How to Mix Toner at Home?
Mixing hair toner at home is easy with the right instructions. This guide provides a straightforward approach for achieving professional-looking results.
Hair toners are used to neutralize unwanted brassy or yellow tones in bleached or highlighted hair. They're typically mixed with a developer to activate the color and allow it to penetrate the hair shaft. The most common mixing ratio is 1 part toner to 2 parts developer. Always refer to the specific instructions on your toner product, as ratios may vary.
Essential Materials:
- Hair Toner: Choose a toner that matches your desired hair color and neutralizes your unwanted undertones. Many brands offer different shades to target specific color corrections (e.g., removing brassy yellow or orange tones).
- Developer: A developer is needed to activate the toner. The volume of the developer will impact how much lift and color change occurs. A lower volume developer (like 10-volume) will produce less lift and a more subtle color change, while a higher volume (like 20-volume or 30-volume) will produce more lift and a more noticeable color change. Always use the recommended developer volume for your chosen toner.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a non-metallic bowl for mixing; plastic or glass are ideal. Metal bowls can react with the toner and affect the color.
- Applicator Brush: A tint brush or applicator brush will provide more precise application.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from the chemicals with gloves.
- Moisturizing Shampoo and Deep Conditioner: These are essential for aftercare to keep your hair hydrated and healthy after toning.
Step-by-Step Mixing Process:
- Prepare your workspace: Gather all materials and lay them out neatly.
- Protect yourself: Put on your gloves.
- Measure ingredients: Carefully measure your toner and developer according to the 1:2 ratio (e.g., 1 ounce of toner and 2 ounces of developer). Precise measurement is crucial for consistent color.
- Mix thoroughly: Gently mix the toner and developer in your mixing bowl using the applicator brush until a smooth, even consistency is achieved. Avoid creating air bubbles.
- Apply to hair: Using the applicator brush, carefully apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the areas with unwanted tones.
- Process: Leave the toner in your hair for up to 45 minutes, depending on the desired results and the instructions of your specific toner product.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse your hair with cool or lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Condition: Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and follow with a deep conditioner to restore moisture and shine.
Important Considerations:
- Strand test: Before applying the toner to your entire head, conduct a strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of hair to see how the toner reacts. This will allow you to adjust the processing time or determine if the color is to your liking.
- Hair condition: Hair that is already damaged or over-processed is more susceptible to further damage. Consider using a deep conditioning treatment prior to toning to minimize the risk.
- Professional advice: If you're unsure about any aspect of the process or have concerns about your hair's health, consult a professional hairstylist.
