What is bad yellow blonde hair?

The Perils of Bad Yellow Blonde Hair

"Bad yellow blonde hair," often referred to as brassy blonde, is a common concern for individuals who have lightened their hair. It's characterized by unwanted warm, yellow, or orange tones that detract from the desired cool or neutral blonde shade. Here's a breakdown:

• Causes:

  • Underlying Pigment: Darker hair naturally contains red and orange pigments that become exposed during the lightening process. If the hair isn't lifted enough, these underlying warm tones remain, resulting in a yellow or orange hue.
  • Hard Water: Water with high mineral content can deposit minerals onto the hair, causing discoloration and brassiness.
  • Product Buildup: Certain hair products, especially those containing sulfates, can contribute to buildup that exaggerates yellow tones.
  • Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can oxidize hair and reveal or intensify warm tones.
  • Inadequate Toner: Toner is used after bleaching to neutralize unwanted tones. If the toner isn't strong enough or applied correctly, brassiness can persist.
  • Improper Bleaching: Inconsistent or uneven bleach application will result in tones.

• Appearance: Brassy blonde hair appears dull, unnatural, and sometimes even dirty-looking. It lacks the brightness and shine associated with healthy, well-maintained blonde hair.

• Solutions:

  • Toner: Using a purple or blue-toned toner is the most common solution. These tones neutralize yellow and orange hues, respectively. See more about this: Toner
  • Purple Shampoo: Regular use of purple shampoo helps maintain the desired blonde tone and prevent brassiness from returning. But don't use too much, as this can lead to purple spots. For detailed information, see: Purple%20Shampoo.
  • Professional Color Correction: If the brassiness is severe or difficult to correct at home, consulting a professional colorist is recommended. They can assess the hair's condition and formulate a customized solution.
  • Clarifying Shampoo: Using a clarifying shampoo periodically can help remove product buildup and mineral deposits that contribute to brassiness.
  • Water Filter: Installing a shower filter can reduce the mineral content in water, minimizing its impact on hair color.
  • Heat Protectant: Using heat protectant will protect your hair from heat, which will prevent brassiness.
  • Avoid Sulfates: Using sulfate-free hair products will help prevent the hair from turning brassy.

• Prevention:

  • Proper Bleaching Technique: Lift hair gradually in steps using lower developer volumes
  • Protect from the Sun: Wear a hat or use UV-protectant hair products when spending extended time in the sun.