Brown hair is undoubtedly one of the most popular natural hair colors in the world. It comes in many different shades, from light and warm to more cool and darker tones. However, some women and men with brown hair may experience an unwanted red hue in their locks. This can be frustrating, especially if you were hoping for a richer, more neutral brown hair color. So, what cancels out red in brown hair? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective ways to neutralize red undertones and achieve the desired brown hair color.
There are several reasons why brown hair can appear reddish. Some brown hair colors naturally have a red undertone, especially if you have warm-toned skin. However, exposure to sunlight, heat styling, and chemical treatments can also cause your brown hair to turn red over time. Understanding what causes this discoloration is essential in finding the right solution to cancel out the red in your brown hair. From color-correcting shampoos to professional hair treatments, we’ll guide you through the best ways to say goodbye to unwanted red hues and hello to your dream brown hair color.
Understanding the Science behind Brown Hair
Understanding the Science behind Brown Hair:
Brown hair is the result of the combination of eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for the darkness of the hair while pheomelanin is responsible for the reddish or golden tones. The amount of each melanin present in the hair determines the shade of brown hair.
The amount of red that is present in brown hair depends on the balance between eumelanin and pheomelanin. A higher concentration of eumelanin results in darker brown hair with less red, while a higher concentration of pheomelanin results in lighter brown hair that is more reddish or golden. To cancel out red tones in brown hair, it’s crucial to understand how to balance these melanin pigments effectively.
Causes of Red Tint in Brown Hair
Brown hair with a red tint may not always be desirable, especially if you want to achieve a natural look or a different color scheme. The red tint in brown hair is mainly due to the presence of melanin pigments and iron in the hair shaft, which gives it a reddish-brown hue. However, some factors can amplify the red undertone in brown hair, making it more prominent and challenging to cancel out.
One of the primary causes of red tint in brown hair is exposure to sunlight, which can alter the natural pigment and cause the hair to turn coppery or brassy. Chemical treatments such as hair dyes, bleach, and perms can also contribute to the red undertone in brown hair, particularly if the product is not suitable for your hair type or applied incorrectly. Moreover, excessive heat styling, using the wrong shampoo or conditioner, and hormonal changes can also cause redness or discoloration in brown hair, making it crucial to pinpoint the cause and adopt the appropriate methods for color correction.
Chemical Solutions to Remove Red Tones
Chemical solutions are a popular method to remove red tones from brown hair. These products are easily available in the market and work by breaking down the red pigment in the hair. The most commonly used chemical solution is a hair dye with an ash tone. The green pigments in the ash tone neutralize the red pigments, resulting in a cooler brown shade.
Another popular chemical solution is a color corrector. Color correctors are available in different shades based on the intensity of red tones in the hair. The corrector is applied to the hair before coloring, and it works to neutralize red tones by adding complementary color pigments. For instance, green correctors neutralize red tones, while purple correctors neutralize yellow tones in the hair. Chemical solutions are an easy and effective way to remove red tones from brown hair. However, it is essential to follow the directions carefully and perform a strand test before applying to the entire head to achieve the desired result.
Natural Remedies to Cancel Out Red in Brown Hair
Natural remedies are an excellent solution for individuals who wish to cancel out red tones from their brown hair without resorting to harsh chemicals. A rinse made with black coffee, for instance, is one such natural remedy. The caffeine present in coffee helps to increase blood flow to the scalp, thereby promoting hair growth and boosting natural hair color. Additionally, using black tea to rinse hair can work wonders to neutralize brassy or red hues, while enhancing brunette tones.
Another popular remedy for eliminating red undertones is using apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a rinse. ACV has natural detoxifying properties that work to remove build-up on the scalp and hair, which can cause a yellow or red hue in brown hair. Additionally, ACV is acidic by nature, making it an excellent remedy to help shrink open cuticles and reduce the appearance of frizz and split ends. For best results, mix equal parts ACV with water, apply to hair, leave on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Choosing the Right Hair Dye to Correct Red Tones
Choosing the right hair dye is essential to correct red tones in brown hair. Opt for a hair dye with a cool or ash undertone as opposed to a warm or golden one. A hair dye with a cool or ash undertone will help cancel out the red in your hair and give it a more natural, brown shade.
It is also important to choose a hair dye that is specifically formulated for brown hair, as this will ensure that the color is natural-looking and long-lasting. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and conduct a patch test before applying the hair dye all over. By following these tips, you can successfully correct red tones in your brown hair and achieve a more balanced and natural-looking shade.
Proper Hair Care to Maintain Brown Hair Color
To maintain brown hair color, proper hair care is necessary. This means using shampoo and conditioner specifically meant for color-treated hair. These products help prevent the color from fading too quickly and help to retain the vibrancy of the brown shade. Furthermore, it is recommended to use hair masks and treatments that are specifically designed for colored hair.
It’s also important to protect your hair from harsh UV rays and heat styling tools. Using a leave-in conditioner with SPF can help protect your hair from damage caused by sun exposure whereas avoiding excessive heat styling can prevent the color from fading or turning brassy. Finally, avoiding the use of products with sulfates and alcohol can help maintain shine and prevent hair from drying out, ultimately prolonging the durability of the brown hair color.
Final Tips and Tricks for Achieving Perfect Brown Hair Color
Achieving the perfect brown hair color requires some effort and patience. Here are some final tips and tricks to help you get the desired results. First, always choose the right shade of brown that complements your skin tone and eye color. This will enhance your overall look and make you feel confident.
Secondly, it’s important to maintain your brown hair color by using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. This will prevent fading and ensure your hair stays healthy and shiny. Lastly, avoid excessive heat styling and chemical treatments as they can damage your hair and cause color loss. With these tips and tricks, you can achieve and maintain the perfect brown hair color that suits you best.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, red tones in brown hair can be challenging to cancel out, depending on the level and intensity of the red tones. It is essential to identify the underlying pigments in the hair before selecting the appropriate color base. Violet-based shades are effective in neutralizing red tones, while green-based shades are ideal for canceling out red tones in deeper shades of brown hair. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a professional colorist for the best results.
It is worth noting that maintaining brown hair color is just as important as achieving the desired tones. Using color-safe products, avoiding heat styling, and regular touch-ups can extend the life of the color while maintaining its vibrancy. Additionally, protecting the hair from external factors such as UV rays and environmental pollutants can safeguard the color and keep the hair healthy and shiny. With the right care and maintenance, brown hair can look stunning and radiant, regardless of the red tones that may be present.