Bleaching your hair can be a dramatic and exciting transformation, but it often leaves your locks with unwanted brassy or yellow tones. These tones are a natural byproduct of the bleaching process, as it lifts the natural pigment from your hair. The good news is that toning your hair after bleaching is a simple way to achieve your desired shade and enhance your overall look. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about toning, from understanding why it’s necessary to choosing the right toner and applying it like a pro.
Understanding Why Toning is Essential After Bleaching
When you bleach your hair, you’re essentially removing its natural color. As the bleach lifts, it progresses through different stages, revealing underlying pigments. These pigments are typically warm, ranging from red and orange to yellow. Even if you’re aiming for a platinum blonde, these underlying warm tones can peek through, resulting in a brassy or yellow appearance.
Toning is the process of neutralizing these unwanted warm tones and adding cool or neutral pigments back into your hair. Toners contain dyes that counteract the brassiness or yellowness, leaving you with a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing color. Think of it as color correcting for your hair!
Without toning, your bleached hair may look uneven, dull, and lack the vibrancy you were hoping for. Toning not only corrects the color but also helps to close the hair cuticle, making your hair appear smoother, shinier, and healthier.
Choosing the Right Toner for Your Hair
Selecting the correct toner is crucial for achieving your desired hair color. The effectiveness of a toner depends on the specific pigments it contains and how well it complements your current hair color. There are various types of toners available, each designed to address different color concerns.
Understanding Toner Undertones
Toning is based on the principle of color theory. To neutralize unwanted tones, you need to use a toner with the opposite color on the color wheel. For instance, blue neutralizes orange, and purple neutralizes yellow. Most toners are labeled with a level and a tone. The level indicates how light or dark the toner is, while the tone indicates the dominant pigment.
- Purple Toners: These are ideal for neutralizing yellow tones in blonde hair. They are the most common type of toner used after bleaching to achieve a cooler, brighter blonde.
- Blue Toners: These are best for counteracting orange or brassy tones in darker blonde or light brown hair. If your bleached hair has a noticeable orange tint, a blue toner is your go-to solution.
- Green Toners: These are used to neutralize red tones, which are less common after bleaching but can sometimes appear in darker hair.
- Silver Toners: These toners provide an overall cool, ashy tone to the hair, often used on pre-lightened blonde hair to create a metallic effect.
Considering Your Hair Level and Desired Result
When selecting a toner, consider your current hair level and the color you’re trying to achieve. Hair level refers to the lightness or darkness of your hair, typically measured on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being black and 10 being the lightest blonde.
If your hair is a level 9 or 10 (very light blonde), a purple toner is usually sufficient to neutralize any remaining yellow tones. If your hair is a level 7 or 8 (darker blonde), you might need a stronger toner or a blue-based toner to combat orange or brassy tones.
Think about your desired end result. Do you want a cool, ashy blonde, a neutral blonde, or a warmer, golden blonde? This will influence your toner selection.
Types of Toners Available
Toners come in various forms, each with its own application method and level of commitment.
- Demi-Permanent Toners: These are the most common type of toner used after bleaching. They deposit color without significantly lifting the hair’s natural pigment. Demi-permanent toners typically last for around 24-28 washes.
- Semi-Permanent Toners: These toners deposit color only and do not contain developer. They are gentler than demi-permanent toners and fade more quickly, usually lasting for around 6-8 washes. These are great for a subtle color correction or for experimenting with different tones.
- Toning Shampoos and Conditioners: These products contain pigments that gradually tone the hair with each use. They are a convenient way to maintain your desired tone between toning sessions. Purple shampoos and conditioners are the most popular type.
- Permanent Toners: These toners are less common for toning after bleaching, as they can cause further damage to already processed hair. They contain ammonia and peroxide, which can lift the hair’s natural pigment and deposit color.
- DIY Toners: There are also DIY toning methods, such as using diluted purple hair dye or apple cider vinegar. These methods are generally less predictable and may not provide consistent results.
Preparing Your Hair for Toning
Proper preparation is essential for achieving the best results when toning your hair. This includes ensuring your hair is healthy, clean, and properly moisturized.
Assess Your Hair’s Condition
Before toning, assess the overall health of your hair. Bleaching can be damaging, so it’s important to ensure your hair is strong enough to withstand another chemical process. If your hair is excessively dry, brittle, or damaged, consider waiting a few weeks and focusing on deep conditioning treatments before toning.
