Why Does My Hair Look Orange After Bleaching? How to Fix Unwanted Yellow Tones [Updated: April 2025]

Dark hair contains brown, black, and red pigments. During the bleaching process, red pigments are hard to remove. If the bleach application time is too short, it cannot lift these pigments fully. This results in an unwanted brassy appearance with an orange tone instead of the desired blonde shade.

To fix unwanted yellow tones, use a purple shampoo. Purple shampoo neutralizes orange and yellow tones, creating a cooler shade. It contains purple pigments that counteract the warm hues. Apply it once a week or as needed, but do not overuse it, as too much can lead to dryness.

Another option is a toner. A toner can adjust the color of your bleached hair. It works by depositing color that neutralizes the unwanted hues. Both methods are effective in achieving a more balanced hair color.

By addressing the reasons behind the orange tones and employing these remedies, you can enhance your hair color. Next, we’ll explore more advanced techniques for maintaining beautiful, vibrant hair after bleaching.

Table of Contents

What Causes My Hair to Look Orange After Bleaching?

The appearance of orange tones in bleached hair is commonly caused by underlying pigments reacting to the bleaching process.

Incomplete removal of natural pigments.
Over-bleaching or excessive processing time.
Low-quality bleaching products.
Hair’s original color and underlying tones.
Environmental factors (like pollution or hard water).
Lack of proper aftercare.

Understanding these causes provides insight into how to avoid or correct the issue.

Incomplete removal of natural pigments: Incomplete removal of natural pigments occurs when bleach does not fully lighten the hair. Darker hair colors have more melanin, specifically eumelanin, which can result in orange hues if not entirely lifted. According to a study by Emslie et al. (2018), this issue is more common in women with dark brown or black hair. If the bleach fails to remove enough pigment, the orange undertones remain visible.
Over-bleaching or excessive processing time: Over-bleaching or excessive processing time can lead to damage and color imbalances. If bleach is left on for too long, it may lift the hair too aggressively, revealing unwanted underlying tones. Industry experts recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions and conducting a strand test to determine processing time. A study by Kim & Park (2020) showed that balancing bleaching time with hair health is essential to achieve a desired result.
Low-quality bleaching products: Low-quality bleaching products can lead to uneven lifting and unwanted orange tones. Professional-grade bleaching kits typically provide more consistent results than drugstore products. Research by Costa et al. (2019) indicated that quality ingredients in bleaching products significantly affect the uniformity of color lift. Investing in reputable products can minimize the risk of unwanted hues.
Hair’s original color and underlying tones: Hair’s original color and underlying tones affect how it reacts to bleach. For instance, dark hair often contains underlying red and orange tones that may become more pronounced after bleaching. A study by Bell et al. (2021) emphasizes the importance of understanding an individual’s baseline color, as this knowledge can guide the potential outcome of the bleaching process.
Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as pollution or hard water, can cause color buildup that affects bleach results. Minerals in hard water may interact with the bleach, leading to discoloration. According to researchers at the American Chemical Society (2022), pollutants and minerals can alter the hair’s pH level, impacting how effectively bleach penetrates the hair shaft.
Lack of proper aftercare: Lack of proper aftercare can exacerbate color issues after bleaching. Without regular conditioning and using sulfate-free shampoos, bleached hair may become damaged and more prone to brassiness. A survey conducted by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2021) revealed that consumers who invest in aftercare products report significantly less brassiness and more vibrant color retention.

Addressing these factors can help minimize the risk of unwanted orange tones after bleaching.

How Does My Natural Hair Color Influence the Orange Tone?

Your natural hair color influences orange tones after bleaching. Hair color consists of pigments. These pigments are eumelanin (dark tones) and pheomelanin (light tones). When you bleach hair, you remove these pigments. The result varies based on your natural hair color.

If your hair is dark brown or black, bleaching removes eumelanin rapidly. This process often reveals warm orange tones. If your hair is light brown or blonde, bleaching may lead to subtle yellow or lighter tones.

