Having beautifully toned hair can make you feel confident and stylish. However, sometimes things don’t go as planned, and your hair can end up looking over toned, leaving you with a hair color that is too dark or brassy. Don’t worry though, because there is a natural solution that can help you fix over toned hair – lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural remedy that can help lighten and revitalize your locks. In this article, we will explore how to fix over toned hair with lemon juice and regain the desired shade.
The Science Behind Lemon Juice and Hair
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which acts as a natural bleach. The acidity of lemon juice helps to break down the chemical pigments present in hair dyes or toners, making it a great natural solution for fixing over toned hair. However, it is important to note that lemon juice is not a magical remedy that can completely reverse a drastic hair color change. It is most effective for removing unwanted brassy or dark tones.
Precautions before Using Lemon Juice
Before diving into the process of fixing over toned hair with lemon juice, it’s essential to take a few precautions to ensure the best results and prevent any damage to your hair:
- Do a patch test: Lemon juice can have varying effects on different hair types. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test on a small section of your hair to see how it reacts before applying it to your entire head.
- Dilute with water: Pure lemon juice can be too harsh for your hair and scalp. It is recommended to dilute it with water to reduce its acidity and prevent any scalp irritation.
- Protect your skin: Lemon juice can also cause skin irritation, so it’s important to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a protective cream along your hairline to avoid any contact.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Over Toned Hair with Lemon Juice
Now that you’re aware of the precautions, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of using lemon juice to fix over toned hair:
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Juice Mixture
Start by extracting the juice from a few lemons. You can either use a juicer or manually squeeze them. Strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp. Now, dilute the lemon juice by adding an equal amount of water. Mix them well to ensure proper dilution.
Step 2: Test on a Small Section of Hair
Apply a small amount of the diluted lemon juice mixture on a discreet section of your hair. It could be a strand at the back or underneath your hair. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes and then rinse it off. Observe the results to determine if the shade and tone are satisfactory. If the result is too light, you can use a more concentrated mixture. If it’s too dark or not what you desire, adjust the dilution accordingly.
Step 3: Apply the Mixture to the Entire Head
Once you’ve achieved the desired shade and tone, it’s time to apply the diluted lemon juice mixture to your entire head. Start by dividing your hair into sections to make the application process easier and more thorough. Use a spray bottle or a brush to evenly distribute the mixture, ensuring that you cover all the areas with over toned hair.
Step 4: Soak and Sunbathe
Once you’ve applied the lemon juice mixture, it’s essential to allow it to soak into your hair. If possible, spend some time in the sun as the combination of lemon juice and sunlight can enhance the lightening process. However, make sure to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen to exposed areas and wearing a hat.
Step 5: Rinse and Condition
After leaving the lemon juice on your hair for at least 30 minutes to an hour, it’s time to rinse it off. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to nourish and moisturize your hair after the lemon juice treatment. This will help restore any moisture that may have been lost during the lightening process.
Other Natural Remedies for Fixing Over Toned Hair
If you don’t have lemons or prefer alternative natural remedies, there are a few other options you can try:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Similar to lemon juice, apple cider vinegar has acid properties that can help strip away unwanted tones in your hair. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, apply it to your hair, and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and condition afterward.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can also help remove unwanted color from over toned hair. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it out. Be cautious as baking soda can be quite drying, so follow up with a deep conditioning treatment.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a natural lightening agent that can help reduce brassiness in blonde hair. Brew a strong chamomile tea, let it cool, and apply it to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for about 30 minutes and rinse it out. You can repeat this process a few times to achieve the desired results.
In conclusion, if you find yourself with over toned hair that is not to your liking, experimenting with natural remedies like lemon juice can help you lighten and revitalize your locks. Remember to follow the precautions, do a patch test, and adjust the dilution to achieve your desired results. However, if you have severely over toned hair or are unsure about using these methods, it’s always best to seek advice from a professional hair colorist.