Are you considering toning your highlights, but are unsure if it will lighten or darken your hair? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to understand the concept of toning and its effects on their hair color. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair toning, exploring what toner is, how it works, and whether it will lighten your highlights.
What is Toner and How Does it Work?
Toner is a type of hair color product that is used to adjust the tone of your hair color. It’s usually applied after bleaching or coloring your hair to achieve a specific shade or hue. Toner can be used to neutralize unwanted tones, add warmth or coolness to your hair, and even out your hair color.
When you apply toner to your hair, it penetrates the hair shaft and deposits color pigments. The toner can either cancel out existing tones or add new ones, depending on the type of toner used. There are two main types of toners: demi-permanent and permanent.
Demi-permanent toners are less damaging and last for a shorter period than permanent toners. They’re ideal for people who want to make subtle changes to their hair color without committing to a long-term change. Permanent toners, on the other hand, are more long-lasting and can be used to make more dramatic changes to your hair color.
How Toner Affects Highlights
Now that we’ve covered the basics of toner, let’s talk about how it affects highlights. Highlights are sections of hair that have been lightened to create a contrasting effect with the rest of your hair. When you apply toner to your highlights, it can either lighten or darken them, depending on the type of toner used.
If you use a toner that’s lighter than your highlights, it can help to further lighten them. This is because the toner will deposit color pigments that are lighter than the existing color of your highlights. On the other hand, if you use a toner that’s darker than your highlights, it can help to darken them.
However, it’s essential to note that toner can’t lift your highlights more than one to two shades. If you want to achieve a more dramatic change, you may need to use a different hair color product, such as bleach or hair dye.
Factors That Affect How Toner Works on Highlights
There are several factors that can affect how toner works on highlights. These include:
- The type of toner used: Different types of toners can have varying effects on highlights. For example, a purple-based toner can help to neutralize brassy tones, while a blue-based toner can help to add cool, ashy tones.
- The porosity of your hair: If your hair has low porosity, it may be more challenging for the toner to penetrate the hair shaft. This can result in uneven color distribution and a less effective toning process.
- The condition of your hair: Damaged or over-processed hair may not respond well to toner. This is because the hair cuticle may be lifted, allowing the toner to penetrate too deeply and causing uneven color distribution.
Will Toner Lighten My Highlights?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of toner and how it affects highlights, let’s answer the question: will toner lighten my highlights?
The answer is: it depends. If you use a toner that’s lighter than your highlights, it can help to further lighten them. However, if you use a toner that’s darker than your highlights, it can help to darken them.
To give you a better idea, here are some general guidelines:
- If you have blonde highlights and want to make them lighter, you can use a toner that’s one to two shades lighter than your existing color.
- If you have dark highlights and want to make them lighter, you may need to use a different hair color product, such as bleach or hair dye.
- If you have highlights that are already lightened to the desired shade, you can use a toner to maintain the color and prevent fading.
How to Choose the Right Toner for Your Highlights
Choosing the right toner for your highlights can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Consider your hair type: If you have damaged or over-processed hair, you may want to choose a toner that’s gentle and nourishing.
- Think about your desired outcome: If you want to lighten your highlights, choose a toner that’s one to two shades lighter than your existing color. If you want to darken your highlights, choose a toner that’s one to two shades darker than your existing color.
- Look at the ingredients: Some toners contain ingredients that can help to nourish and moisturize your hair. Look for toners that contain ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter.
Popular Toner Options for Highlights
Here are some popular toner options for highlights:
- Wella Color Charm Toner: This toner is available in a range of shades and can be used to achieve a variety of different effects.
- L’Oréal Professionnel DiaLight Toner: This toner is designed to help create a natural-looking, multi-dimensional color effect.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetic Toner: This toner is designed to help attract and retain color pigments, resulting in a more vibrant, longer-lasting color.
Conclusion
In conclusion, toner can be a great way to adjust the tone of your highlights and achieve your desired hair color. However, it’s essential to choose the right toner for your hair type and desired outcome. By considering your hair type, desired outcome, and the ingredients in the toner, you can choose a toner that will help you achieve the look you want.
Remember, toner can’t lift your highlights more than one to two shades, so if you want to achieve a more dramatic change, you may need to use a different hair color product. Always follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head.
