To warm ash brown hair based on the provided references, you can primarily use a color-correcting cream.
Ash brown hair is characterized by its cool, often grayish or muted undertones. If you prefer a warmer look, which typically involves adding golden, red, or coppery tones, the methods outlined in the references focus on counteracting this coolness.
Here's how to approach warming ash brown hair according to the information provided:
1. Use a Color-Correcting Cream
One direct method mentioned in the references is to use a color-correcting cream.
- How it works: The reference states that using a color-correcting cream is the "trick to getting rid of unwanted coolness on your strands." Color correction in hair involves using shades that are opposite on the color wheel to neutralize unwanted tones. For example, green neutralizes red, blue neutralizes orange, and red/gold/copper neutralizes ash (blue/violet) tones. By applying a cream designed to counteract the cool tones in ash brown hair, you effectively introduce warmer pigments, making the hair appear less ash and more warm.
Applying such a cream can help shift the balance of tones in your hair, moving it away from ash and towards a warmer hue.
2. Wash Extra (To Reduce Coolness)
Another point from the references suggests washing your hair extra if you are unhappy with the level of cool tones.
- What it does: Washing hair, especially with clarifying or even regular shampoos, can help fade hair color over time. The reference indicates that washing extra can help "get rid of the level of cool tones in your hair." While this method doesn't add warmth, fading the cool ash tone can make any underlying warmer pigments more visible or simply reduce the overall coolness of the shade, potentially giving the appearance of a slightly warmer or more neutral result compared to the initial cool ash.
This is less about actively adding warmth and more about reducing the element (the cool tone) that makes the hair appear ash.
3. Always Use a Heat Protectant
While not a method for changing the color, the references also stress the importance of using a heat protectant.
- Why it's important: "Always use a heat protectant." Protecting your hair from heat damage when using styling tools like dryers, straighteners, or curlers is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your hair. Healthy hair holds color better and looks more vibrant. While this step doesn't directly warm the hair color, it's essential hair care practice for preserving the quality of your hair after any color treatments or toning efforts.
In summary, based on the provided references, warming ash brown hair primarily involves using a color-correcting cream to directly counteract cool tones, or washing the hair extra to help fade unwanted coolness. Maintaining hair health with heat protectant supports the overall look.
