Understanding Toner Goals
* Neutralizing Brassiness (Yellow/Orange): This is the most common reason people use toner. Think of the color wheel:
* To neutralize yellow: Use purple or violet-toned toners.
* To neutralize orange: Use blue-toned toners.
* To neutralize red: Use green-toned toners. (Less common in lightening, more for overall color correction).
* Adding Tone: Toners can also add a specific shade of blonde, silver, rose gold, etc.
* Adding Shine and Sealing the Cuticle: Some toners provide a glossy finish and help to smooth the hair.
Types of Toners (and How to Choose):
1. Demi-Permanent Toners (Most Common):
* How they work: Mix with a low-volume developer (usually 10 or 20 volume). Deposit color only, don't lift.
* Pros:
* Gentle on hair.
* Washes out gradually (typically lasts 4-6 weeks, depending on hair porosity and washing frequency).
* Good for correcting brassiness and adding tone.
* Offers a variety of shades
* Cons:
* Requires mixing with a developer.
* Can sometimes appear muddy if not applied properly.
* Won't lighten your hair.
* Good for: Blonde, bleached, and highlighted hair looking to neutralize unwanted tones, add a specific blonde shade (ash, beige, etc.), or refresh color.
* Brands: Wella Color Charm T18 (the classic), Redken Shades EQ (salon favorite), L'Oreal Dialight, Pulp Riot, Goldwell, Pravana.
2. Purple Shampoos/Conditioners/Masks:
* How they work: Deposit a small amount of purple pigment with each use.
* Pros:
* Easy to use.
* Great for maintaining existing cool tones and preventing brassiness.
* Can be used regularly.
* Less damaging than demi-permanent toners.
* Cons:
* Less potent than demi-permanent toners.
* Can make hair look dull if overused (purple cast).
* Not ideal for significantly changing tone or correcting very strong brassiness.
* Good for: Maintaining cool blonde, silver, or grey hair. Preventing brassiness between toning sessions.
* Brands: Olaplex No. 4P, Fanola No Yellow, Joico Color Balance Purple, Redken Color Extend Blondage, Matrix Total Results So Silver.
3. Color Depositing Conditioners:
* How they work: Deposit color as they condition. Come in a wide range of colors.
* Pros:
* Easy to use.
* Conditioning and hydrating.
* Can be used to add more vibrant, fun colors (pink, blue, etc.) or more subtle tones.
* Less damaging.
* Cons:
* Color washes out relatively quickly.
* May not be strong enough to significantly correct brassiness (unless you choose a specifically toning shade, like a blue or purple).
* Can stain clothing and surfaces.
* Good for: Adding temporary color, refreshing faded color, experimenting with new shades.
* Brands: Arctic Fox, Keracolor Clenditioner, Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash.
4. Natural Hair Toners/ DIY Options
* Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse This can help balance the PH of your hair which can result in more shine
* Lemon Juice Dilute lemon juice with water and apply to your hair before sun exposure to naturally lighten and add highlights.
* Chamomile Tea Rinse: Brew strong chamomile tea, let it cool, and use it as a rinse to brighten blonde hair. It has gentle lightening properties.
* Beet Juice Rinse: Mix beet juice with water and use it as a rinse for red or auburn hair to enhance the color and add vibrancy.
How to Choose the Right Toner for You:
1. Assess Your Hair's Current Tone: What undertones are you trying to neutralize? Is it very brassy (orange/yellow), slightly yellow, or already fairly neutral?
2. Determine Your Desired Result: Do you want to completely remove brassiness, add a specific cool tone (ash blonde), or just refresh your current color?
3. Consider Your Hair's Condition: If your hair is damaged, a gentler option like a purple shampoo or color depositing conditioner might be better.
4. Read Reviews: See what other people with similar hair have experienced with specific toners.
5. Strand Test: ALWAYS do a strand test before applying any toner to your entire head. This will help you determine the processing time and the final result.
Important Tips and Precautions:
* Follow Instructions Carefully: Toner can easily over-process, leading to unwanted tones (e.g., purple hair from too much purple toner). Adhere to the recommended processing time.
* Use Gloves: Toners can stain your skin.
* Don't Over-Tone: Toning too often can dry out and damage your hair.
* If in Doubt, Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about which toner to use or how to apply it, it's best to see a professional hairstylist.
* Developer: If using a demi-permanent toner, always use the correct developer volume (usually 10 or 20). A higher volume will lift color, which you likely *don't* want to do when toning.
Example Scenarios:
* Slightly Yellow Blonde: Purple shampoo/conditioner used 1-2 times a week.
* Very Brassy Blonde (Orange/Yellow): Demi-permanent toner with a blue or violet base (depending on the specific tones).
* Ash Blonde Maintenance: Demi-permanent toner every 4-6 weeks, purple shampoo/conditioner in between.
* Adding a Pink Tint: Color depositing conditioner in a pink shade.
To give you more specific recommendations, tell me:
* What color is your hair currently (specifically)? (e.g., light blonde with yellow tones, dark blonde with orange tones, etc.)
* What is your desired result? (e.g., remove yellow, achieve a cool ash blonde, add a rose gold tint, etc.)
* Has your hair been previously bleached or lightened?
* What is your hair type? (Fine, medium, coarse)
Good luck!