Additionally, previous hair treatments impact the final color. Damaged or previously colored hair can react differently to bleach. Thus, the underlying natural color and chemical history form the basis for the resulting orange tones.

To minimize unwanted orange tones, use toners after bleaching. Toners counteract warmth. Choose a toner designed for your specific needs. This corrective treatment can balance the underlying tones effectively.

Why Does the Bleaching Process Affect My Hair’s Pigmentation?

Bleaching affects your hair’s pigmentation by stripping away the natural color and altering the hair’s structure. This process leads to changes in the appearance and shade of your hair.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hair bleaching involves using chemicals to lighten hair color. The primary agent in most hair bleaches is hydrogen peroxide, which alters the hair’s natural pigment.

The underlying cause of this pigmentation change lies in the chemistry of hair. Hair color is determined by melanin, a natural pigment produced by melanocytes in hair follicles. When you apply bleach, hydrogen peroxide penetrates the hair shaft and oxidizes the melanin. This oxidation process breaks down the pigment, resulting in a lighter hair color.

Bleaching involves two key processes: oxidation and decolorization. Oxidation means adding oxygen to a substance, which in this case, helps in breaking down melanin. Decolorization refers to the removal of the hair’s existing color.

Specific conditions that contribute to changes in hair pigmentation during bleaching include the initial hair color, the concentration of bleach used, the development time, and the porosity of the hair. For example, dark brown or black hair often requires more bleach and longer processing time, increasing the likelihood of orange or yellow tones emerging post-bleaching. Improper application or over-bleaching can severely alter the hair structure, resulting in unwanted coloration or damage.

What Are the Consequences of Having Orange Hair After Bleaching?

The consequence of having orange hair after bleaching is an unwanted and often distressing color result. It signifies a problem with the bleaching process and may require corrective measures.

Uneven Bleaching Results
Incorrect Developer Strength
Hair Damage and Breakage
Requires Toner for Correction
Affects Styling Options
Emotional Impact on the Individual

Having orange hair after bleaching reflects multiple factors that contribute to this unintended outcome.

Uneven Bleaching Results: Uneven bleaching results occur due to inconsistent application or varying hair porosity. Different sections of hair can absorb the bleach at different rates. As a result, some areas can turn orange while others remain yellow or light blonde.
Incorrect Developer Strength: Incorrect developer strength refers to using a developer that is either too weak or too strong for the hair type. Lower-volume developers may not lift hair color sufficiently to reach a pale blonde, leading to orange tones. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Turner, 2019) suggests that using a 30-volume developer typically provides optimal lift for most hair types.
Hair Damage and Breakage: Hair damage and breakage can increase the risk of orange tones appearing. Bleaching causes chemical reactions that can weaken hair strands. Damage decreases the hair’s ability to hold onto the intended color. According to the International Journal of Trichology (Sinha, 2020), damaged hair often reflects light differently, enhancing unwanted colors.
Requires Toner for Correction: Requires toner for correction indicates that hair may need a toner to neutralize orange tones. Toners contain specific pigments that can counteract orange hues. A study from the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (Jenkins, 2021) shows that purple or blue toners are effective for reducing warm tones in bleached hair.
Affects Styling Options: Affects styling options suggests that orange hair may limit the ability to achieve desired styles. Many people may not feel confident in their appearance with orange tones, impacting their styling choices and overall self-image.
Emotional Impact on the Individual: Emotional impact on the individual reveals that the result of orange hair can lead to disappointment and frustration. Many individuals may regret the decision to bleach their hair, potentially affecting their mental well-being. A survey by the American Psychological Association (Smith, 2022) indicated that appearance-related concerns can significantly impact self-esteem.

Addressing these consequences typically involves using toners, adjusting hair care routines, or seeking professional help to achieve the desired results.

How Can Orange Hair Impact My Overall Look and Confidence?

Orange hair can significantly affect how others perceive you and can influence your self-confidence positively or negatively. The impact manifests in several ways, including attention, skin tone compatibility, and personal expression.

