Dyeing your hair at home or even in a salon can sometimes lead to unexpected results, such as brassy tones or shades that look completely different from what you envisioned. A common mistake many people make is overlooking the importance of toning after colouring. So, instead of achieving that salon-perfect, natural hue, your hair will be left with overly warm or uneven tones that dull the intended colour.
But what is a hair toning treatment, and how do hair toners work? This guide discusses what this is all about and why it is essential to achieving that professional, salon-quality finish.
What Is Hair Toning? Does Toner Lighten or Darken Hair?
As noted above, your hair will often develop yellow or orange hues after colouring, which looks unnatural. Hair toning, therefore, is trying to adjust and refine the hair colour by neutralising these undertones.
A toner is typically applied to counteract the warm tones. The goal is to ensure a balanced and polished finish. Most people think of toners as being only for blondes, but the fact is that they can also benefit brunettes and redheads who want to know how to lighten dark hair or enhance their hair colour. Depending on the formula, toners can boost shine and make hair appear healthier.
Some of the common types of hair toners include:
- Demi-permanent toners. These gentle toners allow colour accumulation without lifting or lightening the hair colour. They also add warmth, depth and shine to your hair colour.
- Permanent toners. This type often contains peroxide and small traces of ammonia. They last longer than demi-permanent types but can be damaging if used regularly. You often apply these toners to dry hair for about 30 minutes.
- Semi-permanent toners. They are gentler and often deposit colour temporarily. You apply this toner to damp or dry hair for about 10 minutes. They are good for experimenting with hair colour.
Why Is Hair Toning Important After Colouring?
There are many reasons you would want to consider hair toning after colouring. Besides amplifying the tone and eliminating any unwanted hues, here are the other reasons to consider hair toning:
- It prevents the hair colour from fading faster.
- Some toners add smoothness and lustre to the overall hair texture.
- It conceals greys and brings about pastel shades.
- Toners create a protective barrier that strengthens the hair and helps balance hair porosity.
It is worth noting that each hair colour has its matching hair toner. For instance, the best toners for blonde hair are often purple-based to blue-based hair toners. You should complement these toners by choosing the best purple shampoos specifically formulated for your hair type. If you have brown hair, you will benefit the most from green-based toners.
Salon vs. DIY Toning: How to Tone Brassy Hairs
There are two ways you can have the hair toning process done. Salon treatments offer professional solutions for precise colour correction. On the other hand, at-home methods help maintain the tone between professional appointments.
Professional Toning (Salon Treatment)
At a salon, a stylist assesses your hair’s current shade and will also discuss how to choose the right hair toner based on your hair type and goals. Here, the toning process often involves mixing a toner with a developer, which ensures that brassy or unwanted hues are neutralised.
Salon toners typically provide more noticeable results compared to at-home products. If you have colour-treated blonde hair, the stylist may recommend shampoos and conditioners for blonde hair that help maintain the cool or ash tones.
At-Home Toning: How to Tone Hair at Home Successfully
If you prefer to tone your hair at home, there are several effective methods. The success of each depends on the products used, the application method and the condition of the hair.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose the appropriate toner for your specific shade. For instance, purple shampoos can be the best toners for blonde hair, while blue and ash toners are great for brunettes.
- Apply the toner evenly to damp hair.
- Leave it on for the recommended time based on the product instructions.
- Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a deep-conditioning treatment.
- Maintain results with colour-safe shampoos and toning treatments.
If you are like most DIY enthusiasts, you are probably wondering, how long does hair toner last? On average, toners last between 4 to 6 weeks, but using colour-safe products can help extend their effect.
If you have highlights or balayage, regular toning is essential. The other tips for maintaining and caring for balayage hair include using colour-safe shampoos and conditioners.
Key Differences Between Salon and At-Home Toning
Here are the main differences between at-home toning and professional toning:
In-Salon Hair Toners:
- Professional hairdressers apply them to personalise your hair colour.
- Can adjust the tone to be warmer or cooler, correct unwanted shades, and add fashion colours without lifting the existing shade.
- Ensure an even hair colour results from root to tip.
- They are more pigmented than at-home products, so they offer longer-lasting results.
At-Home Toning Products:
- Include products like purple or silver shampoos designed to maintain your colour between salon visits.
- They help to neutralise yellow or brassy tones, especially in blonde or grey hair.
- They are less pigmented than professional toners. This means they require regular use to maintain the desired tone.
We’d love to discuss your overall hair needs and schedule an in-salon hair toning session to ensure the best results.
