Will Developer Turn My Hair Orange/Brassy?
When it comes to achieving a certain hair color, many factors can influence the outcome. One of the most common questions is whether your hair will turn orange or brassy when using a developer. This article aims to provide clarity and guidance to help prevent unwanted results.
Understanding the Chemistry of Hair Dye
Before we dive into the specifics, it's crucial to understand the basics of hair dye and the role of a developer. Hair dye contains two main components: the pigment and the developer. The pigment provides the color, while the developer opens the cuticle layer of the hair, allowing the pigment to bond more effectively.
Factors Influencing the Outcome
Several factors can determine whether your hair will turn brassy or orange after using a developer. These factors include the natural hair color, hair texture, and the specific type of hair dye and developer used.
Natural Hair Color
The natural color of your hair plays a significant role in the final result. If your hair is naturally dark brown, such as a shade of burnt sienna or almost black, there is a higher likelihood of the hair dye turning brassy when a developer is used. This is because dark brown hair tends to have a natural orange tint which is more pronounced with the help of a developer.
Hair Texture
Hair texture also affects the outcome of the hair dye. Fine hair may be more prone to brassiness, as it tends to have a higher cuticle layer. Since the developer opens the cuticle, it can expose more of the natural orange tones present in fine hair.
Type of Hair Dye and Developer
The quality of the hair dye and the type of developer used can greatly influence the final result. Hypoallergenic or professional-grade hair dyes are less likely to cause unwanted results, as they are formulated to minimize the exposure of the natural orange tones in the hair.
Preventing Brassy Results
While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of brassy results, there are steps you can take to minimize it:
Choose non-ammonia hair dye for less harsh treatment on the hair and scalp.
Select a brand with a higher bond strength to ensure better color retention and less brassiness.
Pre-treatment with a hair conditioner or a leave-in conditioner can help seal the cuticle, reducing the exposure of orange tones.
Consider post-processing with a neutralizing shampoo or conditioner to remove any residual orange tones.
Signs of Brassy Color
If you notice your hair turning orange or brassy after using a developer, there are several signs that can help identify this:
Shine and Color Change: If your hair is reflecting a warmer, orangey shine, this could indicate a brassy tone.
Reflective Light: When light reflects off your hair and you see a range of warm, orangey hues, this often points to the presence of brassiness.
Haircut and Lighting: Sometimes, the way your hair is cut or the lighting in which it's viewed can make brassiness more noticeable. Experiment under different lighting conditions to get a clearer view.
Steps to Remove Brassiness
Once you have noticed the brassy tone in your hair, there are several steps you can take to remove it:
Neutralizing Shampoo: Using a neutralizing shampoo or conditioner can help remove the orange tones and restore a more balanced color.
Highlighting Techniques: Lightening your hair by a few shades can help neutralize the brassiness.
Toning Products: Using a color-toning shampoo or conditioner can help balance the color and prevent future brassiness.
Regular Trims: Regular trims can help ensure that any stray brassiness is cut away before it becomes a bigger issue.
Conclusion
While the prospect of turning your hair orange or brassy can be daunting, it's important to understand that there are steps you can take to minimize this risk. By being aware of the factors that contribute to brassy tones and taking preventative measures, you can achieve the hair color you desire without any unwanted side effects.
Remember to choose the right products, pre-treat your hair, and monitor the process to ensure the best possible results. With the right approach, you can enjoy a vibrant, long-lasting hair color without any unwanted brassiness.