Grey hair is a natural and beautiful part of aging, but sometimes you might want to tweak its tone or add a touch of vibrancy. Blonde toners are a popular choice for adjusting the hues of blonde hair, but what about grey hair? Can you use a blonde toner on grey hair and achieve the desired results? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no; it’s nuanced and depends on several factors. This article will delve into the intricacies of using blonde toners on grey hair, covering everything from the underlying science to practical application tips.
Understanding Grey Hair and its Unique Properties
To understand how blonde toner interacts with grey hair, we first need to understand the nature of grey hair itself. Grey hair isn’t actually grey; it’s white. It appears grey because it’s interspersed with normally pigmented hair, creating an optical illusion.
The Absence of Melanin
The primary reason for grey hair is the decline or cessation of melanin production in the hair follicle. Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving hair its color. As we age, the melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin) become less active or die off, leading to hair that lacks pigment.
The Texture and Porosity of Grey Hair
Grey hair tends to be coarser and drier than pigmented hair. This is because the sebaceous glands, which produce oil to keep hair moisturized, also become less active with age. The lack of melanin also affects the hair’s structure, making it more porous. Porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture or chemical treatments. High porosity means the hair absorbs quickly but also loses moisture just as rapidly. Low porosity hair resists absorption.
Blonde Toners: What They Are and How They Work
Blonde toners are semi-permanent hair color products used to neutralize unwanted undertones in blonde hair, such as yellow or brassy hues. They work by depositing pigments onto the hair shaft, correcting the color without significantly lightening the hair.
The Science Behind Toning
Toners typically contain pigments that are opposite on the color wheel to the unwanted tones. For example, purple toners are used to neutralize yellow tones, while blue toners counteract orange tones. The pigments in the toner are deposited on the outer layer of the hair shaft, providing a subtle color change.
Types of Blonde Toners
There are various types of blonde toners available, including:
- Liquid toners: These are mixed with a developer and applied to damp or dry hair.
- Cream toners: Similar to liquid toners, but with a creamier consistency.
- Shampoo toners (purple shampoos): These are used in place of regular shampoo to maintain blonde tones and prevent brassiness.
The Key Question: Can You Use Blonde Toner on Grey Hair?
Now, let’s address the main question: can you use blonde toner on grey hair? The answer is yes, but with caveats. The success of using blonde toner on grey hair depends on the specific shade of grey, the desired outcome, and the toner used.
When Toner Works Well on Grey Hair
Toner can be effective on grey hair when:
- The grey hair is mostly white or a very light silver.
- The goal is to neutralize yellow tones and achieve a brighter, more silver or platinum look.
- The toner is specifically formulated for use on light hair.
When Toner Might Not Work as Expected on Grey Hair
Toner may not be the best option for grey hair when:
- The grey hair is heavily mixed with pigmented hair. The toner may only affect the grey strands, resulting in an uneven color.
- The goal is to significantly darken the grey hair. Toner is designed to deposit tone, not drastically change the color.
- The grey hair is resistant to absorbing the toner due to low porosity.
Factors to Consider Before Applying Blonde Toner to Grey Hair
Before you rush to apply blonde toner to your grey hair, consider these crucial factors:
The Condition of Your Hair
Grey hair tends to be drier and more fragile than pigmented hair. Ensure your hair is in good condition before applying any chemical treatment, including toner. Deep conditioning treatments can help improve the hair’s moisture levels and elasticity.
The Percentage of Grey Hair
If you have a significant amount of pigmented hair mixed with your grey hair, the toner may not provide a uniform result. Consider a different approach, such as using a permanent or demi-permanent hair color that can cover the grey and blend with the remaining pigmented hair.
Your Desired Outcome
What are you hoping to achieve with the toner? Do you want to neutralize yellow tones, brighten your grey, or add a slight tint? Be realistic about what toner can achieve. Toner won’t turn dark grey hair into platinum blonde.
