Are your highlights looking too white and unnatural? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people face this common issue when trying to achieve the perfect hair color. Whether you have bleached hair or naturally blonde highlights that turned too light, there are several solutions to fix the problem.
In this blog post, we will explore different methods to darken your highlights in a natural-looking way. From using specialized shampoos to DIY treatments, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also address common questions like whether it’s possible to color over your highlights and if purple shampoo can darken your highlights.
So, if you’re tired of your too-white highlights and want to learn how to achieve a more balanced and beautiful hair color, keep reading! Let’s transform those overly bright highlights into a shade that suits you perfectly.
How to Tame Those Over-Bright Highlights!
Have you ever taken a photo only to find that the highlights are blindingly white? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. But fear not, because I’m here to share some simple yet effective techniques to fix those pesky overexposed highlights. So grab your editing software, put on your creative hat, and let’s turn those glaring whites into harmonious highlights!
Embrace the Power of Blending Modes
One handy trick to tackle excessively bright highlights is to use blending modes. Blending modes allow you to control how different layers interact with each other, which can help to tone down those blinding whites. Simply create a new adjustment layer, play around with the blending modes, and watch as your highlights become more balanced and natural. With blending modes, you’ll have the power to make your highlights shine without stealing the show.
Dodge and Burn for Precise Control
If you want to take control to another level, let me introduce you to the dynamic duo of photo editing: dodging and burning. This technique allows you to selectively lighten (dodge) or darken (burn) specific areas of your photo. To fix overly white highlights, grab your dodge tool, choose a soft brush, and gently paint over the blown-out areas. This will help to restore detail and add depth to those previously washed-out highlights. Remember, a little dodge here and a little burn there can go a long way in transforming your photo.
Graduated Filters to the Rescue
Sometimes, the overexposed highlights are not evenly distributed throughout the photo. In such cases, a graduated filter can come to your rescue. Using a graduated filter, you can apply adjustments to only a portion of the image, gradually blending them with the surrounding areas. By placing the graduated filter over the overexposed highlights and tweaking the exposure and highlights sliders, you can regain control over those once lost details. Don’t let your highlights steal the show—graduated filters are here to save the day!
Tone Down the Whites with Curves
Curves are like the superheroes of the photo editing world. With their help, you can conquer any exposure hurdle, including those pesky over-bright highlights. Simply open up the curves adjustment tool, create a gentle S-curve by slightly pulling down the highlight area, and watch the magic unfold. This technique will bring back the details in your highlights while maintaining a well-balanced exposure throughout the photo. Curves may sound complex, but trust me, they are your secret weapon for taming those unruly whites.
Reign in the Highlights with Local Adjustments
So you’ve tried blending modes, dodging and burning, graduated filters, and curves, but the highlights are still a bit too fancy for your liking. Fear not, my friend, because local adjustments are here to quell the rebellion. Using a brush or a radial filter, selectively apply your adjustments to the problematic highlight areas. Gently coax the highlights into submission, and bring back the details and subtlety they once stole. With local adjustments, you have the power to masterfully control even the most stubborn highlights, turning them into obedient rays of photographic glory.
Remember, photography is an art form that allows us to capture moments and emotions. Sometimes, those moments come with challenges, but that’s where your creativity and editing skills come into play. So don’t let overly bright highlights discourage you—embrace them, tame them, and transform them into captivating elements that add depth and character to your photos. Now go forth, armed with these techniques, and triumph over those pesky overexposed highlights!
FAQ: How To Fix Highlights That Are Too White
Can I color over my highlights
Yes, you can color over your highlights to fix the overly white appearance. Using a hair dye or toner that matches your desired shade will help blend the highlights with the rest of your hair. It’s best to consult with a professional hairstylist to ensure you achieve the desired results.
How can I darken my highlights naturally
If you prefer a natural remedy, you can darken your highlights by applying brewed black tea or coffee to your hair. Simply brew a strong cup, let it cool, and then massage it into your hair. Leave it on for about 30 minutes and then rinse it out. This method can help darken your highlights gradually over time.
Is there a shampoo that darkens your hair
Yes, there are shampoos specifically designed to darken hair, including highlights. Look for shampoos that contain darker pigments or temporary color agents. However, keep in mind that these shampoos may not provide drastic changes and are more suitable for maintaining or enhancing the color.
How do you fix too ashy highlights
To combat overly ashy highlights, you can use a warm-toned hair gloss or glaze. Apply the product to your hair according to the instructions, focusing on the highlighted areas. This will help add warmth and balance out the ashy tones.
