* Diluting Color: Crystal Clear is essentially a non-pigmented gloss. Adding it to a Shades EQ formula dilutes the intensity of the chosen color. This is great for:
* Creating Pastels: You can soften vibrant shades into more delicate pastel tones.
* Subtle Toning: If you want a very subtle color refresh or glaze, diluting with Crystal Clear prevents the color from being too strong.
* Correcting Over-pigmentation: If you accidentally chose a color that's too intense, you can dilute it with Crystal Clear to achieve the desired result.
* Adding Shine: Crystal Clear on its own provides incredible shine to the hair. When mixed with a pigmented Shades EQ gloss, you still get the benefits of the color while boosting the overall shine factor.
* Balancing Porosity: Mixing Crystal Clear into your Shades EQ formula can help to even out the porosity of the hair. Porous areas tend to grab color more intensely, so diluting the formula can lead to a more even and balanced result.
How to Mix:
* The ratio of Shades EQ color to Crystal Clear depends on the desired intensity and effect. Start with a conservative approach and adjust as needed.
* A common starting point is a 1:1 ratio (equal parts color and Crystal Clear).
* For a very subtle result, you might use a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio (one part color to two or three parts Crystal Clear).
Important Considerations:
* Always use Shades EQ Processing Solution (developer) with your mixture, following the manufacturer's instructions.
* Strand Test: It's always a good idea to do a strand test before applying the mixture to your entire head, especially when experimenting with new ratios. This will help you determine the final color outcome and ensure you achieve the desired result.
* Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about mixing ratios or which Shades EQ colors to use, it's best to consult with a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair and recommend the best approach for your desired results.