Achieving the perfect blonde shade can be challenging, especially when bleaching leads to unexpected yellow tones.
This comprehensive guide will understand why bleaching can turn hair yellow and provide actionable steps to correct and maintain your desired hair color.
Why Did My Hair Turn Yellow After Bleaching?
Bleaching involves using various chemicals, breaking down natural pigments, and often revealing underlying warm tones like yellow or orange. This is especially common in darker hair, where more melanin is present. According to experts, one common mistake is insufficient bleach, which leaves unwanted brassy tones that can frustrate even experienced colorists.
- Hair’s Natural Pigment: Darker hair contains more melanin, which can leave a yellow residue after bleaching.
- Bleaching Technique: Uneven application or insufficient bleaching can result in patchy, yellow tones.
- Hair Condition: Porous or damaged hair may process bleach differently, affecting the outcome.
Understanding these factors is crucial in addressing and preventing yellow tones after bleaching.
Read also: How Long to Leave Toner on Brassy Hair
How to Fix Bleached Hair That Turned Yellow
Correcting yellow tones in bleached hair involves a combination of toning, proper hair care, and sometimes professional intervention. Follow these steps to restore your hair’s desired shade:
Step 1: Use a Purple Toner or Shampoo
Purple toners and shampoos are effective in neutralizing yellow tones due to their position on the color wheel opposite yellow. From first-hand experience, using a toner with violet undertones can significantly neutralize yellow hues. It’s a method that I’ve consistently recommended to clients dealing with brassiness after bleaching, achieving visible results within a single application.
- Application: Follow the product instructions carefully, paying attention to the recommended duration to avoid overtone.
Step 2: Invest in Quality Hair Care Products
Using hair care products formulated for bleached or blonde hair can help maintain your color and prevent yellowing. In my experience, selecting sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair is crucial.
Sulfates can strip the hair of its color and moisture, making it more prone to yellowing. Opt for products that contain hydrating ingredients like argan oil or shea butter to maintain moisture balance.
- Moisturizing Treatments: Bleached hair is prone to dryness; deep conditioning treatments can restore moisture and improve hair health.
- Protection from Heat and Sun: Heat styling and UV exposure can exacerbate yellow tones. Use heat protectants and hats to shield your hair.
Step 3: Consider a Professional Toner or Color Correction
If at-home treatments are ineffective, consult a professional hairstylist for a toner application or color correction service. From direct experience, I’ve found that professional toners are essential when home remedies fail. These customized formulas are mixed based on your needs, ensuring that yellow or brassy tones are fully neutralized and your desired color is achieved.
- Salon Toner: Professional toners can offer more potent results with customized formulas to address your shade.
- Color Correction: In severe cases, a color correction service may be necessary to strip unwanted tones and reapply color.
Toner for Yellow Bleached Hair
Selecting the right toner is crucial in eliminating yellow tones:
- Choosing the Toner: Look for toners labeled as “ash” or “pearl” to neutralize yellow hues. Consulting with a hairstylist can help you select the best shade for your hair.
- Application Tips: Apply toner to clean, towel-dried hair, and follow the timing instructions to avoid over-toning.
Treatment Options for Yellow or Brassy Hair
| Method | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Shampoo | Contains violet pigments to neutralize yellow tones. | Mild to moderate yellow hues. |
| Professional Toner | Salon-grade product customized to remove unwanted tones. | Severe brassiness or uneven color. |
| Coconut Oil & Salt | Natural remedy to reduce orange tones and restore moisture. | Mild orange hues and dry hair. |
| Baking Soda & Lemon Juice | Bleaching agents that lighten yellow-orange hair naturally. | Brassy hair with natural ingredients. |
| Silver Shampoo | Targets brassy tones for a more neutral color. | Persistent brassiness. |
| Box Dye | Covers uneven bleached areas, particularly effective for yellow-orange. | Severe unevenness post-bleach. |
Conclusion
Yellow tones after bleaching can be disappointing, but they can be effectively corrected with the right approach. Various options are available to achieve your desired hair color, from purple toning products to professional treatments. Remember, maintaining the health of your bleached hair is key to preserving color and preventing further damage.
FAQs
- How often can I use purple shampoo?
- Purple shampoo can be used 1-2 times a week or as needed to maintain your color without over-toning.
- Will toning damage my hair further?
- When used correctly, toners should not cause significant damage. However, always follow up with moisturizing treatments to maintain hair health.
- Can I re-bleach my hair to remove yellow tones?
- Re-bleaching can be risky and lead to further damage. It’s best to explore toning options and consult a professional before re-bleaching.
