Highlights, those sun-kissed streaks of color woven into your hair, can be a fantastic way to add dimension, brightness, and a youthful glow. However, sometimes the initial excitement fades. Perhaps your highlights are too bright, brassy, or simply don’t suit your current aesthetic. Whatever the reason, you’re here because you want to darken them. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods, from at-home solutions to professional salon treatments, ensuring you achieve the perfect toned-down highlights you desire.
Understanding Your Highlights and Hair
Before diving into darkening techniques, it’s crucial to understand the type of highlights you have and your overall hair condition. This knowledge will guide you toward the safest and most effective approach.
Identifying Your Highlight Type
Several highlighting techniques exist, each with its own unique application and result. Common types include:
- Balayage: Hand-painted highlights that create a soft, natural transition.
- Foils: Highlights created using foils to separate and lighten strands.
- Babylights: Very fine, delicate highlights that mimic a child’s natural hair color.
- Chunky Highlights: Thicker, more defined streaks of color.
Knowing which technique was used can help you predict how your hair will react to darkening treatments. For instance, balayage might be easier to blend than chunky highlights.
Assessing Your Hair’s Condition
Has your hair been previously colored, permed, or chemically treated? Lightening processes, especially highlighting, can be damaging. Over-processed hair is more porous and prone to breakage, so it’s essential to proceed with caution. Pay close attention to:
- Dryness and Brittleness: These are signs of damage and require extra care.
- Split Ends: Frequent trims can help maintain hair health.
- Elasticity: Healthy hair stretches and returns to its original length without breaking. Poor elasticity indicates weakened hair.
Healthy hair will accept color more evenly and be less susceptible to further damage. If your hair is severely damaged, consult a professional stylist for personalized advice.
Temporary Solutions for Darkening Highlights
If you’re hesitant to commit to a permanent change or simply want to experiment with a darker look, temporary solutions are a great starting point. These methods wash out with shampoo, allowing you to revert to your original highlights if desired.
Tinted Shampoos and Conditioners
These products deposit a small amount of color onto the hair each time you use them. They are ideal for subtly toning down highlights and neutralizing brassiness.
- Choosing the Right Shade: Opt for a shampoo or conditioner that is one or two shades darker than your desired highlight color. Ashy or cool-toned shades can help counteract unwanted warmth.
- Application Tips: Apply evenly to damp hair, focusing on the highlighted areas. Leave on for the recommended time (usually a few minutes) and rinse thoroughly. Use regularly to maintain the desired tone.
Tinted shampoos and conditioners are a gentle way to experiment with darker highlights without the commitment of permanent dye.
Hair Glosses and Glazes
Glosses and glazes are semi-permanent treatments that add shine and subtle color to the hair. They are a good option for enhancing existing color and blending highlights.
- Selecting a Gloss or Glaze: Choose a shade that complements your base color and is slightly darker than your highlights.
- Application Process: Follow the product instructions carefully. Glosses and glazes are typically applied to clean, damp hair and left on for a specific time before rinsing.
Glosses and glazes can be applied at home or in a salon, offering flexibility and control over the final result.
Hair Mascaras and Root Touch-Up Sprays
These products are designed for temporary color touch-ups and can be used to darken specific sections of highlights. They are best suited for small areas and for creating a more blended look.
- Using Hair Mascara: Apply the mascara to individual strands of highlights, focusing on the roots or areas that appear too bright.
- Applying Root Touch-Up Spray: Hold the can a few inches away from your hair and spray evenly over the desired areas. Be careful not to overapply.
Hair mascaras and root touch-up sprays offer a quick and easy solution for temporary darkening, perfect for special occasions or when you want to experiment with a different look.
Semi-Permanent and Demi-Permanent Options
For a longer-lasting change without the commitment of permanent hair dye, semi-permanent and demi-permanent colors are excellent choices. These formulas gradually fade over time, typically lasting between 6 to 8 weeks.
Understanding the Difference
Semi-permanent color deposits pigment onto the hair shaft without penetrating it. Demi-permanent color contains a low-volume developer that allows it to slightly penetrate the hair shaft. Both options are less damaging than permanent dye.
Choosing the Right Shade and Developer
Select a shade that is close to your desired highlight color and complements your base color. If using demi-permanent color, a low-volume developer (10 volume or less) is recommended to minimize damage.
Application Technique
- Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying the color to your entire head. This will help you determine the processing time and ensure you achieve the desired result.
- Application: Apply the color evenly to the highlighted areas, following the product instructions. Use a brush for precision and avoid overlapping onto your base color.
- Processing Time: Process the color for the recommended time, checking periodically to ensure it’s not becoming too dark.
- Rinsing and Conditioning: Rinse thoroughly with cool water and apply a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.
