Understanding Hair Colour Correction
Colour correction involves fixing unwanted hair colour results. It involves complex techniques to neutralise or alter existing pigments while ensuring the health of the client’s natural hair is prioritised.
Common Colour Correction Scenarios:
- Too Dark: When hair is dyed darker than desired, it may require lightening or stripping of the excess colour.
- Too Light: If the hair is lighter than intended, it might involve adding pigment to deepen the shade.
- Uneven Colour: This can result from improper application, overlapping dye, or variations in hair porosity (hair that has been coloured multiple times should be treated differently to young hair). Correction involves blending and balancing the colour.
- Unwanted Tones: Brassiness, green hues, or other unwanted tones can appear due to underlying pigments or reactions with minerals in water. Neutralising these tones is key.
DIY vs Professional Colour Correction
While some minor colour corrections can be tackled at home, it’s generally recommended to seek professional help, especially for significant changes or complex issues.
DIY Colour Correction:
- Pros: More affordable, convenient.
- Cons: Higher risk of further damage, limited product availability, may not achieve desired results.
Professional Colour Correction:
- Pros: Expertise in colour theory and techniques, access to professional-grade products, personalised solutions, minimal risk of damage.
- Cons: More expensive, requires scheduling an appointment.
How Much Does Professional Hair Colour Correction Cost?
The cost of professional colour correction can vary significantly based on several factors:
- The complexity of the correction: Simple fixes will be less expensive than major colour overhauls.
- The extent of the damage: If your hair requires extensive repair from years of colour damage, it will increase the cost.
- Your hair’s length and thickness: Longer, thicker hair requires more time to work on.
- The salon’s location and the stylist’s experience: Salons in urban areas with highly experienced colourists will be more expensive.
- The type of products used: High-quality, professional-grade products often come at a premium.
Expect to pay anywhere from £100 to £600 or more for professional colour correction. Colour correction appointments can take anywhere from 2 hours to a full day, depending on the complexity of the correction. It’s crucial to book a consultation beforehand to discuss your needs and get a personalised quote.
Key Considerations for Colour Correction
- Hair History: Be prepared to share your complete hair colour history with your stylist, including past dye jobs, chemical treatments, and hair products used.
- Hair Health: Ensure your hair is in good condition before attempting any major changes. Deep conditioning treatments can help.
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before applying any hair colour product, even if you’ve coloured your hair before.
The Colour Correction Process (General Overview)
The exact process will vary depending on the specific colour correction needed. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Assessment: A thorough consultation to analyse your hair, discuss your goals, and determine the best course of action.
- Preparation: This may involve clarifying treatments to remove product buildup or deep conditioning to improve hair health.
- Colour Removal (if necessary): Techniques like colour stripping, bleaching, or colour removers may be used.
- Colour Application: Applying the desired colour, often in stages, to achieve the target shade and neutralise unwanted tones.
- Toning: Using toners to fine-tune the colour and create the desired effect.
- Aftercare: Recommendations for maintaining the corrected colour and keeping your hair healthy.
Tips for Maintaining Your Corrected Colour
- Use colour-safe shampoo and conditioner.
- Minimise heat styling.
- Protect your hair from the sun.
- Schedule regular touch-ups.
- Use colour-depositing masks or conditioners.
So, rest easy; now you know how to keep your extensions looking flawless while you sleep.
Summary
Remember, hair colour correction is a journey. With patience, the right approach, and the help of a skilled professional, you can achieve the results you want.
Ready to transform your hair? Book a consultation with one of our expert colourists today!
