If you’ve jumped on the colorful hair care bandwagon and tried oVertone, you’re probably wondering: how long does it take for oVertone to fade out? Whether you’re using the brand’s pigmented conditioners to tone, refresh, or boldly color your hair, understanding the longevity and fading process of the hues is crucial. Color maintenance can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to preserve an eye-catching hue or transition back to your natural shade. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the factors that affect how quickly oVertone colors disappear from your locks and what you can do to control the timeline.
Understanding oVertone and How It Works
Before diving into fading timelines, let’s first clarify what oVertone actually is. Unlike traditional semi-permanent or permanent hair dyes, oVertone incorporates color-depositing conditioners into your everyday hair care routine. These products combine hydration with pigment to tone, maintain, or fully color your hair without the mess and harsh chemicals of traditional dye kits.
The science behind oVertone lies in what the brand calls “color-depositing conditioning.” As the conditioner coats your hair strands, the pigments fill in areas where natural or dyed pigments are lacking. This mechanism allows oVertone to deposit color rather than strip or chemically alter your base tone.
The Key Difference Between oVertone and Traditional Dyes
oVertone does not chemically lift or lighten your hair. It simply adds color on top of your existing tone. That means:
- It works best on light or blonde hair (or pre-lightened, bleached bases)
- Darker bases typically require bleaching for vibrant color results
- Color fades over time instead of growing out at the root
This distinction is important because fading timelines and results vary depending on how deeply the pigments are embedded (which they aren’t in this case) and how much existing pigment your hair has.
How Long Does It Take for oVertone to Fade Out?
The answer to this central question isn’t one-size-fits-all. Because oVertone fades gradually and doesn’t bind to the hair shaft the same way chemical dyes do, how long it lasts depends on multiple variables.
The Average Fade Timeline
Most oVertone users report that the color starts to fade gradually after approximately 7 to 15 washes. However, this timeframe can be shorter or longer depending on the following:
1. Hair Porosity and Starting Color
Lighter hair, especially bleached or platinum blonde bases, absorbs oVertone pigments more intensely. Therefore, fading for lighter hair types is often more gradual and pronounced. Darker hair, on the other hand, takes longer to fully show oVertone’s effects and may also see a quicker color dilution as the pigments sit on top rather than penetrating the strand.
2. Frequency of Use
You can use oVertone conditioners daily, especially if you’re trying to maintain or enhance color. Using it less frequently (e.g. once every few days or weekly) will lead to quicker fading as there’s less constant pigment deposit.
3. Other Hair Care Products
Shampoo types and formulas play a massive role in fade rates. Sulfate-based shampoos strip color faster. In contrast, sulfate-free or color-safe shampoos can help extend the life of your shade by keeping cuticles tightly sealed and minimizing pigment release.
Conditioners other than oVertone—and especially those containing clarifying agents—can also impact fade times. Limit usage of clarifying rinses to prevent premature pigment loss.
4. Hair Texture and Health
Fine, damaged, or over-processed hair tends to absorb and lose color quickly. Thick, coarse hair holds onto product better, but sometimes it may appear to show less vibrant results for the same amount of use.
5. Water Type and Temperature
Hard water contains minerals that interact with color pigments and may accelerate fading or cause a shift in undertones. Warm water opens hair cuticles and promotes pigment release, whereas cold water helps seal them in.
Estimate Based on Color Type
Different tones fade at different rates:
| Color Family | Typical Fade Start | Complete Fade Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tonal Products (e.g., Violet, Blue) | After 7–10 washes | 4–6 weeks |
| True Colors (e.g., Pink, Purple, Green) | After 5–7 washes | 3–4 weeks |
| Neon Variants | After 3–5 washes | 2–3 weeks |
| Blonde Toners (Silver, Lavender) | After 5–7 washes | 4–6 weeks |
Note: These estimates assume average bleached or light-treated hair and use of oVertone 2–3 times per week.
How to Accelerate oVertone Fade
If you want to fade your oVertone faster, maybe to prep for another color or to return to a neutral tone, consider the following strategies:
Increase Shampoo Frequency
Washing daily, especially with sulfate-based shampoos, will significantly quicken the removal of color pigment from your hair. While this may seem drastic, oVertone is designed to be less harsh, so you won’t risk breakage the way you might with chemical dyes—but be mindful of maintaining moisture.
Use Clarifying Shampoos
Clarifying shampoos are specifically formulated to remove product build-up and can remove oVertone color more efficiently. You might try a clarifying shampoo once or twice a week to see accelerated fading effects.
Experiment with Baking Soda or Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses
Some users adopt natural remedies to gently strip color and restore a more neutral base. Baking soda can alter hair shaft porosity, and apple cider vinegar rinses help clarify color without aggressive chemicals.
