The struggle is real. You loved that cool-toned ash blonde, or that deep, sultry brunette in the salon. But now, a few washes later, that dreaded red or orange tint is creeping in. Don’t panic! You’re not alone. Unwanted red tones in hair are a common problem, and thankfully, there are effective ways to combat them. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to neutralize that red and achieve your desired hair color.
Understanding Why Red Tones Appear
Before we dive into solutions, let’s understand why those pesky red hues decide to make an unwelcome appearance. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, and identifying the culprit is crucial for choosing the right remedy.
The Science of Hair Color and Underlying Pigment
Hair color isn’t just a single shade. It’s made up of a combination of underlying pigments: blue, red, and yellow. Darker hair naturally has more red and orange pigment. When you lighten your hair, you’re essentially stripping away these pigments. The darker your starting color and the lighter you want to go, the more you need to lift these underlying pigments. Red is the most stubborn pigment to remove.
Imagine trying to erase colors on a canvas. Yellow is easiest to cover, followed by blue. But red? Red is persistent and often the last to go, leaving that unwanted warmth behind. This is why brassiness (a mix of orange and yellow) or red tones often appear after lightening dark hair.
Oxidation and Color Fade
Hair dye molecules can oxidize over time, especially when exposed to sunlight, heat styling, and frequent washing. This oxidation process can cause the cooler tones in your hair color to fade faster than the warmer red tones. This is because cooler tones are often achieved by depositing pigment onto the hair shaft, while lifting darker hair inherently exposes the underlying red.
Think of it like a favorite black shirt that slowly fades to grey with each wash. The darker dye molecules are the first to break down, leaving the lighter shades behind. Similarly, the cool ash tones in your hair might fade, revealing the underlying warmth.
Mineral Buildup from Hard Water
Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can also contribute to red and orange tones in your hair. These minerals can bind to the hair shaft, creating a coating that interferes with the color and promotes oxidation. Copper, in particular, can deposit a reddish tint on blonde hair.
If you live in an area with hard water, you might notice a reddish or orange tinge developing in your hair, even if you haven’t colored it recently. This is because the minerals are building up over time, affecting the natural color.
Neutralizing Red Tones: Your Arsenal of Solutions
Now that you understand why red tones appear, let’s explore the various methods you can use to combat them. The best approach will depend on the severity of the red, your hair color, and your desired outcome.
The Power of Color Theory: Green to the Rescue
Color theory is your best friend when it comes to neutralizing unwanted tones. Remember those color wheels from art class? Green is directly opposite red on the color wheel, making it the perfect color to neutralize red tones. This is why green-toned shampoos, conditioners, and treatments are popular for combating redness in hair.
Using a green-toned product deposits a small amount of green pigment onto the hair, canceling out the red. It’s a subtle but effective way to maintain a cooler tone.
Green Shampoo and Conditioners: A Gentle Approach
Green-toned shampoos and conditioners are a great option for maintaining your hair color and preventing red tones from developing. They’re gentle enough for regular use and can help keep your color looking fresh.
Look for shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated to neutralize red tones. These products typically contain green pigments that counteract the red without drastically changing your hair color. Use these products consistently, about once or twice a week, to maintain your desired tone.
Green Hair Masks and Treatments: Deeper Neutralization
For more stubborn red tones, a green-toned hair mask or treatment can provide a more intense neutralization. These products typically have a higher concentration of green pigment and are designed to be left on the hair for a longer period, allowing the green to penetrate deeper and neutralize the red.
Apply a green-toned hair mask or treatment once or twice a month, depending on the severity of the red. Follow the instructions on the product carefully, and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Toning: A Professional Touch for Color Correction
Toning is a professional hair coloring technique used to adjust the tone of your hair. Your stylist can use a toner with green pigments to neutralize red tones and achieve your desired color.
If you’re struggling to remove red tones on your own, it’s best to consult a professional stylist. They can assess your hair color, determine the best course of action, and apply a toner that will effectively neutralize the red without damaging your hair.
