Here's why toner doesn't effectively remove red dye:
* Toner neutralizes undertones, not full pigment. Red dye is a strong pigment that sits deeply in the hair shaft. Toner is designed to deposit subtle shades to counteract unwanted tones, not to lift or remove significant color.
* Red dye molecules are large. Red hair dye molecules tend to be larger than other color molecules, making them more difficult to remove from the hair.
* Toner uses a low-volume developer. Toner is typically mixed with a low-volume developer (e.g., 10 or 20 volume), which is not strong enough to lift the red pigment out of the hair.
What can you do to remove red hair dye?
If you want to remove red hair dye, here are more effective methods:
* Color remover: These products are specifically designed to break down artificial hair color molecules and remove them from the hair. Look for color removers formulated for red tones. They are often more gentle than bleach.
* Bleach: Bleaching will lighten the hair, including the red pigment. However, it can be damaging, so it's crucial to proceed with caution and deep condition afterwards.
* Color correction at a salon: A professional colorist can assess your hair and use a combination of techniques to safely and effectively remove the red dye. They can also help you achieve your desired hair color.
* Fading techniques: You can use techniques that help fade color, such as washing hair with clarifying shampoo, using anti-dandruff shampoos, and washing with hot water (although this can be drying). Vitamin C treatments can also help to fade hair dye.
Important Considerations:
* Conditioning: Removing red dye can be drying, so be sure to deep condition your hair regularly.
* Strand test: Always perform a strand test before applying any color remover or bleach to your entire head of hair to assess how your hair will react.
* Patience: Removing red dye often takes multiple attempts. Don't expect to achieve your desired result in one session.
In summary, toner is not the solution for removing red hair dye. It's better to use a color remover, bleach (with caution), or seek professional help from a hair colorist.