oVertone has revolutionized the world of hair coloring, offering a damage-free, vibrant alternative to traditional dyes. Its unique formula deposits color onto the hair’s surface, conditioning as it colors. This means no harsh chemicals and a healthier, more vibrant mane. But, like any hair coloring product, the key to achieving those Instagram-worthy results lies in the application process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to apply oVertone like a pro, ensuring you achieve the color of your dreams while keeping your hair healthy and happy.
Preparing for Your oVertone Transformation
Before diving headfirst into color, meticulous preparation is crucial for a smooth and successful oVertone application. This stage involves gathering your supplies, protecting your surroundings, and ensuring your hair is in the best possible condition to receive the color.
Gathering Your Supplies
Having everything you need readily available will streamline the application process and prevent any mid-coloring mishaps. The essential supplies include: your chosen oVertone Coloring Conditioner (or Deep Treatment), a pair of gloves (preferably non-latex), an application brush (optional, but recommended for even distribution), a mixing bowl (if not using the direct application method), clips to section your hair, an old towel you don’t mind staining, a timer, and a shower cap (optional). Having all of these items within easy reach will make the process significantly smoother.
Protecting Your Workspace and Yourself
oVertone is designed to deposit color, and that means it can stain surfaces. Protect your bathroom counter, floor, and any other vulnerable areas with old towels or newspaper. Wear an old t-shirt or a smock to prevent staining your clothing. Gloves are absolutely essential to protect your hands from staining. Make sure they fit comfortably and securely.
Preparing Your Hair
The condition of your hair plays a significant role in how well the color adheres and how vibrant the final result will be. Start with clean, dry hair. Washing your hair 12-24 hours before applying oVertone is ideal, as it allows your natural oils to slightly build up, providing a better base for the color to grip onto. Avoid using heavy conditioners or styling products before applying oVertone, as these can create a barrier that prevents the color from properly depositing. Dry hair is crucial for the best color payoff.
The oVertone Application Process: Step-by-Step
Now that you’re prepped and ready, it’s time to apply the oVertone! This process involves sectioning your hair, applying the color evenly, and allowing it to process for the recommended time. Following these steps carefully will ensure even coverage and vibrant results.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. The number of sections will depend on the thickness and length of your hair. Generally, four to six sections are sufficient. This ensures that you can thoroughly saturate each strand with the color, preventing patchiness and ensuring even coverage. Sectioning is key to even color distribution.
Applying the oVertone Coloring Conditioner
There are two primary methods for applying oVertone: the direct application method and the bowl and brush method.
- Direct Application: Apply oVertone Coloring Conditioner directly from the bottle to your gloved hands and work it into each section of your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Ensure every strand is thoroughly saturated.
- Bowl and Brush: Dispense the desired amount of oVertone Coloring Conditioner into a mixing bowl. Using an application brush, apply the color to each section of your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. This method is often preferred for its precision and ability to evenly distribute the color.
Regardless of the method you choose, ensure you completely saturate each strand of hair with the product. Massaging the color into your hair as you apply it helps to ensure even distribution and better absorption.
Processing Time
Once your hair is completely saturated with oVertone, cover it with a shower cap (optional) to help retain heat and prevent the color from drying out. Set a timer for the recommended processing time, which typically ranges from 10-30 minutes for Coloring Conditioners and Deep Treatments. Leaving the product on for longer than the recommended time will generally result in more intense color.
Rinsing and Conditioning
After the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo, as this can strip the color from your hair. Condition your hair with a color-safe conditioner to help seal in the color and add moisture.
Tips and Tricks for Optimal oVertone Results
While the application process is straightforward, there are several tips and tricks that can help you achieve even more stunning results with oVertone. These include understanding your starting hair color, performing a strand test, and properly maintaining your color.
Understanding Your Starting Hair Color
The color of your hair before applying oVertone will significantly impact the final result. oVertone works best on light brown to blonde hair. Darker hair may require pre-lightening to achieve the desired vibrancy. Refer to the oVertone website or consult with a professional stylist to determine the best approach for your hair color. Lighter hair will show color more vividly.
The Importance of a Strand Test
Before applying oVertone to your entire head, it’s highly recommended to perform a strand test. This involves applying the color to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to see how it takes to the color and to ensure you’re happy with the final result. This simple step can save you from potential color surprises and ensure you achieve the look you’re aiming for. A strand test is your best friend for avoiding color mishaps.
Maintaining Your oVertone Color
To keep your oVertone color looking fresh and vibrant, it’s essential to follow a proper maintenance routine. This includes using color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoiding excessive heat styling, and reapplying oVertone Coloring Conditioner or Deep Treatment regularly to refresh the color. oVertone also sells daily conditioners to help maintain the color.
Troubleshooting Common oVertone Issues
Even with careful preparation and application, you may encounter some common issues when using oVertone. Understanding these issues and how to address them can help you achieve your desired results.
Uneven Color Distribution
Uneven color distribution can occur if the hair is not properly saturated with the color or if the application is inconsistent. To fix this, you can reapply oVertone to the lighter areas, ensuring thorough saturation. Sectioning your hair properly and using an application brush can also help prevent this issue.
Color Not Showing Up
If the color is not showing up as vividly as you expected, it could be due to several factors, including a darker starting hair color, the presence of product buildup, or insufficient processing time. Ensure your hair is clean and free of product buildup before applying oVertone. You may also need to pre-lighten your hair to achieve a brighter color. Processing time is crucial for color intensity.