DIY Solutions: Proceed with Caution
While DIY solutions can be tempting, it’s important to proceed with caution. Improperly formulated DIY remedies can damage your hair or result in an undesirable color.
If you’re considering a DIY solution, do thorough research and test it on a small, inconspicuous strand of hair first. Some common DIY remedies include using apple cider vinegar rinses or mixing green food coloring with conditioner. However, these methods can be unpredictable and may not be as effective as professional treatments.
Preventing Red Tones: A Proactive Approach
The best way to deal with red tones is to prevent them from appearing in the first place. By taking proactive steps, you can maintain your desired hair color and avoid the frustration of unwanted warmth.
Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Sun exposure can cause hair color to fade and become brassy. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
The sun’s rays break down the dye molecules in your hair, leading to color fade and the emergence of underlying red tones. Protecting your hair from the sun is crucial for maintaining your desired color.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Regular shampoos can strip away your hair color and contribute to fading. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner that are specifically formulated to protect your color and prevent brassiness.
These products are typically sulfate-free and contain ingredients that help to seal the hair cuticle, preventing color from leaching out.
Minimize Heat Styling
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons can damage your hair and cause color to fade. Minimize your use of these tools, and always use a heat protectant spray before styling.
High heat can open the hair cuticle, allowing color to escape and leaving your hair vulnerable to damage.
Invest in a Water Filter
If you live in an area with hard water, consider installing a water filter on your showerhead. This can help to remove minerals that can contribute to red tones in your hair.
A water filter can also improve the overall health of your hair and skin by removing impurities from the water.
Regular Gloss Treatments
A gloss treatment can help to refresh your hair color and add shine. It can also help to tone down any unwanted red tones.
Gloss treatments are available in a variety of shades, including green-toned glosses that are specifically designed to neutralize red.
Choosing the Right Products and Techniques
With so many products and techniques available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones for your hair. Here are some tips to help you make the best decisions:
Consider Your Hair Color and Type
The best products and techniques for removing red tones will depend on your hair color and type. For example, if you have blonde hair, you’ll want to use products that are specifically formulated for blonde hair to avoid brassiness or discoloration. If you have dry or damaged hair, you’ll want to choose gentle products that won’t further strip your hair of moisture.
Read Product Reviews and Consult with a Stylist
Before trying a new product or technique, read online reviews to see what other people have experienced. You can also consult with a professional stylist for personalized recommendations.
A stylist can assess your hair color and type and recommend the best products and techniques for achieving your desired results.
Start Slowly and Be Patient
Removing red tones from hair can take time and patience. Don’t expect to see results overnight. Start with a gentle approach, such as using a green-toned shampoo and conditioner, and gradually increase the intensity of your treatment as needed.
If you’re not seeing the results you want, consult with a professional stylist for further guidance.
Don’t Overdo It
Overusing green-toned products or applying harsh chemical treatments can damage your hair. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and avoid over-processing your hair.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed, consult with a professional stylist.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many cases of unwanted red tones can be addressed at home, there are situations where seeking professional help is the best course of action.
Severe Redness or Orange Tones
If your hair has significant red or orange tones that are resistant to at-home treatments, it’s best to consult a professional stylist. They have the expertise and tools to correct the color safely and effectively.
Uneven Color
If you’ve tried to remove red tones at home and ended up with uneven color, a stylist can help to even out your hair color and achieve a more balanced result.
Damaged Hair
If your hair is already damaged, it’s important to avoid harsh chemical treatments that could further damage it. A stylist can assess the condition of your hair and recommend gentle, effective solutions for removing red tones.
You’re Unsure How to Proceed
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to proceed, it’s always best to consult a professional stylist. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific hair type and color.
Removing red tones from hair can be a challenging but achievable goal. By understanding the causes of red tones, using the right products and techniques, and taking proactive steps to prevent them, you can maintain your desired hair color and enjoy healthy, beautiful hair. Remember to be patient, start slowly, and consult with a professional stylist if needed. Good luck on your journey to banishing those unwanted red tones!
