If you are a fan of luscious locks and a healthy mane, you must know what a hair toner does. Toner is a popular hair product that neutralizes unwanted brassy or yellow tones in bleached or color-treated hair. While toner can be a useful tool for achieving the desired hair color, many people wonder if it has any negative effects on the health of their hair. So, are you curious to know whether using a toner can damage your hair?
No, toner itself can't damage hair, but if used too frequently or left on for too long, it can lead to scalp irritation and even cause hair to fall out. Hair toners contain chemicals and dyes that can eventually dry out and weaken the hair strands. However, toners are generally safe for most hair types when used correctly and in moderation. In this blog, we will explore how toner can make your hair fall out and harm your hair's health and appearance, providing straightforward answers to this common concern. First, let’s learn what a toner is and what it does.
What is a Hair Toner?
Hair toner is a product used in hair care to alter or enhance the color of your hair. It is typically used after bleaching or lightening your hair to achieve a desired shade or to neutralize unwanted tones. Hair toners come in various forms, such as liquid or cream, and they contain specialized pigments that can help balance the undertones in your hair. The toner is applied to damp hair and left on for a specific time before rinsing it. It is commonly used in salons but can also be applied at home with caution and proper instructions. The main purpose of hair toner is to achieve a more desirable hair color and correct unwanted shades. For example, if you've lightened your hair but notice it has turned brassy or yellowish, a purple toner can counteract these warm tones and create a cooler, ashier appearance.
How Does Hair Toner Work?
Hair toner utilizes specialized pigments to alter the color of your hair. These pigments are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in your hair, such as brassy or yellow hues. When applied to the hair, the toner molecules attach to the hair shaft and deposit color, helping to create a more desirable shade. The specific color of the toner is chosen based on the desired result, such as using a purple toner to cancel out yellow tones or a blue toner to counteract orange tones. The toner is typically left on the hair for a specified time before being rinsed, allowing the pigments to do their job. The effect of the toner is temporary and can fade over time, requiring reapplication to maintain the desired color.
How Does Toner Damage Your Hair?
The toner itself does not cause damage to the hair when used correctly. However, incorrect application or misuse of toner can lead to hair damage. Here are a few ways in which toner could potentially cause harm to your hair:
1. Leaving Toner Too Long on Hair
Leaving toner on your hair for too long can cause damage to your hair. If you keep toner on your hair for too much time, it can dry out your locks, making them brittle and more likely to break. Hair toners often contain chemicals that can be harsh on your hair if overused. The longer the toner stays on your hair, the more it can strip away natural oils and moisture, leaving it feeling rough and dull. To avoid this hair damage from toner, follow the instructions provided with the toner and do not exceed the recommended processing time.
2. Improperly Formulated Toners
Some toners may contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that can damage your hair. Choosing toners from reputable brands and checking the ingredient list is crucial to ensure they don't contain harsh chemicals like ammonia or excessive amounts of alcohol. These toner ingredients can clear away the natural moisture from your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and more prone to hair fall out and other damage. Look for well-formulated toners that can help minimize the risk of hair damage and maintain the health of your locks.
3. Wrong Color Section
Choosing the wrong toner shade for your hair can result in undesirable results. For example, using a toner that is too dark or too light for your hair color can leave your hair looking uneven or unnatural. That's why choose a toner specifically made for your hair to avoid unnecessary damage and get the results you're after.
4. Incorrect Application
Improperly applying toner to your hair can make your hair fall out and lead to other damage. This can occur if the toner is not evenly distributed or applied too frequently. Uneven toner distribution can result in inconsistent color results, while excessive application can overburden the hair and cause it to become dry and brittle.
3 Signs of Hair Damage From Toner
While toner can help enhance your hair color, it's important to be mindful of how it affects your hair health. Overusing toner or using it incorrectly can lead to various forms of hair damage. Here are three common signs to watch out for:
1. Dryness and Brittleness
Hair damage from toner can cause dryness and brittleness in the hair strands. If applied incorrectly or left on for too long, the toner can strip away the natural moisture from the hair, leaving it dry. This dryness can make the hair feel rough to the touch and appear dull and lifeless. Additionally, damaged hair from toner may become brittle, making it more prone to breakage and split ends.
