Brassy highlights can be frustrating for anyone with dark hair, especially if you’re spending a fortune on hair color treatments. Brassy highlights are the result of the hair being overexposed to heat, sunlight, and pollutants. The pigments in the hair oxidize and turn a yellow or orange tone, which can be an eyesore. There are several methods to fix brassy highlights on dark hair, but the first step is to understand what causes the problem in the first place.
This article will provide you with tips on how to fix brassy highlights on dark hair. From using purple shampoo to adding lowlights, you’ll learn about several techniques that can help you achieve the perfect hair color. You’ll also find out about some of the most commonly made mistakes when trying to fix brassy highlights, and how to avoid them. So, if you’re tired of staring at your brassy hair color and are ready for a change, follow along, and let’s get started.
Understanding Why Brassy Highlights Happen
Understanding Why Brassy Highlights Happen
If you’ve ever had your hair highlighted, chances are you’ve experienced the dreaded brassiness. Brassy highlights are those warm, orange, or yellow tones that show up after a few washes and seem impossible to get rid of. But why do they happen in the first place?
The most common reason for brassy highlights is the presence of underlying pigments in the hair. When hair is lightened, these pigments are stripped away, revealing the underlying tones. If there are warm tones present, they can be emphasized by the lightening process, leading to brassy highlights. Additionally, factors such as exposure to water and heat styling can also contribute to brassiness. Understanding the cause of brassy highlights is the first step to fixing them and achieving the perfect shade of blonde or brunette.
Using Purple Shampoo to Neutralize Brassiness
Using Purple Shampoo to Neutralize Brassiness
One of the easiest and most popular ways to neutralize brassy highlights on dark hair is by using a purple shampoo. Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that work to cancel out the yellow-orange tones in hair. This can help to restore the hair’s natural cool tones, giving it a more natural and even look.
When using purple shampoo, it is important to choose a high-quality product that is specifically designed for color-treated hair. It is also important to follow the instructions carefully, as overuse of purple shampoo can lead to an overly cool or ashy tone. Typically, purple shampoo should be used once or twice a week, or as recommended by the product manufacturer. With regular use, a good purple shampoo can help to maintain the natural cool tones of dark hair and prevent brassiness from reoccurring.
DIY Olive Oil and Lemon Juice Treatment
If you’re looking for a natural and effective solution to fix brassy highlights on dark hair, try a DIY olive oil and lemon juice treatment. This mixture helps to neutralize unwanted warm tones while nourishing and moisturizing your hair. Plus, it’s easy and affordable to make at home.
To make this treatment, combine equal parts of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the brassy areas, and gently massage your scalp for a few minutes. Leave the treatment on for 30-40 minutes, then rinse it out with cool water and shampoo and condition your hair as normal. You should notice a significant improvement in the tone and condition of your hair after just one treatment. Repeat once a week or as needed to maintain the results.
Correcting Brassy Highlights with Toner
Correcting brassy highlights with toner is a popular method among hair professionals. Toner is a semi-permanent hair color that works to neutralize unwanted tones in the hair. It can be applied to damp hair and left on for a specific amount of time, depending on the desired result.
Toner is best used on hair that has been lifted to a pale yellow or light blonde shade. This is because the toner works by depositing color onto the hair, rather than lifting it. When correcting brassy highlights, a toner with a cool or ashy undertone is recommended. This helps to neutralize the warm, orange tones that often appear in brassy highlights. Overall, toner is a safe, reliable and effective way to fix brassy highlights on dark hair.
The Benefits of Using a Professional Hair Colorist
The benefits of using a professional hair colorist for fixing brassy highlights on dark hair are numerous. Firstly, a professional hair colorist possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to identify the underlying cause of the brassy hues. They will be better equipped to select the precise shade of color that will neutralize the unwanted brassiness and create a balanced tone.
Secondly, a professional hair colorist will use high-quality products that are specifically formulated for color correction. These professional-grade products are designed to effectively remove the underlying pigment and tone down the brassiness, achieving a more natural and even hair color. Additionally, a professional hair colorist can also provide additional services that go beyond color correction, such as treatments to strengthen and nourish the hair, ensuring that it is healthy and radiant. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consult with a professional hair colorist to achieve the desired result and avoid further damage to your hair.
Maintaining Your Newly Corrected Highlights
After spending money on fixing your brassy highlights, it is important to maintain them. Maintaining your newly corrected highlights require you to use the right products that will help preserve your hair color. Choosing shampoos and conditioners specially formulated for color-treated hair will help to prevent fading and preserve the color. These products are designed to gently cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils or the color pigments.
Additionally, you should avoid exposing your hair to direct sunlight as it can cause your color to fade. Protect your hair with a hat or a scarf when you are out in the sun. Swimming in chlorinated water can also cause your hair color to fade, so it is important to rinse your hair after swimming. Lastly, avoid hot tools like flat irons and curling irons as they can cause the color to fade more quickly. By following these simple steps, you can maintain your newly corrected highlights and keep them looking vibrant and beautiful for longer.
Tips for Prevention: How to Avoid Brassy Highlights in the Future.
Prevention is always better than cure. The best way to avoid brassy highlights is to start with the right hair color. Opt for cooler tones like ashy or silver rather than warm or golden shades. Also, stick to hair products that are specifically designed for color-treated hair.
It is important to maintain your hair’s health and moisture balance to prevent brassiness. Use a good quality deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair well-nourished and hydrated. Avoid overexposure to the sun and chlorine as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and color. Regular hair trims can also prevent damage and breakage that can contribute to brassy highlights. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy beautiful hair color that lasts longer.
Final Words
To fix brassy highlights on dark hair, it’s best to start with a color-depositing shampoo or toner that counteracts the unwanted tones. These products can be found at many beauty supply stores and online retailers, so it’s easy to experiment with different brands until you find one that works well for your hair type. In addition, you may want to consider getting a professional color correction treatment if the brassy highlights are particularly stubborn or if you’re not comfortable tinkering with your hair at home.
It’s important to remember that brassy highlights on dark hair are a common problem, but they can be fixed with a little extra effort and the right products. With the right approach, you can achieve the desired hair color and boost your confidence level in no time. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a hair stylist or colorist for expert guidance if you’re feeling unsure about how to proceed. With a little guidance and patience, you’ll be on your way to beautiful, brass-free hair!