Heated Water for Washing
Washing with warm or hot water opens the cuticle and allows color pigments to come out more readily than when using cold water.
How to Extend oVertone Color Life
If you’re loving your pink or lavender oVertone tone and want to stretch its lifespan, here are techniques proven to slow fading:
Limited Washing Schedule
Adopt the “less is more” philosophy by washing your hair 1–2 times per week. This reduces pigment-stripping contact with water and cleansers.
Use Cold Water for Rinsing and Washing
Cold water tightens the hair cuticle, reducing how much pigmentation escapes during each wash.
Embrace Sulfate-Free Products
Opt for shampoos labeled “sulfate-free,” “color-safe,” or “for color-treated hair” to preserve vibrancy and depth.
Protect Hair from Heat and Elements
Frequent blow-drying, heat tool usage, or exposure to sun and chlorine can all speed up fading. Minimize contact with harsh elements or protect hair using heat protectants or UV shielding sprays.
Re-apply oVertone More Frequently
If fading begins after 7 washes, increase oVertone conditioner use to every other wash or even daily depending on your hair’s condition and porosity.
Color-Specific Fade Insights
Different oVertone hues are formulated to perform differently based on their base pigmentation and molecular structure. Let’s explore how some popular shades compare in terms of longevity.
Mauve & Pastel Colors
Pastel colors like lavender, baby pink, or mint oVertone products don’t fade quite as fast as neon varieties, thanks to a subtler pigmentation approach. Expect a slow fade and potential “ghosting” where hair takes on a washed-out variant before returning.
Neon Variants
Want that electrifying green or hot pink hue? Neon colors come out brighter because of high pigment concentration—but that vibrance doesn’t last as long. Fading starts early and the colors may look patchy if not maintained with consistency.
Blue and Silver Toners
Widely used to tone brassy blonde tones, the cooler pigments in these shades cling to hair evenly. They can often last 4–6 weeks when applied every 3–4 days, depending on porosity.
Red oVertone
Red pigments typically fade quickly, leaving behind orange or warm undertones. oVertone’s red conditioners are no exception—they require more frequent usage to stay vibrant.
Troubleshooting Fading Problems
If you’re unhappy with how fast or unevenly your oVertone shade is fading, consider these reasons:
1. Starting Tone Too Dark
If you applied a bold color like oVertone Plush Purple on naturally dark brown or black hair, fading might appear non-existent at first—color might lift only slightly. Fading won’t show the same punch as on a bleached base.
2. Product Build-Up
Conversely, build-up can trap color and mask fading or cause uneven stripping, leaving streaky appearances. Be cautious with oil-based or silicon-heavy products alongside oVertone.
3. Mineral Build-Up from Hard Water
Hard water can slow your oVertone from lifting, or worse, leave behind an unclear tone, especially with lighter pigments like blue or violet.
4. Underlying Brassy Undertones
Color isn’t fading in a straight line—sometimes the base underneath reveals warm tones, making color appear “off” rather than just lighter. This can be a sign to introduce a toning conditioner to adjust the undertone instead of waiting for full fading.
Real User Experiences with oVertone Fade
Hearing from the oVertone community can shed light on real-world examples of fade timelines:
Case Study 1: Platinum-Bleached Blonde Using Violet Toner
User applied oVertone Violet Conditioner twice a week. After about 6 weeks, silvery undertones started appearing. Complete fade took roughly 3 months with minimal upkeep needed after discontinuation.
Case Study 2: Dark Brown Hair with Neutrals
A base of dark brown hair showed little color on the first week, and then a subtle gray-blue after 3 uses. Once discontinued, the color lifted completely within 3 washes—a much faster process than seen on lighter hair.
Case Study 3: Regular Neon Pink User
Used oVertone Neon Pink 3 times a week. Color began to dull within 5–6 washes, with pink fading into light coral within 3 weeks after stopping.
These anecdotes help highlight how variability is built into hair texture, original base, and frequency of use. No two fades look exactly alike.
When to Completely Wash oVertone Out
If you’re prepping for a traditional hair dye color or your next bleaching session, it’s best to fully fade out any oVertone build-up. Attempting to apply dye over colored hair can lead to unexpected results. While not required, removing all oVertone pigments ensures the most accurate base when coloring or lightening hair further.
Conclusion: Master Your oVertone Fading Journey
Understanding how long it takes for oVertone to fade out empowers you to make informed decisions about your hair care routine and color goals. Whether you’re trying to remove the pigment quickly, let it fade naturally over time, or prolong and maintain your vibrant shade, oVertone gives you the flexibility to adjust your routine.
By now, you’re well-equipped to track your personal fading process and modify your habits accordingly. Whether you’re chasing subtle pastels or daring neon shades, oVertone offers a gentle, stylish, and temporary solution with timelines that suit your preferences. Use the techniques outlined in this article to harness oVertone’s unique color system to your fullest advantage.
