Brown hair is an ever-popular hair color choice, but it can come with its fair share of color challenges. One of the most common issues for brown-haired folks is unwanted red tones. These can appear in the form of a brassy or orangey hue, and they can be especially prominent in certain lighting conditions.
If you’re dealing with unwanted red tones in your brown hair, you may be wondering how to combat them. The answer lies in understanding color theory: certain colors cancel out others on the color wheel. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of what color cancels out red in brown hair, so you can get the gorgeous, even-toned brown locks you deserve.
Understanding the Color Wheel: How It Relates to Canceling Out Red in Brown Hair
Understanding the color wheel is essential when it comes to canceling out red tones in brown hair. The color wheel is a tool used to illustrate relationships between colors, and it consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. To cancel out red in brown hair, you need to use a color on the opposite side of the color wheel.
In this case, the opposite color of red on the color wheel is green. Therefore, green is the complementary color that cancels out red in brown hair. Using a green-toned hair product, such as a toner or a dye, can help to neutralize the unwanted red tones and give you a more natural-looking brown hair color. Understanding the color wheel principles and using the right color can help you achieve the perfect hair color with ease.
The Science Behind Pigments: Why Certain Colors Neutralize Red Tones in Hair
The science behind pigments and how they interact with each other is crucial in understanding why certain colors can neutralize red tones in brown hair. In hair, melanin is the primary pigment responsible for determining its color. Melanin comes in two types- eumelanin, which creates darker shades, and pheomelanin, which creates lighter shades with a reddish tint.
Red tones in brown hair come from high levels of pheomelanin. To neutralize these tones, blue or green-toned colors work best. These colors are opposite to red on the color wheel and cancel it out by creating an optical illusion. The pigments absorb and reflect the light in such a way that it cancels out the red tones, resulting in a better-balanced hair color. Understanding the science behind pigments and color theory is the key to achieving a perfect hair color that suits your skin tone and complements your features.
Best Hair Color Products for Neutralizing Red in Brown Hair
When it comes to neutralizing red tones in brown hair, choosing the right hair color product can make a significant difference. A popular option is ash-toned hair dye, as it cancels out redness by adding a blue or green tint to the hair. The blue or green color counters the red tones, resulting in a neutral brown shade. Choosing an ash-toned hair dye with a level that matches your natural hair color is essential to achieve a seamless and natural-looking result.
Another way to neutralize red tones in brown hair is by using toning shampoos and conditioners. These products use the color wheel’s theory to cancel out redness by depositing a blue or purple pigment onto the hair. This not only tones down redness but also gives a vibrant, shiny look to the hair. However, toning products have a gradual effect, and it may take a few washes to notice the desired result. Ultimately, opt for a hair color product that meets your needs, whether it’s an ash-toned dye or a toning shampoo or conditioner, to neutralize redness and achieve a stunning brown hair color.
Natural Remedies for Eliminating Red Tint in Brown Hair
Many people who color their hair brown experience a red tint in their hair, especially when they are exposed to sunlight. This can be frustrating for those who desire a dark and rich brown hair color. However, there are several natural remedies that can help eliminate red tint in brown hair.
One natural remedy is using a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, and apply to hair after shampooing. Leave the mixture in for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out with cool water. Another remedy is using brewed coffee to darken the hair and reduce the red tint. Allow the brewed coffee to cool, and then apply it to the hair. Leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with cool water. These natural remedies can be done at home and are a great alternative for those who want to eliminate the red tint in their brown hair without using harsh chemicals or dyes.
Maintaining Red-Free Brown Hair: Tips for Pre and Post Coloring
Maintaining red-free brown hair is essential, especially if you want to preserve your hair color’s depth and vibrancy. The process involves a lot of prep work and steps to follow before and after color application to ensure you achieve your desired results. Pre-coloring preparation is perhaps the most crucial aspect of maintaining red-free brown hair. It would help if you washed your hair at least 24 hours before coloring to allow the scalp to produce natural oils that protect the hair from damage during the color application. Additionally, avoid using shampoos containing sulfates, as they strip the hair of its natural oils, making it vulnerable to damage.
Post-coloring care is equally crucial in maintaining red-free brown hair. After rinsing the color, it would help if you used a color-friendly conditioner to ensure your hair stays smooth and damage-free. Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and let the conditioner sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Repeat the process once a week to maintain your hair’s vibrancy and depth. Also, avoid exposing your hair to direct sunlight or chlorine for an extended period since these elements tend to lighten hair with red pigments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Attempting to Cancel out Red Tones in Brown Hair
When attempting to cancel out red tones in brown hair, there are a few common mistakes that people often make. The first mistake is using a color that is too dark to cover up the red. This can result in hair that appears much darker than desired. It’s important to choose a color that is only one or two shades darker than the natural hair color.
Another mistake is not using enough color or leaving the color on for too short a time. This can result in uneven coverage and a blotchy appearance. Make sure to follow the instructions on the box carefully and use enough color to cover the entire head. Finally, using a toner that is too strong can cause damage to the hair and scalp. It’s important to choose a gentle toner that will not cause irritation or dryness. By avoiding these common mistakes, it is possible to achieve the desired color without damaging the hair or scalp.
Seeking Professional Help: When to Consider Consulting an Expert Hairstylist to Neutralize Red in Brown Hair
If you have made multiple attempts to cancel out red tones in your brown hair with no success, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Consulting an expert hairstylist can help you achieve the desired color without damaging your hair. The hairstylist can analyze your hair type and recommend the right products and techniques to neutralize the red tones.
Furthermore, a professional can properly apply any corrective hair color treatment to achieve an even tone and avoid discoloration or unevenness. Visiting a hairstylist may seem daunting, but consulting an expert will save you from a costly mistake. With their years of experience, they can determine the appropriate techniques and products for your color goals. Additionally, professional salon services offer personal consultations and tailored product recommendations to ensure you achieve your desired hair goals.
Final Words
After exploring the world of color theory and hair coloring, we can conclude that green is the best color to cancel out red undertones in brown hair. The combination of these two colors on the opposite end of the color wheel provides the best balance in neutralizing red tones and achieving an even hair color. Additionally, choosing the right shade of green hair dye is crucial in achieving desired results.
It is important to note that color correction and hair coloring can be daunting tasks, and seeking professional help is highly recommended. A licensed hair colorist can assess your specific needs and recommend the best course of action. With the right tools and techniques, achieving a perfect hair color is possible, and you too can rock the perfect shade of brown hair without any red undertones.