Color Fading Too Quickly
Color fading is a natural process, but you can slow it down by using color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoiding excessive washing, and protecting your hair from the sun. Reapplying oVertone Coloring Conditioner or Deep Treatment regularly will also help refresh the color and keep it looking vibrant.
Choosing the Right oVertone Products for Your Hair
oVertone offers a range of products to suit different hair types and color goals. Understanding the differences between these products can help you choose the best options for your hair.
Coloring Conditioners vs. Deep Treatments
oVertone Coloring Conditioners are designed for daily or regular use to maintain or enhance your color. They deposit a small amount of color with each application, making them ideal for refreshing your color between more intensive treatments. Deep Treatments, on the other hand, provide a more intense color boost and are typically used less frequently. They contain a higher concentration of pigment, resulting in more vibrant and long-lasting color.
Understanding the Color Range
oVertone offers a wide range of colors, from vibrant shades like purple and blue to more natural tones like brown and red. Consider your starting hair color and desired outcome when choosing a color. The oVertone website provides helpful color charts and guides to help you select the perfect shade for your hair.
Applying oVertone is a relatively simple process, but following these tips and tricks will ensure you achieve the most vibrant, long-lasting, and damage-free color possible. Remember to prepare your hair properly, apply the color evenly, and maintain your color with regular treatments. With a little practice and attention to detail, you can achieve salon-worthy results in the comfort of your own home. The key is patience, precision, and a commitment to healthy hair care.
What is oVertone and how does it work to color my hair?
oVertone is a semi-permanent hair coloring conditioner designed to deposit vibrant color onto pre-lightened or naturally light hair. Unlike traditional hair dyes that use harsh chemicals to open the hair cuticle and deposit color, oVertone works by coating the hair shaft with pigment. This gentle process minimizes damage and keeps your hair healthy and hydrated.
The color intensity you achieve with oVertone depends on the lightness of your starting hair color and the specific oVertone product you choose. Lighter hair will naturally show a more vibrant result, while darker hair may require pre-lightening for optimal color payoff. Regular use of oVertone gradually builds up the color, making it an excellent choice for maintaining and enhancing your desired shade.
How long does oVertone color typically last on my hair?
The longevity of oVertone color varies depending on several factors, including your hair porosity, washing frequency, and the specific oVertone shade used. Typically, the color lasts anywhere from 6 to 12 washes. More porous hair tends to absorb and release color faster, while less porous hair holds onto the color for a longer duration.
To extend the life of your oVertone color, it’s recommended to wash your hair less frequently and use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Cold water rinses also help to seal the hair cuticle and prevent color from fading quickly. Using oVertone Coloring Conditioners in between full applications can also maintain the vibrancy of your color over time.
Do I need to bleach my hair before using oVertone?
Whether or not you need to bleach your hair before using oVertone depends on your current hair color and the desired outcome. oVertone works best on light to medium blonde hair, as the pigments need a light base to show up vibrantly. If your hair is darker than a medium brown, bleaching will likely be necessary to achieve the best results.
If you’re unsure whether your hair is light enough, it’s recommended to do a strand test. Apply oVertone to a small, hidden section of your hair to see how the color develops. This will give you a clear indication of whether pre-lightening is required to achieve your desired vibrancy. Keep in mind that oVertone’s Pastel shades require a very light blonde base to show up accurately.
How do I apply oVertone Coloring Conditioner correctly?
For optimal results when applying oVertone Coloring Conditioner, start with clean, dry hair. Divide your hair into sections and apply a generous amount of the product from root to tip, ensuring every strand is thoroughly coated. Use gloves to prevent staining your hands and a comb or brush to evenly distribute the product.
Once your hair is completely saturated with the Coloring Conditioner, leave it on for the recommended time, typically 10-15 minutes. For a more intense color, you can leave it on for up to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid shampooing your hair immediately after rinsing to allow the color to fully set.
Can oVertone cover gray hair, and how effective is it?
oVertone is not specifically designed to cover gray hair, and its effectiveness in doing so can vary. The semi-permanent nature of oVertone means it primarily coats the hair shaft rather than penetrating it deeply like traditional permanent dyes. While it can tint gray hair, it may not provide complete coverage.
The color result on gray hair will depend on the shade chosen and the underlying color of the gray strands. Lighter shades of oVertone may not provide enough pigment to effectively cover grays, while darker, more vibrant shades might offer better coverage, albeit potentially less uniform. For complete gray coverage, a permanent hair dye is usually recommended.
How do I choose the right oVertone shade for my hair?
Selecting the right oVertone shade for your hair involves considering your current hair color, desired outcome, and any existing tones in your hair. oVertone offers a wide range of colors, from pastels to vibrant hues, and it’s essential to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and personal style. Refer to oVertone’s website and color charts for guidance.
A strand test is crucial before applying the color to your entire head. This allows you to see how the shade will interact with your hair’s natural color and ensures you’re happy with the result. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to start with a lighter shade and gradually build up the color with multiple applications or longer processing times.
What are the potential risks or side effects of using oVertone?
oVertone is generally considered a safe and gentle hair coloring option, but like any cosmetic product, there are potential risks or side effects to be aware of. Allergic reactions are possible, although rare, so it’s always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product to your entire head.
Some users may experience temporary staining of the skin or scalp, particularly with darker or more vibrant shades. Wearing gloves during application and applying a barrier cream along the hairline can help to minimize staining. While oVertone is designed to be hydrating, some hair types may still experience dryness, so using a deep conditioner afterwards is recommended.