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How to Fix Brassy Hair Color: 8 Expert Tips for Stunning Results (2024)

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how to fix brassy hair colorStuck with that dreaded orange glow? You’re not alone!

To fix brassy hair color, start by using a purple or blue toning shampoo to neutralize those warm undertones.

Hard water can be a sneaky culprit, so consider installing a shower filter to prevent mineral buildup.

Heat styling and sun exposure can also trigger brassiness, so protect your locks with a heat protectant and UV-blocking products.

For a quick fix, try a color-depositing foam or gloss at home – it’s like hitting the reset button on your hair color.

Regular deep conditioning will keep your tresses healthy and vibrant.

Trust me, with the right approach, you’ll be rocking those cool tones in no time.

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • You’ll need different toners based on your hair color – purple shampoo for blondes and blue for brunettes to neutralize unwanted warm tones.
  • Your shower water can be causing brassiness – install a filter to remove minerals and prevent color oxidation.
  • You can prevent brassiness by limiting heat styling, using color-safe products, and rinsing with cool water to seal the hair cuticle.
  • If at-home treatments aren’t cutting it, you’ll want to see a professional colorist for a color correction service, which typically costs $150-300 and takes several hours.

What is Brassy Hair

What is Brassy Hair
You’ve got brassy hair if your locks have a warm, orange, or yellow undertone instead of the cool, ashy tone you’re after.

This frustrating discoloration can happen to both natural light shades and color-treated hair.

Often, it’s caused by exposure to air, UV light, and pollutants that break down the cool tones in your hair dye.

Signs of Brassy Hair

Ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Yikes, my hair’s gone rogue"?

You might be dealing with brassy hair.

It’s when your locks sport unwanted warm tones, like orange or yellow.

You’ll notice color fading and uneven patches that weren’t there before.

Your once-vibrant hair color now looks dull, lacking that coveted shine.

Don’t panic! These signs are your cue to take action and restore your hair’s intended hue.

Effects of Brassy Hair on Hair Texture

Brassy hair isn’t just about color—it can wreak havoc on your hair’s texture too.

When your locks turn brassy, they often become a playground for dryness and damage.

To combat this, consider using a brassy hair toner product from a reliable online store like Brassy Hair Toner Solutions.

Imagine this:

  1. Your once-silky strands now feel like sandpaper against your fingers
  2. Your hair resembles a bird’s nest, with frizz flying in every direction
  3. Your mane looks as dull as a cloudy day, lacking its usual luster and bounce

Don’t fret! With the right care, you can restore your hair’s health and vibrancy.

Causes of Brassy Hair

Causes of Brassy Hair
You might be surprised to learn that brassy hair isn’t just bad luck—it’s often the result of everyday factors you encounter.

From sun exposure and hard water to chlorine and even your favorite styling products, these culprits can turn your cool-toned locks into a warm, brassy mess faster than you can say "orange you glad I didn’t say banana?

Sun Exposure and UV Rays

The sun’s rays can be a real party pooper for your hair color.

UV exposure breaks down hair dye molecules, causing those pesky brassy tones to surface.

It’s like your hair’s getting a tan, but not in a good way.

To prevent this, using a hat with SPF can shield your hair from UV rays and keep your scalp in top condition Protect Hair from UV Rays.

Check out this handy guide to keep your locks looking fabulous all summer long:

Time of Day UV Intensity Hair Protection Tips
Morning Low Use leave-in conditioner
Mid-day High Wear a stylish hat
Afternoon Moderate Apply UV-protective spray
Evening Low Rinse hair with cool water

Hard Water and Mineral Buildup

You’ve tackled the sun, but now let’s talk about another sneaky culprit: hard water.

It’s like your pipes are secretly plotting against your hair color!

Hard water‘s packed with minerals that can build up on your locks, leaving them brassy and dull.

Here’s what you’re up against:

  • Mineral deposits coat your strands, blocking moisture
  • Iron and copper react with hair dye, causing unwanted warm tones
  • Calcium buildup makes your hair feel rough and look lackluster

Don’t worry, though – we’ve got some tricks up our sleeve to combat this watery menace!

Chlorine Exposure and Pool Chemicals

While hard water can be a pain, chlorine‘s no picnic either!

Swimming pools are a blast, but that chemical cocktail can wreak havoc on your hair.

Chlorine strips away natural oils, leaving your locks vulnerable to damage and those pesky brassy tones.

Let’s break down the pool’s impact on your mane:

Effect Cause Prevention
Color fading Chlorine oxidation Use a swim cap
Dryness Oil stripping Apply leave-in conditioner
Brassiness Chemical reactions Wet hair before swimming
Brittleness Protein breakdown Rinse immediately after

Pollution and Environmental Factors

Living in a bustling city can turn your perfect hair color into an unwanted brass band. Beyond chlorine’s effects, urban pollution works like a sneaky color thief, gradually stealing your hair’s vibrancy. Smog, car exhaust, and industrial chemicals stick to your strands, causing unexpected color changes and damage.

