DIY Dream: Achieve Stunning Purple Hair at Home – A Comprehensive Guide

Purple hair! It’s vibrant, bold, and a fantastic way to express yourself. Whether you’re dreaming of a subtle lavender tint, a deep indigo hue, or a bright, eye-catching violet, achieving purple hair at home is entirely possible with the right preparation, products, and patience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right purple shade to maintaining your vibrant locks, ensuring a successful and stunning transformation.

Is Purple Hair Right for You?

Before diving headfirst into the world of purple hair, consider a few factors to ensure it’s the right choice for you:

* Undertones: Purple complements cool skin tones beautifully. If you have pink or blue undertones, purple will likely enhance your complexion. Warmer skin tones can also rock purple, but choosing a warmer-toned purple (like a reddish-purple or plum) will be more flattering.
* Hair Condition: Dyeing your hair, especially with vibrant colors like purple, can be damaging. If your hair is already dry, brittle, or heavily damaged, focus on strengthening and repairing it before attempting to dye it. Deep conditioning treatments and protein masks are your friends!
* Lifestyle and Workplace: Consider your professional environment and lifestyle. While purple hair is becoming increasingly accepted, some workplaces may still have strict dress codes. If you’re unsure, consider a more subtle shade of purple or temporary options like hair wax or chalk.
* Commitment: Purple hair requires maintenance. The color will fade over time, and you’ll need to touch up your roots regularly. Are you prepared to invest the time and effort to keep your purple hair looking its best?

Choosing the Right Shade of Purple

The world of purple hair dye is vast and varied. From soft lilac to intense amethyst, there’s a shade of purple to suit every style and preference. Here’s a breakdown of some popular purple shades:

* Lavender: A soft, pastel purple with cool undertones. It’s perfect for achieving a dreamy, ethereal look. Lavender works best on very light blonde or platinum hair.
* Lilac: Similar to lavender but slightly deeper and more pigmented. It still requires a light base but is a bit more forgiving than lavender.
* Amethyst: A vibrant, jewel-toned purple with cool undertones. It’s a popular choice for its richness and depth of color.
* Violet: A classic purple shade that’s neither too cool nor too warm. It’s a versatile option that suits a wide range of skin tones.
* Indigo: A deep, dark purple with blue undertones. It’s a bold and dramatic choice that’s perfect for making a statement.
* Plum: A warm-toned purple with reddish undertones. It’s a flattering option for warmer skin tones.
* Magenta: A vibrant, pinkish-purple shade. It’s a bold and playful choice that adds a pop of color.

When choosing your shade, consider your skin tone, your existing hair color, and the level of commitment you’re willing to make. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to start with a less permanent option, like a semi-permanent dye or a hair gloss.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin the dyeing process, gather all the necessary supplies. This will make the process smoother and less stressful.

* Purple Hair Dye: Choose a high-quality hair dye from a reputable brand. Read reviews and consider the longevity and intensity of the color. Get enough dye to fully saturate your hair, especially if you have long or thick hair. If you’re unsure how much to get, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and buy more than you think you’ll need. Look for semi-permanent, demi-permanent, or permanent options depending on how long you want the color to last.
* Developer (if needed): If you’re using a permanent or demi-permanent dye, you’ll need a developer. The volume of the developer determines how much the dye will lift (lighten) your hair. A lower volume (10 or 20) is suitable for depositing color or slightly lifting your hair. A higher volume (30 or 40) is needed for significant lightening. Choose the right developer volume based on your desired results and your hair’s current color. Generally, if your hair is already light enough, a 10 or 20 volume developer is sufficient. If you need to lift your hair several shades, a 30 or 40 volume developer may be necessary. Be very careful with higher volume developers as they can cause significant damage if not used correctly.
* Bleach (if needed): If your hair is darker than a light blonde, you’ll need to bleach it to achieve a vibrant purple. Use a bleach kit specifically designed for hair. Again, choose a developer volume appropriate for the level of lift you need. Strand test is mandatory before applying bleach to your whole head.
* Toner (if needed): Bleaching can often leave your hair with yellow or orange undertones. Toner neutralizes these undertones, creating a clean base for the purple dye. Choose a toner that complements your desired purple shade. For example, if you’re going for a cool-toned purple, use a toner with blue or violet undertones.
* Mixing Bowl and Applicator Brush: Use a non-metallic bowl and brush to mix and apply the dye. Metal can react with the chemicals in the dye.
* Gloves: Protect your hands from the dye with gloves. Most dye kits come with gloves, but it’s always a good idea to have extra on hand.
* Old Towel: Dye can stain, so use an old towel to protect your clothing and surfaces.
* Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly: Apply Vaseline or petroleum jelly to your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
* Hair Clips: Use hair clips to section your hair and make the application process easier.
* Shampoo and Conditioner (Color-Safe): Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to maintain your purple hair and prevent fading.
* Deep Conditioner: Purple dye can be drying, so use a deep conditioner regularly to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
* Optional: Hair Dryer: Some dyes require heat to process properly. Check the instructions on your dye kit to see if you need a hair dryer.

