Reddish brown hair is one of the most unique and beautiful hair colors out there. It’s not quite red, not quite brown, but somewhere in between. While many people love this color, some may feel like they want to tone down the redness and add more depth to their locks.
But can you actually tone reddish brown hair? The answer is yes, and it’s easier than you might think. In this article, we’ll break down the different methods and products you can use to tone your hair and achieve the color you desire. Whether you want to go darker, cooler, or just reduce the redness, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!
Understanding the Basics: What Gives Reddish Brown Hair its Unique Color?
Reddish brown hair is a beautiful and unique color that has become quite popular in recent years. This combination of red and brown tones can range from light strawberry blonde to deep auburn and is often seen as a more natural alternative to bright red hair. But what gives this hair color its unique appearance?
The answer lies in the pigments that naturally exist in your hair. The brown tones come from a pigment called eumelanin, while the red tones come from a pigment called pheomelanin. Depending on the balance of these pigments in your hair, you can achieve different shades of reddish brown. While this combination of colors is gorgeous, sometimes people may want to tone it down or highlight certain tones, which is where hair toning comes in.
The Pros and Cons of Hair Toning: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Hair toning can be an effective way to enhance the color of your hair and eliminate unwanted brassy tones. However, it is important to understand the pros and cons of this process before you get started.
On the positive side, hair toning can help to neutralize warm tones in reddish brown hair. This can result in a more vibrant and even color that looks more natural. Additionally, hair toning can help to add shine and dimension to your hair, making it appear healthier and more lustrous.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. First, hair toning can be damaging to your hair, particularly if it is done frequently or with harsh chemicals. In addition, some people may find that their hair reacts poorly to toning, resulting in a patchy or uneven appearance. Finally, it is important to note that hair toning is not a permanent solution, and you may need to repeat the process periodically in order to maintain your desired look.
Lightening and Darkening Reddish Brown Hair: Which Technique is Right for You?
To lighten reddish brown hair, the best technique would be to use a hair lightening product. This can be done at home or by a professional stylist. However, it is important to note that lightening hair can be damaging, so it should be done carefully and with the proper precautions. It is also important to choose the right shade of lightener to avoid turning the hair orange or yellow.
On the other hand, if you want to darken your reddish brown hair, there are several options available. You can choose a box dye that is a shade or two darker than your natural color, or you can have a professional colorist apply a demi-permanent or permanent hair color. Demi-permanent color is a good option if you want a subtle change and don’t want to damage your hair too much. Permanent hair color, however, is a more drastic change and will require more maintenance and upkeep. Ultimately, the technique you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve and the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to.
Product Recommendations: Top Toning Products for Reddish Brown Hair Available in the Market
If you’re dealing with reddish brown hair that needs a bit of toning, then you’re in luck because there are many great products available in the market. These toning products are specially formulated to neutralize the unwanted tones and help to achieve the desired hair color.
One of the most popular toning products for reddish brown hair is the purple shampoo. Purple shampoo is designed to eliminate any yellow or brassiness from the hair. Other popular products include blue toners, purple conditioners, and toning masks. It’s important to choose the product that suits your hair’s specific needs and to follow the instructions carefully for the best results. Some of the top recommended toning products for reddish brown hair available in the market include Matrix Brass Off shampoo, Kerastase Blond Absolu Bain Lumiére shampoo, and Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir.
From DIY to Salon: How to Tone Reddish Brown Hair at Home or With Professional Help
Toning reddish brown hair can be done both at home and in a salon. If you prefer to do it at home, there are several options available. One popular DIY method is to use a blue or purple shampoo. These shampoos contain pigments that neutralize the warm tones in your hair, making it appear cooler and more toned. Another option is to use a semi-permanent hair toner in a cool shade, such as ash or silver. This can help reduce any unwanted warmth in your hair.
If you prefer professional help, a hair salon is the place to be. A hair stylist can assess your hair color and recommend the best toning options based on your individual needs. They may suggest a toner, gloss, or even a full color correction to achieve the desired results. A salon toning treatment will typically last longer than a DIY method, as a stylist will use high-quality products and techniques to ensure a lasting result. However, it’s important to research and choose a reputable salon or stylist to ensure the best outcome for your hair.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Tips for Keeping your Toned Reddish Brown Hair Vibrant and Healthy
Maintaining toned reddish brown hair is essential to keeping your hair looking vibrant and healthy. Firstly, ensure you wash your hair with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause fading of the toned color. It’s also recommended to wash your hair every other day or less frequently to prevent color fading.
To help maintain your hair’s vibrancy, use a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner once a week, as they help restore lost pigments. Protect your hair from UV rays by wearing a hat or using a UV protection spray when out in the sun. Also, avoid high heat styling tools as they can damage your hair and cause color fading. Finally, regular trims and deep conditioning treatments can help keep your toned reddish brown hair looking healthy and shiny.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Pitfalls to Watch Out for When Toning Reddish Brown Hair
When toning reddish brown hair, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to unsatisfactory results. One common mistake is using the wrong toner. Using a toner with a blue base can turn reddish brown hair into an ashy brown color, which is not the desired effect for those who want to soften the red tones in their hair. Instead, it is recommended to use a toner with a green or purple base to neutralize the warm tones in reddish brown hair.
Another mistake to avoid is leaving the toner on for too long. Toning for too long can cause the hair to become over-processed and lead to dryness and breakage. It is important to follow the recommended processing time for the specific toner being used and to regularly check the hair for the desired result. It is also recommended to use a deep conditioning treatment after toning to add moisture back into the hair and prevent damage. By avoiding these mistakes, toning reddish brown hair can lead to beautiful, warm-toned results.
Conclusion
Achieving the perfect hair color can seem like a daunting task, especially when dealing with reddish brown hair. However, with the right tools and products, it is possible to achieve the desired tone. It is important to choose the right shampoo, conditioner, and hair dye that complements the reddish brown hues. Additionally, incorporating natural treatments such as apple cider vinegar and coconut oil can help maintain and enhance the color.
With constant maintenance, it is possible to tone reddish brown hair and maintain the perfect shade. It is important to note that the process may require a few trials and errors before finding the perfect shade. Therefore, patience and experimentation are key in achieving the desired outcome. Overall, with the right approach and consistency, toning reddish brown hair is achievable, leaving you with a stunning and flattering color.