Sometimes when you get highlights, they can turn out lighter than you expected. Or, maybe you’ve had your highlights for a while and they’ve started to fade. Whatever the reason, if you’re not happy with the color of your highlights, there are a few things you can do to darken them.
One option is to use a toner. Toners are semi-permanent hair dyes that can be used to change the color of your hair without damaging it. They’re available in a variety of shades, so you can choose one that will darken your highlights to the desired color. Toners typically last for 4-6 weeks, so they’re a good option if you’re not sure if you want to commit to a permanent color change.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you can get your highlights dyed. This is a more expensive option than using a toner, but it will last longer. When you get your highlights dyed, your stylist will use a permanent hair dye to darken them to the desired color. Permanent hair dye typically lasts for 6-8 weeks, but it can fade over time. If you get your highlights dyed, it’s important to use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help keep the color from fading.
Choosing the Right Products
Selecting the appropriate products is crucial for successfully darkening your highlights. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Type of Highlighting Agent
The type of highlighting agent used in your highlights will influence the choice of darkening products. Permanent highlights can be lifted with color-removing products, while semi-permanent and temporary highlights fade over time and may only require a toner or a semi-permanent dye.
Desired Shade
Determine how dark you want your highlights to be. If you want to return to your natural hair color, choose a darkening product that matches your roots. For a more subtle effect, opt for products that are a shade or two darker than your current highlights.
Hair Condition
The condition of your hair can also affect product selection. If your hair is dry or damaged, choose products that are moisturizing and contain conditioning agents. Harsh lightening treatments can weaken the hair shaft, so it’s important to use products that will nourish and strengthen it.
Additional Considerations
Here’s a table summarizing some additional considerations when choosing darkening products:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Ammonia | Avoid products containing ammonia, which can be damaging to hair. |
| Bleach | Products that contain bleach should be used with caution as they can lift your highlights too much. |
| Color-Correcting Shampoos | Color-correcting shampoos can help neutralize unwanted tones in highlighted hair. Choose a purple shampoo to tone down yellow or brassy highlights. |
| Toning Products | Toning products can add a semi-permanent layer of color to highlighted hair, darkening them and correcting any unevenness. |
| Demi-Permanent Dyes | Demi-permanent dyes offer a more permanent solution than toners, but they are less damaging than permanent dyes. They can be used to darken highlights by a few shades. |
Testing the Formula
Before applying the darkening formula to your entire head of highlights, it’s crucial to test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that you’re satisfied with the results and to prevent any potential damage to your hair.
To test the formula, follow these steps:
- Select a test strand: Choose a small, hidden section of hair, such as a piece at the nape of your neck or behind your ear.
- Apply the formula: Using an applicator brush, apply a small amount of the darkening formula to the test strand, avoiding contact with your scalp. Ensure that the formula covers the highlighted area evenly.
- Process the formula: Allow the formula to process for the amount of time specified in the instructions, typically around 15-30 minutes.
- Rinse and style: Rinse the formula thoroughly and style your hair as usual.
Once you’ve tested the formula, examine the results and make any necessary adjustments before applying it to the rest of your highlights.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps involved in testing the formula:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select a test strand of hair. |
| 2 | Apply the darkening formula to the test strand. |
| 3 | Process the formula as specified in the instructions. |
| 4 | Rinse and style the hair. |
| 5 | Examine the results and make any necessary adjustments. |
Monitoring the Process
Closely monitoring the process is crucial to ensure optimal results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tracking your progress:
- Check every 5-10 minutes: After applying the darkening toner, check the progress every 5-10 minutes. This allows you to assess the level of darkness and make any necessary adjustments.
- Use a damp cloth to remove excess toner: Wipe away any excess toner from the hair surface using a damp cloth. This helps prevent over-toning and ensures an even distribution.
- Rinse thoroughly: Once the desired level of darkness is achieved, thoroughly rinse the hair with lukewarm water. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any residual toner.
- Use a deep conditioner: After rinsing, apply a deep conditioner to the hair to moisturize and restore its health. Leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse and style as usual.
Tips for Monitoring
- If the highlights are not darkening as quickly as desired, apply more toner and monitor more frequently.
- If the highlights are becoming too dark, rinse immediately and reapply the toner with a lower concentration.
- If the hair feels dry or brittle, apply more conditioner and reduce the frequency of monitoring.
- Avoid using heat styling tools while the toner is processing, as this can damage the hair.
| Monitoring Interval | Action |
|---|---|
| Every 5-10 minutes | Check progress and remove excess toner |
| Desired darkness achieved | Rinse thoroughly and use deep conditioner |
| Highlights too dark | Rinse immediately and reapply toner with lower concentration |
| Highlights not darkening quickly enough | Apply more toner and monitor more frequently |
Using a Toner
Step 1: Select the Correct Toner
Choose a toner that is 2-3 shades darker than your current highlights. Level 6 toners are recommended for highlights on level 8-9 hair, while level 7 toners are ideal for highlights on level 10-11 hair.