Also Read: Hair Breakage or New Hair Growth: How to Tell the Difference
2. Color Fading or Unevenness
Hair damage from toner can appear as color fading or unevenness. If the toner is applied improperly or the hair is overprocessed, the color can fade quickly or appear patchy and inconsistent. This means the desired shade achieved through toner application may not last as long or look evenly distributed throughout the hair. You may notice areas where the color appears lighter or darker than intended, resulting in an uneven appearance.
3. Scalp Irritation
Hair damage from toner can often make your hair fall out due to scalp irritation. Improper application or rinsing of the toner can cause the scalp to become itchy, red, or sensitive. You might experience discomfort or a feeling of tightness on your scalp; in some cases, flaky skin or dandruff-like flakes may appear. This scalp irritation can result from the toner's ingredients or an allergic reaction. If you notice hair fall from scalp irritation after toner application, get rid of it and consult a professional hairstylist or dermatologist.
Learn more: Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
How Often Can You Use Toner Without Damaging Your Hair?
Generally, it is recommended to use toner sparingly to avoid over-processing and possible damage. Using toner every 4-6 weeks is sufficient for most individuals to maintain the desired color. However, this can vary based on hair type, color, and personal preference. If you notice fading or brassiness sooner, consider using toner more frequently. Pay attention to your hair's condition and monitor any signs of dryness or damage from toner.
How To Avoid Hair Damage from Toners?
To minimize the risk of hair damage when using toners, remember to take some preventive steps. By being mindful of how you use toner, you can maintain the vibrancy of your hair without causing damage. Here are some tips to help you avoid hair damage from toners.
Choose high-quality tonersÂ
Look for toners from reputable brands known for their quality and hair-friendly formulations. Read reviews and check for toners specifically designed to be gentle and nourishing to the hair.
Follow instructions
Always read and carefully follow the instructions provided with the toner. Pay attention to recommended processing times and application techniques. Overexposure or improper application can damage hair, so adhering to the guidelines is important.
Use the right strength
Choose the right strength of toner to avoid damaging your hair. Using a toner that is too strong can strip your hair of its natural oils and nutrients, leading to dryness and even hair fallout. Select a toner strength appropriate for your hair type and color. If you're unsure, consult with a professional hairstylist who can recommend the ideal toner strength for your specific needs.
Limit frequency
Avoid excessive use of toners, as this can lead to over-processing and damage. Follow the recommended time intervals between toner applications. Typically, waiting 4-6 weeks between toning sessions is advisable, but this can vary depending on your hair's condition and color maintenance requirements.
Moisturize and condition
Toning can sometimes harm your hair health by causing excessive dryness, so it's important to keep hair hydrated and nourished. Use moisturizing and conditioning products specifically formulated for color-treated hair. Regular deep conditioning treatments can also help maintain hair health and minimize damage.
Avoid Heat-Styling Tools
After using toner, limit heat-styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers to prevent toner hair damage. These heat styling tools can make your hair more fragile, especially after toning. If you need to use them, apply a heat protectant spray first to shield your hair from further damage.
Conclusion
Toner itself won’t damage your hair since it only works on the surface of your hair. When toner is used correctly, your hair doesn't get harmed. However, improper application, overprocessing, and poorly formulated toners can damage your hair. That's why it's crucial to choose high-quality toners, follow instructions, and be mindful of the strength and frequency of toner usage. Additionally, maintaining proper hair hydration and seeking professional guidance when needed can help minimize the risk of damage and preserve the health of your hair.
If you're concerned about hair damage or experiencing hair loss from toner or any other hair products, various solutions are available to help restore hair growth. One of the best solutions is Theradome, a laser helmet designed to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth. Theradome can be a valuable tool in your hair care journey, assisting you in achieving healthier, fuller-looking hair.
