Faded Colour Code Calculation

I know multiple programs that calculate colours based on a percentage. I really love when colours are displayed this way as they seem to fade in a non-luminous dull way that is really indicative of a less bold style.

I am just wondering if anyone knows how these new faded colours are calculated based on a starting colour (RGB255 code) and how I might calculate these colours myself?

I am in particular looking for a good faded green that would look good when displayed as minor contours and I feel knowing this process may help me find one. (If you have a suggestion for a colour, please share!)