Step 2: Prepare Your Hair
Before applying the toner, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Towel dry your hair but leave it slightly damp.
Step 3: Mix the Toner
In a non-metallic bowl, mix the toner with the developer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, a 1:2 ratio is used (e.g., 1 part toner to 2 parts developer).
Step 4: Apply the Toner
Divide your hair into sections and apply the toner evenly to the highlighted areas using a brush or comb. Avoid getting the toner on your scalp.
Step 5: Process the Toner
| Processing Time | Tone Level |
|---|---|
| 5-10 minutes | Subtle darkening |
| 15-20 minutes | Medium darkening |
| 25-30 minutes | Strong darkening |
Check the toner color frequently to prevent over-processing. When you reach your desired tone, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water.
Step 6: Condition Your Hair
After rinsing out the toner, condition your hair to restore moisture and shine. Use a color-protecting conditioner designed for highlighted hair.
Enhancing Shine
Highlights can be revived and illuminated with a few simple steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to enhance the shine of darkened highlights:
- Use a clarifying shampoo: Remove product buildup and dirt from hair with a clarifying shampoo. This will create a clean base for subsequent shine-enhancing treatments.
- Apply a deep conditioning mask: Nourish and hydrate hair with a deep conditioning mask. Leave it in for the recommended time to allow the mask’s ingredients to penetrate and restore moisture.
- Use a shine-enhancing serum: Apply a shine-enhancing serum to damp or dry hair. These serums usually contain ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or silicones that coat the hair shaft and create a glossy finish.
- Use a hair oil: Apply a small amount of hair oil to the ends of hair to seal in moisture and add shine. Avoid applying too much oil, as this can weigh hair down.
- Brush hair regularly: Regular brushing helps distribute the hair’s natural oils throughout the hair shaft, resulting in a more even and lustrous appearance.
- Avoid heat styling: Excessive heat styling can damage hair and make it appear dull. Limit the use of hot tools and protect hair with a heat protectant spray when styling.
- Get regular trims: Regular trims remove split ends and prevent breakage, contributing to a healthier and shinier head of hair.
- Consider a gloss treatment: A gloss treatment is a semi-permanent color that adds shine and enhances the hair’s natural color. It can last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting shine boost.
- Use a vinegar rinse: Dilute 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing. The vinegar helps to smooth the hair cuticle and add a subtle shine.
- Incorporate shine-enhancing foods into your diet: Foods rich in vitamin E, such as almonds, avocados, and spinach, can contribute to hair health and shine.
Product |
Benefits |
|---|---|
| Clarifying Shampoo | Removes buildup and dirt |
| Deep Conditioning Mask | Nourishes and hydrates |
| Shine-Enhancing Serum | Adds shine and coats hair |
| Hair Oil | Seals in moisture and adds shine |
| Heat Protectant Spray | Protects hair from heat damage |
| Gloss Treatment | Adds shine and enhances color |
Color Correction Techniques
Using Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is specifically designed to tone down yellow and brassy highlights. Regular use can gradually darken and cool the highlights over time.
Toning Gloss
A toner is a semi-permanent hair color applied to adjust the tone or shade of the hair. Using a dark toner can help deepen and darken highlights.
Root Touch-Up
If your highlights are growing out, getting a root touch-up can blend the darker roots with the lighter highlights, creating a more natural look.
Demi-Permanent Dye
A demi-permanent dye can add darker pigments to the highlights without causing major damage. It is less permanent than permanent dye and gradually fades over time.
Permanent Dye
Permanent hair dye is the most effective option for darkening highlights significantly. However, it can cause more damage to the hair and should be done by a professional.
Olaplex Treatment
An Olaplex treatment can be used to reduce hair damage caused by lightening or coloring. It can also help to restore hair strength and prevent breakage during the darkening process.
Color Correcting Shampoo and Conditioner
Color correcting shampoos and conditioners are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in the hair. Using a blue or green-toned shampoo and conditioner can help to remove any yellow or orange hues from the highlights, making them appear darker.
| Technique | Effectiveness | Damage to Hair |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Shampoo | Moderate | Low |
| Toning Gloss | Good | Low to Moderate |
| Root Touch-Up | Temporary | None |
| Demi-Permanent Dye | Good | Moderate |
| Permanent Dye | Very Good | High |
| Olaplex Treatment | Damage Reduction | None |
| Color Correcting Shampoo and Conditioner | Low to Moderate | None |
Professional Hair Dyeing
To effectively darken highlights at a professional hair salon, consider the following steps:
Consultation and Color Selection
Consult with your stylist to determine the desired level of darkness and the appropriate dye color. Professionals will assess your hair’s current condition, porosity, and color history to make an informed decision.
