How Do You Use Homemade Hair Toner?
Applying homemade hair toner is a straightforward process, but the exact method depends on your chosen recipe. Many homemade toners utilize a base of conditioner mixed with a color-correcting agent like diluted food coloring or natural ingredients such as apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Before application, you'll need to prepare your toner. Recipes vary, but common methods include:
- Conditioner + Food Coloring: Mix a small amount of food coloring (e.g., purple for brassy blonde tones) into a larger quantity of conditioner. The ratio is typically around 2:1 conditioner to dye. A bowl is ideal for precise mixing. [Source: Quora]
- Conditioner + Purple Dye: Similar to food coloring, a small amount of purple hair dye can be mixed into conditioner to neutralize brassy tones. A little goes a long way. [Source: Wonder Forest]
- Natural Ingredients: Some recipes utilize natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or herbal infusions. These are often mixed with water and may require boiling. [Source: Our Oily House & Style Craze]
Applying the Homemade Toner
Once your toner is mixed, follow these steps:
- Protect your clothes and surfaces: Wear gloves and an old towel to protect yourself from staining.
- Apply to damp hair: Apply the toner to freshly washed, damp hair. Avoid applying to your scalp.
- Even distribution: Ensure even distribution throughout your hair, focusing on areas needing the most color correction. A brush can help. [Source: Wonder Forest]
- Processing time: Leave the toner in your hair for the recommended time, which usually varies from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the recipe and desired results. [Source: Various YouTube videos]
- Rinse thoroughly: Thoroughly rinse your hair until the water runs clear.
- Condition (optional): Condition your hair to add moisture and shine.
Important Considerations
- Patch test: Always perform a patch test on a small, hidden section of hair before applying the toner to your entire head, to check for allergic reactions or unexpected color changes.
- Start with less: If you're unsure about the intensity, start with a smaller amount of color-correcting agent and add more gradually. It's easier to add more than to remove excess color.
- Consistency: Consistency is key when using homemade toners. Inconsistent mixing can lead to uneven color results.
Remember, homemade hair toners might not be as effective as professional products and results can vary depending on your hair type and initial color. Always exercise caution and start with a small test before full application. [Source: Multiple sources]
