy orange highlights can be fixed in a single application of a toner or color depositing treatment, while in other cases, it may take several applications or treatments to achieve the desired results. It is essential to be patient and to follow the instructions carefully, as over-processing the hair can lead to further damage and dryness.
In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to fully correct brassy orange highlights on dark hair. During this time, it is crucial to use gentle, nourishing products to help maintain the health and integrity of the hair. Regular touch-ups and maintenance can also help to prevent brassy orange highlights from returning and keep the hair looking its best. By taking the time to fix brassy orange highlights correctly and maintaining the health of the hair, individuals can help to achieve a beautiful, vibrant hair color that lasts.
Can I prevent brassy orange highlights on dark hair from occurring in the first place?
Yes, there are several steps that can be taken to prevent brassy orange highlights on dark hair from occurring in the first place. One of the most effective ways to prevent brassy orange highlights is to use a high-quality hair dye that is specifically formulated for dark hair. These dyes are designed to lift the hair gently and deposit color evenly, reducing the risk of warm tones and brassy orange highlights. It is also essential to follow the instructions carefully and to do a strand test before applying the dye to the entire head of hair.
Regular maintenance and touch-ups can also help to prevent brassy orange highlights from occurring. This can include using a color-depositing treatment or toner to maintain the color and prevent warm tones from becoming over-emphasized. Additionally, using a purple-based shampoo and conditioner can help to neutralize warm tones and keep the hair looking cool and ashy. By taking the time to choose the right products and follow a regular maintenance routine, individuals can help to prevent brassy orange highlights from occurring and maintain a healthy, vibrant hair color.