How Can I Tone Down My Hair Color?

Has your latest hair color turned out brighter than you wanted? Don’t panic – there are easy ways to tone down hair color at home. Whether you want to neutralize brassiness, reduce harsh tones, or simply dial down the vibrancy, you can adjust overly bold hair color results without another trip to the salon.

Below are some simple methods to tone down your hair color:

Use a Toning Shampoo

• Toning shampoos are a gentle way to neutralize brassy undertones and soften your hair color.

• For blondes, use a purple toning shampoo. The violet pigments cancel out yellow brassiness.

• Brunettes should opt for blue toning shampoos to neutralize unwanted red/orange tones.

• Silver shampoos work well for platinum blonde and grey hair.

• Use 1-2 times per week and leave on for 5+ minutes before rinsing.

Apply an Ash Hair Toner

• Ash-based hair toners effectively neutralize unwanted warm tones.

• They work by depositing cool ash pigments onto the hair strands.

• Toners come in various shades like ash blonde, ash brown, and silver.

• Mix the toner formula and apply all over dry hair. Leave on for 10-20 minutes.

• Rinse thoroughly – repeat 1-2 times a week until you achieve your ideal tone.

Try a Clarifying Shampoo

• Clarifying shampoos are designed to deep clean and remove buildup.

• They can strip some of the artificial color pigment from overly vibrant hair.

• Look for clarifying shampoos with chelating ingredients like EDTA or citric acid.

• Use a few times a week in place of regular shampoo to gently strip color.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has natural cleansing and toning abilities.

• The acidic pH helps close the cuticle for smoother, less porous hair.

• Mix 1 part ACV with 2-3 parts water. Apply to dry hair, let sit 5-10 mins, then rinse.

• Repeat 1-2 times per week. The ACV smell fades quickly.

Brew Up a Coffee Rinse

• Used on brunette hair, coffee can add cool ash tones to counteract unwanted warmth.

• Brew a strong pot of coffee. Allow it to cool to room temp before using.

• After shampooing, pour coffee over your hair and let sit for 5 minutes. Rinse well.

• For best results, mix the coffee concentrate with your conditioner before applying.

Use Temporary Root Coverage

• Temporary root touch up powders and sprays tone down visible regrowth.

• They temporarily adhere to hair, masking dark roots until you can get to the salon.

• Look for an instant root cover-up designed for your hair color – blonde, brunette, red, etc.

• Follow instructions to tap powder or spray along the part line and roots only.

Book a Toning Service

• If you need more drastic toning or color correction, seek professional help.

• Salon toning services use professional-grade toners and developers for guaranteed results.

• Stylists can customize the toner’s strength and timing to meet your needs.

• Corrective color services can cost $100+, but will save you from endless trial and error.

Be patient, consistent, and willing to experiment with different toning methods. With a little time and creativity, you can tweak your hair color at home to get the customized results you want.