How long does it take for oVertone to fade out naturally?
oVertone hair color typically begins to fade after about 10 to 15 washes, depending on the product line and your hair type. The brand’s deposit-only formulas do not contain harsh developers or bleach, so the color gradually washes out without leaving behind a drastic regrowth line or color change. Those with more porous or previously colored hair may see it fade faster, sometimes in as few as 5 to 10 washes.
The longevity of the color also depends on your washing habits and hair care routine. Using sulfates, hot water, or frequent shampooing can accelerate fading. To extend how long the color lasts, consider washing your hair less frequently, using cool water, and opting for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are gentle on color-treated hair.
Does oVertone fade completely, or does it leave a stain?
Unlike permanent hair dyes, oVertone does not chemically alter your hair pigment and typically fades completely without leaving a lasting stain. The color is designed to deposit on the hair shaft and gradually wash out, making it ideal for those who like to experiment with bold shades. Most users find that after repeated washes, their hair color returns to its original state with no patchiness or uneven residue.
However, in some cases, especially when using darker or more pigmented shades like purple or red, a slight tint might linger temporarily on the hair, particularly in areas that are more porous. This residual tone can usually be removed with clarifying shampoos or natural wear and tear over time. For best results, it’s recommended to perform a strand test when trying a new shade to understand how your hair might react during fading.
Can I speed up oVertone fading if I want to change hair colors sooner?
Yes, if you want oVertone to fade more quickly, you can take several steps to expedite the process without damaging your hair. Switching to a sulfate-based shampoo can help strip the color faster by removing buildup and artificial pigments more efficiently than sulfate-free alternatives. Washing your hair more frequently and using warm or hot water can also help dissolve and rinse out the oVertone pigments faster.
Another effective method is using a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove accumulated color. Products designed to remove mineral buildup or swimmer’s shampoo can also be useful in speeding up the fading process. While these methods won’t force an immediate loss of color, they can gradually break down the oVertone pigments and will help transition your hair back to its natural tone more quickly, making it easier to apply a new color if desired.
Will oVertone fade differently on light versus dark hair?
Yes, oVertone tends to fade differently depending on your base hair color. On lighter hair (such as blonde or light brown), oVertone’s pigments are more visible and tend to fade more evenly because the underlying pigments in your hair are less contrasting. This allows the color to gradually wash out without leaving behind unexpected tones. As it fades, the transition appears smooth and predictable.
On darker hair (like black or dark brown), oVertone works mainly as a toner, giving a subtle glow rather than a full shift in color. When fading, this glow diminishes gently, typically over fewer washes due to the natural density of the hair. Because the effect is more surface-level on dark strands, it may show signs of thinning out faster than on lighter strands, but in general, the fade looks quite natural since the product was only enhancing the original tone rather than covering it entirely.
Can I use bleach or color removers to fade oVertone quicker?
While it is technically possible to use bleach or color removers to remove oVertone faster, we generally don’t recommend them for this purpose. oVertone is designed to wash out on its own without chemical intervention, and using bleach or strong color removers can overly dry, damage, or weaken your hair. These methods are especially risky if used frequently or if your hair is already chemically treated or sensitive.
Instead, consider gentler methods such as clarifying treatments or sulfate-based shampoos to help remove color faster without compromising hair health. If you’re planning to transition to a dramatically different color, it’s often best to allow the oVertone shade to fade naturally or consult a professional stylist who can safely help you transition without unnecessary damage or unexpected consequences.
Why might my oVertone color fade unevenly?
Uneven fading can occur if your hair has inconsistent porosity across strands. Hair that is more porous absorbs more pigment and may retain color longer than less porous strands, leading to a blotchy appearance as the color wears off. This can be caused by previous treatments like bleaching, dyeing, or heat styling, which affect hair texture differently in various sections.
Additionally, application technique can influence how evenly the color fades. For example, if oVertone was applied unevenly or missed certain spots during application, those areas may fade faster or show more base color beneath. To prevent uneven fading, ensure your hair is evenly saturated when applying oVertone and consider using protein-rich treatments or a hair mask to help balance porosity and improve the color’s overall fade consistency.
How can I maintain oVertone color for as long as possible?
To prolong the vibrancy of your oVertone color, minimize the frequency of hair washing and use cool or lukewarm water when you do. Hot water opens the hair cuticle and allows more color to rinse out with each wash. Additionally, opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, as sulfates can strip color more aggressively than gentler alternatives.
Regular use of color-depositing conditioners from oVertone’s routine product line can also help refresh and maintain your desired tone between more complete applications. Limiting use of heat tools or using a heat protectant can reduce surface damage and preserve the integrity of your color-treated hair. Proper hair care and maintenance can extend the life of your oVertone shade, ensuring it looks fresh and vibrant for weeks.