HOW TO TRANSFORM BRASSY BROWN HAIR TO GORGEOUS ASH TONES IN 2024

Are you looking to tone your brown hair to a beautiful ash shade? If your brunette locks have taken on unwanted red, orange, or yellow hues, you’re in the right place! Here are some effective tips and recommended products to help you achieve stunning ash tones at home.

WHAT IS HAIR TONER?

Hair toner is a product that adds pigments to the hair, slightly altering its shade without permanently changing the hair color. It typically makes the color appear cooler, such as transforming warm brown hair into cool ash.

Toners are commonly used on color-treated hair to neutralize unwanted ginger, brass, or yellow tints, resulting in a more natural-looking shade. They can also help eliminate warm tones from natural hair that has been lightened by sun exposure.

HOW TO USE THE COLOR WHEEL TO TONE YOUR HAIR

When toning your hair at home, the color wheel can be an invaluable tool. Hair stylists at salons often refer to the color wheel to determine which shade to use for neutralizing unwanted warm tones in your hair.

The color wheel consists of 12 colors, with each color’s contrasting shade located directly opposite it. To use the wheel effectively, start by identifying the color you want to eliminate from your hair, then look at the corresponding color on the opposite side to select the appropriate hair product.

For instance, if your hair has unwanted orange tones, opt for a blue shampoo, as blue is opposite orange on the color wheel. The blue pigments in the shampoo will effectively neutralize the orange hues.

Similarly, if you have red tones in your hair, a green shampoo can help counteract them, while a purple shampoo is ideal for canceling out yellow tones. By understanding the color wheel, you can make more informed choices when toning your hair at home!

HOW TO TONE BROWN HAIR TO ASH

If you have brown hair and want to eliminate warm tones, there are several products available depending on your specific shade of brown and the unwanted undertones.

For dark brown hair, a semi-permanent hair toner is highly recommended to achieve noticeable results. This type of toner can effectively neutralize warm tones and enhance the coolness of your hair color.

If you have light brown hair, a quality blue shampoo may be sufficient to help transform your locks into a beautiful ash brown. Blue shampoos are effective at counteracting orange tones, making them a great choice for lighter shades.

Before you begin toning, it’s essential to understand how hair color charts work. Ensure you choose the right brown shade that complements your skin tone for the best overall look!

HOW TO TONE DARK BROWN HAIR TO ASH

SEMI PERMANENT DYE: CLAIROL NATURAL INSTINCTS – 6A LIGHT ASH BROWN

Another effective method for removing red undertones from brown hair is using a semi-permanent dye. One excellent option is Clairol Natural Instincts, which offers a shade called “Light Cool Brown.” This dye is particularly effective for transforming warm brown tones into an ash-brown hue.

While this product is technically a hair dye rather than a toner, it’s an easy way to achieve a medium ash color, especially if you’re dyeing your hair for the first time. It provides cool undertones while maintaining a natural appearance.

Clairol Natural Instincts Conditioning Colour is free from ammonia and harsh scents, making it gentle on the hair. It also contains nourishing ingredients like coconut and aloe vera to condition and moisturize your locks. This semi-permanent color lasts for up to 28 washes, allowing you to enjoy your new look without long-term commitment.

Semi Permanent Toner: VIPs Prestige BeBlonde BB03 – Icy Down

If you have dark hair and want to eliminate unwanted brassy tones, a semi-permanent hair toner is your best bet. VIPs Prestige BeBlonde offers a range of toners designed specifically for brunette hair, featuring various shades to achieve that coveted ashy look across different hair colors, including warm browns.

For brown hair with yellow undertones, the ideal VIPs Prestige toner is called “Icy Down.” This toner effectively corrects any unwanted yellowish hues that may arise from dyeing.

If your brown hair exhibits unwanted orange tones, the “Caffé Latte” toner is the best option. This product transforms brassy hair into a beautiful ashy brown. It can also be effective on black hair, helping to shift it toward a dark ash shade.

All VIPs Prestige toners are ammonia-free and enriched with nourishing ingredients like olive oil, macadamia oil, and castor oil. They also contain nettle to promote healthy hair. Each application lasts for approximately 6-8 washes, allowing you to enjoy your new look without a long-term commitment.

HOW TO TONE LIGHT BROWN HAIR TO ASH

OSMO COLOUR REVIVE CONDITIONING COLOUR TREATMENT COOL BROWN

Osmo Colour Revive is a cool brown conditioning treatment designed to refresh your hair color and prevent dyed hair from turning orange between salon visits. This treatment is particularly effective on lighter brunette shades. If your hair has become brassy or taken on a dull brown hue, Osmo Colour Revive can help restore it to a beautiful icy ash brown.

Infused with avocado oil and vitamins A and E, this treatment nourishes and conditions the hair, promoting overall health and shine. Additionally, it is free from ammonia and peroxide, making it a gentle option for maintaining your hair color. For best results, it is recommended to use this product once a week to keep your ash tones vibrant and fresh.

