What is yellow hair called?

When people refer to “yellow hair,” they are typically describing a hair color that falls somewhere between blonde and yellow-toned blonde. However, this term can be a bit misleading, as hair color terminology is nuanced and can vary depending on context. Whether it’s a natural hair color or a dyed one, the yellow hue in hair can come in many forms, ranging from bright yellow to more subtle golden undertones. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of yellow hair, how they are categorized, and the reasons behind this particular color.

1. Natural Yellow-Toned Hair: Blonde and Beyond

The most common type of yellow hair is found in natural blonde hair. While blonde hair can vary in shade from light platinum to dark honey blonde, some blonde hair may have a yellowish undertone. It’s important to understand that “yellow hair” can be a natural characteristic in some individuals with lighter hair shades.

1.1 Blonde Hair with Yellow Undertones

Blonde hair can have many variations, but some shades of blonde naturally have more yellow in them. Typically, this occurs in individuals with lighter skin tones or those who are born with blonde hair. These yellow-toned blonds can appear more golden, and sometimes, the yellow undertones may be more visible as the hair lightens with age. For example, a pale blonde shade can sometimes have a warmer, golden yellow hue, making it look like “yellow hair.”

Common Shades:

• Golden Blonde: A warm, yellow-toned blonde that’s often seen in individuals with fair or medium complexions. It has a sunny, light appearance.
• Honey Blonde: A deeper, warmer blonde with rich yellow tones.
• Strawberry Blonde: A light red-gold blonde with a slight yellowish hue.

Some people with blonde hair find their hair takes on a yellowish cast over time, especially as they age or when they spend time in the sun. This is perfectly normal, as hair color is influenced by various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and natural pigment variations.

1.2 Naturally Light Hair with Yellowish Tint

In some people with very light natural hair, the yellow tones become more prominent, especially in certain lighting. This can happen as a result of the natural mix of pigment types in the hair. If you have naturally light hair and notice a yellowish or brassy hue, this might be a natural characteristic of the hair that reflects both warmth and light. Sometimes, this can be referred to as a “yellowish blonde” appearance.

2. Yellow Hair in the Context of Bleached or Dyed Hair

When people refer to yellow hair in the context of hair dye, they often mean an unwanted brassy or yellowish tint that appears after bleaching or lightening the hair. This can be a common side effect of hair bleaching, especially when the process is not done properly or when the bleach has been left on too long.

2.1 Brassy Yellow Hair

Brassy hair is the term used for hair that has developed an orange or yellowish hue, often after bleaching or dyeing. When people attempt to lighten their dark hair, the process can lift the natural pigments, leaving behind an unwanted warm, yellow tone instead of a cool or neutral blonde. The intensity of the yellow or brassiness varies depending on how light the hair was before the bleaching process.

Brassy yellow hair is a common issue, especially for those with darker hair who undergo significant lightening. The brassy tone can make the hair appear less natural and less flattering, and many individuals seek ways to tone down the yellow or brassiness.

Why Does Yellow Hair Happen?

Yellow or brassy tones appear because hair naturally contains underlying pigments, such as red, orange, and yellow, which can be exposed or brought out during bleaching. When lightening, the pigment molecules in the hair are broken down, but if the hair isn’t lifted enough or the bleaching process isn’t precise, these underlying yellow pigments become visible, resulting in yellowish or orange hues.

2.2 How to Fix Yellow Hair (Toning)

For those with yellow or brassy hair, toning is the most effective solution. Hair toners are specifically formulated to neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones. Purple or blue shampoos and conditioners are commonly used to fight brassiness because they help balance out the warm tones by neutralizing the yellow with their opposite hues on the color wheel.

• Purple Shampoo: The most popular tool to counteract yellow hair. The purple pigment in the shampoo cancels out the yellow tones, leaving behind a cooler blonde shade.
• Blue Shampoo: For darker shades of yellow or brassy hair, blue shampoo works similarly to purple shampoo by neutralizing the orange or yellow tones.

It’s important to note that purple shampoo should be used sparingly to avoid over-correcting and creating a purple hue. Regular use of toning products can gradually help to maintain a more neutral or cool blonde look.

3. Yellow Hair in Fashion and Hair Dyeing

Aside from natural blonde hair and brassy tones after bleaching, some people intentionally dye their hair yellow as a bold fashion statement. Yellow hair can be part of various vibrant, eye-catching styles, and people who choose this color often do so to make a statement or to embrace unconventional beauty trends.

3.1 Bright Yellow Hair

Some individuals opt for bright, artificial yellow hair, which can range from neon yellow to pastel lemon shades. This bold, unconventional look is often achieved through semi-permanent or permanent hair dyeing techniques. Bright yellow hair can be striking and attention-grabbing, and it has been worn by people in the fashion, music, and entertainment industries, giving it a trendy and edgy appeal.

3.2 Pastel Yellow Hair

For those who want a softer, more subtle take on yellow hair, pastel yellow hair is another popular choice. This lighter, more subtle version of yellow offers a warm, sunshine-inspired hue that’s less intense than traditional yellow but still bold and unique.

4. Is Yellow Hair Healthy?

Yellow hair in itself is not an indication of unhealthy hair. It’s simply a characteristic of certain hair types or the result of a dyeing process. However, the appearance of yellow or brassy hair after bleaching can indicate that the hair has been over-processed or damaged, which is why it’s essential to take good care of your hair after bleaching and toning.

Maintaining healthy, shiny hair while having yellow or bleached hair requires using nourishing hair products, minimizing heat damage, and maintaining regular treatments like hair masks and oiling to keep the hair moisturized and strong.

5. Conclusion: What Is Yellow Hair Called?

In summary, yellow hair can refer to various shades and types of hair, whether it’s the natural yellowish undertones found in blonde hair or the brassy yellow hues that appear after bleaching or dyeing. It can also refer to the vibrant, bold yellow hair color that people intentionally create for fashion purposes. Yellow hair, whether natural or dyed, is versatile and can be a fun and beautiful way to express one’s style, but it also requires proper care and maintenance to avoid unwanted yellowish tints. Whether you’re trying to maintain a natural golden blonde or working on fixing brassy yellow hair, understanding the various shades and techniques to adjust your color can help you achieve the perfect look.