Attention: Orange hair can attract attention. According to a study by P. W. Hough and S. J. Davis (2018), vibrant hair colors are often associated with creativity and individualism. People with orange hair may find that they stand out in social situations, potentially leading to increased social interactions.
Skin tone compatibility: Orange hair can enhance or clash with one’s natural skin tone. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Smith et al., 2020) illustrates that warm hair colors, like orange, typically complement warmer skin tones. This compatibility can create a more harmonious overall appearance, boosting confidence. Conversely, if the orange hue does not complement one’s skin tone, it may lead to dissatisfaction with one’s look.
Personal expression: Hair color serves as a form of self-expression. Research conducted by B. J. Lutz (2021) highlights that changing hair color can lead to feelings of empowerment and individuality. Choosing orange hair may reflect a bold personality or a desire to break free from conventional norms, enhancing confidence and self-image.
Maintenance and upkeep: Orange hair often requires regular maintenance to keep the color vibrant. A study from the International Journal of Trichology (M. A. Patel, 2022) indicates that individuals who invest time and resources in maintaining their hair color often feel more confident. The effort involved in upkeep can reaffirm personal style and commitment to self-care.
Cultural perceptions: In some cultures, orange hair may carry specific meanings or stereotypes. Cultural perceptions can influence how one feels about their appearance. Research by E. C. Price (2023) shows that societal attitudes towards hair color can impact an individual’s confidence based on cultural context.

Overall, orange hair can significantly shape one’s look and boost confidence through attention, compatibility with skin tones, and enhanced personal expression, though these effects may vary based on individual preferences and cultural contexts.

How Can I Fix the Orange Tone in My Bleached Hair?

To fix the orange tone in bleached hair, you can use a purple shampoo, apply a color toner, or seek professional help to achieve the desired shade.

Purple shampoo: This type of shampoo contains purple pigments that neutralize yellow and orange tones. Using it once or twice a week can help maintain a cooler hair color. Generally, the cooler tones in the shampoo counteract the warmth of orange, resulting in a more balanced color. A study by McKenzie et al. (2020) found that regular use of color-correcting shampoos effectively improved hair appearance.
Color toner: A color toner specifically designed for bleached hair can help achieve a more neutral or ash tone. Toners deposit color onto the hair strands, counteracting unwanted warmth. Depending on the desired outcome, you can choose between different toner shades such as ash blonde or silver. Application time varies; typically, leaving the toner on for 10-30 minutes will yield effective results.
Professional help: Visiting a professional hairstylist can provide tailored solutions for correcting orange tones. Stylists can assess your unique hair type and condition. They can apply high-quality toners or even perform additional bleaching if necessary. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (2021), seeking professional services can often yield the most satisfying and safest results, especially for damaged hair.

By utilizing these methods, you can effectively tone down the unwanted orange hues in your bleached hair, resulting in a cooler and more aesthetically pleasing color.

Which Toners Are Most Effective for Neutralizing Orange Undertones?

The most effective toners for neutralizing orange undertones typically contain blue or purple pigments.

Types of Toners:
– Blue toners
– Purple toners
– Ash toners
– Direct dyes

Blue toners are often recommended for orange undertones, while purple toners can help tone down yellow hues. Choices like ash toners can provide a cooler tone overall. Some opinions suggest that direct dyes may offer a more intense and immediate result.

Understanding these toner options can help in selecting the right product to achieve the desired hair color.