FUDGE PROFESSIONAL BLUE TONING SHAMPOO

If your brown hair has developed unwanted orange or red tones, the Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo is an excellent solution to restore it to an ash brown shade. This blue toning shampoo effectively neutralizes warm hues, resulting in cooler, deeper, and stronger hair color.

The Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo is sulfate-free and features Opti-PLEX technology, which strengthens and smooths the hair by making it 85% stronger. This combination not only helps maintain your desired color but also enhances the overall health and appearance of your hair.

CONCLUSION

Achieving stunning ash tones from brassy brown hair is entirely possible with the right products and techniques. By understanding the color wheel and selecting appropriate toners or dyes, you can effectively neutralize unwanted warm tones, creating a cooler, more sophisticated look.

Whether you choose a semi-permanent dye like Clairol Natural Instincts, specialized toners from brands like VIPs Prestige BeBlonde, or nourishing treatments such as Osmo Colour Revive, there are plenty of options tailored to different hair shades and needs. Incorporating products like Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo can further enhance and maintain your desired color.

Regular maintenance, including weekly treatments and proper hair care, will keep your ash tones vibrant and your hair healthy. With these tips and products, you can confidently embrace beautiful ash brown hair in 2024, leaving behind the brassy hues for a chic, modern look!

THESE ARE 10 BEST OILS FOR CURLING HAIR: THE SECRET FOR LONG-LASTING LOOKS

For anyone with curls, you know the struggle of keeping them defined, bouncy, and frizz-free all day long. The good news is, there’s a secret weapon in your beauty arsenal: hair oil! These amazing elixirs can be the key to unlocking your hair’s full curling potential. Dive into the world of hair oils and discover the 10 best for luscious, long-lasting curls!

OUR TOP PICKS

BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OIL

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Strengthening Treatment Oil is a great option for those seeking to tame frizz and boost curl definition. This silicone-free formula is packed with repairing ceramides that target split ends and reinforce the hair cuticle. It also boasts intense moisture for a healthy shine, without weighing down your curls. A few drops applied to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, can transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and long-lasting style.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE NOURISHING HAIR OIL

Mizani’s 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil lives up to its name by offering a multitude of benefits in one product. This lightweight, multi-tasking oil is perfect for all hair types, including curly hair. Formulated with a blend of coconut, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils, it deeply moisturizes and softens hair, leaving it manageable and frizz-free. The key here is its lightweight nature. Unlike some heavier oils that can weigh down curls, 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil absorbs quickly, adding shine and definition without sacrificing bounce.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a versatile and gentle choice for curly hair. This all-natural oil, free from harsh chemicals and additives, is a great option for those with sensitive scalps. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it provides lightweight moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Sweet almond oil can be used as a pre-styling treatment to tame frizz and boost shine, or as a post-styling refresher to revive curls and add definition. Its gentle nature also makes it perfect for use on dry cuticles and brittle ends, promoting overall hair health and curl manageability.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURIZING SHINE OIL

Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil stands out for its unique biomimetic approach. This silicone-free formula mimics the natural lipids found in healthy hair.  These natural oils work in harmony with your curls, smoothing and hydrating them for a boost of shine and frizz control.  The versatility of this oil is another plus. You can apply it before shampooing as a deep treatment, during styling to enhance definition, or even after styling to add a touch of shine and tame flyaways.  Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil caters specifically to wavy, curly, and coily hair textures, making it a great choice for those seeking a curl-enhancing oil that integrates seamlessly with their hair’s natural chemistry.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re looking for an affordable and luxurious option for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a fantastic choice. This popular hair oil is enriched with nourishing Moroccan argan oil, a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to strengthen hair, improve elasticity, and combat frizz. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco absorbs quickly, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and defined without feeling weighed down. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine, this oil is a versatile option that can help you achieve your best curls.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Designed specifically for curly hair textures, PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free dream. This unique formula, created by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, blends jojoba oil with safflower, rosehip, and olive oil for a cocktail of nourishing goodness. The star ingredient, jojoba oil, mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it readily absorbed without clogging pores. This translates to deep moisture for your hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for curls to thrive. PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend boasts additional benefits like reducing breakage and itchiness, perfect for those with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. A few drops massaged into the scalp or smoothed through damp or dry hair can unlock your hair’s full curl potential, leaving it defined, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil offers a simple yet powerful solution for curly hair. This multi-tasking oil, derived from the Moroccan argan tree, is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. These powerhouse ingredients work together to deeply nourish and soften dry, brittle curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding the greasy residue that can weigh down your curls. SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a versatile product that can be used on both hair and skin. Apply a few drops to damp hair to enhance curl definition and add shine, or smooth it over dry hair to tame frizz and flyaways. You can even use it on your skin for a boost of hydration and a youthful glow.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL

Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Infused with coconut and Australian jojoba oil, this paraben-free formula promises to quench your curls’ thirst for moisture. The key ingredients work in tandem: coconut oil provides deep conditioning and shine, while jojoba oil mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, ensuring lightweight absorption that won’t weigh down your curls. Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil claims to instantly absorb and seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration to combat frizz and promote long-lasting definition. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, to transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and manageable style.

KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum is a luxurious option for those seeking a multi-benefit curl treatment. This blend of precious oils, including argan, camellia, and marula, nourishes and hydrates all hair types, with a special focus on taming frizz and boosting shine. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding greasy buildup that can weigh down curls. Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum offers versatility in application. You can use it on damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation and manageability, or apply it to dry hair to smooth frizz and add a touch of luminous shine. This oil prioritizes hair health alongside curl definition, making it a great choice for those seeking a product that nourishes while promoting beautiful, long-lasting curls.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a curl-loving formula designed to address multiple concerns. This fast-absorbing oil, derived from the Mongongo nut native to Africa, is rich in essential fatty acids that provide deep nourishment and strengthen hair strands. It forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface, locking in moisture to prevent frizz and damage from heat styling or UV rays. The result? Soft, shiny, and defined curls with long-lasting bounce. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control, Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil can be a valuable tool in your quest for healthy, beautiful curls.

HOW HAIR OILS WORK

While all oils soften and nourish hair (they’re emollients!), they don’t directly add moisture. Think of them as sealing agents. They lock in moisture provided by conditioners, leave-in products, and creams that contain water and humectants. These hydrating products are key! Oils then create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, preventing that moisture from evaporating and keeping your curls frizz-free and defined for longer.

Here’s the takeaway: for the best results, use a conditioner or leave-in with hydrating ingredients first, then follow up with a hair oil to lock it all in. This combo will give your curls the moisture they crave and the definition you desire.

3 TYPES OF HAIR OIL

PENETRATING OILS

Penetrating oils are designed to sleep deeply into the hair shaft, nourishing it from the inside out. These oils typically have smaller molecular structures that allow them to pass through the hair’s cuticle layer. Examples include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and babassu oil. These oils are particularly effective for providing deep hydration, strengthening the hair, and preventing protein loss. They are ideal for use in pre-wash treatments and deep conditioning routines.

PENETRATING AND SEALING OILS

Some oils have the dual capability of both penetrating the hair shaft and sealing the cuticle. These versatile oils include castor oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, and macadamia oil. They offer the best of both worlds: deep hydration and a protective barrier. These oils can enhance shine, improve elasticity, and lock in moisture, making them suitable for a variety of hair care applications, from leave-in conditioners to styling products.

SEALING OILS

Sealing oils are primarily used to coat the hair’s surface, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the hair from environmental damage. These oils usually have larger molecular structures that prevent them from being absorbed deeply into the hair shaft. Examples include rice bran oil and jojoba oil. Sealing oils are excellent for smoothing the hair, reducing frizz, and adding a glossy finish. They are particularly beneficial when applied to the ends of the hair to prevent split ends and breakage.

WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE?

Choosing the best oil for your hair type depends on your specific needs and hair characteristics. Here’s a guide to help you select the right one:

FINE OR OILY HAIR

For fine or oily hair types, lightweight oils are best to avoid weighing down the hair or making it look greasy. Grapeseed oil and sweet almond oil are excellent choices as they are light and easily absorbed, providing moisture and shine without excess heaviness. These oils can help balance oil production and add a subtle sheen to your locks.

DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

Dry or damaged hair benefits from heavier, more nourishing oils that can provide intense hydration and repair. Coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen and moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate deeply, making them perfect for deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and elasticity to brittle hair.

CURLY OR COARSE HAIR

Curly or coarse hair types often require thicker oils to maintain moisture and manageability. Castor oil and argan oil are ideal for these hair types as they offer deep hydration and help to define curls while reducing frizz. These oils also provide a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping your curls soft and bouncy.

COLOR-TREATED OR CHEMICALLY PROCESSED HAIR

For hair that has been color-treated or chemically processed, it’s essential to use oils that can help repair damage and maintain color vibrancy. Argan oil and apricot kernel oil are excellent options as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to strengthen and protect hair. These oils nourish the hair while helping to prolong the life of your color and adding a healthy shine.

NORMAL HAIR

If you have normal hair that doesn’t fall into any specific category, versatile oils like jojoba oil and macadamia oil are great all-rounders. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by your scalp, making it excellent for maintaining balanced moisture levels. Macadamia oil is also lightweight and nourishing, providing a nice balance of hydration and shine without being overly heavy.

CONCLUSION

Taming frizz, defining those gorgeous spirals, and achieving long-lasting hold – that’s the dream for anyone with curls. The good news is, hair oils are your secret weapon! With the right oil for your hair’s unique needs, you can unlock your hair’s full curling potential. From budget-friendly options to luxurious blends, there’s an oil out there waiting to transform your curls into a masterpiece of definition, shine, and bounce. So, ditch the frizz and embrace your curls with the power of hair oil!