Washing and Drying Your Hair
Wash your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo 24-48 hours before toning. Avoid using conditioner, as it can create a barrier that prevents the toner from properly penetrating the hair. Clean hair allows the toner to adhere more effectively.
Gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess water. Your hair should be damp but not soaking wet when you apply the toner. Excess water can dilute the toner and reduce its effectiveness.
Strand Test: Always Perform One!
A strand test is a non-negotiable step before applying toner to your entire head. This allows you to see how the toner will react with your hair and ensure you achieve the desired result.
Select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair, such as underneath a layer or behind your ear. Apply the toner to this section and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for processing time. Rinse the toner out and dry the strand to assess the color. If you’re happy with the result, you can proceed with toning your entire head. If not, you can adjust the toner formula or processing time accordingly.
The Toning Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve chosen the right toner and prepared your hair, it’s time to get toning! Follow these steps for a successful toning session.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies:
- Your chosen toner
- Developer (if using a demi-permanent or permanent toner)
- Mixing bowl
- Applicator brush
- Gloves
- Hair clips
- Old towel (to protect your clothes)
- Timer
- Shampoo and conditioner
Mixing the Toner
If you’re using a demi-permanent or permanent toner, you’ll need to mix it with a developer. Developer comes in different volumes (e.g., 10 volume, 20 volume), with lower volumes being less damaging. For toning after bleaching, a 10 volume developer is typically recommended, as it provides minimal lift and primarily deposits color.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct mixing ratio. Typically, it’s a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio of toner to developer. Mix the toner and developer in a non-metallic bowl until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Applying the Toner
Put on your gloves and drape an old towel over your shoulders to protect your clothes. Section your hair into four quadrants using hair clips. This will make the application process easier and ensure even coverage.
Using the applicator brush, apply the toner to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Make sure to saturate each strand of hair with the toner. Work quickly and efficiently to ensure even processing.
Once you’ve applied the toner to all sections of your hair, double-check to make sure you haven’t missed any spots.
Processing Time
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended processing time. Processing time is crucial for achieving the desired color. Leaving the toner on for too short a time may not neutralize the unwanted tones, while leaving it on for too long can result in overly cool or ashy hair.
Check your hair periodically during the processing time to monitor the color. The strand test will give you an idea of how the toner will develop, but it’s still important to keep an eye on your hair.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Once the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Make sure to remove all traces of the toner.
Apply a deep conditioner to your hair to replenish moisture and close the hair cuticle. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time, then rinse it out thoroughly.
Drying and Styling
Gently towel-dry your hair and avoid rubbing it vigorously, as this can cause damage. Allow your hair to air dry if possible, as heat styling can further dry out and damage bleached hair.
If you need to use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair first. Use the lowest heat setting possible and avoid styling your hair too frequently.
Maintaining Your Toned Hair
Maintaining your toned hair is essential for keeping your color vibrant and preventing brassiness from returning.
Using Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for bleached or color-treated hair. These products are formulated to be gentle and will not strip the color from your hair. Avoid using shampoos that contain sulfates, as they can fade the color more quickly.
Purple Shampoo and Conditioner
Purple shampoo and conditioner are your best friends for maintaining your toned blonde hair. These products contain purple pigments that neutralize yellow tones and keep your blonde looking bright and fresh. Use them once or twice a week, or as needed, to maintain your desired tone.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Bleaching can dry out your hair, so it’s important to incorporate regular deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. Use a deep conditioner once or twice a week to replenish moisture and keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage bleached hair and cause the color to fade more quickly. Minimize your use of heat styling tools and always use a heat protectant spray before styling.
Sun Protection
The sun can also fade your hair color, so protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray when you’re spending time outdoors.
Touch-Ups
Depending on how quickly your hair grows and how often you wash it, you may need to touch up your toner every 4-6 weeks. Monitor your hair color and tone as it fades and re-tone as needed to maintain your desired look.
Toning your hair after bleaching is a relatively simple process that can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your hair. By understanding the basics of toning, choosing the right toner, and following the proper application techniques, you can achieve salon-worthy results at home. Remember to prioritize the health of your hair and be patient with the process. With a little practice, you’ll be able to tone your hair like a pro and rock your perfect blonde!
Why should I tone my hair after bleaching?
Bleaching your hair lifts its natural pigment, often revealing underlying yellow or orange tones. These unwanted tones can make your hair look brassy and dull. Toning helps neutralize these unwanted hues, bringing your hair closer to your desired shade, whether it’s a cool blonde, ash blonde, or even a vibrant color. It effectively creates a more refined and polished final look.