Preparing Your Hair

Properly preparing your hair is crucial for achieving the best results. Here’s what you need to do:

* Skip Washing: Don’t wash your hair for 24-48 hours before dyeing it. The natural oils in your hair will protect your scalp from the harsh chemicals in the dye.
* Deep Condition: Apply a deep conditioner to your hair a few days before dyeing it to hydrate and strengthen it.
* Strand Test: Perform a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This will allow you to see how the color will look on your hair and check for any allergic reactions. To perform a strand test, apply the dye to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair (like the underside of your hair near your neck). Follow the instructions on the dye kit and rinse the strand after the recommended processing time.
* Allergy Test: Apply a small amount of the dye to your skin (like behind your ear) 48 hours before dyeing your hair to check for any allergic reactions. If you experience any redness, itching, or swelling, do not use the dye.

The Dyeing Process: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your supplies and prepared your hair, it’s time to start the dyeing process. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Bleaching (If Needed)

If your hair is darker than a light blonde, you’ll need to bleach it before applying the purple dye.

1. Protect Yourself: Put on your gloves and old towel.
2. Mix the Bleach: Follow the instructions on the bleach kit to mix the bleach and developer in a non-metallic bowl.
3. Apply the Bleach: Section your hair into four quadrants using hair clips. Start applying the bleach to the roots, working your way down to the ends. Make sure to saturate each strand of hair completely.
4. Process the Bleach: Follow the instructions on the bleach kit for the recommended processing time. Check your hair regularly to see if it’s lifting to the desired level. Don’t leave the bleach on for longer than recommended, as this can cause significant damage.
5. Rinse the Bleach: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until all the bleach is removed.
6. Shampoo and Condition: Shampoo and condition your hair with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
7. Toning (If Needed): If your hair has yellow or orange undertones, apply toner to neutralize them. Follow the instructions on the toner kit. Rinse and condition your hair again.

Step 2: Applying the Purple Dye

1. Protect Yourself: Put on your gloves and old towel. Apply Vaseline to your hairline, ears, and neck.
2. Mix the Dye: If you’re using a dye that requires mixing, follow the instructions on the dye kit to mix the dye and developer in a non-metallic bowl.
3. Apply the Dye: Section your hair into four quadrants using hair clips. Start applying the dye to the roots, working your way down to the ends. Make sure to saturate each strand of hair completely.
4. Massage the Dye: Once you’ve applied the dye to all of your hair, massage it in to ensure even coverage.
5. Process the Dye: Cover your hair with a plastic shower cap or plastic wrap. Follow the instructions on the dye kit for the recommended processing time. Some dyes may require heat to process properly. If so, use a hair dryer to apply heat to your hair for the recommended time.
6. Rinse the Dye: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water, as this can cause the dye to fade faster.
7. Condition: Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it on for 5-10 minutes. This will help to hydrate and nourish your hair after the dyeing process.
8. Rinse Again: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until all the conditioner is removed.

Step 3: Drying and Styling

1. Gently Towel Dry: Gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously, as this can cause breakage.
2. Apply a Heat Protectant: If you plan to use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant to your hair to protect it from damage.
3. Dry and Style: Dry and style your hair as desired. Be mindful of using heat styling tools sparingly, as heat can cause the purple dye to fade faster.

