Can a toner darken highlights?

Answered by Willian Lymon

A toner can darken highlights to help tone down brassy and yellow warm tones. Toning is a common technique used in hair coloring to neutralize or enhance certain shades in the hair. When highlights are too light or have turned brassy, toners can be used to adjust the tone and darken the highlights.

To understand how toners work to darken highlights, it’s important to know that toners are essentially hair color products with low levels of ammonia or peroxide. They are typically used to counteract unwanted undertones in the hair, such as brassiness or yellow tones. Toners work by depositing color onto the hair, helping to balance out the tones and create a more desirable shade.

When it comes to darkening highlights, toners can be used to add depth and richness to the lighter strands. For example, if you have blonde highlights that have become too light or brassy over time, a toner in a darker shade can be applied to create a more natural-looking result. The toner will deposit color onto the highlights, effectively darkening them and bringing them closer to the desired shade.

It’s worth noting that toners can be customized to achieve different results. Depending on the desired outcome, toners can be selected in various shades to either darken or lighten the highlights. For darkening highlights, toners in cooler or ash tones are commonly used to counteract warmth and create a more dimensional look.

It’s important to consult with a professional hairstylist to determine the best toner shade and application technique for your specific hair color and desired outcome. They will be able to assess the current condition of your highlights and recommend the most appropriate toner to achieve the desired darkening effect.

In addition to toners, there are also specialized shampoos available that can help darken highlights. These shampoos are typically formulated with pigments that deposit color onto the hair while cleansing. By using a darkening shampoo specifically designed for highlights, you can gradually darken the lighter strands and maintain the desired shade.

In conclusion, toners can indeed be used to darken highlights and tone down brassy and yellow warm tones. They work by depositing color onto the hair, helping to achieve a more desirable shade. Additionally, specialized shampoos can also be used to darken highlights over time. Consulting with a professional hairstylist is recommended to determine the best toner shade and application technique for your specific hair color and desired outcome.