Purple hair. It’s bold, it’s vibrant, it’s expressive. It can be a subtle whisper of lavender or a powerful statement of deep violet. But before you reach for that jar of purple hair dye, a crucial question needs to be answered: Is purple hair right for you? This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know to make an informed decision about embracing the purple revolution.
Understanding the Allure of Purple Hair
Purple is a colour often associated with royalty, creativity, and magic. It’s a colour that stands out, making a statement without being overly aggressive. It’s a colour that blends cool and warm tones, which means there’s a shade to suit most people.
Purple hair can be a fantastic way to express your personality and stand out from the crowd. For some, it’s a way to reclaim their identity, experiment with their image, or simply add a touch of fun and whimsy to their everyday look. It can also be a subtle way to show support for a cause or group.
But beyond the symbolic meanings, purple hair is simply aesthetically pleasing. It can add depth and dimension to your hairstyle, making your hair appear thicker and more voluminous. The reflective qualities of certain purple dyes can also create a beautiful shine, making your hair look healthier and more vibrant.
Factors to Consider Before Taking the Plunge
Deciding to dye your hair purple isn’t just about picking a shade you like. Several factors can influence how the colour will look and how well it will last. It’s essential to consider your natural hair colour, skin tone, lifestyle, and commitment level before making a decision.
Your Natural Hair Colour: The Foundation of Your Purple Journey
Your natural hair colour is a crucial factor in determining how easy it will be to achieve your desired purple shade. Darker hair colours, such as black or dark brown, will require pre-lightening (bleaching) to lift the existing pigment before the purple dye can be applied. This is because purple, especially lighter shades, won’t show up well on dark hair. The darker your starting colour, the more bleaching will be required, potentially causing more damage.
Lighter hair colours, like blonde or light brown, provide a much easier canvas for purple dye. You may still need to tone your hair to remove any unwanted yellow or orange tones, but the process will generally be less damaging than bleaching.
If you have red undertones in your hair, keep in mind that these undertones can influence the final purple shade. Red undertones might make the purple appear warmer or even slightly pink.
Skin Tone: Finding the Perfect Purple for You
The right shade of purple can complement your skin tone beautifully, enhancing your features and making you look radiant. The wrong shade, however, can wash you out or make your skin appear dull.
Generally, cooler skin tones (those with pink or blue undertones) look best with cooler shades of purple, such as violet, indigo, and blue-based purples. These shades will harmonize with your skin’s undertones, creating a balanced and flattering look.
Warmer skin tones (those with yellow or golden undertones) tend to look better with warmer shades of purple, such as plum, magenta, and red-based purples. These shades will complement your skin’s undertones, adding warmth and vibrancy to your complexion.
Neutral skin tones (those with a mix of warm and cool undertones) have the most flexibility and can typically wear a wider range of purple shades.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what looks best on you. Try holding different shades of purple fabric or paper up to your face to see how they interact with your skin tone.
Lifestyle and Maintenance: Are You Ready for the Commitment?
Purple hair requires a certain level of commitment. It’s not a “set it and forget it” kind of colour. Depending on the dye you use and your hair type, you’ll need to factor in time and expense for regular touch-ups, colour-safe products, and potentially more frequent salon visits.
If you work in a conservative environment, it’s essential to consider whether purple hair is acceptable within your company’s dress code. Some workplaces may have strict rules about hair colour, while others may be more lenient.
Think about your daily activities. Frequent swimming in chlorinated water can cause purple hair to fade quickly. Excessive sun exposure can also affect the colour.
Regular washing will also contribute to colour fade. Consider using dry shampoo between washes to prolong the life of your purple hue.
Choosing the Right Purple Shade
The world of purple hair dye is vast and varied, offering a wide range of shades from delicate pastels to deep, dramatic hues. Understanding the different types of purple and their characteristics can help you choose the perfect shade for your hair and skin tone.
Pastel Purple: Soft and Dreamy
Pastel purple shades, such as lavender and lilac, are soft, delicate, and feminine. They require a very light base, typically a level 9 or 10 blonde, to show up properly. These shades tend to fade quickly and require frequent touch-ups.
Vibrant Purple: Bold and Eye-Catching
Vibrant purple shades, such as electric purple and bright violet, are bold, eye-catching, and full of energy. They offer good colour saturation and longevity, making them a popular choice for those who want a long-lasting purple look.
Deep Purple: Mysterious and Sophisticated
Deep purple shades, such as plum and eggplant, are rich, dark, and sophisticated. They can be a good option for those who want a more subtle purple look or who have darker hair. They are generally more forgiving than lighter shades and don’t require as much bleaching.
