Using oVertone can be a great way to add vibrancy and change up your hair color. However, sometimes oVertone can turn out more muted than expected. There are a few tips and tricks you can use to help your oVertone show up brighter and more vibrant.
Start with properly prepped hair
For oVertone to deposit the most vibrant color, you need to start with properly prepped hair. Make sure your hair is clean and free of buildup before applying oVertone. Use a clarifying shampoo to strip away any residue. It’s also best to avoid conditioner before using oVertone as this can act as a barrier.
You’ll get the most vibrancy on light, porous hair. So if your hair is darker, consider lightening it first with bleach or color remover before using oVertone. This will allow the color to grab on better and show up more brightly.
Choose the right oVertone shades
Pick oVertone shades that will show up well against your base color. For example, red oVertone pops best on light blonde hair. If you have dark hair, go for richer jewel tones like violet, blue or green. Stay away from pastels or muted shades if vibrancy is your goal.
You can also mix two oVertone colors together to create your own custom vibrant shade. Try pairing colors opposite each other on the color wheel, like blue + orange or green + red. The contrast will make both colors pop more.
Use extra oVertone product
Don’t be shy with the amount of oVertone you apply. For maximum vibrancy, use the full recommended amount (or even a bit more). Applying too little product can lead to subtle, disappointing results.
Focus on fully saturating your mid-lengths and ends where the color impact will be most visible. You can use less product at the roots for a more natural look.
Amp it up with heat
Heat helps open the hair cuticle so oVertone can penetrate deeper and deposit more vibrant color. After applying oVertone, use a blowdryer on warm/low settings to heat activate the color.
You can also cover hair with a processing cap and sit under a hooded dryer for 10-15 minutes. The prolonged heat will allow oVertone to set and build vibrancy.
Leave it on longer
For maximum color impact, leave oVertone on for longer than the minimum time recommended. Most oVertone shades suggest leaving on for 10-15 mins. But you can often get better payoff by leaving on for 30 mins to an hour, rinsing once the color is at your desired intensity.
Processing under heat for an extended period before rinsing will allow for deeper, longer-lasting color penetration and vibrancy. Just keep an eye on it so the color doesn’t become too oversaturated.
Enhance shine
Vibrant hair looks its best when it’s super shiny. So it’s important to properly nourish and hydrate your hair after using oVertone. Use a moisturizing hair mask or repairing oil to boost shine.
A glossing treatment is another great option, whether DIY or salon. The sheer layer of gloss smooths the cuticle for incredible vibrancy and light reflection.
Prep your canvas
Remember that vibrancy is all relative. If your hair canvas is dull and lifeless, any color you apply will also appear muted.
Exfoliate your scalp with sea salt or an exfoliating shampoo to remove dead skin and product buildup. This clears the way for your oVertone color to shine through.
It also helps to remove split ends which can make your oVertone appear darker at the ends. Get a trim right before applying your oVertone for perfectly smooth, healthy hair that maximizes vibrancy.
Maintain brightness
The vibrancy of your oVertone won’t last if you don’t maintain it properly. Use a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo to wash your hair as infrequently as possible. Overwashing causes rapid fading of oVertone’s colors.
Also be diligent about reapplying oVertone whenever you notice the vibrancy starting to fade. For bonus brightness, mix in the oVertone Daily Conditioner which deposits pigment with every use.
Troubleshooting tips
What if my oVertone comes out uneven or splotchy?
This can happen if you don’t fully saturate all your hair evenly with oVertone. Next time, separate hair into sections and use a tint or color brush to thoroughly coat every strand. Processing under even heat will also help the color develop evenly.
What if my oVertone is fading fast?
Some factors like hard water, heat styling, and sun exposure can make oVertone fade faster. Try a color-protecting shampoo and limit washing to 1-2 times per week. Also reapply oVertone more frequently to maintain vibrancy. Avoid heat styling when possible and wear a hat for sun protection.
What if my oVertone looks darker/lighter than expected?
The underlying color of your hair impacts how light or dark oVertone shades will turn out. For predictable results, do a strand test first on hair strands that match your current color. Let it fully process before judging the shade. You can also slightly lighten or darken your hair first if needed to get your perfect vibrant result.
Conclusion
While oVertone offers gorgeous color possibilities, getting the maximum vibrancy takes a bit of strategy. With properly prepped hair, heat processing, adequate development time, and good maintenance, you can achieve stunningly vibrant results. Don’t be afraid to customize oVertone to your hair’s needs and desired color intensity. Vibrant, show-stopping hair is at your fingertips with the right oVertone techniques.
| Tip | How it boosts vibrancy |
|---|---|
| Clarify hair before applying | Removes buildup so color penetrates better |
| Choose vivid oVertone shades | Bolder pigments show up more brightly |
| Use ample product | Allows for complete saturation and vivid results |
| Process with heat | Opens cuticle so color can deposit deeply |
| Leave on longer | Allows more time for vibrant color to develop |
| Boost shine | Reflective hair radiates vibrant color |
| Maintain diligently | Prolongs the life of your vibrant color |
