Are you uncertain whether a hair color correction is necessary for you? We consulted an expert to provide comprehensive insights into this salon service, so you can make an informed decision.
I’ll be the first to admit that after nearly two months of staying at home with no salon appointment in sight, the temptation to color my own hair has been strong. Typically, I visit my colorist every six weeks to refresh my ash blonde hue and conceal my light brown roots. However, it’s been over two months since my last touch-up, and as you can imagine, my hair color isn’t at its peak right now. While the waiting game can be frustrating, I’m wary of the potential mishaps that can occur when attempting to color my hair at home. Besides, a DIY color disaster would only result in me needing a professional hair color correction later on.
Whether your blonde locks have turned out a tad too brassy, you’ve ended up with a shade darker than you intended, or your final color isn’t quite what you envisioned, you might have heard of color correction. Curious about how this process works and whether it’s right for you? We reached out to Matt Rez, a Redken ambassador and celebrity stylist, to uncover all there is to know about this essential salon service.
What Is Hair Color Correction?
Imagine when a photograph doesn’t have the right lighting or color balance—you might use photo editing apps to adjust the hue, brightness, and resolution. Hair color correction operates on a similar principle. Essentially, it’s a salon service aimed at “correcting” the tone or color of your hair. Whether your shade is too light, too dark, overly cool-toned, or excessively warm-toned, your colorist will devise a personalized plan to address your hair’s specific needs. Situations that may require color correction include uneven color distribution, unwanted brassiness, or noticeable banding.
If you’re experiencing ashy hair that has shifted to brassy tones, uneven color regrowth, or you’re contemplating a significant change from dark to light hair, it’s likely time to schedule a color correction appointment.
Color correction is also commonly needed after an at-home color job doesn’t go as planned—especially if you used a box dye.
“I wouldn’t recommend coloring your own hair at home or using box color—which is often the first thing people consider,” Rez advises. “Box color is universally formulated and can be harsh. It’s not suitable for every situation. If it’s a last resort, reach out to your colorist to see if they have any product recommendations or solutions you can use at home to hold you over until your next salon visit.”
Among the potential pitfalls of using box dye at home, Rez highlights issues like “hot roots,” damage from bleaching over already lightened hair, and patchiness. When salons reopen, it’s crucial to be transparent with your colorist about any box dye you’ve used. This honesty allows them to better understand your hair’s condition and develop an effective plan to correct it.
How Much Does Hair Color Correction Cost?
The cost of a salon visit varies widely due to factors like geographic location, the expertise of the colorist, and the specific services you require. Hair color correction is generally one of the more expensive services, particularly if multiple appointments are needed to achieve the desired result. You can anticipate spending at least $100 per hour for a color correction, but prices can vary significantly.
How Long Does the Color Correction Process Take?
Rez explains that the duration of the color correction process depends on several factors. Some corrections are straightforward, such as applying a toner to neutralize brassy highlights. Others are more complex, like lifting dark hair color, which can be time-consuming and may require multiple appointments.
“For someone who needs to fix just their roots while their ends are fine, that might be accomplished with a single-process color or a gloss,” Rez notes. “However, if there’s patchiness or areas that need to be corrected and toned, it will definitely involve more hours in the salon. I’ve had clients spend up to six hours because they needed significant corrections.”
The health of your hair significantly impacts what a colorist can achieve. Damaged hair may limit the options available. This is why Rez strongly recommends booking a consultation before proceeding with a color correction.
“Before doing anything else, schedule a consultation with your colorist or a new one if you’re switching,” he suggests. “An in-person consultation is ideal. I need to see and feel the hair to develop a game plan. It’s hard to make decisions without assessing the hair’s condition firsthand.”
How Soon Can You Correct Your Hair Color?
The timing for a color correction depends on your current hair color and its condition. Some corrections can be done immediately, while others may require waiting a few weeks to minimize damage. Stylists use various techniques and formulas, so it’s essential to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Can Permanent Hair Color Be Lightened?
Professional stylists can expertly transition hair from dark to light over multiple appointments, but lightening hair that has already been colored presents unique challenges. If your color correction involves lifting a previous color, your colorist will need to use bleach to remove the existing shade and create a clean slate for the new color.
It’s important to understand that bleach will always cause some degree of damage. However, a skilled colorist can mitigate this by using high-quality products and treatments to restore the hair’s integrity.
“Redken’s Extreme Bleach Recovery line is excellent for anyone who has undergone lightening, especially those needing correction,” Rez recommends.
After the bleach lifts the old color, your hair may appear pale yellow or white. This is where toner becomes essential. Whether you’re aiming for an ash, platinum, or honey tone, your colorist will apply a toner to neutralize any unwanted hues and customize your new color.
Post-appointment, it’s crucial to adopt a hair care routine that includes products designed for hair that’s been damaged by bleach. Using the right products can make a significant difference in maintaining your hair’s health and vibrancy.
How to Prepare Your Hair for a Color Correction
Preparing your hair before a color correction appointment can enhance the results. Rez emphasizes the importance of arriving with clean hair.
“Coming in with fresh, clean hair is vital because I need to evaluate what’s happening,” he explains. “Oil and product buildup can affect how the color looks and how it processes.”
He suggests using a clarifying shampoo, such as Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo, before your appointment. This shampoo effectively removes product buildup, excess oils, pollution residue, and minerals from hard water, ensuring your hair is in optimal condition for the color correction process.
Maintaining Your Hair Color at Home
If your salon appointment has been canceled and you’re waiting to see your colorist, there are steps you can take at home to keep your hair color looking fresh. Rez recommends using at-home toning products to manage unwanted tones.
“I have both brunette and blonde clients seeking ways to tone their hair at home without using actual hair color,” Rez says. “Fortunately, there are color-toning systems available that can help.”
For brunettes, he suggests Redken’s Color Extend Brownlights Shampoo and Conditioner. This blue-toning system helps prevent and neutralize brassiness in both highlighted and naturally brown hair.
“Brunette clients, whether natural or colored, can use these products once or twice a week to tone down orange undertones that develop over time,” Rez explains.
For blondes experiencing brassiness, Rez recommends Redken’s Color Extend Blondage Shampoo and Conditioner, along with the Color Extend Blondage Anti-Brass Purple Hair Mask.
“It’s fantastic for blondes because it brightens their hair, and the violet tones counteract any yellow,” he notes.
Additionally, Rez advises limiting the frequency of hair washing and incorporating a dry shampoo like Redken’s Deep Clean Dry Shampoo into your routine. Over-washing can strip color and natural oils, so extending the time between washes can help maintain your color and hair health.
“Many of us tend to over-wash our hair,” Rez observes. “Dry shampoo is a lifesaver right now because it reduces the need for frequent washing. If you’re using toning shampoos, you want to make their effects last as long as possible.”
Is Hair Color Correction Right for You?
Now that you’re equipped with detailed information about hair color correction, you can assess whether this salon service aligns with your needs. Whether you’re dealing with a DIY mishap, unwanted tones, or you’re ready for a significant change, consulting with a professional colorist is the best first step toward achieving your desired hair color.
