Getting highlights can be an exciting way to switch up your hair game, but what happens when they go wrong? Don’t panic! Fading bad highlights at home is totally doable with a few simple tricks and a little patience. Whether you’re dealing with brassiness, streaks that are too light, or an uneven tone, there are ways to soften the look and regain control of your hair color.
Woman using vitamin C treatment to fade bad highlights
Understanding Why Highlights Go Wrong
Before you embark on your highlight-fading mission, it’s helpful to understand what might have caused the issue in the first place. Here are a few common culprits:
- Over-processing: Leaving the bleach on for too long is a surefire way to end up with highlights that are way too light or even brassy.
- Product buildup: Using the wrong hair products or not rinsing thoroughly can create a barrier on your hair, leading to uneven color absorption.
- Hard water: The minerals in hard water can react with hair dye, leading to unwanted warm tones.
- Incorrect developer strength: Using a developer that’s too strong for your hair type can result in damage and color distortion.
DIY Methods to Fade Highlights
Ready to take matters into your own hands? Try these at-home remedies for fading those bad highlights:
- Clarifying shampoo: This type of shampoo is designed to remove product buildup and impurities, which can help to fade color. Use it 2-3 times a week, but be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to prevent dryness.
- Anti-dandruff shampoo: Believe it or not, anti-dandruff shampoos contain ingredients that can help to lift and fade hair color. Use it once or twice a week, alternating with your regular shampoo.
- Baking soda paste: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water and apply it to your highlights. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- Vitamin C treatment: Crush a few vitamin C tablets and mix them with shampoo to create a paste. Apply it to your hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
- Apple cider vinegar rinse: Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing. This can help to balance your hair’s pH and fade color gradually.
Various toning shampoos for brassy hair
Toning Down Unwanted Tones
If your highlights are too brassy or orange, toning is the way to go. Toning products work by neutralizing unwanted warm tones, leaving your hair looking cooler and more balanced. Here’s what you need to know:
- Purple shampoo: Ideal for neutralizing yellow tones in blonde highlights. Use it once or twice a week in place of your regular shampoo.
- Blue shampoo: Perfect for counteracting orange tones in darker hair with highlights. Like purple shampoo, use it sparingly to avoid over-toning.
- Toning masks: These deep conditioning treatments deposit pigment to neutralize unwanted tones and enhance your hair color. Look for masks specifically designed for highlighted hair.
Professional Help: When to See a Stylist
While DIY methods can be effective for subtle fading and toning, there are times when it’s best to call in the professionals. If your highlights are:
- Severely damaged: Over-processing can lead to dry, brittle hair that needs professional care to restore its health.
- Extremely uneven: Fixing extreme unevenness often requires more advanced color correction techniques that are best left to the experts.
- Not fading as desired: If you’ve tried multiple DIY methods without success, a stylist can assess your hair and recommend a personalized solution.
Woman consulting with a hair stylist for color correction
Remember, patience is key when fading highlights. Don’t expect drastic results overnight. By choosing the right methods and being consistent with your routine, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the hair color of your dreams.
FAQs
Q: Can I use lemon juice to fade my highlights?
A: While lemon juice is a natural lightening agent, it’s not recommended for fading highlights as it can be drying and may not produce consistent results.
Q: How long does it take for highlights to fade naturally?
A: Highlights typically start to fade noticeably after 4-6 weeks, but the exact timeframe varies depending on hair type, color treatment, and hair care routine.
Q: Can I dye over my bad highlights?
A: It’s best to consult with a professional stylist before dyeing over highlights, especially if they’re very light or uneven.
Need more tips on fixing hair color mishaps? Check out our comprehensive guide: how to fix bad highlights at home
Don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized advice and support. Contact us at Phone Number: 0372999996, Email: [email protected] or visit us at 236 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội. Our dedicated customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you.
