Overtone is a semi-permanent hair color that deposits pigment onto the hair without permanently altering the hair structure. Many people like Overtone because it allows them to temporarily change their hair color without commitment. A common question about Overtone is whether it washes out completely over time. The short answer is yes, Overtone will completely wash out of hair with regular shampooing over 4-12 weeks. However, there are some factors that affect how long Overtone lasts on hair.
How Overtone works
Overtone contains direct dyes that coat the outside of the hair shaft. Direct dyes are large pigment molecules that cannot penetrate into the hair cortex like permanent hair dye. Instead, direct dyes sit on top of the cuticle layer. With each wash, some of the direct dye molecules get lifted away. Over repeat washes, all of the Overtone color will be removed. The color wears off gradually, so there is no harsh line of demarcation.
Factors that influence fading time
There are several factors that impact how quickly Overtone fades from hair:
| Factor | Effect on Fading Time |
|---|---|
| Hair color | Darker hair holds onto color longer than light hair |
| Hair porosity | Porous hair absorbs more color and retains it longer |
| Washing frequency | Frequent washing fades color faster |
| Shampoo type | Clarifying or sulfate-free shampoos lift color faster than creamy shampoos |
| Water temperature | Hot water removes color quicker than cold water |
| Sun exposure | Sunlight fades Overtone faster |
| Hair health | Damage or dryness causes color to fade faster |
Hair Color
Darker hair has a tighter cuticle layer that grabs onto color. Blonde and light brown hair has a more open cuticle that allows color to escape. For this reason, Overtone lasts longer on brunette and black hair compared to blonde or red hair. Expect the color to fade within 4-6 weeks on lighter hair, and 6-10 weeks on dark hair.
Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. Porous hair has an open cuticle layer that readily soaks up color. Normal to low porosity hair has a tightly bound cuticle that doesn’t allow much penetration. High porosity hair will grip onto Overtone longer, while it will fade quicker from low porosity hair. Porosity can be determined by doing a float test.
Washing Frequency
How often you wash your hair impacts how quickly Overtone fades. With every wash, some color molecules get lifted away. Frequent washing like daily or every other day will cause Overtone to fade within 2-4 weeks. Washing 1-2 times per week allows Overtone to last 4-8 weeks. Stretching washes to every 10-14 days can make Overtone last 8-12 weeks.
Shampoo Type
Not all shampoos are created equal when it comes to removing color. Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and lift away less color per wash. Daily clarifying shampoos deep clean the hair and will strip Overtone faster. Opt for a moisturizing, creamy shampoo and only clarify once a week or less.
Water Temperature
Hot water opens the cuticle and causes more rapid fading of Overtone. Lukewarm or cool water allows for gentler cleansing with less color removal per wash. Rinsing with cold water can help seal the cuticle and lock in more color.
Sun Exposure
Exposure to sunlight will speed up the fading of Overtone. The UV rays alter the color molecules, causing them to break down faster. Wearing hats and limiting direct sun time will help extend the life of your Overtone color.
Hair Health
Dry, damaged hair tends to fade color quicker. The rough, opened cuticle does not grip color well and allows it to escape. Keeping hair conditioned with masks and leave-ins will help lock in moisture and seal the cuticle to make Overtone last longer. Avoid heat styling when possible, as the damage can cause faster fading.
Tips for making Overtone last longer
If you want to extend the longevity of your Overtone color, here are some helpful tips:
– Wash hair less frequently, 1-2 times per week
– Use lukewarm water and rinse with cool water
– Alternate regular shampoo with sulfate-free shampoo
– Apply conditioning hair masks 1-2 times per week
– Avoid heat styling tools
– Let hair air dry instead of blow drying
– Limit sun exposure by wearing hats outside
– Use color-protecting hair products
– Get occasional trims to remove split ends
– Refresh color every 3-4 weeks by reapplying Overtone
Does Overtone damage hair?
Unlike permanent dye, Overtone causes no damage to the hair structure. Permanent hair color requires developer to open the cuticle and alter the natural pigment inside the hair shaft. Overtone simply coats the outside of hair with direct dyes. It does not penetrate into the cortex or require chemical processing. The color washes off over time without changing the integrity of the hair. Overtone is even conditioning, thanks to nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. It leaves hair soft and shiny, not dried out or damaged. For this reason, Overtone is safe to use on all hair types and colors. It provides vibrancy without compromising the health of your hair.
How to remove Overtone faster
While Overtone washes out gradually on its own, there are some ways to speed up removal if you want to change your color sooner.
Here are tips for faster fading:
– Wash with clarifying shampoo 2-3 times per week
– Wash with hot water and rinse with cool water
– Apply anti-dandruff shampoo 1-2 times per week (the zinc lifts direct dye)
– Use a chelating shampoo weekly to remove mineral buildup
– Try hair dye remover products like Color Oops or L’Oreal Effasol
– Make a baking soda paste and apply before shampooing
– Use an apple cider vinegar rinse after shampooing
– Get a salt scrub or clarifying treatment at the salon
Using these stripping techniques, you can typically remove Overtone in 1-2 weeks instead of 4-6 weeks. But keep in mind, these harsh methods may dry out your hair. It’s best to fade Overtone gradually with gentle shampooing if you can wait.
Conclusion
Overtone provides a fun way to temporarily transform your hair color without damage. While it deposits vibrant color that shows up well, it does gradually wash out over time. Most users can expect the color to fully fade within 4-12 weeks depending on hair type and washing frequency. Overtone washes out cleanly without leaving behind stubborn staining or discoloration. With proper hair care, you can keep your hair healthy and shiny as the color fades. Overtone gives you bold hair without the long-term commitment!