Getting highlights can be a thrilling way to refresh your look and add some vibrancy to your hair. However, the excitement can quickly turn to dismay if the final result is not what you envisioned. One common issue many people face after highlighting their hair is an unwanted red tone. Whether you were aiming for subtle, natural-looking highlights or a more dramatic change, finding yourself with hair that’s too red can be frustrating. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why highlights might turn out too red and, more importantly, explore the solutions to correct this color conundrum.
Understanding Why Highlights Turn Red
Before diving into the corrective measures, it’s essential to understand why highlights sometimes take on an unwanted red hue. Several factors can contribute to this outcome, including the condition of your hair, the products used, and the highlighting technique employed.
The Role of Hair Porosity and Condition
The porosity of your hair plays a significant role in how it absorbs and retains color. Hair with low porosity may not absorb color evenly, leading to unpredictable results. Additionally, hair that is damaged or over-processed is more prone to taking on unwanted tones, including red, due to its compromised cuticle layer.
Color Products and Developer
The choice of color products and developer can also impact the final result. Using a developer that is too strong or leaving the color on for too long can cause the hair to lift too much, resulting in warmer, red tones. Furthermore, some color lines are formulated to produce more ash or cool tones, while others might produce warmer results.
Highlighting Techniques
The technique used for highlighting can also affect the color outcome. For instance, foil highlighting might produce more precise, controlled results compared to balayage or painting techniques, which can sometimes lead to a more uneven color distribution, especially if not done correctly.
Corrective Measures for Red Highlights
Correcting red highlights requires a thoughtful approach to avoid further damaging your hair or worsening the color. Here are some steps and considerations for alleviating the red tone:
Toning
One of the most common methods for correcting red highlights is through toning. Toning involves applying a color toner to the hair to adjust its tone. For red tones, a green or blue-based toner can be used to neutralize the red. However, it’s crucial to choose a toner that is appropriate for your hair type and the severity of the red tone. Always do a strand test before applying any toner to ensure the desired result and to check for any allergic reactions.
Color Correction
In some cases, especially if the red tone is quite pronounced, a full color correction might be necessary. This involves applying a new color formulation that is designed to counteract the red tone. Color correction can be more invasive than toning and should ideally be done by a professional hairstylist who can assess your hair and provide a personalized solution.
At-Home Remedies
For those who prefer to try and correct the issue at home, there are several remedies that can help reduce red tones. These include using color-depositing shampoos and conditioners formulated for neutralizing red tones, applying vinegar rinses, or using color-correcting masks. However, caution should be exercised when using at-home remedies, as they can sometimes worsen the condition if not used correctly.
Maintenance and Prevention
After correcting red highlights, it’s essential to maintain your hair’s health and prevent the red tone from returning. This includes using sulfate-free shampoos, getting regular trims to prevent split ends, and using a hair mask once a week to nourish and moisturize your hair.
Choosing the Right Products
Using the right hair care products can make a significant difference in maintaining your hair’s color and health. Look for products that are formulated for color-treated hair and contain ingredients that help lock in color and moisture.
Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments with your hairstylist can help maintain your hair’s health and color. They can provide touch-ups, recommend appropriate hair care products, and address any issues before they become major problems.
Conclusion
Dealing with highlights that have turned out too red can be disappointing, but it’s not a permanent situation. By understanding the reasons behind the red tone and taking the appropriate corrective measures, you can achieve the hair color you desire. Remember, patience and professional guidance are key when it comes to color correction. Whether you decide to take the corrective journey at home or in a salon, prioritizing your hair’s health and taking the time to find the right solution will lead to a more satisfactory and long-lasting result.
To further guide you in making informed decisions about your hair, consider consulting with a professional hairstylist who can provide personalized advice and treatment tailored to your specific hair type and needs. With the right approach and care, you can enjoy vibrant, healthy-looking hair that reflects your true style and beauty.
What causes highlights to turn red?
The main reason why highlights turn red is due to an imbalance in the tone and porosity of the hair. When the hair is not properly prepared for the coloring process, or if the wrong products are used, it can lead to an uneven distribution of color. Additionally, using high-lift blonde dyes on hair that has not been properly lightened can cause the warm tones to become more pronounced, resulting in red or brassy highlights. This is especially common in individuals with porous or damaged hair, as the color can penetrate the hair shaft unevenly.