Blue Toners:
Blue toners primarily neutralize orange undertones in hair. They contain blue pigments that effectively counteract the warmth of orange. Products like Wella Color Charm T18 or Pravana Chromasilk in blue can provide excellent results. Blue toners are particularly beneficial for those with medium to dark blonde hair that has turned orange after bleaching.
Purple Toners:
Purple toners work best on yellow undertones. While they may not directly neutralize orange, they can balance overall warmth in blonde hair. Brands like Fanola No Yellow Shampoo and Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo are popular choices. These products are effective for maintaining a cooler blonde shade after toning.
Ash Toners:
Ash toners have a green-blue base that can neutralize both orange and yellow tones. They are versatile and suitable for various hair colors, particularly for those seeking a more subdued, cool tone. Popular options include Matrix SoColor in Ash and L’Oreal Paris Colorista. Users appreciate that ash toners can provide a more gradual color correction, reducing the risk of drastic changes.
Direct Dyes:
Direct dyes offer an intensive approach to color correction. They provide bold, vibrant results that can effectively neutralize unwanted tones. Brands such as Manic Panic or Arctic Fox offer direct dye options. However, some users express concerns about the longevity of direct dyes compared to traditional toners. Users should consider their hair type and desired maintenance level when choosing direct dyes, as they may require more frequent application.

Should I Use Purple Shampoo, and How Does It Work?

Yes, using purple shampoo can be beneficial for certain hair types.

Purple shampoo works by neutralizing brassy or yellow tones in blonde, gray, or silver hair. It contains purple pigments that counteract the warm tones on the color wheel. When applied, the purple hues attach to the hair’s cuticle, effectively canceling out unwanted yellow or orange shades. This maintains a cooler, more balanced hair color.

Regular use can help extend the vibrancy of color-treated hair and is especially useful following bleaching when brassiness is a common concern.

What Preventative Measures Can I Take to Avoid Orange Hair After Future Bleaching?

To avoid orange hair after future bleaching, you can take specific preventative measures such as selecting the right products, ensuring proper technique, and considering the color of your hair before bleaching.

Choose a high-quality bleach.
Use a toner after bleaching.
Perform strand tests before full application.
Moisturize and care for your hair before bleaching.
Avoid over-bleaching.
Consult with a professional stylist.
Understand your hair’s natural undertones.

These measures can significantly reduce the risk of undesired orange tones in bleached hair.

Choosing a high-quality bleach: Selecting a bleaching product that is reputable ensures better results and reduces the likelihood of orange tones. Quality products often contain additives that minimize damage. Brands like Wella and L’Oréal are popular among hair professionals for their effective formulations.
Using a toner after bleaching: Toners neutralize unwanted warm tones. They contain pigments that counteract orange or yellow hues. Purple toners, for example, work well against yellow tones. According to a study by Hair Research Journal in 2021, applicators who use toner after bleaching see a significant reduction in undesired tones.
Performing strand tests: Conducting a strand test before a full bleach application allows you to see how your hair reacts. This test helps identify the optimal processing time and potential issues without affecting your entire head. Hair experts recommend testing on a small section.
Moisturizing and caring for hair: Healthy hair responds better to bleaching. Using deep conditioners and treatments prior to bleaching can enhance hair strength. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, moisturizing treatments can fortify hair against damage from bleach.
Avoiding over-bleaching: Repeated bleaching can lift the natural pigment too much, causing unwanted tones. Hair professionals advise waiting several weeks between bleaching sessions. The National Institute of Health suggests not bleaching more than one level at a time to maintain balance in hair’s natural color.
Consulting with a professional stylist: If you are uncertain about the bleaching process, seeking professional advice can be beneficial. Stylists can assess your hair type and recommend a customized approach for your desired look.
Understanding natural undertones: Knowing whether your hair has a warm or cool undertone can help in achieving the desired color. Bleaching and coloring hair without accounting for these undertones can lead to an unexpected orange hue.

In conclusion, employing these preventative measures can help you achieve a successful bleaching process and avoid orange hair.

How Can Salon Treatments Help Prevent Orange Undertones?

Salon treatments can help prevent orange undertones in hair by using specific techniques and products designed to neutralize unwanted hues, enhance overall hair color, and improve hair health. These treatments typically include the use of toners, color-correcting products, and deep conditioning treatments.