Purple with Undertones: Adding Dimension and Depth
Purple can also be mixed with other colours to create unique and dimensional shades. Blue-based purples, like indigo and violet, have a cool, edgy look. Red-based purples, like magenta and plum, have a warm, romantic feel.
Consider experimenting with different purple shades to find the one that best suits your personality and style.
Types of Purple Hair Dye
The type of hair dye you choose will significantly impact the longevity and vibrancy of your purple hair. There are several different types of purple hair dye available, each with its own pros and cons.
Permanent Dye: The Long-Lasting Option
Permanent purple hair dye provides the longest-lasting colour, but it also requires the most commitment. Permanent dye penetrates the hair shaft, altering the hair’s natural pigment. This type of dye is best for those who are sure they want purple hair for an extended period. Permanent dye is also the most damaging type of hair dye, as it contains ammonia and peroxide, which can dry out and weaken the hair.
Demi-Permanent Dye: A Gentler Alternative
Demi-permanent purple hair dye is a good option for those who want a long-lasting colour but don’t want to commit to permanent dye. Demi-permanent dye doesn’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply as permanent dye, so it’s less damaging. It gradually fades over time, typically lasting around 24-28 washes.
Semi-Permanent Dye: Experimentation and Flexibility
Semi-permanent purple hair dye is a great choice for those who want to experiment with purple hair without a long-term commitment. Semi-permanent dye coats the hair shaft rather than penetrating it, so it’s the least damaging type of hair dye. It fades quickly, typically lasting around 6-8 washes.
Hair Chalk and Hair Wax: Temporary Colour for a Night Out
Hair chalk and hair wax are temporary colour options that wash out easily with shampoo. They’re perfect for trying out purple hair for a special occasion or for those who want to experiment with different colours without any commitment. However, these options can be messy and may not show up well on dark hair.
The Dying Process: DIY vs. Salon
You have two main options when it comes to dyeing your hair purple: doing it yourself at home or going to a professional salon. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages.
DIY Purple Hair: The Budget-Friendly Route
Dyeing your hair purple at home can be a cost-effective option, especially if you’re comfortable with the process and have some experience. However, it also comes with risks. It’s easy to make mistakes, such as uneven colour application, patchy results, or damage to your hair.
If you choose to dye your hair purple at home, it’s crucial to do your research, read the instructions carefully, and use high-quality products. It’s also recommended to do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head to ensure you like the colour and that you don’t have any allergic reactions.
Salon Purple Hair: The Professional Touch
Going to a professional salon for purple hair dye offers several advantages. Professional stylists have the expertise and experience to achieve the perfect purple shade for your hair and skin tone. They can also assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best dye and application techniques to minimize damage.
Salon dyeing is generally more expensive than DIY dyeing, but it can be worth the investment for complex colour transformations or if you’re concerned about damaging your hair.
Maintaining Your Purple Hair: Keeping It Vibrant
Maintaining your purple hair is crucial to keeping it vibrant and healthy. Purple hair dye tends to fade quickly, so following a proper hair care routine is essential.
Use colour-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for coloured hair. These products are formulated to gently cleanse the hair without stripping away the colour. Avoid using shampoos that contain sulfates, as these can be harsh and drying.
Wash your hair less frequently. Washing your hair every day can cause the purple dye to fade more quickly. Try washing your hair every other day or even less often. Use dry shampoo in between washes to absorb excess oil and keep your hair feeling fresh.
Protect your hair from heat. Heat styling tools, such as straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers, can damage coloured hair and cause the purple dye to fade. Use a heat protectant spray before using any heat styling tools.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure. The sun can also cause purple hair dye to fade. Wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray when spending time outdoors in the sun.
Schedule regular touch-ups. Depending on the type of dye you use and how quickly your hair grows, you’ll need to schedule regular touch-ups to maintain your purple hair colour. This will involve re-dyeing your roots and refreshing the colour on the rest of your hair.
Consider using a colour-depositing conditioner. Colour-depositing conditioners can help to refresh your purple hair colour in between dye jobs. These conditioners contain pigments that deposit colour onto the hair shaft, helping to keep your purple hair vibrant.
Potential Downsides of Purple Hair
While purple hair can be stunning, there are some potential downsides to consider before taking the plunge.
- Fading: Purple dye is notorious for fading quickly, especially vibrant and pastel shades.
- Damage: Bleaching, a necessary step for achieving purple hair on dark hair, can damage the hair.
- Maintenance: Maintaining purple hair requires a commitment to colour-safe products and regular touch-ups.
- Professionalism: Purple hair may not be appropriate for all work environments.
- Cost: The initial dyeing and ongoing maintenance can be expensive.
Is Purple Hair Right for You? A Final Assessment
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to dye your hair purple is a personal one. There are many factors to consider, but if you’re passionate about the colour and willing to put in the time and effort to maintain it, purple hair can be a rewarding and transformative experience.
Weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider your lifestyle and personality, and choose a shade that complements your skin tone. Whether you opt for a subtle lilac tint or a bold violet statement, embrace the purple revolution and express yourself with confidence. Remember to prioritize the health of your hair and seek professional advice if needed. Good luck on your purple hair journey!
What shades of purple are available for hair dye, and which one is right for me?
Purple hair dye comes in a vast spectrum, ranging from subtle pastels like lavender and lilac to vibrant jewel tones like amethyst and deep, moody hues like eggplant and plum. Consider your skin tone: cooler skin tones often look great with cool-toned purples, while warmer skin tones can rock warmer, red-based purples. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right shade is to look at swatches and visualize how they complement your complexion.
Also consider your current hair color and level of commitment. Achieving a true pastel purple requires a very light blonde base, which may require multiple bleaching sessions and significant upkeep. Darker purples are more forgiving and can often be applied to darker hair, although the results may be more subtle. Think about how often you’re willing to touch up the color, as vibrant purples tend to fade relatively quickly.
Will I need to bleach my hair before dyeing it purple?
Whether you need to bleach your hair before dyeing it purple depends entirely on your current hair color and the desired shade of purple. If your hair is naturally light blonde or already bleached, you may be able to apply a purple dye directly. However, if you have medium to dark brown or black hair, bleaching will be necessary to lift the color and allow the purple pigment to show up vibrantly.
Bleaching is crucial because purple dye, especially lighter shades, needs a light base to deposit its color effectively. Applying purple dye to dark hair without bleaching will likely result in a subtle tint at best, or no noticeable change at all. Remember that bleaching can damage your hair, so it’s essential to take proper precautions and condition your hair well before and after the process.
What are the different types of purple hair dye (permanent, semi-permanent, temporary)?
The primary types of purple hair dye are permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary. Permanent dyes offer the longest-lasting color, chemically altering the hair shaft for a result that grows out rather than washes out. Semi-permanent dyes, on the other hand, coat the hair shaft and fade with each wash, lasting anywhere from 6 to 8 washes, depending on the formula and your hair.
Temporary dyes, like hair chalk, colored hairsprays, and wash-out gels, provide a very short-term color change that lasts until your next shampoo. Choose the type of dye based on your commitment level. Permanent dyes are ideal if you’re sure about the color, while semi-permanent options allow for experimentation. Temporary dyes are perfect for special occasions or testing the waters before committing to a longer-lasting color.
How do I maintain purple hair to prevent fading?
Maintaining purple hair color requires a few key strategies to minimize fading. First, wash your hair as infrequently as possible, ideally only once or twice a week. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip the color from your hair.
Additionally, avoid washing your hair with hot water, as it can open the hair cuticle and allow the dye to escape. Rinse with cool or lukewarm water instead. Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray. Also, avoid using heat styling tools like curling irons and straighteners excessively, as heat can accelerate fading.
Can I dye my hair purple at home, or should I go to a professional?
Dyeing your hair purple at home is possible, but it depends on your comfort level, experience, and the desired result. If you’re aiming for a simple, one-color application, and you have experience with at-home hair dyeing, you might be able to achieve satisfactory results. However, if you’re looking for a complex color, like ombre or balayage, or if your hair requires significant bleaching, it’s generally best to consult a professional.
A professional hairstylist has the expertise to assess your hair’s condition, choose the right products and techniques, and minimize the risk of damage. They can also ensure that the color is applied evenly and that you achieve the desired shade. While it may be more expensive than dyeing your hair at home, a professional can provide a better result and protect the health of your hair.
What are the potential risks or downsides of dyeing my hair purple?
Dyeing your hair purple, especially if it requires bleaching, can come with potential risks and downsides. Bleaching can damage your hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Over-processing can even lead to hair loss. Certain individuals might be allergic to components within the dye.
Furthermore, maintaining purple hair can be time-consuming and expensive, as it requires frequent touch-ups and specialized hair care products. The color can also stain clothing, towels, and pillowcases, particularly when wet. And lastly, depending on your profession or social environment, purple hair might not be considered appropriate.
What are some popular brands of purple hair dye?
Several popular brands offer excellent purple hair dye options, catering to various preferences and budgets. For semi-permanent vibrant shades, Arctic Fox and Manic Panic are well-regarded for their long-lasting color and vegan, cruelty-free formulas. These brands offer a wide array of unique and bold purples.
For those seeking permanent purple hair dye, L’Oréal, Schwarzkopf, and Garnier offer options with good coverage and color intensity. These brands often include conditioning ingredients to help minimize damage. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and compare different brands to find the one that best suits your hair type, desired shade, and budget.