Brassy hair can be a nightmare for anyone who has lightened or bleached their hair at home. While it can also happen at a salon, fixing brassy hair at home is a daunting task. The unwanted warm tones and pigments result in reddish-gold or orange highlights that can be unflattering. In this article, we will discuss tips and tricks to treat and prevent brassy hair from happening in the first place.
The Root Of Brassy Hair
The main reason for brassiness is an overabundance of natural underlying pigments in dark hair that give it depth and dimension. When trying to lighten the hair, these pigments can result in an unflattering brassy yellow-orange or red tone if not removed properly. Other factors that contribute to brassiness include hair products, water quality, and even hair color treatments. To prevent your hair color from turning brassy, you need to choose the right color and technique.
Choose The Right Color And Technique
Instead of using a single-process all-over color like a box color, go to a salon and have a colorist work in highlights and lowlights. A gradual process is best, and if you intend to lighten your hair beyond two shades of your natural color, a double-process is required. The closer your final color is to your natural hair color, the less chance it has of turning brassy.
Prevention Is Key
Preventing your hair from turning brassy is relatively simple. Here are some tips to help:
1. Wash your hair with cool water to prevent fading. Hot water can make color fade and cause brassiness to become prominent.
2. Invest in a shower filter to prevent hard water from discoloring your hair. Hard water contains minerals that can turn your hair brassy.
3. Use a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner designed to neutralize brassy hair. These products contain purple-toned pigments that cancel out warm, brassy tones.
4. Protect your hair from UV damage by wearing a hat or using a UV-protectant spray.
5. Use the right products to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Highlighting or lifting darker shades can be harsh, so it’s essential to invest in high-quality leave-in conditioner and deep repair mask to restore moisture and nutrients.
Remedies To Correct Brassy Hair
If your hair does become brassy, there are some remedies that you can try at home. Here are our top picks:
1. Use apple cider vinegar. This post-shampoo treatment will balance your scalp pH and give your hair a natural shine. It is also known to maintain and preserve the color of hair.
2. Use baking soda to lighten hair. Baking soda is an excellent remedy to remove brassy tones and restore natural color.
3. Consult with a hairstylist. If none of these remedies work for you, it is best to seek professional help.
In conclusion, preventing brassy hair is the best course of action. With the right hair color and technique, you can achieve the look you want without sacrificing your hair’s health. If your hair does become brassy, don’t worry; there are effective remedies to treat it. Remember, healthy hair starts with good hair care habits and taking the necessary steps to protect it from damage.