  1. Air pollution particles attach to hair fibers, leading to oxidation and brassiness
  2. Chemical exposure from urban environments breaks down color molecules
  3. Sun damage combines with pollutants to accelerate color fading

Product Buildup and Improper Hair Care

Beyond environmental factors, your hair faces another sneaky enemy right in your bathroom: product buildup.

Those heavy-duty styling products you love can create a stubborn residue that traps minerals and oxidizes your color.

Skipping sulfate-free shampoos or over-washing strips natural oils, leaving your locks defenseless against brassiness.

Think of it like wearing yesterday’s makeup to bed – it’s just asking for trouble!

How to Prevent Brassy Hair

How to Prevent Brassy Hair
You’ll be thrilled to know that preventing brassy hair doesn’t require a complete hair care overhaul.

With simple adjustments like installing a shower filter and protecting your hair from UV rays, you can maintain your desired hair color and keep those unwanted warm tones at bay.

Installing a Shower Filter

Hard water is like kryptonite for your colored hair, but you’ve got a secret weapon: a shower filter.

Your perfect hair color doesn’t stand a chance against mineral-heavy water, so it’s time to take control.

Hard water, which often contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, can greatly affect your hair’s health and color, learn more about hard water effects.

Install a filter that fits your shower head, and you’ll notice the difference right away.

  1. Watch your hair transform from dull and brassy to vibrant and glossy
  2. Feel the satisfaction of taking charge of your hair’s health
  3. Say goodbye to that frustrating orange tinge that keeps creeping back

Conditioning Hair Regularly

A well-planned conditioning routine can be your secret weapon against brassy hair color.

You’ll want to deep condition weekly and use a color-safe daily conditioner to lock in those cool tones.

Mix up your conditioning game with protein-rich masks and moisturizing treatments to keep your locks happy.

Treatment Type Benefits for Brassy Hair
Deep Conditioning Seals color, prevents fade
Hair Masks Repairs damage, maintains tone
Purple Conditioner Neutralizes yellow tones
Cool Water Rinse Locks in color molecules

Avoiding Heat Styling Tools

Those scorching styling tools aren’t doing your color any favors.

When you’re battling brassy hair, it’s time to embrace the magic of heatless styling techniques, which also helps prevent frizzy hair caused by heat styling damage.

You’ll protect your color and give your strands a well-deserved break.

Think of your hair like a delicate silk scarf – treat it gently, and it’ll reward you with lasting, vibrant color.

  • Switch to overnight silk hair wraps for gentle, heat-free waves
  • Master the art of air drying with leave-in conditioner
  • Try braiding damp hair for effortless beach waves
  • Use dry shampoo between washes to extend your style
  • Swap your cotton pillowcase for a silk one to prevent frizz

Getting Regular Trims

While protecting your hair from heat damage helps, regular trims are your secret weapon against brassiness.

You’ll want to schedule a trim every 8-10 weeks to keep split ends at bay – they’re like tiny magnets for damage that can make your color look dull.

Plus, maintaining healthy hair growth through consistent salon visits gives you more control over your color’s vibrancy and overall hair health.

How to Get Rid of Brassy Hair

How to Get Rid of Brassy Hair
If you’ve noticed your hair turning an unwanted orange or yellow shade, you’re dealing with the all-too-common problem of brassiness.

You’ll find several effective solutions to neutralize those warm tones, from using mineral-removing pre-shampoo treatments to trying specialized toning products that can restore your desired hair color.

Using a Pre-Shampoo Mineral Remover

Ready to bid farewell to brassy hair?

Let’s tackle those pesky minerals head-on with a pre-shampoo mineral remover.

It’s like giving your locks a fresh start before the main event.

This is especially helpful in addressing mineral buildup on scalp, which can cause a host of hair problems.

Here’s how to make it work for you:

  1. Wet your hair thoroughly
  2. Apply the mineral remover from roots to tips
  3. Massage gently for 3-5 minutes
  4. Rinse completely before shampooing

This extra step can be a game-changer, especially if you’re dealing with hard water.

Your locks will thank you!

Investing in a Color-Safe Shampoo

Keep your colored hair vibrant and brass-free with a color-safe shampoo.

It’s your hair’s best friend, guarding against fading and unwanted warm tones.

Look for sulfate-free formulas with UV protection to keep your color looking fresh.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

Feature Benefit Example Ingredient
Sulfate-free Gentle cleansing Cocamidopropyl betaine
UV protection Prevents fading Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate
Moisturizing Keeps hair healthy Argan oil

Remember, less is more.

