Are Melt and toner same thing No -- a melt and a toner are not the same thing, though hairstylists sometimes use both in the same appointment and the terms can get mixed up. Toner: A toner is a product (usually a demi-permanent or semi-permanent color) that adjusts the tone of your hair after bleaching or lightening. It doesn't lift color; it simply shifts undertones -- for example, canceling yellow/orange or adding ash, silver, beige, or golden tones. It's what gives highlights that "finished" look (icy, creamy, beige, etc.). Melt (root melt, color melt, shadow root): A melt is a technique rather than a single product. The stylist blends a darker shade at the roots into lighter mid-lengths/ends so there's no harsh line between your natural color and highlights. It creates a soft gradient transition. A melt can use toner or permanent color to achieve the blend. So: Toner = product for tone correction. Melt = blending technique (often done with toner or color). Would you like me to break down which one is better for getting your highlights to look shiny white blonde? Which one results in shiny white blonde For shiny white blonde, the key player is the toner -- not the melt. Why: Toner: This is what actually neutralizes yellow or brassy tones left after bleaching. If you want a white, bright, glossy blonde, your stylist would use a violet- or blue-based toner (but not overly ashy, since you said you don't like dull/gray tones). The toner refines the shade to that crisp, light-reflective "white" look. Melt: A melt is more about the transition between root and highlights. It can make the grow-out look softer and more natural, but it doesn't on its own create a white shade. In fact, if the melt formula is too dark or warm, it can actually make the blonde appear duller or yellower. Bottom line: If your goal is shiny white blonde, you'll need the right toner after bleaching. A melt can still be done, but it should be carefully formulated so it doesn't muddy or darken the brightness you want in the blonde part. So for your highlights that turned yellowish after the melt: going back and asking for a corrective toner is the direct way to get them shiny white. Neutral or "gloss" toners These don't add much color -- they just refine and boost shine. Used after violet toners to keep the blonde bright and mirror-like instead of flat. How stylists choose Level of blonde: To get true white, your hair has to be lifted to a very pale yellow (the inside of a banana peel). If it's darker, toner can only soften it, not make it white. Your undertone preference: Since you don't want ashy/dull, they'll keep the toner violet-based but on the lighter, pearlier side instead of deep ash or gray. Finish: A gloss/shine top coat (clear demi color or gloss) can be added over toner to give that "glass-like" reflective shine. So, for shiny white blonde: Main toner: a pale violet/pearl blend to cancel yellow. Optional gloss: clear or neutral gloss to lock in shine. Avoid: overly dark root melts or heavy ash toners, which can dull the brightness. Why Melt Makes Your Hair Look Yellowish and Dark Warm base color in the melt: Most root melts use a darker, warmer shade to blend with your natural roots. If that color leans golden, caramel, or copper--even slightly--it can muddy your bright highlights. Product overlap: If the melt is applied too far down, it covers the lighter strands and dulls their shine. Porosity trap: Bleached hair grabs pigment fast. So even a subtle melt formula can deposit more color than intended, especially on porous ends. Toner gets overpowered: If the melt is done after toning, it can override the cool tones you just added. If it's done before, the toner may not fully correct the warmth introduced by the melt. Why Toner Alone Works for You Keeps highlights bright and crisp Neutralizes brassiness without adding depth Maintains that icy, shiny, white-blonde finish you love What You Might want to tell Your Stylist: You could say something like: "I've noticed that every time I get a melt, my highlights turn yellowish and lose their brightness. I prefer when we just tone--it keeps my blonde shiny and white. Can we skip the melt and add two colors, blonde and brown and focus on a cool-toned toner instead." read more

Raise your hand if you hate going to get your hair done because you're always scared it's going to turn out wrong. Now put your hand back down so you can continue scrolling. I've literally never had my hair dyed by anyone else. We all wish that someone could wave a magic wand and instantly give us Instagram ready hair. But because magic wands don't exist, there's Dani, who is basically nothing short of a magic wand waver herself. She takes a LOT of time to make sure everything is done just the way you like. You're left with a natural look that's blended perfectly. When my cut was done, I decided that I wanted it slightly shorter in the front than I initially said, and she happily took the time to shape it the way I wanted. If you want someone to work with you to really get what you're looking for and that really cares about making you feel your best, then come to Dani. read more

