Dyeing hair purple is a bold and fun way to switch up your look and express your creativity. However, achieving the perfect shade of purple can be tricky and requires some preparation beforehand. One commonly asked question is whether you have to tone your hair before dying it purple.
While some may argue that it’s not necessary, many hair professionals and experts recommend toning your hair prior to dyeing it purple. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this recommendation and when toning is most important to achieve vibrant and long-lasting purple hair.
Understanding Hair Color Theory
Understanding Hair Color Theory
To understand the process of dyeing hair purple, it’s essential to know the basics of hair color theory. Hair color theory describes how the hair shaft’s natural pigments combine with applied hair dye to create a particular color. It involves the use of a color wheel, which shows primary and secondary colors and how they mix to form tertiary colors.
The natural hair pigments found in the hair shaft include melanin, which gives hair its color. Eumelanin is responsible for dark hair colors, while pheomelanin gives hair red and blonde tones. To achieve a vibrant purple hair color, it’s necessary to remove some of these natural pigments from the hair, which can be done by toning the hair beforehand. However, this isn’t always necessary, especially if you’re starting with light blonde hair.
The Science of Purple Hair
Purple hair has become one of the most popular hair color trends of recent years. But have you ever wondered how the color actually works? Well, the science of purple hair is actually quite fascinating. The reason that purple is achievable on certain hair types is due to the underlying pigments in the hair.
These underlying pigments are categorized into warm and cool tones. Warm tones are usually reds and oranges, and cool tones are greens and blues. To achieve a purple hair color, the warm pigments in the hair need to be neutralized or removed to allow the cool tones to take over. This process is often called color correction, and this requires the use of bleach and toner to create an even base for the purple hair dye to adhere to.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shade of Purple
When it comes to choosing the right shade of purple for your hair, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to take into account your skin tone and eye color. Some shades of purple will complement warmer skin tones while others suit cooler skin tones. It’s also important to consider the intensity of the color you want. If you’re looking for a bold and vibrant purple, you may want to opt for a more saturated shade. On the other hand, if you’re after a more subtle hint of color, a lighter shade of purple may be the way to go.
Another factor to consider when choosing a shade of purple is the base color of your hair. Blonde hair will generally take on a more vibrant and true-to-color purple, while darker hair may require additional treatment such as bleaching to achieve the desired shade. Additionally, some shades of purple may require more maintenance than others to prevent fading. Keeping all these factors in mind when choosing your shade of purple can help ensure that you end up with a color that looks great and is easy to maintain.
Preparing Your Hair for the Dyeing Process
Preparing Your Hair for the Dyeing Process:
Before you start dyeing your hair purple, it is essential to prepare your hair for the process. Firstly, you should ensure that your hair is completely dry, free from any product buildup or conditioning agents. Any oil or dirt present on the hair might repel the dye, leaving you with poor color uptake, and a less than desirable end result.
Additionally, it is important to consider the natural color of your hair. If you have dark brown or black hair, you will likely need to lighten your hair strands to reach the desired shade of purple. If this is the case, you may need to tone your hair before dyeing. For blondes or lighter hair shades, on the other hand, you may not necessarily need to tone your hair, as you have less natural pigmentation to cover. Nonetheless, it is important to choose the right shade of purple for your skin tone to get the best results that flatter and complement your skin.
How to Tone Your Hair before Coloring
Toning your hair is an important step before coloring it purple. This process minimizes yellow pigments that can sometimes interfere with the desired shade of purple. Toning is also crucial if you have naturally dark hair, as it can help create an even base color for the purple dye to adhere to.
To tone your hair before coloring, start by selecting the right toner. Purple shampoo or a toner with blue or violet undertones is ideal. Apply the toner to your hair, either using a spray bottle or a brush, and leave it on for the recommended time. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair healthy and nourished. Toning can add an extra step to the coloring process, but it can make a significant difference in the outcome of your hair color.
Steps to Dying Your Hair Purple at Home
Dyeing your hair purple at home can be achieved following a few simple steps. Firstly, make sure to purchase a purple hair dye that is suitable for your hair type and shade. It is also important to protect your clothing and workspace as the dye can easily stain.
Secondly, prepare your hair by washing and drying it thoroughly before applying the dye. Apply the dye evenly to your hair, making sure to saturate every strand. Leave the dye on for the recommended amount of time as per the instructions on the box, typically between 20-30 minutes. Rinse out the dye with cold water until the water runs clear and then apply conditioner to soften the hair. It may take several washes before the water runs completely clear. With these steps, you can achieve a vibrant and beautiful purple hue to your hair at home.
Maintaining Your Purple Hair Color: Dos and Don’ts
Maintaining your purple hair color can be challenging, but following some simple Dos and Don’ts can help you keep your locks looking vibrant and healthy. First, do use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates can strip the color from your hair and leave it looking dull. Also, make sure to rinse your hair with cool water, as hot water can also cause color fading.
Don’t use heat styling tools excessively as they can damage your hair and alter the color. Always protect your hair from the sun and wear hats or headscarves when you’re out in the sun for extended periods. Finally, avoid using products with alcohol, as these can also cause color fading. With these simple tips, you can keep your purple hair looking fabulous for longer periods.
The Conclusion
Taking the necessary steps to tone hair before dying purple is crucial. This process helps to eliminate any existing brassy tones and give the purple dye a more vibrant appearance on the hair. Moreover, the toning process ensures that the dye will adhere properly to the hair, resulting in a long-lasting and even color.
It’s also important to note that not toning hair before dying purple could result in a less-than-satisfactory outcome, where the purple may come out looking dull and patchy. Thus, it is highly recommended to consult with a professional hairstylist or to carry out proper research before attempting to dye hair purple. Ultimately, toning hair before dying purple is a crucial step that should not be skipped to achieve the best results.