Why does red undertone appear in hair?
Red undertones in hair are often due to the presence of warm pigments in the hair shaft. These pigments, like pheomelanin, are naturally occurring and more resistant to lightening than darker pigments like eumelanin. When lightening hair, especially darker shades, these red and orange pigments are often the last to be lifted, leading to the unwanted red or brassy tones surfacing.
Several factors can exacerbate red undertones. Previous hair coloring, sun exposure, hard water, and even certain medications can contribute to the prominence of red pigments in the hair. Understanding these factors can help you proactively combat and prevent the recurrence of red tones after you’ve successfully neutralized them.
What are the best products to use to get rid of red tones?
The most effective products for banishing red tones are those that contain green pigments. Green is directly opposite red on the color wheel, making it the ideal neutralizer. Look for shampoos, conditioners, and masks specifically formulated with green color pigments. These products deposit a small amount of green into the hair, effectively cancelling out the red.
Beyond green-toned products, consider using ash-toned hair dyes or toners. These products deposit cool-toned pigments that counteract warm red tones. If opting for a dye or toner, always perform a strand test first to ensure the desired result and avoid over-toning, which can lead to a muddy or overly ashy color.
How often should I use green shampoo to remove red?
The frequency of using green shampoo depends on the severity of the red tones and your hair’s overall health. Start by using it once or twice a week, alternating with your regular shampoo. Observe how your hair responds and adjust the frequency accordingly. Overuse can sometimes lead to a dull or greenish tinge, especially on lighter hair shades.
It’s important to actively monitor your hair’s condition and adjust your routine. If you notice dryness or a change in hair texture, reduce the frequency of green shampoo use. Additionally, deep conditioning treatments can help maintain moisture and keep your hair healthy while you’re actively combating red undertones.
Can I use a toner instead of green shampoo?
Yes, a toner can be a more potent alternative to green shampoo for neutralizing red tones, especially for stubborn or significant red hues. Toners work by depositing pigment directly onto the hair shaft, providing a more immediate and noticeable color correction compared to the gradual effect of green shampoo. However, toners require more caution during application.
When using a toner, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and perform a strand test beforehand. Over-toning can result in unwanted ashy or muddy tones. If you’re unsure about using a toner yourself, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist to achieve the desired result without damaging your hair.
How can I prevent red tones from returning?
To prevent red tones from returning, focus on protecting your hair from factors that contribute to their appearance. Minimize sun exposure by wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection. Regularly use a clarifying shampoo to remove mineral buildup from hard water, which can exacerbate red tones.
Implement a consistent hair care routine that includes color-safe shampoos and conditioners. Avoid using hot tools excessively, as heat can also contribute to color fading and the emergence of red undertones. Consider using a weekly hair mask to maintain moisture and protect your hair’s color and integrity.
What if my red tones are very stubborn and nothing seems to work?
If red tones are persistently stubborn and resistant to green shampoos and toners, it’s likely time to consult a professional hairstylist. A stylist can assess your hair’s current condition, identify the specific underlying causes of the red tones, and create a tailored treatment plan to address them effectively. They have access to stronger and more specialized products than are typically available for home use.
Professional color correction might involve a combination of techniques, such as a deeper toning treatment, a color glaze, or even a gentle lowlight application to counteract the red. Trusting a professional ensures the process is handled carefully to minimize damage and achieve the desired color result without compromising the health of your hair.
Will using a blue shampoo help remove red tones in my hair?
While blue shampoo is excellent for neutralizing brassy orange and yellow tones in blonde and lightened hair, it is generally not as effective for removing red tones. Blue is opposite orange on the color wheel, making it ideal for canceling out those specific warm hues. Red tones are best addressed with products containing green pigments, as green is opposite red.
Using blue shampoo on hair with strong red undertones may have a minimal impact or even potentially make the red more pronounced. It’s crucial to identify the dominant unwanted tones in your hair before selecting a neutralizing shampoo. Green shampoo is the more appropriate choice for banishing red and achieving a balanced hair color.