Wash every 2-3 days to maintain your color’s brilliance.

Using a Toning Foam

Toning foam is your secret weapon against brassy hair.

It’s like a color-refreshing mousse that you can easily apply at home.

Just work it through damp hair, leave it on for a few minutes, and rinse.

Different types target specific tones – purple for blondes, blue for brunettes.

Use it weekly for best results.

Brands like John Frieda and Schwarzkopf offer great options.

You’ll see cooler, more vibrant hair in no time!

Salon Color Correction

When your at-home fixes fall flat, it’s time to call in the color correction cavalry.

A skilled colorist can work magic on your brassy locks, but brace yourself—the color correction cost might make your wallet wince.

The process often involves stripping, toning, and recoloring, so expect to spend a few hours in the chair.

But hey, the jaw-dropping results are worth every penny and minute spent!

Choosing The Right Shampoo for Brassy Hair

Ever feel like your hair’s throwing you a curveball with those brassy tones?

Let’s tackle this head-on with the right shampoo.

Your secret weapon? Purple shampoo. It’s like a magic eraser for those pesky yellow hues in blonde hair.

For brunettes, blue shampoo is your go-to for nixing orange tones.

But here’s the kicker: not all shampoos are created equal.

Look for color-safe formulas that won’t strip your locks.

Sulfate-free options are your best bet to keep that color locked in.

And don’t forget about toned shampoos – they’re like a mini salon treatment in a bottle.

If you’re dealing with mineral buildup from hard water, consider a clarifying shampoo once a week.

Remember, the right shampoo can make all the difference between "meh" and "marvelous" hair days.

Choose wisely, and say goodbye to the brass!

Additional Tips for Fixing Brassy Hair

Additional Tips for Fixing Brassy Hair
You’ve got a few more tricks up your sleeve to banish brassy hair for good.

Let’s explore some additional tips that’ll help you maintain that perfect, brass-free hue you’ve been dreaming of.

Using a Color-Correcting Shampoo

Now that you’ve picked the right shampoo, let’s talk color-correcting.

It’s like finding the perfect Instagram filter for your hair!

Blondes, grab that purple shampoo to knock out yellow tones.

Brunettes, blue’s your hue to battle orange.

Redheads, golden shampoo’s your secret weapon.

But hey, easy does it!

Too much color-correcting can leave your locks looking like a bad dye job.

Applying a Toner or Gloss

Say goodbye to brassy hair with the magic of toners and glosses!

Think of these treatments as your hair’s personal color-correcting superheroes.

Before you jump in, here’s what you need to know:

  • Toners work best for targeted color correction and last 2-4 weeks
  • Semi-permanent glosses add shine and subtle color for 4-6 weeks
  • At-home toner application can be tricky, so start with a strand test

Just pick your weapon of choice – toner or gloss – and watch those unwanted warm tones disappear like magic!

Avoiding Product Buildup

Your hair might be crying out for a breather from all those styling products!

Scheduling regular product-free days gives your locks a chance to reset and prevents buildup that can make brassiness worse.

Here’s a simple guide to keep your hair happy and brass-free:

Day Morning Routine Evening Routine
Monday Clarifying shampoo Deep conditioning
Wednesday Sulfate-free wash Scalp massage
Friday Co-wash only Leave-in treatment
Sunday Product-free day Gentle detangling

Remember, less is often more in hair care!

Professional Help for Brassy Hair

Professional Help for Brassy Hair
When you’ve tried every at-home remedy and your hair still looks like a penny gone wrong, it’s time to call in the professionals.

A skilled colorist can assess your hair’s unique needs and create a customized treatment plan to banish those brassy tones for good.

Booking a Color-Corrective Appointment

When brassy tones take over, scheduling a color-corrective appointment can be a game-changer.

Make sure to book a consultation first – it’s the perfect time to discuss your hair history, current concerns, and expectations.

Most color corrections cost between $150-300 and can take several hours, but they’re worth it for stunning results.

Before committing, ask about the process, required maintenance, and check out the stylist’s before-and-after portfolio.

Finding a Colorist for Brassy Hair Correction

The hunt for the perfect colorist starts with colorist reviews online and by word of mouth.

Ask for referrals from friends with stunning hair color, and don’t shy away from requesting consultation tips from potential stylists.

During your consultation, fire off expertise questions about their experience fixing brassiness.

Smart cookies do a cost comparison between salons but remember – stellar results often justify higher prices.

Trust your gut; a confident colorist who listens usually delivers the goods.

Maintaining Healthy Hair After Fixing Brassy Hair

Maintaining Healthy Hair After Fixing Brassy Hair
After all your hard work to fix brassy hair, you’ll want to keep those gorgeous tones looking fresh and vibrant.

