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Purple shampoo, a seemingly miraculous product for blondes, can sometimes lead to an unwanted outcome: purple hair. While the intention is to neutralize brassy tones and maintain a vibrant blonde, understanding the nuances of purple shampoo is crucial to avoiding this lavender surprise. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and explore how to prevent it from happening again.
Understanding Purple Shampoo: The Color Correction Principle
Purple shampoo’s magic lies in its color theory. Opposite colors on the color wheel neutralize each other. Yellow and purple are opposites; hence, purple shampoo contains violet pigments designed to counteract unwanted yellow or brassy tones that can develop in blonde, bleached, or highlighted hair. These brassy tones often arise from oxidation, sun exposure, hard water, and the gradual fading of hair dye. The purple pigments in the shampoo deposit a small amount of purple color onto the hair shaft, effectively canceling out the yellow and restoring a cooler, brighter blonde hue.
However, the balance between neutralization and over-toning is delicate. When this balance is disrupted, the result is often an unintended purple tint.
The Role of Pigment Concentration
The concentration of purple pigment in the shampoo plays a significant role. Some shampoos are more heavily pigmented than others. A highly pigmented shampoo will deposit more color onto the hair with each use, increasing the risk of over-toning and resulting in purple hues.
Porosity and Hair Absorption
Hair porosity refers to its ability to absorb and retain moisture. High porosity hair has a more open cuticle, allowing it to absorb moisture and, unfortunately, purple pigment more readily. Low porosity hair, with a tightly closed cuticle, absorbs less readily. Damaged hair is typically more porous. If your hair is highly porous or damaged, it will likely absorb more purple pigment, increasing the risk of turning purple. This also explains why the ends of your hair might turn purple more easily than the roots, as the ends are generally more damaged.
Hair Condition and Underlying Color
The existing color and condition of your hair before using purple shampoo greatly influence the outcome. If your hair is already very light blonde, almost platinum, it’s more susceptible to absorbing the purple pigment. Hair with existing cool tones or already close to the desired shade is also more prone to over-toning.
Factors Leading to Purple Hair: Overexposure and Improper Use
Several factors can contribute to your hair turning purple after using purple shampoo. Proper understanding and application are vital in avoiding unwanted results.
Over-Processing and Existing Damage
Hair that has been extensively processed, such as through repeated bleaching or perming, is more vulnerable to absorbing excess pigment. Damaged hair cuticles are open and porous, readily soaking up the purple dye. If your hair is already compromised, even a short exposure to purple shampoo can lead to noticeable purple staining.
Leaving the Shampoo on Too Long
This is the most common culprit. Purple shampoo is designed to be used briefly, typically for a few minutes. Leaving it on for an extended period, such as 10-15 minutes or even longer, allows the hair to absorb too much purple pigment. Always adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application time. Start with the shortest recommended time and gradually increase it if needed, observing the results carefully.
Using Purple Shampoo Too Frequently
Overuse of purple shampoo can also cause a buildup of purple pigment over time. Even if you use it for the recommended duration each time, frequent use can gradually shift your hair color towards a purplish hue. Depending on your hair’s porosity and condition, you may only need to use purple shampoo once a week, once every two weeks, or even less often.
Inconsistent Application
Uneven application of purple shampoo can lead to patchy results, with some areas of your hair turning purple while others remain unaffected. Ensure that the shampoo is evenly distributed throughout your hair, paying particular attention to the areas that tend to become brassy.
Using Purple Shampoo on Dry Hair
While some specialized toning treatments might be designed for dry hair, most purple shampoos are intended for use on wet hair. Applying purple shampoo to dry hair allows for greater pigment absorption, significantly increasing the risk of over-toning and turning your hair purple. Wet hair is less absorbent than dry hair, providing a buffer against excessive pigment uptake.
Correcting Purple Hair: Solutions and Remedies
If you’ve found yourself with unwanted purple hair, don’t panic. Several strategies can help you reverse the effect and restore your desired blonde shade.
Clarifying Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse the hair and remove buildup, including excess pigment. Using a clarifying shampoo can help to lift the purple tint from your hair. Be mindful that clarifying shampoos can be drying, so follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask.
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Anti-dandruff shampoos often contain ingredients that can fade hair color. Washing your hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo a few times can help to gradually remove the purple tint. Again, remember to moisturize your hair afterward, as anti-dandruff shampoos can also be drying.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help to lift color from the hair. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the affected areas, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Be cautious, as baking soda can be abrasive and drying. Use this method sparingly and always follow up with a deep conditioner.
Vitamin C Treatment
Crushed Vitamin C tablets mixed with water can create a paste that helps to break down the purple pigment. Apply the paste to your hair, leave it on for about 30 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Vitamin C is generally gentler than baking soda but may require multiple applications.
Professional Color Correction
If the purple tint is severe or if you’re uncomfortable trying DIY methods, consulting a professional hairstylist is the best course of action. A stylist can assess the situation and use professional color correction techniques to neutralize the purple tones and restore your desired blonde shade. This may involve using a color remover or applying a toner to balance the color.
Preventing Purple Hair: Best Practices for Using Purple Shampoo
Prevention is always better than cure. By following these best practices, you can minimize the risk of turning your hair purple while still enjoying the benefits of purple shampoo.
Read the Instructions Carefully
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the purple shampoo bottle. Pay close attention to the recommended application time and frequency of use.
Perform a Strand Test
Before applying purple shampoo to your entire head, perform a strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of your hair. This will allow you to see how your hair reacts to the shampoo and determine the appropriate application time.
Use Diluted Purple Shampoo
Diluting the purple shampoo with regular shampoo can help to reduce its potency and minimize the risk of over-toning. Mix a small amount of purple shampoo with your regular shampoo in your hand before applying it to your hair.
