So, you’ve just lightened your hair and you’re left with a color that’s a bit too brassy or yellow for your liking. Don’t worry, this is a completely normal part of the process, and it’s exactly where toner comes to the rescue. Think of toner as a color corrector for your hair. It’s a magical product that neutralizes those unwanted warm tones, helping you achieve that perfect, cool, ashy blonde, a soft silver, or even a beautiful pastel hue.
Applying toner might seem a little intimidating, but with the right preparation and technique, you can get salon-quality results at home. It’s all about choosing the correct product and applying it evenly for a beautiful, uniform finish.
Getting Your Hair Ready for Toner
First things first, toner is applied to hair that has been lightened and then gently shampooed and towel-dried. Your hair should be damp, not dripping wet, and completely free of any previous styling products. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands and have an old towel around your shoulders. Section your hair into four parts—two in the front and two in the back—to make the application process much easier and more thorough.
Mixing and Applying the Toner Evenly
Follow the instructions on your toner kit carefully. Most toners need to be mixed with a developer in a specific ratio. Once your mixture is ready, start applying it to the back sections of your hair first. These areas are often thicker and can be harder to saturate. Use an applicator brush to work the product through each section from your roots to the ends, making sure every strand is coated. The ends of your hair are typically more porous, so they may grab color faster, which is why some people prefer to apply to the mid-lengths and ends first, then quickly go back to the roots.
How Long Should You Leave Toner In?
Timing is everything with toner. Leaving it on for too long can lead to over-toning, resulting in a color that’s too ashy or even slightly purple. Not leaving it on long enough means the brassiness won’t fully neutralize. Most toners process between 10 and 30 minutes. Check the instructions for the recommended time and start checking your hair every 5 minutes after the initial 10-minute mark. You’re looking for the brassiness to disappear and your desired cool tone to appear.
Caring for Your Freshly Toned Hair
Once the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo and a good conditioner. To maintain your beautiful new color and keep brassiness at bay, consider using a purple shampoo once or twice a week.
Applying toner is a simple yet powerful step in your hair coloring routine. By preparing your hair properly, applying the product evenly, and watching the clock, you can say goodbye to unwanted warm tones and hello to a gorgeous, cool, and professional-looking hair color.