Toner or Dye: Which One Should You Use?
Have you ever dreamt of the perfect hair color, only to be confused by the options of hair toner and hair dye? Both terms get discussed, but their results are quite different. If you’re someone who’s experimenting with DIY hair transformations for the first time and you’re getting confused between these two products, we have just the guide for you. In this article, let’s talk about the mystery behind hair toning and dyeing so you know which one to pick up the next time you shop for hair products to use at home.
Understanding the Difference Between Hair Toner and Hair Dye
Hair dye acts like a magician, completely transforming your hair color. This product contains chemicals that lift the natural pigment called melanin off of your strands to deposit a new color/pigment in its place. The result can either be permanent or semi-permanent, depending on the hair dye formulation you’re using.
Hair toner, on the other hand, is a more subtle artist. It doesn't lift your natural color but instead adds a layer of translucent pigment on top. Think of it as a glaze that enhances your existing hair color, neutralizing unwanted tones or adding dimension. Toners are typically semi-sheer or demi-permanent, meaning the effects gradually fade with each wash. This is also a great product to have if you need to color-correct an at-home hair dye job gone wrong.
When to Tone and When to Dye
Hair Dye is your go-to if:
- You want a dramatic color change, whether lighter or darker
Want a bold change? Or an all-out hair transformation? You’re going to need hair dye for that. Hair dye can literally take your hair from basic to brilliant in a matter of minutes.
- You have significant gray hair you want to cover
If you’re looking to cover up your gray hair to maintain a youthful look, choose a natural hair dye color like black, brown, or blonde. Of course, no one will stop you from choosing to have a bolder look to cover up gray hair, too!
Hair Toner is your best friend if:
- You have brassy or orange highlights that need to be neutralized (think cool blonde tones)
As beautiful as blonde hair is, it can be a pain to maintain. Without proper maintenance, it could get dull, brassy, it could even turn into a different color! Thankfully, you can always bring it back to its golden glory by using a hair toner.
- You want to add richness and depth to your brunette hair
Darker hair colors like brunette can also add depth, dimension, and even richness to it when you use a hair toner.
- You desire a subtle color shift, like enhancing the red tones in your hair
