If you’ve ventured into the world of hair coloring, especially if you’ve gone blonde, you may have encountered the frustrating issue of your hair losing its vibrancy or developing undesirable brassy or yellow tones over time. This is where hair toners come to the rescue. Hair toners are an essential tool for maintaining and enhancing your hair color, but they can be a mystery if you’re not familiar with them. Here’s everything you need to know about using hair toners effectively.
Understanding Hair Toners
Hair toners are products designed to enhance and adjust the color and tone of your hair. They can neutralize unwanted warmth, eliminate undesirable tones, and even intensify your hair color. According to Lorena Valdes, a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, toners can be a game-changer for your hair.
Types of Hair Toners
You can find hair toners in various forms, and the choice depends on your hair type and color:
1. Toning Shampoos and Conditioners: These are commonly used at home, with purple shampoos being recommended for combating brassiness in blonde and gray hair, while blue shampoos are designed to correct brown-dyed hair.
2. Hair Gloss: If you visit a salon, your stylist may use a hair gloss, a non-permanent coloring method that provides a translucent sheen to your hair. It’s excellent for adjusting the warmth or coolness of blonde hair or adding depth to brown hair. These toners typically last around four to six weeks.
3. Semi-Permanent Toners: These can last six to eight weeks and offer versatility in color enhancement.
Why You Might Need a Hair Toner?
People who have bleached or colored their hair often need toners to maintain their desired shade and prevent brassiness or unwanted tones. Factors like frequent washing, exposure to chlorine in water, hot water usage, and sun exposure can lead to color changes. Toners are also beneficial for adding dimension and texture to hair.
Additionally, some individuals with fine hair may use toners to alter their hair’s texture, giving it more body and volume.
Benefits of Using a Hair Toner
1. Enhanced Color: Toners can enrich and brighten hair color, whether you’re a brunette or a blonde.
2. Improved Texture: They can soften, add shine, and strengthen your hair.
3. Low-Commitment: Toners are ideal for those who prefer temporary changes because they don’t last long in comparison to permanent color treatments.
Suitability for All Hair Colors
Hair toners can be used on all hair colors and textures, from black to gray and white hair. Even damaged hair can benefit from toners, as they can condition and strengthen porous strands. It’s essential to communicate with your stylist to determine the right toner for your specific needs.
Using Hair Toners at Home
When using toners at home, consider these tips:
1. Patch Test: Perform a patch test on a small hair section to observe the results before applying the toner to your entire hair.
2. Product Variation: Keep in mind that at-home toner products may contain varying pigment levels. It’s advisable to proceed with caution, as results can be unpredictable.
3. Consult a Stylist: If you have highlights or specific color goals, consult with a stylist to ensure you choose the right toner and application method.
Hair toners are a valuable tool for maintaining and enhancing your hair color. Whether you’re correcting brassiness or adding depth and shine, understanding how to use them effectively can help you achieve the desired results.