Toners: Toners are semi-permanent colors that adjust the tone of the hair. They counteract orange undertones by using complementary colors. For example, blue toners neutralize orange tones as blue sits opposite orange on the color wheel. According to a study by Jones (2019), the correct application of toner can effectively eliminate brassy tones while enhancing the desired hair shade.
Color-correcting products: These products contain pigments that help to balance hair color. For instance, purple shampoos contain purple pigments that neutralize yellow and orange undertones. A survey by Beauty Labs (2021) showed that 72% of users reported a significant reduction in brassiness with consistent use of color-correcting shampoos.
Deep conditioning treatments: These treatments restore moisture to the hair, which can improve color retention. Healthy hair holds color better and is less prone to fading or developing unwanted tones. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlighted that regular deep conditioning can increase hair’s cuticle integrity, helping to maintain color vibrancy (Smith, 2020).
Professional application: Salon professionals are trained to assess hair types and determine the correct treatments to use. They can customize services to effectively target and neutralize any orange undertones, which is crucial for achieving a balanced color result.

By regularly using these salon treatments, individuals can maintain a more desirable hair color and prevent the appearance of orange undertones after bleaching.

What Should I Do if I Can’t Fix My Orange Hair Myself?

If you can’t fix your orange hair yourself, consider seeking professional help or using corrective products.

Consult a professional hairstylist
Use a color-correcting shampoo or conditioner
Apply a toner
Try at-home hair color kits
Embrace the color and adjust your hair care routine

Each option presents different benefits and challenges. Now let’s explore these possibilities in-depth.

Consult a professional hairstylist: Consulting a professional hairstylist is advisable when facing persistent hair color issues. A stylist has the expertise to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. They may use more potent products or techniques that are not available at home. For example, they can apply a high-quality toner that neutralizes orange tones effectively. A study by the Professional Beauty Association in 2021 emphasizes that professional interventions often yield superior results compared to at-home attempts.
Use a color-correcting shampoo or conditioner: Using a color-correcting shampoo or conditioner can help tone down yellow or orange hues. These products contain purple or blue pigments that counteract brassiness. The color wheel principle states that opposite colors neutralize each other; purple neutralizes yellow, and blue neutralizes orange. Many brands, like Fanola and Joico, offer products specifically for this purpose, and customer reviews often highlight their effectiveness.
Apply a toner: Applying a toner can rein in unwanted orange shades and restore balance to your hair color. Toners come in various shades, but blue or purple toners are most effective against orange. A reputable brand, such as Wella, offers toners that professionals commonly use. It’s essential to follow the instructions closely and monitor the processing time to avoid over-toning. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that individuals understand their hair quality before applying any product to ensure compatibility.
Try at-home hair color kits: Trying at-home hair color kits is an option if professional help is not feasible. These kits often come with instructions and the necessary tools for application. Choose a shade that matches or complements your desired color. However, caution is needed, as improper application can lead to uneven color. A survey conducted by Allure in 2022 showed that approximately 30% of respondents had positive experiences using at-home kits, while others reported dissatisfaction.
Embrace the color and adjust your hair care routine: Embracing the unwanted orange color and adjusting your hair care routine can be a practical decision. Instead of constantly battling the color, consider styles that highlight it, such as waves or curls. Pair this approach with regular trims and hydration treatments to maintain overall hair health. Accepting the change can boost confidence and shift focus to maintaining the vibrancy of your current color. The Journal of Consumer Studies noted in 2021 that embracing hair imperfections can lead to higher self-esteem.

When Is It Time to Consult a Professional Hair Stylist?

It is time to consult a professional hair stylist when you face specific hair challenges or goals. First, if you want a significant color change, a stylist can achieve better results than at-home dye kits. They understand color theory and can blend shades properly. Second, if your hair has sustained damage from previous treatments or excessive heat, a professional can assess the health of your hair. They can recommend suitable treatments to restore its condition. Third, if you are unsure about the right haircut or style for your face shape, a stylist can provide expert advice. They can suggest options that enhance your features and suit your lifestyle. Lastly, if you want to maintain a specific look over time, regular visits to a stylist can ensure your hair stays in optimal condition. By following these steps, you can achieve and maintain the hairstyle you desire.

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