Choosing the Right Toner
Selecting the appropriate toner is essential for achieving the desired results. Opt for toners that are designed for light hair or specifically mention grey hair on the packaging. Read the product instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Blonde Toner on Grey Hair
If you’ve considered the factors above and decided to proceed with applying blonde toner to your grey hair, follow these steps:
Preparation
- Gather your supplies: You’ll need toner, developer (if required), gloves, a mixing bowl, an applicator brush, a towel, and a timer.
- Perform a strand test: Apply the toner to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to test the color and ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
- Protect your skin and clothing: Wear gloves to prevent staining your hands and drape a towel over your shoulders to protect your clothing.
Application
- Mix the toner and developer according to the product instructions.
- Apply the toner evenly to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends. Ensure all the grey hair is saturated with the toner.
- Use the applicator brush to distribute the toner evenly throughout your hair.
Processing and Rinsing
- Leave the toner on for the recommended processing time, as specified in the product instructions. Do not exceed the recommended time, as this can damage your hair.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
- Apply a moisturizing conditioner to replenish moisture lost during the toning process.
Post-Toning Care
- Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to maintain the color and prevent fading.
- Avoid using harsh styling products or heat styling tools, as these can damage your hair and cause the toner to fade more quickly.
- Consider using a purple shampoo or conditioner once a week to maintain the cool tones and prevent brassiness.
Alternative Solutions for Enhancing Grey Hair
If blonde toner isn’t the ideal solution for your grey hair, consider these alternative options:
Demi-Permanent Hair Color
Demi-permanent hair color is a good option for blending grey hair and adding shine. It doesn’t contain ammonia or peroxide, so it’s less damaging than permanent hair color.
Grey Hair Blending Products
There are various products specifically designed for blending grey hair, such as root touch-up sprays and color sticks. These products can temporarily cover grey roots and blend them with your natural hair color.
Embrace Your Natural Grey
Many people are choosing to embrace their natural grey hair. With proper care and styling, grey hair can be beautiful and sophisticated. Use products designed for grey hair to enhance its shine and manageability. Talk to your hairstylist about the best ways to care for your natural grey hair.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While toning is generally considered a safe process, some potential risks and side effects should be considered:
Hair Damage
Over-processing or using harsh toners can damage your hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Always follow the product instructions carefully and avoid over-processing.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may be allergic to the ingredients in toners. Always perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head to check for any adverse reactions.
Uneven Color
If the toner is not applied evenly, or if your hair is not in good condition, you may end up with uneven color results.
Conclusion
Using blonde toner on grey hair can be a viable option for neutralizing yellow tones and achieving a brighter, more silver or platinum look. However, it’s essential to consider the condition of your hair, the percentage of grey hair, your desired outcome, and the type of toner you use. Always perform a strand test before applying toner to your entire head, and follow the product instructions carefully. If you’re unsure whether toner is the right option for you, consult with a professional hairstylist who can assess your hair and recommend the best course of action. Embracing your grey hair, whether through toning or other methods, can be a beautiful and empowering experience.
Can blonde toner effectively cover grey hair?
Blonde toners are generally not designed for covering grey hair completely. Their primary function is to neutralize unwanted warm tones (like yellow or brassiness) in blonde hair, rather than providing full coverage of grey strands. Toners deposit only a small amount of pigment, which may not be enough to fully conceal the resistant pigment in grey hair. While it might slightly shift the tone of the grey, it’s unlikely to achieve a uniform, blended look.
Instead of a toner, consider using a permanent or demi-permanent hair color formulated specifically for grey coverage. These products contain a higher concentration of pigment and are designed to penetrate the hair cuticle more effectively, ensuring complete and long-lasting coverage. Consult with a professional colorist for the best product and technique to cover your grey hair while achieving your desired blonde shade.
What types of blonde toner shades work best on grey hair if complete coverage isn’t the goal?
If you’re not aiming for complete grey coverage but rather a subtle blend or softening effect, ash blonde or silver-toned toners can be more effective. These cooler-toned toners can neutralize any yellow or brassy tones in the grey hair, creating a more harmonious blend with the surrounding blonde hair. They work by depositing cool pigments that counteract the warmth, resulting in a slightly muted and more sophisticated look.
