When your hair needs a refresh, these formulas are great in a pinch.

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Coloring your hair is a commitment.

Maria Rosaria Rizzo wears a red silk lustrous top, a hair scrunchie, earrings, sunglasses, during a street style fashion photo session, on May 08, 2024 in Paris, France.

Investing in thebest shampoos and conditionersespeciallyblue shampoosandpurple shampooscan help your color stay longer.

But using one of the best hair toners orhair glossesin between appointments is key for maintaining color vibrance.

“It helps achieve the desired shade by counteracting unwanted colors like brassiness or yellow tones.”

Color Fanatic Top Coat + Tone Hair Gloss

He notes, however, that hair toners come in all hair colors.

Hair toners can be formulated to eradicate ashy tones from warm hair and yellow tones from ashy hair.

It has hydrating properties and an ability to prevent color fading.

Wella hair toner box and bottle beside each other on white background

It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like oat milk and camellia oil, which condition hair and mitigate frizz.

“It comes in various shades to cater to different hair colors and undertones, providing customizable results.”

He especially loves this shade for its ability to restore platinum-blonde hair to its former brilliance.

tub of Overtone Espresso Brown Coloring Conditioner on a white backrground

It’s a go-to choice for those aiming for a high-lift blonde result."

This hair toner doubles as a conditioner and deposits espresso-colored pigment into each individual strand.

She explains, “This is a frizz-fighting hair mask and shine gloss all in one.

Dae hair mask tube on a white background

you’ve got the option to wear it to bed and shower it out the next morning.”

It’s especially great for those with curly hair more prone to frizz.

One use, and your hair will be shinier and smoother.

dpHUE Gloss+ on an off-white background

Enriched with amino acids and anti-yellowing agents, hair feels soft, shiny, and revitalized."

“The purple pigments help neutralize brassiness and keep the hair looking fresh and vibrant between salon visits.

Plus, it’s sulfate-free and gentle on the hair.”

bottle of L’Oréal anti-brass shampoo on a white background

In those cases, Hazan recommends this “super hydrating” toner from R-Co, which offers UV protection.

Look no further than this hair toner andsemi-permanent hair colortwo-in-one.

Brassiness is the most common reason to incorporate a hair toner into your routine.

Milbon Sophistone purple shampoo on a white background

After lightening, warm tones like yellow or orange can become more prominent, explains Perez.

“A toner can neutralize these tones to achieve a cooler, more natural-looking result.”

But hair toners aren’t limited to those with blonde hair.

R+co Gemstone Ultra Shine Glossing Treatment | Enhanced Vibrancy + Shine + Deep Hydration | Vegan + Cruelty-Free | 5 Oz

Finally, hair toners can be used to maintain dyed hair over time so that your style lasts longer.

Meanwhile, she suggests avoiding harsh, damaging ingredients like ammonia and peroxide.

“Use a brush or applicator to ensure thorough coverage.”

Color Wow Pop + Lock Frizz Control Serum on a white background

Allow the toner to process according to the instructions provided.

This typically ranges from five to 30 minutes, depending on the toner and the desired result.

Once time is up, “rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.”

four Redken demi-permanent hair dyes side by side on a white background

How Often Should I Use a Hair Toner?

Meet the Experts

Luis Perez is a professional hairstylist and color designer who works with Julien Farel.

He specializes in balayage and in creating natural, flattering looks for all skin tones and hair types.

A man (Miles Caton as Sammie Moore) plays the guitar while standing in a crowd in a wooden barn, in ‘Sinners.'

She specializes in hair color, having cut her teeth during the highlights and bleaching craze of the 1990s.

Leave your ballet flats in your checked bag.

Uncle Harry for the gifting win.

Kendall Jenner walks in New York City wearing a wrap coat and sneakers

Princess Kate holding Prince Louis on his christening day