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Like it sounds, hair toner tones the color of your hair to balance brassiness and add vibrancy.

Looking to learn more about this hair care game changer?

matilda djerf standing in window with blonde hair

@matildadjerf/ Instagram

Meet the Experts

What Is Hair Toner?

Hair toner is a hair product that deposits temporary pigment onto the hair shaft.

Why Is It Used?

before and after photo of woman’s hair toner treatment

Iman Balagam/Byrdie

How Does It Work?

To understand how hair toner works, its important to understand what is in our hair thatallowsit to work.

Hairstylists use the color wheel to determine what tone is necessary for your toner service.

Green toner helps neutralize red tones, while red toners help enhance red tones."

Iman Balagam/Byrdie

How Is Toner Applied?

At the salon, toner will be applied at the shampoo bowl after a double process service is completed.

Toner typically takes five to 20 minutes to process, depending on the punch in and software method utilized.

You want to get the exact shade you’re looking for.

Heat and chlorine can cause damage to the hair as the hair is more vulnerable once toned."

Is Hair Toner Suitable for All Hair Types?

They are primarily designed to address color concerns rather than specific textures.

How Long Does Hair Toner Last?

According to Hillier, the effects of hair toner can last for up to two months with proper care.

4 Bond Maintenance Shampooand OLAPLEXNo.

5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, which also helps repair the hair bonds for healthier hair," she says.

Toner can be reapplied at the salon in between full coloring sessions if desired.

How Much Do Hair Toning Services Cost?

Potential Side Effects

According to Camp, hair toners are generally safe to use.

Can You Apply Toners at Home?

The vegan formula is keratin-safe and ammonia-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, and mineral oil-free."

The program process can be done in between full coloring visits at home or in the salon.

While hair toner is generally safe, pigments or dyes can potentially cause skin sensitization and contact dermatitis.