Wella to Redken Conversion Chart is an essential resource for hairstylists and hair color enthusiasts looking to seamlessly transition between these two popular professional hair color brands. Whether you're a salon professional or a dedicated at-home colorist, understanding how to convert shades accurately ensures consistent results and minimizes damage. This comprehensive guide aims to clarify the nuances of Wella to Redken color conversions, helping you select the perfect shades, mix ratios, and application techniques.
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Understanding the Importance of a Wella to Redken Conversion Chart
When working with different hair color brands, each formulary has its unique shade indexing, undertones, and formulations. A Wella to Redken conversion chart acts as a bridge, translating shades from one brand to another, ensuring:
- Accurate color matching
- Consistent results across different products
- Efficient color formulation and mixing
- Better communication with clients regarding expected outcomes
Having a reliable conversion chart minimizes trial and error, saves time, and preserves hair health.
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Why Do Color Conversions Matter?
Consistency in Color Results
Different brands formulate their dyes with varying bases, developers, and pigment concentrations. Conversions help maintain consistent shades when switching brands, especially for professional salons that aim to deliver a specific color.
Cost-Effective and Efficient
Using the correct conversions prevents overuse of products, reducing waste and saving costs. It also helps in planning the right amount of product needed for each application.
Achieving Desired Undertones
Certain shades carry distinct undertones (warm, cool, neutral). Proper conversion ensures these undertones are preserved, avoiding unwanted color shifts.
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Key Differences Between Wella and Redken Hair Colors
Before diving into specific conversions, understanding the fundamental differences between Wella and Redken is crucial:
- Formulation Philosophy: Wella emphasizes rich, vibrant shades with a focus on natural tones, while Redken offers a wide spectrum of shades with innovative formulations, including those that enhance shine and longevity.
- Shade Naming and Numbering: Wella uses a numbering system with a base shade followed by tone indicators (e.g., 7N, 8CB), whereas Redken often uses a combination of shade families and numbers (e.g., 7G, 8VV).
- Undertones and Intensity: Wella shades tend to be more neutral or natural, whereas Redken offers more vibrant or cool/warmer tone options.
Understanding these differences is vital for accurate conversion.
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Wella to Redken Conversion Chart Overview
The conversion process generally involves matching Wella shades with their Redken equivalents based on:
- Color level (lightness/darkness)
- Tone/undertone (warm, cool, neutral)
- Underlying base (ash, gold, beige)
Below is a simplified overview of common Wella shades and their Redken equivalents:
| Wella Shade | Approximate Level & Tone | Redken Equivalent | Notes |
|--------------|-------------------------|---------------------|--------|
| 4N (Natural) | Level 4, Neutral | 4N | Neutral, natural brown |
| 5N (Natural) | Level 5, Neutral | 5N | Slightly lighter, natural brown |
| 6N (Natural) | Level 6, Neutral | 6N | Light brown, neutral undertone |
| 7N (Natural) | Level 7, Neutral | 7N | Dark blonde, natural |
| 8N (Natural) | Level 8, Neutral | 8N | Blonde, neutral tone |
| 9V (Violet) | Level 9, Violet | 9VV or 9V | Light blonde with violet undertone |
| 6G (Gold) | Level 6, Gold | 6G | Light brown with gold warmth |
| 8G (Gold) | Level 8, Gold | 8G | Blonde with golden undertones |
Note: Exact matches may vary depending on formulations, underlying pigments, and the desired result.
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Detailed Wella to Redken Shade Conversion Guide
Lightening Shades (Blondes)
Wella Light Blonde Shades
- Wella 9V (Violet Blonde): For icy or violet-toned blondes, Redken’s 9VV or 9V are suitable counterparts.
- Wella 8G (Light Gold Blonde): Corresponds to 8G in Redken, ideal for warm, golden blondes.
- Wella 7N (Dark Blonde): Matches with 7N or 7NG for natural or neutral blondes.
Conversion Tips:
- Always consider the starting hair color and porosity.
- Use a higher developer volume if lifting is required.