Pre-Treatment
A pre-treatment, such as a bonding agent, may be applied to the highlighted hair to protect its integrity during the darkening process.
Application of Demi-Permanent or Permanent Color
Demi-permanent colors typically last up to 24 washes and gradually fade over time. Permanent colors penetrate the hair shaft and provide longer-lasting results.
Processing Time
The processing time varies depending on the type of color used and the desired level of darkness. A professional will monitor the process closely to ensure optimal results.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Once the processing time is complete, the hair is thoroughly rinsed to remove any excess dye. A deep-conditioning treatment is often applied to restore moisture and enhance hair health.
Toning and Glazing
Toning or glazing can be performed to further enhance the color and add shine to the hair. These techniques help blend highlights and create a more seamless look.
Hair Care and Maintenance
To maintain the darkened highlights, follow the stylist’s recommendations for hair care products and maintenance routines. Regular deep conditioning and color-protecting shampoos and conditioners can prolong the vibrancy of the color.
Post-Dye Care
Following your highlighting appointment, it is crucial to follow proper post-dye care to maintain the vibrancy of your new highlights and protect the health of your hair.
Shampooing and Conditioning
Avoid washing your hair for 24-48 hours after dyeing to allow the color to settle. When you do shampoo, use a sulfate-free and color-safe formula. Condition your hair regularly to keep it moisturized and prevent fading.
Heat Styling
Limit the use of heat styling tools as they can damage both highlighted and non-highlighted hair. If you must heat style, use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.
Sun Protection
Protect your highlights from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing a hat or using a UV-protective hair spray.
Chlorine and Salt Water
Avoid swimming in chlorinated or saltwater pools as these chemicals can strip your highlights.
Color-Depositing Products
Use color-depositing shampoos or conditioners to maintain the vibrancy of your highlights. These products can help keep your color looking fresh and prevent fading.
Professional Touch-Ups
Schedule regular touch-ups with your stylist to maintain the desired level of highlighting and prevent brassiness.
Toning
Toning can help correct unwanted tones in your highlights, such as yellow or orange. Consider toning your hair every 6-8 weeks to keep your color looking its best.
Olaplex Treatment
Olaplex is a professional hair treatment that helps repair and strengthen chemically treated hair. This treatment can be beneficial for highlighted hair to prevent breakage and maintain its health.
Weekly Hair Masks
Nourish your highlighted hair with weekly hair masks. Use masks specifically designed for color-treated hair to restore moisture and vibrancy.
How To Darken Highlights
If you’ve ever had your hair highlighted, you know that it can be a great way to add some dimension and interest to your look. However, sometimes highlights can end up being too light or too brassy, and you may want to darken them. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on how dark you want to go and how much time you have. Here are a few of the most popular methods:
- Use a toner. A toner is a semi-permanent hair color that can be used to darken highlights without damaging your hair. Toners come in a variety of shades, so you can choose one that is close to your natural hair color or that will give you the desired look. To use a toner, simply apply it to your hair and let it sit for the amount of time specified in the instructions. Rinse your hair thoroughly and style as usual.
- Use a demi-permanent hair color. A demi-permanent hair color is a bit more permanent than a toner, but it is still less damaging than a permanent hair color. Demi-permanent hair colors typically last for 20-28 washes, so they are a good option if you want to darken your highlights for a longer period of time. To use a demi-permanent hair color, follow the instructions on the package. You will need to mix the color with a developer, and then apply it to your hair. Leave the color on for the amount of time specified in the instructions, and then rinse your hair thoroughly. Style as usual.
- Use a permanent hair color. A permanent hair color is the most permanent option for darkening highlights. However, it is also the most damaging, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before using it. If you decide to use a permanent hair color, be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. You will need to mix the color with a developer, and then apply it to your hair. Leave the color on for the amount of time specified in the instructions, and then rinse your hair thoroughly. Style as usual.
People Also Ask About How To Darken Highlights
How long does it take to darken highlights?
The amount of time it takes to darken highlights will depend on the method you use and how dark you want to go. If you use a toner, it will typically take about 30 minutes to see results. If you use a demi-permanent hair color, it will take about 20-28 washes for the color to fade. If you use a permanent hair color, the results will be permanent.
Can I darken highlights at home?
Yes, you can darken highlights at home. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the hair color package carefully. If you are not sure how to use a particular product, it is best to consult with a professional hair stylist.
What are the risks of darkening highlights?
There are a few risks associated with darkening highlights, including:
- The color may not turn out the way you want it to.
- You may damage your hair.
- You may have to spend a lot of time and money to get the desired results.