How do you fix too light bleached hair
If your bleached hair appears too light, you can try using a semi-permanent hair dye or toner in a shade slightly darker than your current color. This will help tone down the lightness and create a more natural look. Again, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional hairstylist to avoid any unwanted results.
Why do my highlights look dull
Dull highlights can be caused by a buildup of styling products or environmental factors. To revive your highlights, try using a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue. Additionally, using a shine-enhancing hair serum or spray can add a glossy finish and make your highlights appear more vibrant.
Can you overuse purple shampoo
While purple shampoo is great for toning down brassy tones in blonde hair, it is possible to overuse it. Using purple shampoo too frequently or leaving it on for too long can result in a slightly purple or silver hue. It’s recommended to follow the instructions on the bottle and use purple shampoo in moderation.
Will purple shampoo darken my highlights
No, purple shampoo will not darken your highlights. Its purpose is to neutralize and tone down brassy or yellow tones in blonde hair. If you want to darken your highlights, you will need to use a hair dye or toner in a darker shade.
Why did my blonde highlights turn GREY
Blonde highlights can turn grey due to various factors such as exposure to hard water, using the wrong hair products, or the natural aging process. Grey tones can also occur when the hair hasn’t been properly toned or if the highlights were bleached too aggressively. It’s best to consult with a hairstylist to determine the underlying cause and find the appropriate solution.
How do you fix too blonde highlights
If your highlights are too blonde and you desire a more natural look, you can consider getting a toner applied by a professional hairstylist. A toner can help neutralize overly bright or yellow tones, achieving a more subtle and blended result.
Does lemon juice get rid of grey tones
Yes, lemon juice can help lighten and neutralize grey tones in your hair. Simply mix lemon juice with water, spray it onto your hair, and then sit in the sun for a while. However, it’s important to note that repeated use of lemon juice can dry out your hair, so be sure to moisturize and condition adequately.
Is purple shampoo good for highlights
Yes, purple shampoo is beneficial for highlights, especially if they are blonde. It helps counteract unwanted brassy or yellow tones and keeps your highlights looking fresh and vibrant. Use it as directed and enjoy the beautiful results.
How do you get rid of gray highlights
To get rid of grey highlights, you can try using a hair dye or toner in your desired color. Visit a professional hairstylist who can recommend the best coloring solution for your specific needs. They will be able to apply the dye evenly and ensure a flawless result.
Does blue shampoo make blonde darker
No, blue shampoo does not make blonde hair darker. Similar to purple shampoo, blue shampoo is designed to target brassy or orange tones in darker hair colors, such as brunettes with highlights. If you’re looking to darken your hair, it’s best to use a hair dye or toner in the desired shade.
How do you get rid of too light highlights
If your highlights are too light and you want to darken them, you may need to seek professional help from a hairstylist. They can apply a darker toner or dye to achieve the desired shade and create a more balanced look. Attempting to fix the issue at home may lead to unexpected and undesirable results.
Will a toner brighten my highlights
Yes, a toner can brighten your highlights by adding subtle lightness and enhancing their overall appearance. It helps create dimension and contrast in your hair, making your highlights stand out in a flattering way.
How do I make my highlights lighter
If you want to make your highlights lighter, it’s advisable to consult a professional hairstylist. They will be able to assess your hair and determine the best course of action, such as using a bleach or a high-lift hair dye to lighten the highlights. Attempting to lighten highlights at home can lead to uneven results or damage to your hair.
Will clarifying shampoo help remove color
Yes, clarifying shampoo can help remove some color from your hair, including highlights. It works by stripping away product buildup and residue, which can fade the color over time. However, if you want to specifically target the highlights for color removal, it’s best to consult with a hairstylist to ensure the desired outcome without damaging the rest of your hair.
What not to do after getting highlights
After getting highlights, it’s important not to wash your hair immediately. Wait for at least 24-48 hours to allow the color to settle and adhere properly. Additionally, avoid using harsh hair products, excessive heat styling, or prolonged sun exposure, as these can cause the color to fade or become dull.
How do you get your natural hair color back after highlights
To get your natural hair color back after highlights, you will need to let your hair grow out, as the new growth will be your natural color. Alternatively, you can visit a professional stylist who can color-match and blend your hair to achieve a seamless transition from the highlights to your natural color. They may use techniques such as balayage or ombré to create a gradual change.
