So, you’ve got orange hair. Not the fun, vibrant, “I did this on purpose” kind of orange, but the brassy, unwanted undertone that peeks through after bleaching or coloring your hair. Don’t panic! You’re not alone. Orange tones are a common hair coloring woe, especially for those with darker hair lifting to lighter shades. Understanding why it happens and, more importantly, how to fix it, is key to achieving your dream hair color.
Understanding the Orange Menace: Why Brassiness Happens
Brassy orange tones in hair are typically the result of underlying pigments being exposed during the lightening process. Think of it like this: your natural hair color isn’t just one shade. It’s a complex blend of pigments, primarily melanin. When you bleach your hair, you’re essentially stripping away these pigments.
The problem is that darker pigments like red and orange are more stubborn and resistant to bleach than lighter pigments like yellow. So, as your hair lightens, the lighter pigments are removed first, leaving behind the warm, brassy orange tones. This is especially true if you’re trying to lift several shades in one go.
The level of lift, meaning how many shades lighter you’re trying to achieve, directly impacts the likelihood of encountering orange tones. Lifting just a shade or two might expose primarily yellow undertones, while a more drastic change will almost certainly reveal orange.
Your starting hair color also plays a significant role. The darker your natural hair, the more underlying red and orange pigments you’ll have to contend with. Dark brown or black hair will inherently have more of these warm tones to neutralize than, say, light brown hair.
Hard water, rich in minerals, can also contribute to brassiness. These minerals can deposit on the hair shaft, creating a buildup that leads to unwanted warm tones over time.
Sun exposure, chlorine, and certain hair products can also accelerate the oxidation process, further exacerbating brassiness and bringing out those unwanted orange hues.
The Color Wheel to the Rescue: Neutralizing Orange with Color Theory
The secret weapon in your fight against orange hair lies in the principles of color theory. Specifically, understanding complementary colors. The color wheel is a visual representation of colors arranged according to their chromatic relationship. Colors directly opposite each other on the color wheel are considered complementary. These colors neutralize each other when mixed.
So, what color cancels out orange? Blue.
That’s why blue-toned shampoos, conditioners, and toners are used to counteract orange brassiness in hair. These products deposit blue pigment onto the hair shaft, effectively canceling out the orange tones and resulting in a cooler, more neutral, or even ashy shade.
Using blue shampoo isn’t like dyeing your hair blue. The amount of pigment deposited is subtle and designed to neutralize rather than drastically change your hair color. Think of it as a gentle color correction.
Different Shades of Blue and Their Impact
The specific shade of blue used in toning products can also influence the final result. A more intense, almost indigo-blue, is best for very strong orange tones. A softer, more pastel blue will be suitable for lighter orange or brassy shades.
Your Arsenal Against Orange: Products and Techniques
Now that you understand the “why” behind orange hair and the color theory behind neutralizing it, let’s explore the practical tools and techniques you can use to banish brassiness.
Blue Shampoo: Your First Line of Defense
Blue shampoo is a staple in the haircare routine of anyone with blonde, highlighted, or lightened hair. It’s a pigmented shampoo that deposits blue dye onto the hair, neutralizing orange tones with each wash.
To use blue shampoo effectively, wet your hair thoroughly and apply the shampoo, focusing on the areas that are most affected by brassiness. Massage it into your hair and scalp, and let it sit for the recommended time (usually 3-5 minutes, but always follow the product instructions). Rinse thoroughly.
Don’t overdo it. Using blue shampoo too frequently can lead to a bluish tint, especially on very light or porous hair. Start by using it once or twice a week and adjust the frequency as needed.
Blue Conditioner and Masks: Added Toning Power
Blue conditioners and masks offer a more intense toning treatment than blue shampoo. They contain a higher concentration of blue pigment and are designed to be left on the hair for a longer period, allowing for deeper penetration and more effective neutralization.
Apply blue conditioner or mask to clean, damp hair after shampooing. Distribute it evenly, focusing on the brassy areas. Leave it on for the recommended time (usually 5-15 minutes, depending on the product) and rinse thoroughly.
These products are excellent for maintaining your color between toning sessions or for tackling more stubborn brassiness.
Hair Toners: Targeted Brass Elimination
Hair toners are demi-permanent hair colors that are specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones in bleached or lightened hair. They come in a variety of shades, including blue-based toners that are perfect for canceling out orange.
Toning requires a bit more precision than using blue shampoo or conditioner. You’ll need to choose the correct toner shade, mix it with a developer (a peroxide solution that opens the hair cuticle and allows the toner to deposit color), and apply it evenly to your hair.
It’s essential to follow the product instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head. This will help you ensure that you achieve the desired result and avoid any unwanted surprises.
Toning is best left to professionals or those with experience in hair coloring. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with a stylist.