Furthermore, toning adds shine and vibrancy to your hair. It does this by depositing pigment, which fills in the porosity created during the bleaching process. This helps to smooth the hair cuticle and reflect light more evenly, resulting in a healthier and more lustrous appearance. Therefore, toning isn’t just about color correction; it’s about enhancing the overall condition and beauty of your bleached hair.
What type of toner should I use for my hair?
The ideal toner depends entirely on the specific unwanted tones you’re trying to neutralize. If your hair has a lot of yellow, a purple-based toner will counteract that. If you have orange tones, a blue-based toner is more appropriate. If you’re aiming for a specific shade of blonde, like ash blonde or platinum, choose a toner formulated to achieve that particular color. Consider your desired outcome and assess the prominent underlying tones in your bleached hair before making a selection.
Beyond color correction, consider the formulation of the toner itself. Some toners are demi-permanent, which gradually fades over time, while others are temporary and wash out after a single shampoo. Demi-permanent toners generally offer longer-lasting results but require more careful application. Assess your commitment level and hair’s health to determine which toner type is best suited for you. If you’re unsure, a consultation with a professional stylist is always a good idea.
How do I apply toner to my hair?
Always start by reading and carefully following the instructions provided with your specific toner. Generally, you’ll mix the toner with a developer (usually a low-volume developer like 10 or 20 volume), although some toners are ready to use. Apply the mixture evenly to damp, towel-dried hair, focusing on areas with the most prominent brassy or yellow tones. Ensure every strand is adequately saturated for even color distribution.
Pay close attention to the processing time specified on the toner packaging. Over-processing can result in unwanted color, like overly ashy or even purple hues. Check your hair’s color frequently during processing. Once you’ve achieved the desired tone, rinse thoroughly with cool water and follow with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Consider using a deep conditioning treatment afterwards to replenish moisture lost during the bleaching and toning processes.
How long does toner typically last?
The longevity of your toner depends on several factors, including the type of toner used (temporary vs. demi-permanent), your hair’s porosity, and how frequently you wash your hair. Temporary toners typically last only one wash, while demi-permanent toners can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. Highly porous hair tends to absorb toner more quickly, which can lead to faster fading.
To prolong the life of your toner, use color-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for blonde or color-treated hair. Avoid washing your hair too frequently, and when you do, use cool or lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can strip color faster. Consider using dry shampoo between washes to refresh your hair and extend the time between shampooing sessions. Additionally, minimize exposure to direct sunlight, as UV rays can also fade toner.
Can I tone my hair immediately after bleaching?
It’s generally recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours after bleaching before toning your hair. Bleaching is a harsh chemical process that can leave your hair sensitized and vulnerable. Giving your hair some time to recover before applying another chemical treatment, like toner, can help minimize damage and prevent further stress on your strands.
During this waiting period, focus on providing your hair with intense hydration and nourishment. Use a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask to replenish moisture and strengthen the hair shaft. This will not only help improve your hair’s overall health but also create a better base for the toner to adhere to, resulting in a more even and long-lasting color. If your hair feels particularly damaged after bleaching, consider waiting even longer before toning.
What happens if my toner doesn’t work?
If your toner doesn’t effectively neutralize the brassiness or achieve your desired shade, there are several possible reasons. The toner might not have been strong enough to counteract the underlying tones in your hair, or perhaps the developer volume was too low. Additionally, the toner may not have been left on for the appropriate processing time, or it may have been applied unevenly.
Before attempting to re-tone your hair, assess the situation carefully. Consider consulting with a professional stylist to get their opinion on the next best course of action. They can help you determine the correct toner shade and developer volume, as well as provide expert application techniques. Repeatedly toning your hair without proper knowledge can lead to damage and uneven results, so seeking professional guidance is often the safest and most effective approach.
How can I prevent brassiness from returning after toning?
Maintaining your toned hair color requires a consistent maintenance routine. Invest in high-quality, color-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for blonde or color-treated hair. These products are formulated to be gentle on your hair and help prevent color fading. Incorporate purple shampoo or conditioner into your routine, using it once or twice a week to neutralize any emerging yellow tones.
Protect your hair from environmental factors that can contribute to brassiness. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray. Avoid using heat styling tools excessively, as heat can damage the hair cuticle and lead to color fading. When you do use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Regular trims can also help remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.