Hair by Dani Peterson - Hair Stylists Near Me - Orange, California

Words CANNOT describe how talented, professional, and bubbly Dani is! I have been a client of hers since 2016, and there is no other hair stylist I feel comfortable going to other than Dani. She provides the TLC your hair deserves and makes you feel beautiful through the hair makeover process. From cuts and styling, hair color, and hair treatment she totally dominates in these areas. Dani is accommodating to your schedule when booking an appointment, provides you complimentary refreshments during your hair visit, and plays awesome music in her cute decorated suite. I recently had an appointment in December and requested for a lob haircut and totally trusted her to decide for me what color to go for. We went with some teasy lights and I absolutely loved the end result. Please consider her when looking for a hair stylist. She will not disappoint! read more

Hair by Dani Peterson - PC: Dani Peterson / Picture taken December 2018 - Hair Stylists Near Me - Orange, California

See all

The BEST of the BEST. She is the most professional person, she always make sure you feel comfortable, pleased with your hair she is amazing. Thank you Dani for always making feel good/beautiful read more

Dani has been my stylist since 2014! She is incredibly detail-oriented and a bit of a perfectionist, which makes her the perfect stylist for someone like me. I have tried a variety of styles over the last six years--from an A-line bob, to bangs, to highlights, or growing my hair out. Dani always does a fantastic job, and recommends products that I really enjoy. I trust her and now drive from Los Angeles all the way to Orange County to stay with her as a client. It's hard to find the right stylist in a city this big, and Dani is always worth the drive! read more

Dani is absolutely amazing! She is super accommodating and open to styling my hair in different ways. The first time I went to her she did a cut and color and I've come back for root touch ups...she's willing to work with me depending on what I want. Plus the studio is super cute, she has beverages, and I always feel relaxed. Definitely go! read more

I wanted to give an update. I've been seeing Dani for about a year now and every time I'm greeted with a huge smile and she always does an incredible job. I actually live in Seal Beach and I don't mind making the drive out to her because of what a rockstar she is. Are you looking for someone new to cut your hair? Go to Dani!! read more

Dani's the best. She listens to what I want, gives me suggestions, and I'm always happy with the results. I've got fine Asian hair, and she's the only one who's able to give it some life without it looking goofy. She's also a sweetheart, so there's that. read more

Been going to Dani for several years now. She is amazing! Very knowledgable & very up to date with everything hair. Sweet personality & treats her clients very professionally. Highly recommend. read more

Dani was absolutely amazing. It was my first time getting full highlights with her and she did a stunning job. She thoroughly explained each product that she was using on my hair and what it would do/help with. She is funny, smart and a great conversationalist--the 3 hours felt like 30 minutes! I highly recommend her hair expertise to anyone looking for a well-done and very affordable haircut or color! read more

Hair by Dani Peterson - Hair Stylists Near Me - Orange, California

I cannot say enough good things about Dani! She is incredibly talented (with both color and cut), sweet and fun, and genuinely listens to what her clients want and makes it happen! I have been going to her for over five years, even after moving to LA, because she is simply the best. She is the only person I have ever trusted to color my hair and she does not disappoint! I love that she is able to do color that looks like it could be natural. Her new studio is so cute and has tons of parking. You will be hooked after the first appointment! read more

Dani does incredible work and I have been a client of hers for many years. From haircuts, color, and style, she is extremely creative, detailed oriented, and is always up to date on the latest trends. She is also extremely kind, easy to talk to and always has some sort of promotion. her location is easy to find and there is ample parking. The small space is a breath of fresh air from the typical large, noisy salon. read more

Dani has been my stylist and now friend for at least 5 years. From cut to color to changing it up when I need something new. She just knows what to do to make me look and feel beautiful after every visit. She is very professional, accommodating and so sweet. Her new salon is quaint and beautiful! I always look forward to my appointments with her. I definitely recommend Dani if you are looking for a stylist. read more

I wish I could give Dani 10 stars - she is amazing! The fact that I have been going to her for 8+ years says it all. I've referred numerous friends to her who also keep going back. :) What I love about Dani is that she really cares about what you want and will do anything to make your hair goals happen! I've done it all, long hair, short hair, blonde, brunette, ombre, and she always hits it out of the park no matter what I ask! She's the sweetest person & I love that she gets to know me on a personal level. No matter how many clients she has, she remembers everything about your hair, which I don't know how she does it! Please do yourself a favor and book an appointment with her! (Did I mention her salon is ADORABLE!?) read more

It was my first time getting a cut with Dani and it was way over due. Her suite was nice and clean and she was very welcoming and friendly. I explained to her how I wanted my hair to be cut and styled, and she did just that. She took her time, which I really liked because I hate to be rushed. She gave me her opinion and also shared some tips. I will definitely be going back to see Dani! read more