To avoid this issue, it is essential to consult a professional stylist who can assess the condition and porosity of your hair before applying any color treatments. They can recommend the best course of action to achieve the desired results, whether it be using a different type of dye, applying a toner, or using a color-correcting product. Furthermore, using high-quality hair care products that are formulated for color-treated hair can help to maintain the health and integrity of the hair, reducing the likelihood of red or brassy tones from developing in the first place.
How can I fix red highlights at home?
For those who want to try to fix their red highlights at home, there are a few options available. One method is to use a color-correcting shampoo and conditioner, which can help to neutralize the warm tones and reduce the appearance of red or brassy highlights. Another option is to use a toner, which can be applied to the hair to cancel out the unwanted tones. However, it is crucial to choose a toner that is specifically formulated to counteract red or brassy tones, and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid further damaging the hair.
It is also important to note that fixing red highlights at home can be a trial-and-error process, and it may take some experimentation to find the right product and technique to achieve the desired results. Additionally, if the red highlights are severe or widespread, it may be best to consult a professional stylist who can provide a more personalized solution. They can assess the condition of the hair and recommend a customized treatment plan to correct the color and restore the hair to a healthy, vibrant state. By taking a gentle and gradual approach, it is possible to correct red highlights and achieve a more desirable color.
What is the best way to prevent red highlights?
The best way to prevent red highlights is to take a proactive approach to hair care and color maintenance. This includes using high-quality hair care products that are formulated for color-treated hair, such as shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free and contain ingredients that help to lock in color and moisture. Additionally, regular trims and touch-ups can help to prevent the hair from becoming damaged or over-processed, which can lead to red or brassy tones.
It is also essential to work with a professional stylist who can provide personalized guidance and recommendations for maintaining healthy, vibrant hair. They can help to identify potential issues before they become major problems and provide customized solutions to prevent red highlights from developing in the first place. By taking a preventative approach and being mindful of the products and techniques used on the hair, it is possible to maintain a healthy, beautiful head of hair that is free from unwanted red or brassy tones.
Can I use a color depositing mask to fix red highlights?
Yes, a color depositing mask can be a great option for fixing red highlights, especially if the issue is mild or localized. These masks are designed to deposit color onto the hair shaft, helping to neutralize warm tones and restore a more desirable color. They can be applied to the entire head or just to specific sections of hair, making them a versatile solution for addressing red highlights.
When using a color depositing mask, it is essential to choose a product that is specifically formulated to counteract red or brassy tones. Look for a mask that contains ingredients such as blue or purple pigments, which can help to neutralize warm tones and restore a cooler, more ashy color. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and do a patch test before applying the mask to the entire head to ensure that it does not cause any further damage or discoloration.
How often should I get my highlights touched up to prevent red tones?
The frequency at which you should get your highlights touched up to prevent red tones will depend on several factors, including the type of dye used, the condition of your hair, and your personal preferences. As a general rule, it is recommended to get highlights touched up every 4-6 weeks to maintain the desired color and prevent warm tones from developing. However, if you have particularly porous or damaged hair, you may need to get touch-ups more frequently to prevent red or brassy tones from forming.
It is also important to note that getting highlights touched up too frequently can cause damage to the hair, especially if the same areas are being repeatedly processed. To minimize damage, it is essential to work with a professional stylist who can assess the condition of your hair and provide personalized guidance on the best touch-up schedule for your individual needs. They can help you to find a balance between maintaining the desired color and preventing damage to the hair.
Can I use a gloss or glaze to fix red highlights?
Yes, a gloss or glaze can be a great option for fixing red highlights, especially if the issue is mild or localized. These products are designed to add a layer of color to the hair shaft, helping to neutralize warm tones and restore a more desirable color. They can be applied to the entire head or just to specific sections of hair, making them a versatile solution for addressing red highlights.
When using a gloss or glaze, it is essential to choose a product that is specifically formulated to counteract red or brassy tones. Look for a product that contains ingredients such as blue or purple pigments, which can help to neutralize warm tones and restore a cooler, more ashy color. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and do a patch test before applying the gloss or glaze to the entire head to ensure that it does not cause any further damage or discoloration. A gloss or glaze can be a great way to add a quick fix to red highlights, and can be used in conjunction with other color-correcting products for optimal results.