You can maintain your corrected hair color by using protective oils before heat styling.

Rinsing with cool water to seal the cuticle can also help.

Using Protective Oil Before Hot Tools

Protection becomes your secret weapon against heat damage when styling brassy-prone hair.

Apply a lightweight oil like argan or jojoba before firing up those hot tools – it’ll create a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents further brassiness.

Just a dime-sized amount, worked through your mid-lengths to ends, does the trick.

You’ll notice smoother, shinier results that keep those unwanted warm tones at bay.

Rinsing With Cool or Cold Water

Now that you’ve got your hot tools sorted, let’s talk about your shower routine.

Cold water might make you shiver, but your hair will thank you!

Hot water opens up hair cuticles, letting color escape faster than a cat in a thunderstorm.

By rinsing with cool water, you’ll seal those cuticles tight, locking in your color and adding some serious shine.

Think of it as a revitalizing spa treatment for your locks!

Investing in a Water Filter for Your Showerhead

Did you know your tap water might be a secret hair color saboteur?

Hard water minerals can turn your locks brassy faster than you can say "bad hair day."

Installing a shower filter is like giving your hair a VIP pass to better color retention.

Choose a filter that tackles chlorine and heavy metals, and you’ll notice softer, more vibrant hair that holds its color longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What color gets rid of brassy hair?

Tired of your locks looking like a penny?

You’ll need purple shampoo for blonde hair and blue for brunettes.

These opposite color toners neutralize those pesky warm tones, restoring your hair’s cool vibes.

How can I keep my hair from becoming white?

You can’t completely prevent hair from turning white, but you can slow it down.

Manage stress, eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins B12 and D,

and consider supplements like biotin to maintain your natural color longer.

How to get rid of brassy hair?

Taming those unwanted orange tones is simple!

Use purple shampoo for blondes or blue shampoo for brunettes.

The current color-correcting products will neutralize brassiness, keeping your hair looking cool and vibrant.

How do you fix brassy hair in a salon?

Salon experts will assess your hair’s undertones.

They’ll likely use a blue or purple-based color corrector.

Then apply a professional toner to neutralize brassiness, followed by a gloss treatment for lasting results.

How do I remove the brassy color from my hair?

Combat brassy hair at home with purple shampoo for blondes or blue shampoo for brunettes.

Use these products twice weekly, and you’ll see cooler tones emerge.

For stubborn cases, a professional toner works wonders.

What color cancels out brassy orange hair?

You’ll want to use blue toner to neutralize those pesky orange tones in your hair.

Blue sits opposite orange on the color wheel, making it your go-to solution for canceling out brassiness effectively.

Can you fix brassy hair at home?

Fix brassy hair at home with color-correcting products.

Try purple shampoo for blondes or blue toner for brunettes.

Always use cool water when washing.

Protect your hair from sun and chlorine between treatments.

What color toner to get rid of brass?

Perfectly pick your toner based on brass color: purple cancels yellow, blue neutralizes orange, and green tackles red undertones.

Choose a toner one shade lighter than your current color for natural-looking results.

How long do anti-brass treatments typically last?

Anti-brass treatments typically last 2-4 weeks, depending on your hair care routine.

Using color-safe products and cold water washes can extend their lifespan.

Regular touch-ups will keep those warm tones at bay.

Can certain medications affect hair brassiness?

Some medications can alter your hair’s chemistry and make it more prone to brassiness.

You’ll want to chat with your stylist about color-safe options that work with your meds for the best results.

Do natural hair dyes cause less brassiness?

Like a chameleon’s promise of natural change, henna and plant-based dyes won’t entirely shield you from brassiness.

They’ll still oxidize over time, though typically more gradually than chemical dyes.

You’ll need proper care regardless.

Is brassiness more common in certain hair textures?

You’ll notice brassiness more in fine, porous hair that easily absorbs minerals and color.

Coarse textures can still turn brassy, but they’re typically more resistant to unwanted color changes due to their structure.

Can diet impact the development of brassy tones?

While your plate doesn’t directly cause brassiness, nutrient deficiencies can affect overall hair health.

Iron-rich foods support vibrant color, while vitamin C helps your body absorb iron effectively, indirectly impacting how your hair holds color.

Conclusion

Picture yourself confidently running your fingers through silky, perfectly toned locks.

Now that you know how to fix brassy hair color, you’re equipped to tackle those unwanted orange and yellow tones head-on.

Whether you choose DIY methods like toning shampoos and at-home glosses, or opt for professional color correction, maintaining your ideal hair color is within reach.

Remember, prevention is key – protect your hair from hard water, sun damage, and harsh styling to keep those cool tones looking fresh and vibrant longer.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.