DIY Blue Toner Rinse: A Gentle Option
For a milder approach, you can create a DIY blue toner rinse by adding a few drops of blue food coloring or semi-permanent blue hair dye to a bowl of water. After shampooing and conditioning, pour the blue-tinted water over your hair, making sure to saturate all the strands. Rinse lightly.
This is a very subtle toning method that can help to neutralize minor brassiness. However, it’s important to use caution when using food coloring or semi-permanent dye, as they can stain your hair if used improperly.
Professional Color Correction: When You Need Expert Help
If your orange hair is particularly stubborn or uneven, or if you’ve tried other methods without success, it may be time to seek professional help. A skilled colorist can assess your hair and create a customized color correction plan to neutralize the orange tones and achieve your desired shade.
They have access to a wider range of professional products and techniques, and they can use their expertise to correct even the most challenging color issues.
Preventing Orange Hair: A Proactive Approach
While neutralizing orange tones is important, preventing them from appearing in the first place is even better. Here are some tips for keeping your hair brass-free:
- Use a clarifying shampoo regularly: Clarifying shampoos remove mineral buildup and product residue that can contribute to brassiness.
- Invest in a shower filter: Shower filters remove chlorine and other minerals from your water, which can help to prevent brassiness.
- Protect your hair from the sun: The sun can fade your hair color and exacerbate brassiness. Wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray when spending time outdoors.
- Avoid excessive heat styling: Heat styling can damage your hair and make it more prone to brassiness.
- Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners: These products are formulated to be gentle on colored hair and help to prevent fading and brassiness.
- Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning helps to keep your hair healthy and hydrated, which can improve its overall appearance and reduce brassiness.
- Touch up your roots regularly: Keeping your roots touched up will prevent the orange from creeping up as your hair grows out.
Choosing the Right Blue Shampoo and Conditioner
With so many blue shampoos and conditioners on the market, how do you choose the right one for your hair? Here are some factors to consider:
- The intensity of the orange tones: If you have very strong orange tones, you’ll need a more pigmented blue shampoo or conditioner. If you have only mild brassiness, a less pigmented product will suffice.
- Your hair type: Some blue shampoos and conditioners are formulated for specific hair types, such as dry, oily, or fine hair. Choose a product that is appropriate for your hair type.
- The ingredients: Look for products that are free of sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can damage your hair.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews to see what other people have to say about the product.
Maintaining Your Tone: Long-Term Strategies
Once you’ve neutralized the orange tones in your hair, it’s important to maintain your color to prevent brassiness from returning.
Regular use of blue shampoo and conditioner is key to maintaining your tone. You may also want to use a blue hair mask once a week for an extra boost of toning power.
In between toning sessions, you can also use a color-depositing conditioner to keep your color looking fresh and vibrant.
Finally, remember to protect your hair from the sun, chlorine, and other factors that can contribute to brassiness.
Dealing with Different Hair Types and Textures
The approach to canceling out orange in hair might need adjustments based on hair type and texture.
Fine hair tends to absorb pigment quickly, so use blue shampoo sparingly and rinse thoroughly. Over-toning can easily happen.
Thick hair might require more product and longer processing times to ensure even coverage and effective neutralization.
Dry or damaged hair is more porous and prone to grabbing too much pigment. Use hydrating blue shampoos and conditioners, and consider a protein treatment to help strengthen the hair.
Curly hair can be more prone to dryness, so opt for sulfate-free blue shampoos and conditioners and focus on moisturizing after toning.
No matter your hair type, always perform a strand test before applying any toning product to your entire head. This will help you avoid unwanted results and ensure that you achieve the perfect tone for your hair.
Conclusion: Embrace the Blue and Say Goodbye to Orange
Dealing with orange hair can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and products, you can effectively neutralize brassiness and achieve your desired hair color. Understanding the color wheel, choosing the right blue-toned products, and implementing preventative measures are all crucial steps in the battle against orange. Whether you opt for blue shampoo, toner, or a professional color correction, remember to always prioritize the health of your hair and proceed with caution. With a little patience and effort, you can say goodbye to unwanted orange tones and hello to beautiful, vibrant hair!
What exactly causes orange tones to appear in hair, and why is it so common after lightening?
Orange tones in hair, often referred to as brassiness, are primarily caused by the underlying warm pigments present in natural hair color. When hair is lightened, the melanin responsible for color is lifted, and these warm pigments, particularly red and orange, are typically the last to be removed. This is because they’re the strongest and most resistant pigments, making them more likely to be exposed during the lightening process, especially if the lightening process wasn’t strong enough or didn’t process for long enough.
Furthermore, factors like hard water, sun exposure, and even certain hair products can contribute to or exacerbate orange tones. Hard water contains minerals that can deposit on the hair shaft, leading to discoloration. Similarly, UV rays from the sun can oxidize the hair, revealing and intensifying warm undertones. The use of products with harsh chemicals or those not designed for color-treated hair can also strip the hair of its toner, leaving brassiness more noticeable.