Maintaining Your Purple Hair

Maintaining your purple hair is essential for keeping it vibrant and healthy. Here are some tips:

* Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: Color-safe shampoos and conditioners are formulated to be gentle on dyed hair and prevent fading. Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain sulfates, as these can strip the color from your hair.
* Wash Your Hair Less Frequently: Washing your hair too often can cause the purple dye to fade faster. Try to wash your hair only 2-3 times per week.
* Use Cool Water: Hot water can cause the purple dye to fade faster. Use cool or lukewarm water when washing your hair.
* Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the purple dye to fade. Wear a hat or scarf when you’re spending time outdoors in the sun.
* Use a Deep Conditioner Regularly: Purple dye can be drying, so use a deep conditioner regularly to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Aim to deep condition your hair at least once a week.
* Avoid Heat Styling: Heat styling can cause the purple dye to fade faster. Try to avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible. When you do use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray.
* Touch Up Your Roots: As your hair grows, your roots will become visible. Touch up your roots every 4-6 weeks to maintain your purple hair color.
* Use a Purple Shampoo or Conditioner: Purple shampoos and conditioners contain purple pigments that help to neutralize brassy tones and keep your purple hair vibrant. Use a purple shampoo or conditioner once or twice a week.
* Protect Your Hair While Swimming: Chlorine in swimming pools can cause the purple dye to fade and even turn green. Wet your hair with tap water and apply a leave-in conditioner before swimming. Wear a swimming cap to protect your hair from the chlorine.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful preparation, you may encounter some problems when dyeing your hair purple. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

* Uneven Color: If your hair color is uneven, it could be due to several factors. You may not have saturated your hair completely with the dye, or your hair may have been unevenly bleached. To fix uneven color, you can try applying the dye to the lighter areas of your hair again. If the problem is severe, you may need to seek professional help.
* Color Fading Too Quickly: If your purple hair is fading too quickly, it could be due to washing your hair too often, using hot water, or exposing your hair to direct sunlight. Follow the tips for maintaining your purple hair to prevent fading.
* Brassy Tones: If your purple hair develops brassy tones, it could be due to the bleach not lifting your hair to a light enough level or using a toner that wasn’t strong enough. Use a purple shampoo or conditioner to neutralize brassy tones.
* Dry and Damaged Hair: Dyeing your hair purple can be drying and damaging. Use a deep conditioner regularly to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Avoid heat styling and other damaging treatments.
* Allergic Reaction: If you experience an allergic reaction to the dye, stop using it immediately and seek medical attention.

Semi-Permanent vs. Permanent Purple Hair Dye

Choosing between semi-permanent and permanent dye is an important decision. Here’s a breakdown:

* Semi-Permanent: This type of dye coats the hair shaft with color, rather than penetrating it. This means it’s less damaging but also fades more quickly, usually lasting around 6-8 washes. Semi-permanent dyes are a good option for experimenting with purple or for those with already damaged hair. They require a lighter base for vibrancy, but typically won’t lift the hair color on their own.
* Demi-Permanent: Demi-permanent dyes also deposit color but contain a low-volume developer, allowing for a slight lift of the natural color. This results in a longer-lasting color compared to semi-permanent, typically up to 24 washes. They are a good mid-ground for those wanting more longevity but less damage than permanent options.
* Permanent: Permanent dyes penetrate the hair shaft, providing the most long-lasting color and the ability to lighten the hair. However, they are also the most damaging. These dyes require the most upkeep, but they are the best option for those wanting a vibrant, long-lasting purple that won’t fade quickly.

Alternative Purple Hair Options

* Hair Chalk: A great option for a temporary pop of color. It washes out easily with shampoo.
* Hair Wax: Similar to hair chalk, but provides a bit more hold and shine. Also washes out easily.
* Hair Extensions: Add purple highlights or streaks without dyeing your natural hair.
* Purple Hair Spray: A quick and easy way to add purple color for a special occasion. Washes out with shampoo.

When to Seek Professional Help

While dyeing your hair purple at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help:

* If you have heavily damaged hair: A professional stylist can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best course of action.
* If you want a complex color: Achieving a complex color like ombre or balayage is best left to the professionals.
* If you’re not confident in your abilities: If you’re nervous about dyeing your hair at home, it’s best to seek professional help.
* If you have had allergic reactions to hair dye in the past: A professional stylist can use hypoallergenic dyes and take extra precautions to protect your skin.

Conclusion

Dyeing your hair purple can be a fun and exciting way to express yourself. By following these tips and instructions, you can achieve stunning purple hair at home. Remember to be patient, take your time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. With the right preparation and care, you can rock purple hair that turns heads and makes you feel confident and beautiful. Good luck, and enjoy your new vibrant locks!