3 Toning Rules @prettylittleombre Swears By

Toning is the finishing touch that gives any balayage a quick and visible color boost, and we love sharing our favorite tips to help you master your application skills. Jamie Sea—aka @prettylittleombre to her 321,000 Instagram followers—is our go-to for all things balayage, so we’re sharing her three best toning rules every painter should know. Check them all out below! 

1. Equalize Porosity For Color Longevity

• Toners last longer on hair that’s been porosity-equalized, so apply toner to damp hair.
• If needed, apply an extra porosity equalizing product to ensure even pigment absorption—Jamie recommends Kenra Professional Porosity Equalizing Spray.
• Towel-dry the hair to ensure it’s not too wet, or it will dilute the product.

2. Toner Will Not Fix Brightness

• Toners cannot create brightness that doesn’t exist already, so the lightening process is important.
• For example, to take a Level 5 client to pale Level 9 highlights, you must lift first to Level 9/10.
• If the hair only lifts to Level 8, the primary visible pigments are yellow and orange. Toner can CANCEL these pigments but cannot add brightness for a Level 9 result.

3. Aftercare Starts In The Salon

• Only use products that balance pH levels after bleaching and toning, or the hair will be too high in alkaline.

• Avoid using high alkaline styling products like hairspray to keep the haircolor from fading.

• Recommend toning shampoos and conditioners to clients for longevity in between appointments.

Check out Jamie’s favorite toning formulas HERE!