Igora Royal Hair Colour Chart

Decoding the Igora Royal Hair Color Chart: Your Guide to Achieving the Perfect Shade

Choosing the right hair color can feel like navigating a vast, complex landscape. With countless shades and subtle nuances, the process can be overwhelming, especially with professional-grade color lines like Igora Royal. This comprehensive guide will demystify the Igora Royal hair color chart, helping you understand its structure, decipher the coding system, and confidently select the perfect shade for your desired look. We'll delve into the science behind the colors, explore different application techniques, and answer frequently asked questions to empower you to achieve salon-quality results at home or in your professional setting.

Understanding the Igora Royal Color System

Igora Royal is a professional hair color known for its rich, vibrant shades and excellent gray coverage. The key to understanding the Igora Royal color chart lies in its sophisticated coding system. Each color code provides crucial information about the shade's tone, intensity, and underlying pigment. This system is far more detailed than many drugstore brands, reflecting its professional-grade formulation. Let's break down the key components:

The Number System: Defining the Base Shade

The first number in the Igora Royal code indicates the base shade's level of lightness or darkness. This ranges from 1 (blackest) to 12 (lightest). This number is fundamental in determining the overall darkness or lightness of the final color. For example:

• 1-3: Very dark shades, often bordering on black.
• 4-7: Medium to dark brown shades.
• 8-10: Light brown to dark blonde shades.
• 11-12: Very light blonde shades.

The Letter System: Unveiling the Tone

The letter following the number represents the tone or underlying pigment of the color. These letters are crucial for understanding the subtle differences between shades and choosing the one that best complements your skin tone and desired effect. Some common tone indicators include:

• N: Natural – a neutral or ash tone, often balancing warm and cool undertones.
• A: Ash – a cool, slightly gray tone, perfect for neutralizing yellow or brassy tones.
• W: Warm – a golden or yellowish tone, adding warmth and vibrancy.
• G: Gold – a richer, more intense gold tone than 'W'.
• R: Red – a red or reddish-brown tone.
• M: Mahogany – a dark reddish-brown tone with hints of purple.
• V: Violet – a purple or violet tone, often used to balance orange tones.
• C: Copper – a reddish-orange tone.
• E: Extra Coverage - used to provide extra grey coverage.

The Secondary Number: Refining the Shade (Special Mixes)

Some Igora Royal shades include a secondary number after the letter. This generally indicates a specific mixing ratio or modification to the primary color. For example, a secondary number might represent a slightly increased intensity or a specific addition of a secondary pigment. These secondary numbers are often less prominent and sometimes require consultation of the Igora Royal product guides.

Navigating the Igora Royal Color Chart: A Practical Approach

To effectively use the Igora Royal chart, you need a systematic approach:

1. Assess Your Current Hair Color: Accurately determine your current hair color's level and tone. Is it dark brown, medium blonde, or something else? Identifying the current base is critical for predicting the final result.
2. Determine Your Desired Shade: Browse the Igora Royal chart, paying close attention to the number and letter combinations. Consider the level of lightness/darkness and the tone you want to achieve. Remember, choosing a shade too far from your natural color may require multiple processes (bleaching and toning) for optimal results.
3. Consider Your Skin Tone: Your skin tone significantly impacts the final look of your hair color. Warm skin tones often pair well with warmer hair tones (gold, copper), while cool skin tones tend to complement cooler tones (ash, violet).
4. Understand the Mixing Ratios: Igora Royal offers a wide range of mixing possibilities. The chart may not always directly show the result of mixtures. It's crucial to consult the detailed instruction guide for specific mixing ratios and recommendations.
5. Consider Gray Coverage: If you're aiming to cover gray hair, look for shades with high gray coverage capabilities. These are usually indicated explicitly in the chart or the product description.
6. Start with a Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying color to your entire head. This allows you to see how the color will turn out on your specific hair type and to check for any allergic reactions.
7. Follow Instructions Carefully: Carefully follow the instructions included with the Igora Royal product. The proper mixing ratio, application time, and processing method are critical for optimal results and avoiding hair damage.

The Science Behind the Igora Royal Shades: Pigments and Tones

Igora Royal's vibrant and long-lasting color is a result of its sophisticated formulation. It utilizes a precise blend of pigments to create a wide spectrum of shades. Understanding these pigments helps in predicting the final results and making informed choices.

• Natural Pigments (N): These pigments provide a neutral base, balancing warm and cool undertones. They're fundamental for creating a natural-looking shade.
• Red Pigments (R): These provide warmth and richness, ranging from subtle hints to intense red hues.
• Gold Pigments (G & W): These contribute golden warmth, adding vibrancy and shine. 'G' is a richer, deeper gold than 'W'.
• Ash Pigments (A): These cool tones neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy undertones. They're often used in blonde shades to achieve an icy, cool effect.
• Violet Pigments (V): These cool tones combat orange undertones, creating a balanced and natural-looking result, particularly in red or brown shades.
• Copper Pigments (C): These create a warm, reddish-orange tone, adding vibrancy and a bold statement.
• Mahogany Pigments (M): These deliver a rich, dark reddish-brown shade with hints of purple, creating a luxurious and sophisticated look.

Advanced Techniques: Achieving Specific Looks with Igora Royal

Igora Royal's versatility allows for various creative techniques:

• Balayage: This highlighting technique involves painting streaks of lighter color onto the hair, creating a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. Igora Royal's lighter shades are perfect for this technique.
• Ombre: This creates a gradual transition between two or more shades, often from dark at the roots to lighter at the ends. This requires careful planning and skilled application.
• Color Melting: This advanced technique blends multiple shades seamlessly to create a natural-looking, multi-dimensional effect.
• Color Correction: Igora Royal can be used to correct unwanted color results, neutralizing brassiness, or covering unwanted tones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use Igora Royal at home?

A: While Igora Royal is a professional-grade product, with careful preparation and understanding of the techniques, it can be used at home. However, a salon professional offers the expertise to achieve the best possible results.

Q: How long does Igora Royal last?

A: Igora Royal is known for its long-lasting color, typically lasting 4-6 weeks depending on your hair type, washing habits, and exposure to sunlight.

Q: Does Igora Royal damage hair?

A: Like any permanent hair color, Igora Royal has the potential to cause some damage if not applied correctly or if used excessively. Proper application and after-care treatments are crucial to minimize damage.

Q: How do I maintain my Igora Royal color?

A: To maintain the vibrancy of your Igora Royal color, use color-safe shampoos and conditioners. Limit heat styling, and consider using a color-protecting serum or leave-in conditioner.

Q: What should I do if I don't like the result?

A: If you're unhappy with the results, consult a professional hair colorist. They can help correct the color or offer solutions to improve the situation.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Igora Royal

The Igora Royal hair color chart, while initially daunting, can be mastered with a systematic approach and a good understanding of its coding system. By carefully assessing your current hair color, understanding the nuances of tone and pigment, and following instructions meticulously, you can unlock the potential of this professional-grade hair color and achieve the stunning shade you've always desired. Remember, a strand test is always advisable, and for optimal results and to avoid potential damage, the assistance of a professional hair colorist is always recommended, especially for complex techniques or color corrections. With practice and attention to detail, you'll be well on your way to achieving salon-quality results with Igora Royal.