Hair toner is a product used primarily after hair has been lightened or bleached to correct, enhance, or personalize hair color by adding or neutralizing tones. It works by neutralizing unwanted brassy or yellow undertones that can appear after lightening, especially in blonde hair, but it can also benefit brunettes and redheads. Toners add natural or more visible tones, creating a professional, polished finish and enhancing the overall tonality of the hair

. Toners come in various forms, including professional in-salon toners, demi- permanent colors, glosses, and at-home products like purple or blue shampoos and conditioners. These products deposit pigment without lightening the hair and can last from 1-3 weeks depending on the type and how often the hair is washed

. Beyond color correction, hair toners also strengthen hair by creating a protective barrier around the strands, balancing porosity by filling in the hair shaft, and adding shine and volume by smoothing and sealing the cuticle. They can also reduce the appearance of split ends and make hair color appear more vibrant and fresh

. In summary, hair toner:

• Neutralizes unwanted warm tones like brassiness or yellow

• Adds or enhances desired tones for a customized color finish

• Strengthens and protects hair by improving cuticle condition

• Adds shine, softness, and volume to hair

• Helps maintain hair color between salon visits, especially for lightened or colored hair

This makes toner an essential step in achieving and maintaining a polished, vibrant hair color look.