What is a toner and when do you need one?

In the salon, it’s very popular, and after a coloring treatment, you often hear the word: toner. But what exactly is a toner, and why is it so important for the final result of your hair color? In this blog, we explain everything about toners: what they do, when you need them, and why BRUSH Amsterdam specializes in applying personalized toners during coloring treatments.

What exactly is a toner?

A toner is a demi-permanent color used to neutralize, deepen, or brighten a hair color. It’s not a full color but rather a refinement that perfectly balances your hair color. We see it somewhat as the “wrapping paper” in which you want to package your balayage, highlights, full bleach, or naturally sun-lightened hair. It gives the final tone to your hair, but in a very natural, non-permanent way.

At BRUSH Amsterdam, we only use the highest quality toners that are gentle on the hair while providing beautiful shine and color correction. Think of removing yellow or orange tones after a blonde color or adding warmth for a richer, healthy, and natural effect.

When do you need a toner?

• After bleaching or lightening your hair
• To neutralize unwanted tones (such as yellow or copper)
• For a fresher, cooler, or warmer hair shade
• As a refresher between coloring treatments
• When hair has become dull or discolored due to buildup of metals, lime, and chlorine from water
• When you’ve been on vacation and your hair has seen sun, sea, and sand

Our balayage, highlight, and individual toner treatments always include a personalized toner tailored to your hair color and wishes.

Why BRUSH always works with toners

At BRUSH, it’s all about a healthy, shiny, and natural result. A toner helps us achieve the perfect hair color and maintain hair quality. It’s also an essential part of our signature treatments such as dimensional coloring and face framing.

Is a toner harmful to my hair?

A hair toner is generally not harmful to your hair, especially when applied professionally. Unlike permanent hair dye, a toner often contains less or no ammonia and is mixed with a mild developer. At BRUSH Amsterdam, we use only high-quality, nourishing toners from professional brands that do not dry out or damage the hair. On the contrary – we always ensure the toner treatment is paired with tailored hair care, such as a K18 restorative treatment.

Is a toner good for my hair and does it make it healthy again?

A toner is not necessarily a care product, but it can contribute to the overall appearance and condition of your hair. By neutralizing unwanted warm or dull tones and adding shine, your hair looks healthier and fresher. At BRUSH, we always combine toners with deeply nourishing treatments to strengthen the hair both aesthetically and physically. This way, you leave our salon not only with the perfect color but also with noticeably stronger hair.

Can I make a toner myself?

Although many DIY toner recipes circulate online, we strongly advise against making or applying a toner yourself. The chance of unwanted color effects or damage is high, especially without the right product knowledge, hair expertise, or quality products. A professional toner is tailored to your hair color, undertone, and condition and must be chosen and mixed accordingly. Want a natural-looking and professional color? Leave it to the color experts at BRUSH Amsterdam.

Want to know exactly which color treatments BRUSH offers and which best suit your hair type and wishes? Read our complete guide to all hair coloring services at BRUSH Amsterdam here.

Frequently asked questions about toners

Can a toner be applied on dry hair?

A toner is usually applied on towel-dried hair for even distribution, but some toners can also be used on dry hair depending on the desired effect.

How long should a toner stay in your hair?

On average 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the color, undertone, and desired intensity. Our colorists determine this precisely during your treatment.

How much does a toner cost at the salon?

At BRUSH, a toner is included in color treatments such as highlights or balayage. A standalone toner treatment starts at €65, including care and styling.

Can a toner be used on gray hair?

Yes, a toner can help soften or temporarily camouflage gray hairs with a natural glow. For full gray coverage, we recommend a permanent color treatment.

What does a toner do?

A toner neutralizes unwanted tones, refreshes hair color, and adds beautiful shine. It perfects the final result of your color treatment.

Do I need a toner?

If you have highlights, balayage, or blonde hair, chances are a toner is essential to achieve the right tone and shine. Our specialists advise you personally during your consultation.

What does a toner do to your hair?

A toner neutralizes unwanted undertones in your hair – such as yellow, orange, or red – and provides a cool, fresh, or shiny finish. Perfect after balayage, highlights, or bleaching.

How long does a toner last?

On average, a toner stays beautiful for 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair structure, color, washing routine, and products used.

How often can you use a toner?

You can safely refresh a toner every 4 to 6 weeks, as long as it’s done with professional products and proper care. At BRUSH, we always consider what your hair can handle.

Is purple shampoo the same as a toner?

Not exactly. Purple shampoo is a temporary cooler glow only to neutralize yellow in the hair, while a toner is professionally applied for longer-lasting and precisely personalized results in both cool and warm tones.

How do I know if I need a toner?

If your hair color has become dull, shows unwanted yellow, ashy, or warm tones, or looks faded and “washed out,” a toner is often the ideal solution.

Book your toner treatment at BRUSH Amsterdam

Do you want a fresh, vibrant hair color perfectly matched to your desired tone? Or is your color a bit dull and do you want shine and depth back? Then book your toner treatment at BRUSH Amsterdam – the color specialists.

Schedule your appointment now and experience the difference of a perfectly matched toner treatment.