- For cooler blondes, incorporate ash or violet shades; for warmer tones, gold or beige shades work best.
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Brown Shades
Wella Natural Browns
- Wella 5N (Light Brown, Neutral): Convert to 5N in Redken.
- Wella 6G (Light Gold Brown): Use 6G in Redken for a warm, golden brown.
- Wella 4N (Dark Brown): Match with 4N in Redken.
Conversion Tips:
- For rich, chocolate browns, consider adding a small amount of red or violet to neutralize unwanted tones.
- Adjust developer volume based on desired lift and coverage.
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Red and Vibrant Shades
Wella Reds and Violets
- Wella 6RV (Red Violet): Corresponds with 6RV or 6V in Redken for vibrant red-violet hues.
- Wella 7R (Bright Red): Use 7R in Redken for intense, bright reds.
Conversion Tips:
- For vibrant reds, ensure the hair is pre-lightened to the appropriate level.
- Use a permanent or demi-permanent formulation depending on longevity needs.
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Formulation and Mixing Ratios When Converting Shades
General Guidelines
- Match the Shade Level and Tone: Always select a Redken shade that closely matches the Wella shade's level and tone.
- Adjust Developer Volume: Use 10, 20, 30, or 40 volume developer based on the desired lift and deposit.
- Create Custom Mixes if Needed: Sometimes, a perfect match requires blending two shades.
Sample Mixing Ratios
| Scenario | Suggested Ratio | Notes |
|------------|------------------|--------|
| Matching a Wella 6G with Redken | 1:1 | Equal parts for precise match |
| Lightening Wella 7N to a Blonde | 1:2 (Color:Developer) | Higher developer volume for lift |
| Deepening a shade | Add small amount of darker Redken shade | For richer, deeper tones |
Tips for Success
- Always perform a strand test before full application.
- Record the exact ratios and formulations used for future reference.
- Use professional mixing tools for accurate measurements.
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Practical Tips for Color Conversion
1. Conduct a Color Test
Always test on a small section of hair to anticipate the final result.
2. Consider Hair Condition
Damaged or porous hair may absorb color differently, affecting the final shade.
3. Use Color Theory
Understand undertones to avoid unwanted hues, especially when converting shades with contrasting undertones.
4. Adjust Processing Time
Different brands may require different processing times; always follow manufacturer instructions.
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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Mismatch in Undertones
- Solution: Use toner or glaze to correct undertones after initial coloring.
Uneven Color Results
- Solution: Ensure even application and proper hair sectioning.
Hair Damage
- Solution: Use appropriate developers and incorporate conditioning treatments post-coloring.
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Final Thoughts
A Wella to Redken conversion chart is an invaluable tool for achieving professional, consistent hair color results when switching between these brands. By understanding the nuances of shades, undertones, and formulations, you can confidently create stunning hair colors tailored to each client’s desires. Remember always to perform strand tests, document your formulations, and consider hair health to ensure the best possible results.
Investing time in mastering color conversions enhances your skills, elevates your professionalism, and ensures satisfied clients who keep coming back for their perfect hair color.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a Wella to Redken conversion chart?
A Wella to Redken conversion chart helps professionals accurately match and convert hair color formulas when switching between the two brands, ensuring consistent results and color integrity.
How do I use a Wella to Redken conversion chart for hair color formulas?
You identify the Wella color shade you're currently using and then refer to the chart to find the equivalent Redken shade or formula, adjusting the developer or developer volume as recommended for the desired outcome.
Are Wella and Redken color formulas interchangeable using the conversion chart?
While the conversion chart provides approximate equivalents, it's important to perform a strand test because formulations may vary due to differences in pigment concentration and formulation chemistry between the brands.
Can I rely solely on a Wella to Redken conversion chart for professional hair coloring?
The chart serves as a helpful guide, but for optimal results, it’s recommended to consider additional factors such as hair condition, history, and to consult with a professional colorist when converting brands.
Where can I find a reliable Wella to Redken conversion chart?
Reliable conversion charts are often available through professional hair industry resources, color training platforms, or directly from Wella and Redken's official educational materials and websites.
