If you’ve ever bleached your hair and ended up with orange tones, you’re not alone. This is a common side effect of lightening dark hair, and it can be frustrating to deal with. Thankfully, toner can help neutralize those orange tones and give you the color you’re after.
But with so many toners on the market, how do you know which one to use? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of toning for orange hair and help you find the perfect solution.
First, it’s important to understand how toner works. When hair is bleached, it goes through a series of color stages. The first stage is orange, followed by yellow, and finally pale yellow or white.
Toner works by depositing color onto the hair to neutralize unwanted tones. For orange hair, you’ll want to use a toner with blue or purple pigments, as these colors are opposite orange on the color wheel and will cancel it out.
DIY Toners for Orange Hair: Natural Remedies
If you’re hesitant to use a store-bought toner, there are plenty of natural remedies you can try at home. One popular option is apple cider vinegar, which has natural acidic properties that can help remove orange tones.
Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, apply to your hair, and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
Another option is to mix blue or purple food coloring with conditioner and apply to your hair like a traditional toner. Be sure to patch test any DIY toners before using them on your entire head to avoid any adverse reactions.
| Natural Remedy | Ingredients | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Apple cider vinegar | Equal parts apple cider vinegar and water | Apply to hair and leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse |
| Blue or purple food coloring | Food coloring and conditioner | Mix together and apply like traditional toner, patch test first |
Choosing the Right Toner for Orange Hair: Factors to Consider
When choosing a toner for orange hair, there are several factors to consider. The first is your desired end result. Do you want a cooler, ashier tone, or a warmer, more golden tone? This will determine which color of toner you should use. You’ll also want to consider the level of your hair- if it’s very light, a toner with a low volume developer may be all you need. However, if your hair is darker, you may need a toner with a higher volume developer to lift the orange tones.
Another important factor is the brand of toner you choose. Some brands are more effective than others, and it’s important to choose a toner that is specifically formulated for orange hair. Look for toners with blue or purple pigments, as these will be the most effective at neutralizing orange tones. Finally, consider your budget- toners can range from a few dollars to over $50, so make sure you choose one that fits within your price range.
Best Toners for Orange Hair: Top Picks and Reviews
There are countless toners on the market, but some are more effective than others when it comes to neutralizing orange tones. Here are some of our top picks:
- Wella Color Charm T18 Lightest Ash Blonde Toner: This toner is a cult favorite for a reason- it effectively neutralizes orange and yellow tones, leaving hair with a cool, ashy finish.
- Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo and Conditioner: This duo is perfect for maintaining cool tones between salon visits. The blue pigments in the shampoo and conditioner help neutralize orange tones and keep hair looking fresh.
- Redken Shades EQ Gloss Demi-Permanent Color: This toner comes in a wide range of shades, making it easy to find the perfect color for your hair. It’s gentle enough for frequent use and leaves hair with a shiny, healthy finish.
| Toner | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wella Color Charm T18 | $ | Effective at neutralizing orange and yellow tones |
| Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo and Conditioner | $$ | Helps maintain cool tones between salon visits |
| Redken Shades EQ Gloss Demi-Permanent Color | $$$ | Wide range of shades, gentle for frequent use |
How to Apply Toner for Orange Hair: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect toner for your hair, it’s time to apply it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the best results:
- Shampoo your hair and rinse thoroughly.
- Towel dry your hair until it’s damp, but not soaking wet.
- Apply the toner using gloves and a tint brush. Be sure to saturate your hair evenly from roots to ends.
- Leave the toner on for the recommended time (usually between 5-20 minutes).
- Rinse the toner out with cool water and apply a conditioner.
- Rinse the conditioner out and style your hair as usual.
Maintaining Orange Hair: Tips for Long-Lasting Results
Now that your hair is perfectly toned, you’ll want to take steps to maintain those results. One of the best ways to do this is by using a weekly hair mask, which can help keep your hair healthy and prevent unwanted brassiness. You can also use a purple shampoo and conditioner to maintain cool tones between salon visits. Finally, avoid using heat styling tools too frequently, as this can cause your hair to become damaged and more prone to brassiness.
Avoiding Toner Mishaps: Common Mistakes to Watch Out For
When it comes to toning orange hair, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid. One is leaving the toner on for too long, as this can result in over-toned hair that looks gray or ashy. Another is using a toner with too high of a developer, which can cause damage to your hair. Finally, be sure to follow the instructions on the toner carefully, and always do a patch test before using it on your entire head.
Conclusion: Achieving Perfectly Toned Orange Hair
Toning orange hair can be a daunting task, but with the right toner and a little know-how, you can achieve the perfect shade in no time. From DIY toners to top-rated products, there are plenty of options available. Just be sure to choose a toner with blue or purple pigments, follow the instructions carefully, and take steps to maintain your results for long-lasting color. With these tips, you’ll have perfectly toned orange hair in no time.
