How to Counteract Brassy Hair

1.

Use a hair toner product on your locks. Toner is usually a blue or purple color, to help neutralize that brassy orange color, and can be found at most beauty supply stores. Purple is opposite orange on the color scale, so you can see how the saying "opposites attract" works in your favor here. Don't overdo it and go toner-crazy; this can leave you with a violet shade of hair. Once every couple of weeks or so is enough to get rid of -- and prevent -- brassiness, without turning you into Barney.

2.

Apply a semi-permanent hair dye or rinse, which is a "deposit only" type of hair color, onto your hair. Do this when your hair starts to get brassy, although you should try to avoid doing it more than once every four to six weeks, to prevent damage.

3.

Change your shampoo and conditioner to a color-protectant version of each. These are the products you use every day -- or at least a few times a week anyway -- and if you're using the wrong products they're only going to enhance the brassy tones in your tresses. There are specially formulated shampoos and conditioners you choose based on your hair type and color. Also, read the label and look for natural, gentle ingredients safe for color-treated hair, such as aloe vera and avocado oil.

4.

Stay out of the sun. Overexposure to the sun can result in more than just dryness and damage to your hair, it can also cause brassiness. Toss on a sunhat before heading into the great outdoors to ward off brassy tones in your hair.

5.

Choose natural hair care and styling products. Chemical-based products full of heavy, harsh ingredients can end up leaving a buildup on your hair, which can contribute to the brassiness. It's always best to read the label on any product before buying and using it, and look for natural, gentle ingredients such as aloe vera and avocado oil.