Learn how to transition your hair color with expert salon professional tips from Good Dye Young’s Director of Education, Alexa. Discover color wheel basics, pre-toning, and safe color removal methods.
Hi everyone, Alexa here! If you’re wondering how to safely and effectively transition your hair color without damaging your hair or ending up with the wrong result, you’ve come to the right place.
Color shifting is the process of transitioning from one hair color to another color on the color wheel. In order for your shift to be successful, planning and preparation is key! Whether you’re switching from pink to blue or blue to green, these tips will help you achieve vibrant, even, and predictable results. No surprises here!
Understand the Color Wheel Before Changing Hair Color
One of the most important steps in transitioning hair color is understanding the hair color wheel.
If your current shade and your goal shade sit far apart on the color wheel, jumping directly to your target color can lead to undesired results and unwanted undertones.
Use Transition Shades for Better Results
Instead of making a drastic jump across the color wheel, use a transition color. For example, if you have red or pink hair and want to jump to a green like Kowabunga, don't try it in one go. Instead, try a transition color like Narwhal first to achieve a fun purply/blue color. Purple and blue tones sit closer to green on the color wheel than red does, which will make your final transition more achievable next time!
Pre-Tone Your Hair for an Even Color Transition
Pre-toning hair is a game-changer for transitioning between colors. You can easily create a DIY pre-toner at home by mixing your GDY semi-permanent shade with water and shampoo. Apply the mixture to clean, wet hair using a toning bottle for easy application. This step helps neutralize unwanted tones and prepares your hair for your next color application.
Create an Even Base Before Applying Semi-Permanent Color
Semi-permanent hair dye cannot lift your natural or existing base, so starting with an even canvas is essential. If your hair has brassy tones or uneven porosity, I would recommend trying an oxidative toner like the Redken Shades EQ if you are a salon professional. For our at-home DIY friends, Wella’s permanent liquid toners will be your best bet before applying your next GDY shade.
Remember: even canvas = even results! This step ensures your GDY shade applies evenly and looks vibrant from root to tip.
How to Remove Hair Color Before Switching Shades
Sometimes, your best option is to remove or strip your hair color before transitioning to your next hair color.
For a Major Color Change
A full bleach out using the Good Dye Young Lightening Kit is the most effective option.
For a Small Color Change
Try a bleach wash! All you have to do is make your own gentle mix of lightener, water, and shampoo and apply to wet hair.
Tips for Successful Hair Color Transitions
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Always start with clean hair
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Be realistic and patient
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Avoid rushing between drastic color changes
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Choose transition shades when possible
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Prep your canvas before applying semi-permanent dye
Ready to Transition Your Hair Color?
With the right preparation and technique, transitioning your hair color doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re making a subtle shift or a bold transformation, following these steps will help you achieve vibrant, long-lasting results with your favorite Good Dye Young shades.
Now you’ve got all the tools to achieve your dream hair!
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