Your hair likely turns ginger after dyeing it brown because the chosen dye shade has underlying warm tones that become prominent.
Understanding Hair Dye and Undertones
When selecting a brown hair dye, it's essential to be aware of the undertones present in the formula. These undertones can drastically affect the final color result. According to the reference, "if the colour says golden, chocolate, mahogany, red, warm brown etc, these will all look 'ginger'." These types of dyes contain warm pigments (like red, orange, and gold) that, when applied to hair, can result in a reddish or ginger appearance. Even if you are aiming for a basic brown, these tones can come through, especially if your hair already has some warm undertones.
Achieving a Rich, True Brown
To avoid an unwanted ginger result, follow these key strategies:
- Carefully Check the Shade: Avoid any dyes labeled as "golden," "chocolate," "mahogany," "red," or "warm brown." These shades are designed to produce a warm result.
- Look for Neutral or Ash-Toned Browns: Opt for brown dyes that are labeled "neutral brown" or "ash brown." Ash tones, in particular, counteract warmth and can help prevent the development of red or ginger tones.
- Add a Basic Shade for Depth: Use a basic brown shade as a foundation. This helps build a deeper, richer color and reduces the prominence of any unwanted warm undertones.
- Consider Your Natural Hair Color: Natural hair color influences how a dye will develop. If your hair already has warm undertones, it's even more critical to choose an ash or neutral-based brown and/or use a color depositing toner.
Common Culprits for Ginger Tones
| Dye Label | Resulting Tone |
|---|---|
| Golden Brown | Ginger or red |
| Chocolate Brown | Ginger or red |
| Mahogany Brown | Ginger or red |
| Red Brown | Ginger or red |
| Warm Brown | Ginger or red |
By carefully examining the shade and undertones of your hair dye, and selecting cooler options where necessary, you can avoid unwanted ginger tones and achieve the desired brown color.
