Looking to add some color to your hair? Gentian violet might be the answer you’re looking for. This plant-based purple dye has been used for decades to dye hair, despite its intended use as a medicine for fungal and bacterial infections.
Dyeing your hair with gentian violet is a fun and unique way to experiment with your hair color without damaging it with harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s affordable and easy to find at your local drugstore or online. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of dyeing your hair purple with gentian violet.
Understanding Gentian Violet and Hair Dying
Gentian violet is a dark blue-violet dye that is commonly used in the medical field to treat bacterial and fungal infections on the skin. However, it has recently gained popularity among hair enthusiasts due to its intriguing color that ranges from deep purple to blue-tinted hues. While it is not a traditional hair dye, gentian violet is a simple and inexpensive way to add a pop of color to your hair.
But before you start dyeing your hair with gentian violet, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with it. Since it is a strong dye, it can stain clothes, skin, and surfaces, so you should be careful to protect yourself and your surroundings. Additionally, it can dry out your hair if not used properly, so it’s essential to follow the right steps and mix it with a good conditioner to avoid damage. Overall, with the right precautions and techniques, gentian violet can be an exciting way to experiment with your hair color!
Prepping Your Hair for Gentian Violet Dye
Before dyeing your hair with gentian violet, it’s important to prep your hair to ensure the dye adheres properly and lasts longer. Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue on your strands. This will allow the dye to penetrate your hair follicles effectively.
Next, carefully comb through your hair to remove any tangles or knots. This will help to evenly distribute the dye throughout your hair and prevent patchy coloring. It’s also essential to protect your skin and clothing from the dye by applying petroleum jelly around your hairline and wearing old clothes that you don’t mind getting stained.
In addition, consider conditioning your hair a few days before applying the gentian violet dye. This will help to hydrate your hair and make it more receptive to the dye. Finally, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a mixing bowl, applicator brush, and gloves, before starting the dyeing process.
Mixing Gentian Violet Dye for Best Results
When it comes to dyeing your hair with gentian violet, one of the most important factors is getting the right mix of dye to achieve the color you want. The ideal mixture for this is one part gentian violet dye to ten parts conditioner. You can adjust these ratio depending on the intensity of the color you want to attain, but keep in mind that gentian violet is a very concentrated dye, so a little goes a long way.
To mix the gentian violet dye with the conditioner, add a small amount of the dye to the conditioner and mix well. Add more dye gradually until you reach the desired shade. Keep in mind that some hair types may require more or less dye to achieve the same effect, so it is important to test a small strand before applying the mixture to your entire head. With this mixing ratio, you can achieve a beautiful and vibrant purple shade that will last for weeks.
Applying Gentian Violet Dye to Your Hair Safely
Before you begin applying gentian violet dye to your hair, keep in mind that this dye is not meant for use on hair and may not be FDA-approved for this specific purpose. As a result, safety precautions are necessary to prevent any adverse reactions or damage to your hair.
Firstly, it is important to perform a patch test on a small section of your hair to see if you have any allergic reactions or irritation. Once you are certain that the dye is safe for you to use, it is recommended to apply a protective barrier such as petroleum jelly around your hairline, ears, and scalp to prevent staining. Moreover, it is important to handle the dye carefully and wear gloves to keep your hands safe from the dye. Finally, remember to thoroughly wash the dye out of your hair and scalp after the desired time period has elapsed.
Maintaining Your Purple Hair with Gentian Violet
Once you’ve successfully dyed your hair purple with Gentian Violet, the next step is to maintain its vibrancy and keep it looking fresh for as long as possible. The key to achieving this is by looking after your hair correctly and taking proper care of your colored locks. Here are some tips on how to maintain your purple hair with Gentian Violet:
Firstly, it’s recommended that you use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping the color from your hair. Also, it’s best to avoid washing your hair too often, as this can cause the color to fade faster. When you do wash, use lukewarm water and avoid hot water, which can open up the cuticles and cause the color to wash out. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your purple hair for a longer period of time.
Removing Gentian Violet Dye From Your Hair
Once you have achieved the desired shade of purple with gentian violet, it’s time to remove the dye from your hair. This dye is not a permanent hair color and will fade away on its own with time. However, if you want to speed up the process, there are some simple ways to get rid of the dye.
Firstly, try washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This type of shampoo helps to remove buildup and can help fade the dye faster. If your hair is still stained with gentian violet dye, mix baking soda with your regular shampoo and wash your hair again. The baking soda helps to neutralize the dye and can help to lift it from your hair. Additionally, try rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar, as it can help to remove the dye and add shine to your hair. However, it’s important to remember that gentian violet is a strong dye, and it may take a few washes to remove it completely.
Tips for Keeping Your Purple Hair Gorgeous and Vibrant.
Once you have successfully dyed your hair purple with gentian violet, it is important to take care of your hair in order to maintain the vibrancy and beauty of the color. Here are a few tips to help you keep your hair looking gorgeous:
Firstly, it is important to invest in hair care products that are specifically designed for colored hair. This includes shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip the hair of its color. Additionally, using a hair mask once a week can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy, which will also help to preserve the color.
Secondly, it is important to protect your hair from harsh environmental factors such as the sun, wind, and chlorine. You can do this by wearing a hat or a protective hair scarf when you are outside, and rinsing your hair with fresh water after swimming in a chlorinated pool. Following these tips will help you keep your purple hair looking vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible.
The Conclusion
Dyeing your hair purple with gentian violet is a fun and inexpensive way to add a pop of color to your hair. However, it is important to remember that this method may not work for everyone, and that gentian violet can be difficult to remove. It is also important to take precautions to protect your skin and clothing during the dyeing process.
If you are looking for a temporary and low-commitment way to add a touch of purple to your hair, gentian violet might be worth trying. Just be sure to do your research and follow the steps carefully to ensure that you get the best results possible. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can achieve a beautiful and vibrant purple hue that will make you stand out from the crowd.