How to Get Rid of Brassy Hair

Last Updated on June 8, 2024 by Ellen Christian

Have you ever wondered how to get rid of brassy hair? Learn what cancels out brassy yellow hair to correct this problem.

How to Get Rid of Brassy Hair

Brassy hair is one of the most frustrating issues beauty enthusiasts face, especially for those who love DIY hair care. Whether you’re dealing with brassy blonde, brown, red, or bleached hair, knowing how to remove those unwanted tones can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get rid of brassy hair and achieve the hair color of your dreams.

What Causes Brassy Tones?

Before we jump into solutions, it’s essential to understand what causes brassy tones. Brassy hair occurs when the underlying pigments in your hair start to show through after dyeing. This generally happens due to:

Oxidation from exposure to air and sunlight

Mineral buildup from hard water

Chlorine in swimming pools

Improper hair care routines

Understanding the root cause can help you better prevent and treat brassiness.

What Color Cancels Out Brassy Orange Hair?

To neutralize those unwanted brassy tones, you need to use the color wheel. The color that cancels out brassy orange is blue. For yellowish tones, purple is your go-to color.

Effective Solutions for Removing Brassy Tones

1. Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is a lifesaver for combating brassy hair. The purple pigment in the shampoo neutralizes yellow and orange tones, leaving your hair looking cooler and more balanced. Use it once or twice a week, depending on the level of brassiness.

2. Toner

Toners are another effective way to remove brassy tones. They work by depositing a small amount of pigment into your hair, neutralizing unwanted colors. Choose a toner specifically designed for your hair color and follow the instructions carefully.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy for brassy hair. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out. The acidity of the vinegar helps to close the hair cuticle and neutralize brassy tones.

4. Shower Filter

A shower filter can make a significant difference in preventing brassy hair by removing minerals like iron and chlorine from your water. This reduces the likelihood of mineral buildup, which can contribute to brassiness.

5. Avoid the Sun and Pool

Exposure to the sun and chlorine can exacerbate brassy tones. Wear a hat or use UV-protection hair products when you’re outside, and always rinse your hair immediately after swimming in a pool.

6. Use Products for Color-Treated Hair

Specialized products for color-treated hair can help maintain your hair color and prevent brassy tones. Look for shampoos, conditioners, and treatments that are sulfate-free and formulated to protect and nourish dyed hair.

Get Rid of Brassy Hair Naturally

If you prefer natural remedies, here are some options:

Lemon juice can lighten and brighten your hair while reducing brassiness. Mix lemon juice with water, apply it to your hair, and sit in the sun for a natural highlight effect.

Chamomile tea can also lighten hair and reduce brassiness. Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea, allow it to cool, and rinse your hair with it.

Dealing with Different Hair Colors

Brassy Brown Hair

For brassy brown hair, blue shampoos and conditioners are particularly effective. These products deposit blue pigments that neutralize orange tones.

Brassy Red Hair

Red hair can turn brassy when the red pigments fade, revealing orange or yellow undertones. Purple shampoos and toners designed for red hair can help maintain its vibrancy.

Brassy Blonde Hair

Blonde hair is especially prone to brassiness. Regular use of purple shampoo can keep yellow tones at bay, maintaining a cooler, more natural blonde.

Brassy Bleached Hair

Bleached hair requires extra care to prevent brassiness. In addition to purple shampoo, consider using a toner to keep your bleached blonde looking fresh. Avoid heat styling tools that can exacerbate brassiness.

Tips for Preventing Brassiness

Preventing brassy hair can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Here are some practical tips to keep your hair vibrant and free of unwanted tones:

Use a Heat Protectant

Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and even hair dryers can contribute to color fading and brassiness. Always use a heat protectant spray or serum before styling your hair to minimize damage and color changes.

Wash Your Hair Less Frequently

Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause color to fade faster. Try to limit your hair washes to two or three times a week, and use dry shampoo in between to maintain freshness without over-washing.

Choose the Right Hair Products

Opt for shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and help maintain the integrity of your hair color. Look for sulfate-free options to prevent stripping color from your hair.

Adjust Your Water Temperature

Hot water can open up the hair cuticle, causing color to wash out more easily. Rinse your hair with lukewarm or cool water to help seal the cuticle and lock in your color.

Invest in a Shower Filter

As mentioned earlier, a shower filter can remove minerals like iron and chlorine from your water, which are known to contribute to brassiness. This simple addition to your shower routine can significantly prolong your hair color’s vibrancy.

Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure

UV rays can alter the color of your hair and cause it to become brassy. Wear a hat or use UV-protection hair products when you’re going to be in the sun for extended periods.

Rinse Hair After Swimming

Swimming pools contain chlorine, which can cause brassiness, particularly in blonde and bleached hair. Always rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water immediately after swimming to remove chlorine and prevent it from affecting your hair color.

Regular Deep Conditioning

Regular deep conditioning treatments can help maintain healthy hair and prevent color from fading. Look for deep conditioners that are designed for color-treated hair to keep your locks hydrated and vibrant.

Integrating these tips into your hair care routine can help you maintain your desired hair color and keep brassy tones at bay.

Additional Natural Remedies for Brassy Hair

If you’re looking to further explore natural remedies for combating brassy hair tones, here are a few more options to consider:

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a gentle exfoliant that can help remove product buildup and neutralize brassy tones. Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to your wet hair, and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea has natural red pigments that can enhance red tones in your hair while helping to neutralize unwanted brassiness. Brew a strong cup of hibiscus tea, allow it to cool, and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can help maintain hair health and prevent brassiness by forming a protective barrier. Apply coconut oil to your hair and leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper conditioning), then wash it out with a gentle shampoo.

Black Tea

Black tea can enhance dark tones and reduce brassiness in brown hair. Brew a strong cup of black tea, let it cool, and use it as a final rinse or leave it in your hair for an hour before rinsing with water.

Honey

Honey acts as a natural humectant and lightener, helping to brighten hair and combat brassiness. Mix honey with water or conditioner, apply it evenly to your hair, and leave it on for about an hour before rinsing thoroughly.

Incorporating these additional natural remedies into your hair care routine can provide a variety of benefits while helping to get rid of brassy hair.

Conclusion

Brassy hair can be a challenge, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can maintain the perfect color. From purple shampoo to natural remedies, there are plenty of ways to keep your hair looking vibrant and brass-free.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to saying goodbye to brassy hair and hello to a stunning, vibrant hue. Happy hair care!