Activation liquid: which one and why?

In this article we will look at the different activation liquids that can be used for Desert Shadow hair colours:

- Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

- Black Tea (English Breakfast tea, Earl Grey tea, Chai tea)

- Lukewarm Water

- Diluted Lemon Juice

- Herbal Tea (Hibiscus tea, Rosemary tea, Chamomile tea)

Below You will find the ideal activation liquid for each of our colours

SUN SHADOW:

1- Lukewarm water on its own. Simple but effective and will give optimal grey coverage!

2- Chamomile tea: has soothing properties and will give golden tones so it will boost the colour.

RED SHADOWS:

(Strawberry, Copper, Red and Deep Red Shadows)

1- Lukewarm water on its own. Simple but effective and will give optimal grey coverage!

2- Chamomile tea: has soothing properties

3- Rosemary tea/ Rosemary infused water: promotes healthy hair growth and stimulates circulation.

4- Hibiscus tea: assists with any split ends and will boost the colour.

INDIGO SHADOW:

1- Lukewarm water on its own. Simple but effective and will give optimal grey coverage!

Do not use any other ingredient, Indigo is a sensitive plant that doesn't agree with acidic components (when combined it changes in colour).

BROWN SHADOW FOR NON GREY COVERAGE

(Honey, Caramel, Walnut, Chestnut, Deep Chestnut, Chocolate Shadows):

1- Lukewarm water on its own. Simple but effective and will give optimal grey coverage!

BROWN SHADOW- GREY COVERAGE

(Honey, Caramel, Walnut, Chestnut, Deep Chestnut, Chocolate Shadows):

When mixing the browns, be very careful as to which liquid you use:

STEP1 requires acidity so you can choose one of the three options:

- Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (1 part ACV to 2 parts lukewarm water).

- Black tea (NOT diluted-brew a tea like you usually would and let sit for a few minutes to cool down before using).

- Diluted Lemon Juice (20% lemon juice to 80% lukewarm water). 

STEP2 with lukewarm water only.