By following these tips and choosing the right toner for your highlights, you can achieve a beautiful, vibrant color that will make you look and feel great.
What is a toner and how does it affect my hair color?
A toner is a chemical treatment applied to the hair to achieve a specific color or shade. It can be used to enhance, change, or correct the color of your hair. Toners work by depositing color pigments onto the hair shaft, which can alter the overall appearance of your hair color. When it comes to highlights, a toner can be used to adjust the color and create a more natural-looking blend with the rest of your hair.
The effect of a toner on your highlights depends on the type of toner used and the condition of your hair. If you have previously colored or highlighted hair, a toner can help to neutralize any unwanted tones or brassy colors. However, if you have virgin hair, a toner may not have as significant of an impact on your natural color. It’s essential to consult with a professional stylist to determine the best toner for your hair type and desired color outcome.
Will a toner lighten my highlights?
A toner is not a lightening agent, and it will not significantly lighten your highlights. Toners are designed to deposit color, not lift it. If you’re looking to lighten your highlights, you’ll need to use a lightening agent, such as bleach or a high-lift color. However, a toner can be used to adjust the tone of your highlights, making them appear lighter or darker, depending on the type of toner used.
It’s essential to note that some toners can have a slight lightening effect, especially if they contain ammonia or other alkalizing agents. However, this lightening effect is typically minimal and may not be enough to achieve the desired level of lift. If you’re unsure about the best way to lighten your highlights, it’s always best to consult with a professional stylist who can recommend the most suitable treatment for your hair.
How do I choose the right toner for my highlights?
Choosing the right toner for your highlights depends on several factors, including your natural hair color, the type of highlights you have, and the desired color outcome. If you have cool-toned highlights, you’ll want to choose a toner with a blue or purple base to neutralize any warm tones. If you have warm-toned highlights, a toner with a golden or honey base may be more suitable.
It’s also essential to consider the condition of your hair when choosing a toner. If you have damaged or over-processed hair, you may want to opt for a gentler toner that won’t further dry out your hair. On the other hand, if you have healthy hair, you may be able to use a more intense toner to achieve the desired color outcome. Consult with a professional stylist to determine the best toner for your hair type and desired color.
Can I use a toner at home, or do I need to go to a salon?
While it’s possible to use a toner at home, it’s generally recommended to have a professional stylist apply the toner, especially if you’re new to using toners. A stylist can help you choose the right toner for your hair type and desired color outcome, and they can also apply the toner correctly to achieve the best results.
If you do decide to use a toner at home, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head. This will help you determine the correct processing time and ensure that the toner doesn’t damage your hair. However, keep in mind that at-home toners may not be as effective as those applied by a professional stylist.
How long does a toner last, and how often do I need to reapply it?
The longevity of a toner depends on several factors, including the type of toner used, the condition of your hair, and how well you care for your hair. On average, a toner can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly your hair grows and how often you wash it.
To maintain the color and tone of your highlights, you may need to reapply the toner every 4 to 6 weeks. However, this can vary depending on your individual hair type and needs. If you have porous hair, you may need to reapply the toner more frequently to maintain the color. On the other hand, if you have non-porous hair, you may be able to go longer between toner applications.
Can I use a toner on previously colored or damaged hair?
Yes, you can use a toner on previously colored or damaged hair, but it’s essential to choose a toner that’s specifically formulated for your hair type. If you have damaged hair, look for a toner that’s moisturizing and nourishing, as this can help to repair and restore your hair.
If you have previously colored hair, you may need to use a toner that’s specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones or correct color mistakes. In this case, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist who can recommend the best toner for your hair type and desired color outcome. They can also help you determine the best course of treatment to achieve the desired results.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with using a toner?
While toners are generally safe to use, there are some risks and side effects to be aware of. One of the most common side effects is dryness or damage to the hair, especially if you use a toner that’s too harsh or contains ammonia. To minimize this risk, make sure to choose a toner that’s formulated for your hair type and follow the instructions carefully.
Another risk associated with using a toner is over-toning, which can result in an unnatural or unwanted color. To avoid this, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head. If you’re unsure about how to use a toner or have concerns about potential side effects, it’s always best to consult with a professional stylist.