You walked out of the salon with beautiful, creamy blonde or a cool brunette, and a few weeks later it’s turned yellow, orange or “brassy”. It’s one of the most common reasons clients book in with me at Fabuluxe, and the good news is it’s very fixable.
Why does hair go brassy?
Every time hair is lightened, the natural pigment underneath is exposed. Darker hair reveals red and orange tones as it lifts; lighter hair reveals yellow. A toner neutralises those warm tones, but toner is a semi-permanent gloss and gradually fades. As it does, the warmth underneath shows through again.
Other things speed that up:
- Hard water and minerals in your shower water build up on the hair
- Sun and chlorine oxidise and fade colour
- Hot tools used without heat protection, or turned up too high
- Harsh, sulphate-heavy shampoos that strip toner faster
Purple shampoo vs blue shampoo
Colour theory does the work here: opposite colours cancel each other out.
| If your hair looks… | Use | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow (blonde) | Purple shampoo | Purple neutralises yellow |
| Orange (brunette, bronde) | Blue shampoo | Blue neutralises orange |
| Red (dark brunette) | Green-based products | Green neutralises red |
Use these once a week, not every wash. Overusing purple shampoo can leave blonde looking dull or slightly lilac.
When you need a salon toner
Shampoos help maintain tone, but they can’t fully correct it. If your hair has turned noticeably orange or yellow, a professional toner or gloss is the fastest fix. It takes around 20 to 30 minutes, adds shine, and can shift your tone to creamy beige, cool ash, soft champagne or whatever suits you.
Most of my blonde clients book a quick toner refresh every six to eight weeks, between their foil appointments.
When brassiness means you need more than toner
Sometimes the warmth is coming from hair that hasn’t been lifted light enough for the tone you want. Toner can only neutralise; it can’t lighten. In that case I’ll suggest a few fine foils or a gentle lightening service before toning, so your result actually lasts.
How to stop brassiness coming back
- Install a filtered shower head to reduce mineral build-up
- Use a sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoo and wash in cool water
- Use purple or blue shampoo once a week
- Always use heat protection and keep tools below 180°C
- Wear a hat in strong sun and rinse after swimming
- Book a toner refresh every six to eight weeks
Ready to banish the brass?
If your colour isn’t looking how you want it to, come in for a consultation. I’ll look at what’s causing the warmth and recommend the simplest way to fix it, whether that’s a toner refresh or a little more blonding. You can also read how lived-in blonde keeps maintenance low.
Fabuluxe Hair Studio
Shop 2/16 Boronia Road, Vermont VIC 3133
Monday to Thursday, 9:30am – 6:00pm (selected Sundays by appointment)
Phone: 0461 509 421
