Yes, you can mix different levels of hair color, but it's important to approach this with caution and an understanding of the expected results. Mixing different levels can help you achieve custom shades that aren't available off-the-shelf. However, the outcome depends on the specific colors you mix and the intended result.
Here are some considerations and guidelines when mixing different levels of hair color:
Purpose of Mixing Levels
- Customization: You might want a shade that isn’t available in standard colors.
- Dimension: Mixing levels can give your hair a more natural look with subtle highlights or lowlights.
- Neutralization: Mixing opposite tones (like ash and gold) can neutralize unwanted tones.
Examples of Mixing Levels
- Creating a Medium Shade: If you want a shade between two levels, you could mix equal parts of a darker and a lighter shade.
- Adding Depth: To add depth to a darker color, you might mix a small amount of a lighter shade with a darker one.
Tips for Mixing Levels
- Understand Your Base: Know the current level of your hair to predict the final outcome accurately.
- Strand Test: Always perform a strand test to see the actual result on your hair before doing a full application.
- Consistency: Keep track of the ratios of the colors you mix to maintain consistency if you need to reapply or touch up later.
- Developer Consideration: Use the same volume of developer for all components unless you have a specific reason to vary the volumes.
- Professional Advice: If you're unsure, consult with a professional who can guide you through the process and help avoid mistakes.
Example Scenario
Suppose you want a medium brown shade (level 4), but you only have dark brown (level 3) and light brown (level 5). You could mix one part level 3 with one part level 5 to get a custom level 4 shade.
Important Note
Mixing levels won't change the overall lift power; it's used primarily for adjusting the shade rather than lifting the hair color to a lighter level. For significant lightening, you would typically use bleach followed by a toner, rather than relying solely on hair dye.
By understanding the basics of color mixing and considering the current state of your hair, you can achieve a variety of effects using different levels of hair color. Always proceed with caution and consider the health of your hair during any coloring process.