Transform Your Bleached Orange/Gold Hair to Dark Ash Blonde or Light Brown: A DIY Guide

Transforming bleached orange or golden hair to a dark ash blonde or light brown shade at home is achievable with the right steps and products. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve the perfect shade.

Assess Your Hair Condition and Color Level

Before you begin, it's essential to assess the condition of your hair and its current color level.

Condition: Check the overall health of your hair. If your hair has been heavily bleached, a deep conditioning treatment will help restore its strength and shine.

Color Level: Determine how light your hair is and how much orange or gold remains after bleaching. Understanding this will help you choose the right dye and tones for your hair.

Choose the Right Color and Supplies

Select a Dye: Look for dark ash blonde or light brown dyes with neutral or cool undertones. Brands like Wella, L'Oreal, and Schwarzkopf offer high-quality options.

Consider Toning Products: If you are dealing with strong orange tones, a toner with a violet or blue base can help neutralize those warm tones and bring out the desired color.

Gather Supplies: You will need various products for a successful DIY hair color project.

Dye in your selected color shade (dark ash blonde or light brown) Developer (usually a 20 volume) Toning shampoo (optional) Gloves Mixing bowl and brush Old towel or shirt hair clips

Prepare Your Hair

Wash Your Hair: Ideally, wash your hair 1-2 days before dyeing to allow natural oils to protect your scalp.

Strand Test: Always perform a strand test to ensure the dye is suitable for your hair type and to avoid any mismatches.

Application Process

Mix the Dye: Follow the instructions on the dye box to mix the color and developer.

Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections for easier application.

Apply the Dye: Start applying the dye from the roots and work your way to the ends, ensuring even coverage.

Process Time: Leave the dye on for the recommended time, checking frequently to prevent over-processing.

Rinse and Condition

Rinse your hair: Start rinsing with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Use a color-safe conditioner to lock in moisture and promote healthy hair.

Maintain Your Color

Use a Toning Shampoo: Incorporate a purple or blue shampoo into your routine to counteract any brassiness and maintain your desired color.

Deep Condition Regularly: Deep condition your hair regularly to maintain its health and prevent damage.

Monitor and Adjust

If the color isn't as expected, you may need to perform another color treatment or adjust your approach in the future.

Additional Tips

Be Patient: If your hair is very orange, you might need a couple of applications to achieve your desired shade.

Avoid Overlapping: If you plan to dye again in the future, avoid applying dye to previously colored hair to prevent further damage.

By following these steps, you should be able to achieve a more neutral or cool-toned shade that aligns with your desired look. Good luck with your DIY hair transformation!

For more advice and tips on hair care, check out these additional resources:

Best Hair Care Tips for Bleached Hair DIY Hair Conditional Treatments Keeping Your Color Fresh: Products and Techniques