Semi-permanent and demi-permanent colors offer a good balance between longevity and minimal damage, making them a popular choice for darkening highlights.
Permanent Hair Color: A Lasting Solution
If you’re seeking a long-term solution and are confident in your color choice, permanent hair color can effectively darken your highlights. However, this method requires careful consideration, as it involves a more significant commitment and potential for damage.
When to Choose Permanent Color
Permanent color is best suited for those who:
- Are certain about wanting darker highlights.
- Have healthy hair that can withstand the process.
- Understand the commitment of maintaining permanent color.
Selecting the Right Shade and Developer Volume
Choose a shade that is close to your desired highlight color and complements your base color. The developer volume will determine the level of lift and deposit. For darkening highlights, a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) is typically sufficient.
The Importance of Professional Application
Applying permanent hair color at home can be risky, especially if you’re not experienced. Uneven application, color banding, and damage are potential consequences. Consulting a professional stylist is highly recommended.
Post-Color Care
After applying permanent color, it’s crucial to:
- Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners.
- Avoid excessive heat styling.
- Get regular trims to remove split ends.
- Protect your hair from sun exposure.
Permanent hair color provides a lasting solution for darkening highlights, but it requires careful planning, application, and maintenance to ensure optimal results and hair health.
Natural Remedies for Subtly Darkening Highlights
For a gentler, more gradual approach, consider using natural remedies to subtly darken your highlights. These methods are less predictable than chemical treatments but can be a good option for those with sensitive hair or who prefer a more natural approach.
Coffee Rinse
Coffee can stain the hair and darken highlights over time.
- Preparation: Brew a strong pot of coffee and let it cool completely.
- Application: Pour the coffee over your hair, making sure to saturate the highlighted areas.
- Processing Time: Leave the coffee on for 30-60 minutes.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Repeat this process several times a week for gradual darkening.
Henna
Henna is a natural dye that can add warmth and darken highlights.
- Caution: Henna can be permanent and may react unpredictably with other chemical treatments. Perform a strand test before applying it to your entire head.
- Preparation: Mix henna powder with warm water to create a paste.
- Application: Apply the paste to your hair, focusing on the highlighted areas.
- Processing Time: Leave the henna on for 1-3 hours, depending on the desired intensity.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with water.
Henna can be a good option for adding warmth and darkening highlights, but it’s essential to proceed with caution and understand its potential effects.
Black Tea Rinse
Similar to coffee, black tea can stain the hair and darken highlights.
- Preparation: Brew a strong pot of black tea and let it cool completely.
- Application: Pour the tea over your hair, making sure to saturate the highlighted areas.
- Processing Time: Leave the tea on for 30-60 minutes.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Repeat this process several times a week for gradual darkening.
Professional Salon Treatments
When in doubt, seeking professional help from a qualified stylist is always the best option, especially if you are dealing with damaged hair or are unsure about the best approach.
Toner Application
Toners are semi-permanent colors that can neutralize unwanted tones and darken highlights. A stylist can custom-blend a toner to achieve your desired shade.
Lowlights
Lowlights are strands of hair that are darker than your base color. Adding lowlights can create dimension and blend highlights.
Color Correction
If your highlights are severely damaged or unevenly colored, a stylist can perform a color correction to even out the tone and darken them.
Benefits of Professional Assistance
A professional stylist can:
- Assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best treatment.
- Custom-blend colors to achieve your desired shade.
- Apply color evenly and precisely.
- Minimize damage and ensure optimal results.
Investing in professional salon treatments can save you time, money, and potential damage in the long run.
Maintenance and Aftercare
Regardless of the method you choose, proper maintenance and aftercare are essential for preserving your darkened highlights and maintaining healthy hair.
Color-Safe Products
Use shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that are specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are gentler and will help prevent color fading.
Heat Protection
Excessive heat styling can damage the hair and cause color to fade. Use a heat protectant spray before using styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.
Regular Trims
Regular trims will remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Deep conditioning treatments will replenish moisture and strengthen the hair, preventing breakage and promoting shine.
Sun Protection
Sun exposure can fade hair color and damage the hair. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
Darkening your highlights can be a rewarding experience, transforming your look and boosting your confidence. Whether you choose a temporary solution, a semi-permanent option, or a permanent color, remember to prioritize your hair’s health and proceed with caution. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can achieve the perfect toned-down highlights you desire while maintaining healthy, beautiful hair.
FAQ: What are the best semi-permanent dyes to darken highlights, and how long do they typically last?
Semi-permanent dyes are an excellent option for darkening highlights because they deposit color without lifting the original shade, minimizing damage. Look for dyes formulated specifically for depositing color, often labeled as “color glosses” or “toners.” Brands like Clairol Natural Instincts (although technically demi-permanent, its gentle nature is similar) and dpHUE Gloss+ are popular choices. When choosing, match the dye’s base tone to your natural hair color or the highlights you want to darken. Avoid shades with strong red or orange undertones if you want a cool-toned result.
