So, you’ve rocked the purple hair, lived the vibrant life, and now you’re ready to return to the blonde side. But a big question looms: Can you actually dye blonde over purple hair? The answer, as with most hair transformations, is a resounding “it depends.” It’s not a simple yes or no. Success hinges on several factors, from the type of purple dye used to the condition of your hair. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of this color transition, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and potentially save your strands from a disastrous outcome.
Understanding the Challenge: Purple and Blonde Don’t Always Mix
The fundamental issue lies in color theory. Purple is a combination of red and blue, and both of these pigments can be stubbornly persistent in hair. Blonde, on the other hand, requires removing existing pigment and depositing a light tone. The problem arises when trying to lift the red and blue tones of purple out of the hair sufficiently to achieve a clean blonde base. Without proper preparation and technique, you risk ending up with a muddy, uneven, or even worse, green-toned result.
The Color Wheel’s Role
The color wheel is your best friend when it comes to understanding color correction. Purple is opposite yellow on the wheel. This means that yellow tones in your blonde dye can neutralize the purple, potentially leading to a muddy or neutral brown color, rather than the bright blonde you desire. Depending on the specific shade of purple, you might also encounter residual pink or blue tones after attempting to lift the color.
Factors Affecting the Outcome
Several elements play a crucial role in determining the success of your blonde-over-purple endeavor. Understanding these factors is paramount before you even consider reaching for the bleach.
Type of Purple Dye
This is arguably the most significant factor. Different types of purple dyes have varying levels of permanence and pigment intensity.
Direct Dyes (Semi-Permanent and Demi-Permanent)
Direct dyes, often labeled as semi-permanent or demi-permanent, deposit color on the hair shaft without penetrating deeply. These are generally the easiest to remove, as they fade with washing. However, even these dyes can stain the hair, especially if the hair is porous or has been lightened previously.
Permanent Purple Dye
Permanent purple dye, on the other hand, penetrates the hair cuticle and alters the hair’s structure. These dyes are significantly more difficult to remove and often require professional intervention. Lifting a permanent purple to blonde can be a lengthy and damaging process.
Pastel Purple vs. Deep Purple
The intensity of the purple also matters. A light pastel purple will generally be easier to remove than a deep, vibrant purple. Darker purples contain a higher concentration of pigment, which means more color to lift.
Hair Condition
The health of your hair is critical. Bleaching, even under the best circumstances, is damaging. Applying bleach to hair that is already dry, brittle, or damaged significantly increases the risk of breakage and further damage. Assess your hair’s condition honestly before proceeding. If your hair is already struggling, consider focusing on strengthening treatments before attempting any color change.
Porosity Matters
Hair porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. High porosity hair absorbs color quickly but also releases it quickly, often leading to faster fading. Low porosity hair is resistant to absorbing color, making it harder to dye initially, but the color tends to last longer. Damaged hair is often more porous, which can make it grab onto purple pigment more intensely, making it harder to remove.
Previous Lightening
Has your hair been previously lightened? If so, it’s likely more porous and susceptible to damage. Repeated lightening weakens the hair’s protein structure, making it more prone to breakage. If your hair has been heavily bleached in the past, proceed with extreme caution and consider consulting a professional.
Your Desired Shade of Blonde
The lighter the blonde you desire, the more lifting will be required. Going from a deep purple to platinum blonde is a much more challenging task than transitioning to a honey blonde. Be realistic about what your hair can handle and adjust your expectations accordingly.
The Process: How to (Attempt to) Go Blonde
If you’ve considered the factors above and are determined to proceed, here’s a general outline of the steps involved. However, it is strongly recommended to consult a professional colorist for this type of color correction. They have the expertise and experience to assess your hair’s condition and formulate a plan that minimizes damage.
Strand Test: Always, Always, Always!
Before applying any product to your entire head, perform a strand test. This will give you a preview of the potential outcome and help you assess how your hair will react to the bleach. Choose a small, inconspicuous section of hair, such as underneath the back of your head. Apply the bleach mixture to the strand, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the strand every few minutes to monitor the lifting process. This test will reveal how quickly your hair lifts, the final color result, and any signs of damage.
Fading the Purple as Much as Possible
Before you even think about bleach, try to fade the purple dye as much as possible. This will reduce the amount of pigment you need to lift and minimize the risk of unwanted tones.
Washing with Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove build-up and impurities from the hair. Washing your hair frequently with a clarifying shampoo can help fade the purple dye over time. Be aware that clarifying shampoos can be drying, so follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
Vitamin C Treatment
Vitamin C is a natural bleaching agent that can help fade artificial hair color. Crush a handful of vitamin C tablets and mix them with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your hair, focusing on the areas with the most purple pigment. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Dish Soap (Use with Caution)
Dish soap is a strong detergent that can strip away hair color. However, it is also very drying and can damage the hair. Use this method sparingly and only if your hair is relatively healthy. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment.
