Hair toners are used to neutralize unwanted undertones in hair, adjust the hair's overall shade, or add a subtle tint.
Understanding Hair Toners
Hair toners work by depositing pigment onto the hair shaft to counteract unwanted tones. They don't lift the hair's color, unlike hair dye. Instead, they neutralize brassiness (yellow/orange tones) or add desired hues like ash or violet. The video suggests using a 1:1 ratio of toner to developer, though the exact volume of developer may vary depending on the desired result and the starting hair color.
Steps for Using Hair Toners:
- Identify Underlying Tones: Determine the unwanted tones you want to neutralize. Common unwanted tones are yellow and orange.
- Choose the Right Toner: Select a toner that complements your hair color and neutralizes the unwanted tones.
- Purple toner neutralizes yellow tones.
- Blue toner neutralizes orange tones.
- Green toner neutralizes red tones.
- Mix Toner and Developer: Combine the toner and developer according to the product instructions (often a 1:1 ratio). The video mentions using "tin volume", indicating that 10 volume developer may be suitable.
- Apply to Hair:
- For overall toning, apply evenly to damp, towel-dried hair, as mentioned in the reference material for dealing with orange tones. This may provide a gentler result than applying to dry hair.
- For targeted toning, apply to the specific areas with unwanted tones.
- Process the Toner: Allow the toner to process for the recommended time specified on the product instructions. Check your hair regularly to ensure you achieve the desired result.
- Rinse and Condition: Rinse the toner thoroughly and apply a moisturizing conditioner.
Important Considerations:
- Porosity: Porous hair absorbs toner more quickly, so monitor the processing time closely.
- Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying toner to your entire head. This helps determine the processing time and ensures you achieve the desired color.
- Developer Volume: The developer volume affects the intensity of the toning process. A lower volume developer is gentler and provides more subtle results.
- Hair Condition: Toners can be drying, so use a deep conditioner after toning to replenish moisture.
By following these steps and considering these factors, you can effectively use hair toners to achieve your desired hair color.
