Last Updated on February 20, 2024 by April
Exploring different hair colors can be thrilling to express one’s personality and style.
Among the vast spectrum of shades, purple hair color is unique, with its various hues ranging from deep violets to ethereal lavenders. This color exudes a sense of creativity and daring, making it a popular choice for those looking to make a statement.
Whether seeking a subtle touch or a bold transformation, purple hair offers a vibrant option that can be tailored to individual tastes.
When considering purple hair, there are numerous ideas to contemplate.
These can include pastel lilacs that provide a soft, romantic vibe or the more striking deep purples that give off a regal and mysterious air.
People often find that mixing shades of purple creates a multidimensional look that catches the light and adds complexity to the hair’s appearance.
Additionally, incorporating techniques such as ombre or balayage with purple can create a unique gradient that blends the color seamlessly with natural hair tones.
Trendy Purple Shades and Styling Tips for a Bold Look
Choosing the Right Shade of Purple
Selecting the perfect shade of purple hair color depends on various factors, including personal style and skin tone.
Each shade can radically change one’s look and may convey a different aura of personality.
Light Purple Shades
Light purple shades like lavender or lilac exude a soft, whimsical vibe. They work exceptionally well for individuals seeking a subtle change and tend to fade elegantly over time.
- Best for: those looking for a gentle touch of color
- Maintenance: may require frequent touch-ups as they fade faster
Dark Purple Tones
For a more dramatic and sophisticated look, dark purple tones like plum or violet are impeccable. These shades provide a richer, deeper color that often lasts longer than lighter purples.
- Best for: individuals desiring a bold statement
- Longevity: generally have a longer-lasting vibrancy
Vibrant vs Pastel Purple
The choice between vibrant and pastel purple can impact the overall intensity of the hair color.
- Vibrant Purple: offers a bold, eye-catching look that stands out
- Pastel Purple: creates a softer, more understated appearance
Matching Skin Tone
Matching the right shade of purple to one’s skin tone is crucial for a harmonious look.
- Cool Skin Tones: Silver or blue-based purples enhance cooler complexions
- Warm Skin Tones: Gold or red-based purples complement warmer skin colors
Application Techniques
Proper application techniques are crucial to achieve the desired purple hair color while maintaining hair health. The following methods cater to different styles and preferences.
Ombre and Balayage
For a gradual transition from natural hair color to purple, ombre and balayage are ideal techniques.
To create an ombre, colorists typically apply a darker purple at the roots that fades to a lighter shade towards the ends. In contrast, balayage involves hand-painting streaks of purple onto the hair for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
- Ombre Steps:
- Section hair
- Apply darker shade at roots
- Blend into lighter shade towards ends
- Allow to process before rinsing
- Balayage Steps:
- Section hair
- Hand-paint preferred purple shade
- Create subtle highlights
- Process and rinse carefully
All-Over Color
For a bold and uniform purple, an all-over color application is necessary.
Colorists should ensure even coverage to prevent patchiness.
- Section hair into four quadrants
- Apply dye from roots to tips
- Ensure full saturation for even coloring
- Let the color develop according to the specified time
Highlights and Lowlights
Introducing highlights can add dimension to purple hair, while lowlights can offer depth.
They require precise foil placement and timing to achieve the desired contrast.
- Highlighting:
- Foil thin sections
- Apply lighter purple or complementary shades
- Control processing time
- Lowlights:
- Select sections for darker shade
- Use foil to isolate and apply the color
- Monitor to achieve the right depth
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining purple hair requires specific care routines to ensure the color stays vibrant and the hair remains healthy.
Using the right products and techniques can significantly extend the life of your purple hue.
Color-Safe Shampoos
One should select a color-safe shampoo that is sulfate-free to prevent stripping away the hair dye.
Brands often market these shampoos as “color-preserving” or “for colored hair.”
- Example: L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care System
Creating a routine with a gentle shampoo can help maintain the shade’s intensity.
Conditioning Treatments
Regular conditioning treatments are critical for colored hair, especially deep conditioning masks that hydrate and repair damage.
- Suggested Frequency: Once weekly
- Recommended Product: SheaMoisture Purple Rice Water Strength + Color Care Masque
Conditioners with proteins and natural oils will keep hair strands nourished and prevent the color from becoming dull.
Avoiding Heat Damage
Minimize heat styling to protect purple hair from fading and drying out.
If one must use heat:
- Always apply a heat protectant spray.
- Keep styling tools at a low temperature setting.
It’s advisable to air dry hair whenever possible and use heat-free styling methods to maintain the health and color integrity of purple hair.