Remember that the results will vary depending on the percentage of grey hair and the existing blonde shade. Lighter blonde shades will show the toner’s effect more prominently on the grey. Experimenting with different application techniques, such as strategically applying the toner to specific areas with more grey, can help achieve a more balanced and customized outcome. Always perform a strand test first to assess the final result before applying to the entire head.
Will blonde toner damage grey hair?
Blonde toners are generally low in ammonia and peroxide, making them less damaging than permanent hair dyes. However, any chemical process has the potential to cause some degree of dryness or damage, especially to hair that is already weakened or fragile. Grey hair, in particular, tends to be drier and more porous, making it more susceptible to absorbing the toner’s chemicals, which could lead to further dryness and breakage.
To minimize potential damage, choose a high-quality toner and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Before applying the toner, consider using a deep conditioning treatment to hydrate and strengthen the hair. After toning, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner designed for color-treated hair. Regularly applying hair masks and avoiding excessive heat styling will also help maintain the health and integrity of your grey and blonde hair.
How long does blonde toner typically last on grey hair?
The longevity of blonde toner on grey hair is typically shorter compared to its duration on pigmented hair. This is because grey hair lacks the melanin that helps the toner’s pigments adhere effectively. As a result, the toner is more likely to fade quickly, often within a few washes. Factors such as the porosity of the hair, the specific toner formula, and washing frequency can also impact how long the color lasts.
To prolong the life of your toner on grey hair, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products are gentler and help prevent color from stripping away. Avoid washing your hair too frequently and use lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can accelerate fading. Consider using a color-depositing shampoo or conditioner in between toning sessions to refresh the color and maintain the desired tone.
What are the risks of using blonde toner on grey hair?
One of the primary risks is uneven color distribution. Because grey hair is often more resistant to color, the toner might not deposit evenly, resulting in patchy or inconsistent results. Some areas of grey hair might absorb the toner more readily than others, leading to a non-uniform appearance. This can be particularly noticeable if the grey hair is concentrated in certain areas.
Another risk is the possibility of unwanted tones appearing. Depending on the underlying pigments in the grey hair and the specific toner used, the result could be brassy, ashy, or even slightly green. This is especially true if the toner is not properly matched to the hair’s undertones. Always perform a strand test to evaluate the potential outcome before applying the toner to the entire head. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure about which toner is best suited for your hair.
What alternative hair coloring options are better suited for covering grey hair while achieving a blonde look?
Demi-permanent and permanent hair colors formulated specifically for grey coverage are much more effective alternatives to toners. These products contain a higher concentration of pigment and are designed to penetrate the hair cuticle more deeply, providing complete and longer-lasting grey coverage. They also offer a wider range of blonde shades to choose from, allowing you to achieve your desired look with greater precision.
Another option is to use a base color specifically for grey coverage and then add highlights or lowlights to create dimension and a more natural-looking blonde. This technique can help blend the grey hair seamlessly and add depth to the overall color. Consult with a professional colorist to determine the best approach based on your hair type, color, and desired level of grey coverage. They can also advise on the most suitable products and techniques to minimize damage and maintain healthy, vibrant hair.
Can I mix blonde toner with developer specifically to cover grey hair better?
While mixing blonde toner with a higher volume developer might seem like a way to improve grey coverage, it’s generally not recommended. Toners are formulated to be used with low-volume developers (typically 10 or 20 volume) for a gentle deposit of color. Using a higher volume developer can compromise the toner’s intended effect, potentially leading to uneven color, damage, or undesirable results.
Instead of modifying the toner with a stronger developer, consider using a product specifically designed for grey coverage, as previously mentioned. These products are formulated to work effectively with the appropriate developer to achieve complete and long-lasting coverage. Modifying a toner’s formula can be unpredictable and might not yield the desired results, potentially leading to disappointment and hair damage. It’s always best to choose a product that is designed for the specific purpose of covering grey hair.