The longevity of semi-permanent dyes varies depending on your hair’s porosity and how often you wash it. Generally, they last between 6 to 8 washes. To extend the color’s lifespan, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, avoid washing your hair too frequently, and use cool water when rinsing. Consider using a color-depositing conditioner in between dyes to refresh the color and maintain the desired tone.
FAQ: Can I use box dye to darken my highlights? What are the risks involved?
While it might seem tempting to use box dye for convenience and cost-effectiveness, it’s generally not recommended for darkening highlights. Box dyes often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia and peroxide, which can damage your hair and lead to unpredictable results. The color on the box may not accurately reflect the outcome on your highlighted hair, potentially resulting in a shade that’s too dark or has unwanted tones.
The risks associated with using box dye on highlights include dryness, breakage, uneven color distribution, and difficulty correcting the color if you’re not satisfied with the result. If you’re determined to use box dye, opt for a demi-permanent option that’s closest to your desired shade and always perform a strand test on a hidden section of your hair first. However, consulting a professional colorist is always the safest and most reliable option.
FAQ: How do I choose the right shade to darken my highlights without making them too dark or brassy?
Selecting the right shade is crucial for achieving the desired result without unwanted consequences. Start by identifying the undertone of your natural hair and existing highlights. If your hair has warm undertones (gold, yellow, orange), opt for a dye with similar warm undertones to avoid a muddy appearance. Conversely, if your hair has cool undertones (ash, blue, violet), choose a cool-toned dye to maintain the overall cool aesthetic.
To avoid going too dark or brassy, choose a shade that’s only one or two levels darker than your highlights. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to start with a lighter shade, as it’s easier to add more color than to remove it. Perform a strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to assess the color result before applying it to your entire head. Pay close attention to how the color develops and adjust accordingly.
FAQ: What are some natural alternatives to chemical dyes for darkening highlights?
For those seeking gentler methods, several natural alternatives can darken highlights subtly. Coffee is a popular choice, especially for brunettes, as it can add depth and warmth. Strong brewed coffee, cooled completely, can be used as a rinse after shampooing and left on for 30 minutes before rinsing again. Repeat this process several times for a gradual darkening effect.
Other options include black tea rinses, which work similarly to coffee, and henna, although henna is permanent and should be used with caution, especially on previously bleached hair. Walnut shells can also create a darker rinse, but be aware that they can stain skin and clothing. Remember that natural alternatives offer subtle changes and may not provide dramatic results like chemical dyes. It will likely take multiple applications to see visible differences.
FAQ: How can I prevent my darkened highlights from fading quickly?
Preventing color fade is essential for maintaining your desired look. The key to extending the life of your darkened highlights lies in proper hair care practices. Start by using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, as sulfates can strip the hair of its color. Look for products specifically designed for color-treated hair, as they often contain ingredients that help seal the cuticle and prevent color loss.
Avoid washing your hair too frequently; aim for 2-3 times a week at most. When you do wash, use cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can open the hair cuticle and release dye molecules. Protect your hair from sun exposure by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray, as the sun can fade color and damage the hair. Consider using a color-depositing conditioner once or twice a week to refresh the color and maintain its vibrancy.
FAQ: How often can I safely darken my highlights without damaging my hair?
The frequency at which you can safely darken your highlights depends on the type of dye you’re using and the overall health of your hair. Semi-permanent dyes are generally gentle and can be used every 4-6 weeks without causing significant damage. However, it’s still important to monitor your hair’s condition and adjust the frequency accordingly.
If you’re using demi-permanent dyes, which contain a low volume of peroxide, it’s best to wait longer between applications, around 6-8 weeks. Avoid using permanent dyes to darken highlights, as they can be damaging if used too frequently. Pay attention to signs of damage, such as dryness, breakage, and split ends. If you notice these issues, reduce the frequency of your darkening treatments or consult a professional stylist for advice.
FAQ: When should I consult a professional stylist instead of darkening my highlights at home?
There are several situations where seeking professional help is the best course of action. If you’re unsure about choosing the right shade, mixing dyes, or applying the product evenly, a stylist can provide expert guidance and ensure a satisfactory result. If you have heavily processed or damaged hair, a professional can assess its condition and recommend the safest approach to avoid further damage.
Additionally, if you’re attempting a significant color change, such as going several shades darker or correcting an unwanted tone, a professional stylist has the knowledge and skills to achieve the desired outcome without jeopardizing the health of your hair. Color correction can be particularly challenging and requires expertise to avoid further color mishaps. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a professional.