How does purple shampoo work to neutralize orange tones, and what are its limitations?
Purple shampoo works on the principle of color theory, where purple and orange are complementary colors. By depositing purple pigment onto the hair, the shampoo helps to neutralize the unwanted orange tones, creating a more balanced and cooler overall color. The purple pigment essentially cancels out the orange, making the hair appear less brassy and more ashy or neutral.
However, purple shampoo is not a magic bullet and has its limitations. It’s most effective on hair that has already been lightened to a lighter level of orange. If the brassiness is too intense or the hair is too dark, the purple pigment may not be strong enough to fully neutralize it. Additionally, overuse of purple shampoo can lead to a purple cast or dryness in the hair, so it’s crucial to use it sparingly and follow the product instructions carefully.
What are some professional salon treatments that effectively combat orange tones in hair?
Salon treatments offer a more targeted and potent approach to combatting orange tones. Color correction is a primary service involving a professional colorist who assesses the hair’s current color and formulates a custom blend of toners and dyes to neutralize the brassiness and achieve the desired shade. This often involves multiple steps to lift remaining warm tones and deposit the correct cool tones.
Another effective treatment is a gloss or glaze, which can be tinted to counteract orange. These treatments are semi-permanent and deposit color while adding shine and conditioning the hair. They are less damaging than a full color correction and can be a good option for maintaining color and managing brassiness between salon visits. Regular salon visits can help to maintain a desired color and keep orange tones at bay.
Are there any natural remedies that can help reduce orange tones in hair, and how effective are they?
While not as potent as professional or even over-the-counter solutions, some natural remedies may offer subtle assistance in reducing orange tones. Apple cider vinegar rinses, diluted lemon juice applications, and chamomile tea rinses are sometimes used to brighten and tone the hair. These ingredients are believed to have mild bleaching or toning properties that can help slightly counteract brassiness.
However, it’s important to manage expectations when relying on natural remedies. Their effectiveness is often limited, and results can vary greatly depending on the hair’s starting color and the intensity of the orange tones. These remedies are best considered as supplementary treatments to enhance color maintenance rather than primary solutions for eliminating significant brassiness. Always perform a patch test before applying any natural remedy to your entire head to check for sensitivity.
What role does hair porosity play in how hair retains orange tones and responds to toning treatments?
Hair porosity, the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture, significantly impacts how well it holds onto orange tones and responds to toning treatments. High porosity hair, with its open cuticle structure, tends to absorb color quickly but also loses it rapidly. This means it can initially take on toner effectively but may fade faster and be more prone to displaying brassiness.
Low porosity hair, with its tightly closed cuticle, resists absorbing moisture and color. This can make it challenging for toning treatments to penetrate the hair shaft and neutralize orange tones effectively. In this case, it may require pre-softening treatments or heat to help open the cuticle and allow the toner to penetrate. Understanding hair porosity is crucial for choosing the right products and techniques to manage orange tones effectively.
What are some preventative measures that can be taken to minimize the development of orange tones in hair?
Preventative measures are key to minimizing the development of orange tones in hair. Using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners formulated for color-treated hair can help prevent color stripping and brassiness. These products are gentler on the hair and help to maintain the integrity of the color, reducing the likelihood of orange tones emerging.
Protecting hair from sun exposure by wearing a hat or using UV protectant sprays can also significantly reduce brassiness. Sun exposure can oxidize the hair, leading to the development of unwanted warm tones. Additionally, investing in a shower filter to remove minerals from hard water can prevent mineral buildup that contributes to orange discoloration. These steps will help keep your hair color vibrant and reduce the need for aggressive toning treatments.
How can I determine the correct level of toner needed to cancel out orange tones in my hair, and what happens if I choose the wrong one?
Determining the correct level of toner requires understanding the specific shade of orange present in your hair and using a color wheel as a guide. A level 7 orange, for example, would require a different toner than a level 5 orange. The ideal toner will typically contain blue or violet pigments, depending on the dominant orange undertone. Consulting with a professional stylist is always recommended for precise color matching.
Choosing the wrong toner can lead to undesirable results. A toner that’s too weak may not effectively neutralize the orange, resulting in minimal change. Conversely, a toner that’s too strong or improperly formulated can deposit excessive pigment, leading to a muddy, green, or purple cast. In some cases, it can even darken the hair color unexpectedly. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek professional guidance.
Alden Pierce is a passionate home cook and the creator of Cooking Again. He loves sharing easy recipes, practical cooking tips, and honest kitchen gear reviews to help others enjoy cooking with confidence and creativity. When he’s not in the kitchen, Alden enjoys exploring new cuisines and finding inspiration in everyday meals.