Yes, you can effectively tone down permanent hair color.
While permanent hair color cannot be simply "toned down" in the same way semi-permanent colors might fade or be adjusted with a toner, the artificial pigment can be lightened or removed using specific methods, essentially achieving a "toned down" result or preparing the hair for a lighter shade.
One highly effective method is using a color remover. According to the provided reference:
Professionals use color removers to correct hair color without altering the natural pigments in the hair. It's a safer alternative to bleaching and can provide a clean slate for re-dyeing the hair to a lighter shade.
How Color Remover Works
Color removers are designed to shrink the artificial dye molecules within the hair shaft, allowing them to be rinsed away. This process primarily targets the synthetic pigments you applied, often leaving the natural hair pigment relatively untouched, unlike bleach which lifts both artificial and natural color.
Using a color remover is often considered:
- Safer than bleach: It typically causes less damage to the hair structure.
- Effective: It can significantly lighten or remove permanent dye.
- A preparatory step: Provides a foundation if you wish to re-color your hair to a lighter shade after toning down the current color.
Other Considerations
While color removers are a primary method, other factors can slightly impact permanent color over time, though not as dramatically or controllably as a remover:
- Washing: Frequent washing, especially with clarifying or sulfate shampoos, can contribute to minimal fading.
- Sunlight: UV exposure can cause some lightening or a change in tone.
However, for a deliberate and noticeable "toning down" or lightening of permanent color, a color remover is the go-to solution often used by professionals.
Always consider performing a strand test before applying any color remover to your entire head to predict the result and assess hair condition. Consulting with a professional hairstylist is recommended to determine the best approach for your specific hair type and color history.
