What To Do If Your Hair Color Turns Brassy?
Brassy hair can be a major disappointment for those who have spent time and money to achieve their desired hair color. This unwanted warmth in the hair can occur due to various reasons such as sun exposure, use of harsh chemical products, or even genetics. While it may seem like a disaster at first, there are certain steps that you can take to fix it and restore your desired hair color.
In this guide, we will discuss what causes brassy hair and how you can prevent it from happening in the future. We will also provide some effective solutions on how to get rid of brassy tones and maintain beautiful, vibrant hair. So if you're struggling with brassy hair, keep reading to find out what you can do to fix it.
Understanding Brassy Hair
Brassy hair usually occurs when the cool tones in your hair color start to fade, leaving behind warm and orange-y undertones. This can be particularly noticeable in blonde, silver, or light brown hair shades. The main culprit behind this unwanted change is the presence of underlying pigments such as yellow or red that are revealed when the cool tones wash out.
There are many factors that can cause brassy hair, including exposure to chlorine or salt water, using low-quality hair dyes with strong chemicals, overexposure to heat styling tools, and even hard water. Sometimes genetics can also play a role in making your hair more prone to brassiness. It's important to identify the root cause of your brassy hair in order to find the most effective solution.
What To Do If Your Hair Color Turns Brassy
If you notice your hair turning brassy, don't panic! There are various methods you can try to get rid of those unwanted tones and restore your desired hair color. Here are some options you can consider:
Use a Toner or Purple Shampoo
A popular solution to combat brassy hair is to use a toner or purple shampoo. Toners help neutralize the unwanted warm tones by counteracting them with cool tones.
Purple shampoo, in particular, is effective for blondes or those with lightened hair since the purple pigments neutralize yellow and orange hues.
Apply the product evenly throughout damp hair, leaving it on for the recommended time before rinsing thoroughly. Regular use of these products can maintain a cool, vibrant color while preventing brassiness from recurring over time.
Opt for a Gloss Treatment
A gloss treatment can be an effective way to eliminate brassiness while adding shine to your hair. These treatments usually involve applying a semi-permanent color with added conditioning benefits that cover and neutralize brassy tones.
They not only correct the color but also enhance the hair's natural shine and smoothness. Whether done at home or professionally in a salon, a gloss treatment can refresh your hair color and improve manageability. Scheduling regular gloss treatments can help maintain your desired color and keep brassiness at bay.
Try a Color-Correcting Product
Color-correcting products, such as masks or conditioners, specifically target brassy tones, offering a simple solution to at-home maintenance. These products are infused with blue or purple pigments that neutralize the warmth of brassy hair.
Apply the color-correcting treatment evenly throughout your hair, allowing it to sit for the suggested time before rinsing.
Use them as part of your hair care routine for manageable results, and you'll notice the brassiness diminish over time. Consistent use will keep your hair looking cool-toned and vibrant.
Consult with a Professional Hair Stylist
When home remedies don't suffice, turning to a professional hairstylist can be a wise decision. A stylist will assess your hair's current condition and recommend the most suitable solutions, whether it's a toner application, a corrective color service, or a product tailored for your needs.
Trusting a professional ensures that the correct measures are taken to correct brassy tones effectively. They can also advise on preventive steps, helping maintain your hair's desired color and reducing the chance of brassiness in the future.
Switch to Gentle and Sulfate-Free Hair Products
Using gentle, sulfate-free hair products can be beneficial in maintaining your hair color and preventing brassiness. Sulfates, found in many shampoos, can strip color and moisture from the hair, leading to warmer tones surfacing.
Opt for products designed for color-treated hair, as they are formulated to cleanse without removing essential oils or pigment.
Incorporating deep conditioners and moisture-rich formulas into your routine will also help preserve hair color and vibrancy. Over time, sulfate-free products will make a noticeable difference in keeping brassiness at bay.
So these are some effective ways to get rid of brassy hair and maintain your desired hair color. Remember, prevention is key, so be mindful of the products you use and any external factors that may contribute to brassiness. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your hair looking vibrant and beautiful without any unwanted tones.
Preventing Brassy Hair
While there are many solutions to fix brassy hair, it's always better to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help you avoid brassiness and maintain your desired hair color:
Limit Exposure to Chlorine or Salt Water
Chlorine and salt can both have damaging effects on hair, especially for those with color-treated hair. These elements can strip away the cool tones in your hair, causing brassiness to appear.
To prevent this, limit your exposure to chlorine or salt water, especially if you've recently colored your hair. If possible, use a swim cap while swimming and rinse your hair thoroughly afterwards.
Plus, showering with cold water before entering a pool or ocean can help protect your cuticles and minimize the amount of chlorine or salt absorbed by your hair.
Protect Your Hair from Heat Styling Tools
Overexposure to heat styling tools can damage your hair and contribute to brassy tones. To prevent this, use a heat protectant product before using any hot tools on your hair. These products form a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing potential damage and preventing brassiness.
Opt for air-drying your hair whenever possible, as frequent use of blow dryers can also cause damage over time.
When using hot tools, make sure to keep them at low temperatures and avoid direct contact with your hair's ends, as they are more prone to damage and breakage.
Use Protective Products before Swimming or Going to the Beach
If you love spending time at the beach or pool, make sure to use protective products beforehand.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a barrier between your hair and the elements. This will help prevent chlorine, salt, and UV rays from damaging your hair and causing brassiness.