Bleaching: Proceed with Caution
Bleaching is the most crucial and potentially damaging step in the process. It’s essential to use the correct developer volume and processing time to minimize damage.
Choosing the Right Developer Volume
Developer volume refers to the strength of the hydrogen peroxide in the bleach mixture. Lower volumes (10 or 20) lift less but are gentler on the hair. Higher volumes (30 or 40) lift more but can cause significant damage. Start with a low volume developer (10 or 20) and assess the results before using a higher volume.
Applying the Bleach
Apply the bleach evenly to your hair, starting with the areas that are the most purple. Avoid applying bleach to your scalp, as it can cause irritation.
Monitoring the Lifting Process
Check your hair frequently during the bleaching process. The goal is to lift the purple pigment to a pale yellow or yellow-orange shade. Avoid over-processing, as this can lead to damage.
Toning: Neutralizing Unwanted Tones
After bleaching, your hair will likely have some unwanted tones, such as yellow or orange. Toner is used to neutralize these tones and create a more even, desirable blonde shade.
Choosing the Right Toner
The toner you choose will depend on the specific tones you need to neutralize. Purple toners neutralize yellow tones, while blue toners neutralize orange tones.
Applying the Toner
Apply the toner evenly to your hair, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Monitor the toning process carefully to avoid over-toning, which can result in a dull or ashy blonde.
Deep Conditioning and Maintenance
Bleaching and toning can be very drying and damaging to the hair. It’s essential to deep condition your hair after the process and incorporate a regular deep conditioning routine into your hair care regimen.
Protein Treatments
Protein treatments help to strengthen the hair and repair damage. Use a protein treatment once a week to help rebuild the hair’s protein structure.
Moisturizing Treatments
Moisturizing treatments help to hydrate the hair and prevent dryness. Use a moisturizing treatment several times a week to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Heat styling can further damage bleached hair. Avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible. When you do use heat, apply a heat protectant spray.
When to Seek Professional Help
There are certain situations where attempting to dye blonde over purple hair yourself is simply not advisable. In these cases, seeking professional help is the best course of action.
Dark or Permanent Purple Dye
If you used a dark or permanent purple dye, the removal process will be significantly more challenging and damaging. A professional colorist has the expertise and tools to safely lift the color without causing excessive damage.
Damaged Hair
If your hair is already damaged, bleaching it further can lead to severe breakage and hair loss. A professional colorist can assess your hair’s condition and recommend a treatment plan to strengthen your hair before attempting any color changes.
Uneven Color
If your purple hair is uneven or patchy, achieving an even blonde result will be difficult. A professional colorist can even out the color before bleaching to ensure a more consistent outcome.
Lack of Experience
If you have little to no experience with bleaching or toning hair, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Color correction is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of color theory and hair chemistry.
Alternative Options: Not Ready for Full Blonde?
If you’re hesitant about going full blonde, there are alternative options that can help you transition away from purple without completely stripping your hair of color.
Ombre or Balayage
An ombre or balayage technique involves gradually lightening the hair from the roots to the ends. This can be a less damaging option than bleaching the entire head of hair, as it focuses on specific sections. You could gradually introduce blonde tones towards the ends while maintaining some of the purple at the roots, creating a blended effect.
Lowlights
Adding lowlights that are closer to your natural hair color can help blend the purple and create a more subtle transition. This can also add dimension and depth to your hair.
Color Melt
A color melt is a technique that blends different hair colors seamlessly together. This can be a good option if you want to gradually transition from purple to blonde without a harsh line of demarcation.
Final Thoughts: Patience is Key
Transitioning from purple to blonde hair is a process that requires patience, careful planning, and a realistic understanding of your hair’s capabilities. Remember that rushing the process or attempting to lift too much color at once can lead to severe damage. Whether you choose to tackle the transformation yourself or seek professional help, prioritize the health of your hair above all else. A gradual, gentle approach will yield the best results and leave you with a beautiful, healthy blonde that you can be proud of. Remember, healthy hair is beautiful hair, regardless of the color.
Can I dye blonde over purple hair at all?
Yes, you can dye blonde over purple hair, but it’s not a straightforward process and the results can be unpredictable. Successfully achieving blonde will depend on several factors, including the shade and intensity of the purple, the porosity of your hair, and the type of blonde dye you use. It’s important to understand that going directly from purple to blonde without proper preparation can lead to uneven color, damage, and potentially undesired results like muddy or brassy tones.