For added protection, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat or using a beach umbrella to shield your hair from direct sunlight.
Choose High-Quality Hair Dyes with Gentle Formulas
When coloring your hair, it's crucial to use high-quality dyes with gentle formulas. Cheaper, low-quality dyes can contain harsh chemicals that strip away color and cause brassy tones to appear.
Do your research before purchasing a hair dye and opt for products specifically designed for color-treated hair. These will be gentler on your hair and help maintain the desired color without causing brassiness.
Use a Clarifying Shampoo to Combat Hard Water Buildup
Hard water contains high levels of minerals that can build up in your hair over time, causing it to appear dull and brassy. To combat this, use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any buildup and restore shine to your hair.
Make sure to follow up with a deep conditioner or hair mask to replenish moisture and keep your hair looking healthy.
By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the chances of brassy hair and maintain your desired color for longer. Remember to also stay consistent with your hair care routine and consult with a professional hairstylist whenever needed for optimal results.
Does Hair Type Affect Brassiness?
Yes, hair type can affect brassiness. For example, those with blonde or fine hair may experience more brassy tones due to the lack of pigmentation or thickness in their strands.
On the other hand, individuals with darker or coarser hair may not notice as much brassiness, but it can still occur over time.
Hair porosity also plays a role in brassiness as it affects how well your hair holds onto color. High porosity hair is more prone to color fading and brassy tones compared to low porosity hair.
It's important to consider your hair type when choosing products and treatments for brassy hair, as certain methods may work better for one hair type than others. Consulting with a hairstylist can also help determine the best course of action for your unique hair type. Overall, while hair type does play a role in brassiness, proper care and maintenance can help prevent it regardless of your specific hair type.
Does Hair Color Remover Damage Hair?
The hair color remover process involves stripping away artificial pigment from the hair, which can cause some damage. However, compared to bleaching or lightening hair, color removers are considered less damaging as they don't lift the hair's natural color.
Color removers work by breaking down large color molecules into smaller ones that can be washed out of the hair. This process also opens up the hair cuticles, making it more susceptible to damage and dryness.
To minimize potential damage, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use products specifically designed for your hair type. It's also recommended to use deep conditioners and moisturizing treatments afterwards to replenish any lost moisture and nourish your hair.
Consulting with a professional hairstylist before using a color remover can also help determine the best course of action for your specific hair type and minimize any potential damage. So while it may cause some damage, proper care can mitigate this and maintain healthy hair.
Tips to Prevent Brassiness in Different Hair Colors
There are various tips to prevent brassiness in different hair colors. For blonde hair, using purple or blue-toned shampoos and conditioners can help neutralize any yellow or orange tones.
For brunettes, using a color-depositing shampoo or gloss specifically designed for brown shades can help maintain the depth and richness of the color.
Redheads can prevent brassiness by using products with red pigments to enhance their color and counteract any fading.
Individuals with fashion colors, such as pink, purple, or blue, should avoid chlorine and salt water as it can cause these colors to fade quickly and turn brassy. Using sulfate-free shampoos and washing hair less frequently can also help maintain the vibrancy of these hues.
Regardless of hair color, using heat protectant products and avoiding direct sunlight can also help prevent brassiness. Consulting with a professional hairstylist for personalized tips and recommendations can also be beneficial in maintaining your desired hair color without any unwanted brassiness.
FAQs
How can purple shampoos help with colored hair that has a brassy tone?
Purple shampoos are specifically formulated to neutralize the brassy tone in colored hair. By using the color wheel concept, the purple pigment counteracts the yellow and orange hues that often develop in warm toned hair, restoring a more balanced and cool-toned appearance.
What role does the hair cuticle play in preventing brassy tones in dark hair?
The hair cuticle is the outer layer of the hair shaft that can affect how color is absorbed and maintained. For dark hair, ensuring the cuticle is closed and healthy helps prevent the penetration of unwanted brassy tones. Regular conditioning and using color-safe products can keep the hair cuticle smooth and less prone to brassiness.
How does blue shampoo differ from purple shampoos for managing brassy hair?
Blue shampoo is more suited for darker colored hair with orange tones, as the blue pigment neutralizes these shades according to the color wheel. While purple shampoos work well for yellow tones in lighter colored hair, blue shampoo is ideal for brunettes looking to maintain their natural hair color without brassiness.
Why might warm toned hair turn brassy, and how can it be corrected?
Warm toned hair is more susceptible to developing a brassy tone due to environmental factors, such as sun exposure and water minerals, which can alter the intended color. To correct brassy tones, using products like purple or blue shampoos and ensuring regular maintenance of the hair cuticle through proper hair care routines are effective measures.
Conclusion
Remember, brassiness can be prevented with proper hair care and maintenance. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you can maintain your desired hair color without any unwanted brassiness.
However, if you do notice brassy tones appearing, don't panic! Consult with a hairstylist for personalized solutions to address the issue and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant. With these preventive measures in mind, you can confidently rock any hair color without worrying about brassiness.
So go ahead and embrace your beautiful locks!
Salon Haze is an award-winning hair salon in Vancouver, Kitsilano area. We are specialists in colour and style. If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us, and we’ll talk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver. Call now at 604-620-9986 or email us at service@salonhaze.com.