The key to a successful transition is to fade the purple as much as possible before attempting to dye it blonde. This might involve using clarifying shampoos, color removers specifically designed for semi-permanent colors, or even waiting for the color to naturally fade over time. After fading the purple, assess your hair’s condition and consider using a protein treatment to strengthen it before proceeding with the blonde dye. Choosing the right blonde dye and developer volume is also critical to minimize damage and achieve the desired result.
What happens if I dye blonde directly over purple hair?
If you dye blonde directly over purple hair, without taking any preliminary steps, the outcome will likely be a color somewhere between blonde and purple, potentially a muddy or unusual shade. The purple pigment will interfere with the blonde dye’s ability to deposit color correctly, resulting in an uneven and undesirable tone. The darker the purple and the lighter the blonde you’re trying to achieve, the more pronounced the color distortion will be.
Furthermore, directly applying blonde dye, especially a strong one, onto hair that is already colored can cause significant damage. The chemicals in both dyes interact, potentially leading to dryness, breakage, and increased porosity. This damage can make it even more difficult to achieve a consistent and healthy blonde result in the future. It’s always best to prioritize the health of your hair and take the necessary steps to properly prepare it for the color change.
What’s the best way to fade purple hair before dyeing it blonde?
The best way to fade purple hair before dyeing it blonde involves a combination of techniques aimed at gently lifting the purple pigment without causing excessive damage. Begin with using clarifying shampoos, as they are designed to remove build-up and can help to gradually fade the color. You can also try washing your hair with hot water, although be cautious as this can be drying.
Another effective method is using color removers specifically formulated for semi-permanent dyes. These removers work by breaking down the dye molecules, allowing them to be washed away more easily. Follow the instructions carefully and conduct a strand test first to assess how your hair reacts. Deep conditioning treatments after each fading attempt are essential to replenish moisture and maintain the integrity of your hair.
What type of blonde dye should I use to cover purple hair?
When choosing a blonde dye to cover purple hair, opting for a shade that is slightly warmer and more pigmented can be beneficial. A blonde with a golden or beige undertone will help to counteract any residual purple tones, preventing the hair from turning a strange or ashy color. Consider using a professional-grade dye if possible, as these often contain higher-quality ingredients and offer more predictable results.
The developer volume is also a crucial factor. Starting with a lower volume developer, such as 10 or 20, is recommended to minimize damage, especially if your hair is already processed or fragile. You can always increase the developer volume in subsequent applications if needed. Remember to perform a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head to ensure you are happy with the color and that your hair can handle the process.
How long should I wait between fading purple and dyeing it blonde?
The ideal waiting time between fading purple hair and dyeing it blonde depends on the condition of your hair and the methods used to fade the purple. If you used harsh fading methods like color removers or frequent clarifying shampoos, it’s best to wait at least one to two weeks to allow your hair to recover and regain some of its natural moisture and strength. During this time, focus on deep conditioning treatments and protein masks to repair any damage.
If you faded the purple gradually through natural fading and gentle washing, you might be able to proceed with the blonde dye sooner. However, it’s still essential to assess your hair’s condition before applying any further chemicals. Look for signs of dryness, breakage, or increased porosity. If your hair feels healthy and strong, you can proceed after a few days, but always prioritize a strand test to ensure the dye will not cause excessive damage.
Can I bleach purple hair to go blonde?
Yes, you can bleach purple hair to go blonde, but it’s a highly aggressive process that can severely damage your hair if not done correctly. Bleach is effective at lifting pigment, but it can also strip your hair of its natural oils and proteins, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. It’s generally recommended to avoid bleaching if possible and instead focus on gentler fading methods.
If you decide to bleach, it’s crucial to use a low-volume developer and monitor the process closely. Conduct regular strand tests to check the color lift and ensure your hair is not becoming overly damaged. Deep conditioning treatments and protein masks are essential after bleaching to help repair and strengthen your hair. Consider seeking professional help from a stylist experienced in color correction to minimize the risk of damage and achieve the desired blonde shade.
What aftercare steps should I take after dyeing blonde over purple hair?
After dyeing blonde over purple hair, implementing a robust aftercare routine is essential to maintain the health and vibrancy of your color. Start by using color-safe shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for blonde hair. These products often contain ingredients that help to neutralize brassy tones and prevent the blonde from fading quickly. Avoid using harsh sulfates or excessive heat styling, as these can strip the color and cause damage.
Deep conditioning treatments and hair masks should be incorporated into your routine at least once a week to replenish moisture and repair any damage caused by the dyeing process. Consider using leave-in conditioners or hair oils to provide extra hydration and protection throughout the day. Regular trims are also important to remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.