Shorten Application Time
Start with a shorter application time than recommended and gradually increase it if needed. For example, if the instructions suggest 3-5 minutes, begin with 1-2 minutes and check the results.
Monitor Your Hair Color
Pay close attention to your hair color after each use of purple shampoo. If you notice any signs of purple tint, discontinue use immediately and try one of the correction methods described above.
Use a Targeted Application
Apply the purple shampoo only to the areas of your hair that are brassy or yellow. Avoid applying it to areas that are already the desired shade. This helps to prevent over-toning and uneven color.
Choose the Right Purple Shampoo
Select a purple shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type and color. Some shampoos are formulated for lighter blondes, while others are designed for darker blondes or brunettes with highlights. Consider the pigment concentration and choose a shampoo that is less likely to cause over-toning.
Maintain Healthy Hair
Healthy hair is less likely to absorb excess pigment. Keep your hair hydrated and nourished by using moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks. Avoid excessive heat styling and protect your hair from sun exposure.
By understanding the factors that contribute to purple hair and following these preventive measures, you can enjoy the benefits of purple shampoo without the unwanted side effect of turning your blonde locks lavender.
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Why does purple shampoo sometimes turn hair purple?
Purple shampoo contains purple pigments that are designed to neutralize brassy or yellow tones in blonde, silver, or lightened hair. The intention is to counteract the yellow, making your hair appear brighter and cooler. However, if the shampoo is left on for too long, or if your hair is particularly porous or damaged, your hair can absorb too much of the purple pigment, resulting in a noticeable purple hue.
This “purple overload” occurs because porous hair has more open cuticles, allowing the purple pigment to penetrate deeper and more readily than healthy hair. Similarly, prolonged exposure gives the pigment more time to deposit onto the hair shaft. Factors like the specific brand of purple shampoo, its pigment concentration, and the individual characteristics of your hair all contribute to the likelihood and intensity of the purple tint.
How long should I leave purple shampoo on my hair?
The ideal time to leave purple shampoo on your hair varies depending on your hair’s porosity, the severity of the brassiness, and the specific product instructions. Always refer to the product label for recommended usage times, as different brands have different strengths and formulations. As a general guideline, start with a shorter processing time, around 1-3 minutes, especially if you’re new to using purple shampoo or if your hair is highly porous.
After the initial application, carefully assess the color of your hair in natural light. If you still notice significant brassiness, you can gradually increase the processing time in subsequent washes. However, avoid exceeding the maximum recommended time on the product label. Regularly monitoring your hair’s color during the process is crucial to prevent unwanted purple tones and achieve the desired result.
What type of hair is most likely to turn purple from purple shampoo?
Hair that is highly porous, bleached, or damaged is more susceptible to turning purple after using purple shampoo. Porous hair has raised cuticles, which allows the purple pigment to penetrate the hair shaft more easily and deeply. This means that hair that has undergone chemical treatments, such as bleaching, perming, or frequent coloring, is more prone to absorbing excessive amounts of purple pigment.
Additionally, very light blonde or silver hair is also at a higher risk. Because these hair colors naturally lack warm pigments, the purple shampoo can easily overpower the remaining tones, resulting in a visible purple cast. Conversely, darker blonde shades may require longer processing times to achieve the desired neutralizing effect without turning purple.
How can I remove purple tint from my hair after using purple shampoo?
If your hair has turned purple, the first step is to clarify your hair with a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and excess oils, and they can also help to lift some of the purple pigment from your hair. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo and avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can further damage your hair.
Following the clarifying shampoo, deep condition your hair with a moisturizing hair mask. This will help to replenish any moisture lost during the clarifying process and repair any damage caused by the purple pigment. You can also try washing your hair with a regular, non-purple shampoo multiple times over the next few days, which will gradually fade the purple tint. If the purple tint persists, consider consulting a professional stylist for further color correction.
Can I use purple shampoo on brown hair?
While purple shampoo is primarily designed for blonde, silver, or lightened hair, it can be used on brown hair with highlights or balayage to neutralize brassy tones in the lighter sections. However, using purple shampoo on predominantly dark brown hair is unlikely to produce a noticeable result, as the purple pigment won’t be visible against the dark base color.
In some cases, using purple shampoo on very light brown or dark blonde hair might slightly cool down the overall tone and reduce any unwanted warmth. However, it’s essential to use it sparingly and monitor your hair closely to avoid any unwanted purple undertones, especially in areas where the hair is lighter or more porous. It’s always best to test a small, inconspicuous section of your hair first to assess the results.
Is it possible to prevent purple hair from using purple shampoo?
Yes, several strategies can help prevent your hair from turning purple after using purple shampoo. First, carefully follow the product instructions and start with a shorter processing time, gradually increasing it as needed. Diluting the purple shampoo with regular shampoo can also help to reduce its potency and prevent over-pigmentation.
Additionally, focus the shampoo primarily on the brassiest areas of your hair, avoiding the roots if they are not brassy. After applying the shampoo, thoroughly rinse your hair with cool water to remove any excess pigment. Finally, use purple shampoo less frequently, perhaps once or twice a week, and alternate with a regular shampoo to maintain your desired hair color without overdoing the purple treatment.
Can using purple conditioner also turn my hair purple?
Similar to purple shampoo, purple conditioner contains purple pigments designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde or lightened hair. While less likely than shampoo to cause drastic purple discoloration, purple conditioner can still impart a purple tint if used incorrectly or on highly porous hair. The longer the conditioner is left on the hair, and the more porous the hair is, the higher the risk of unwanted purple tones.
To prevent this, carefully follow the product instructions for processing time and frequency of use. Start with a shorter processing time, especially if you are new to using purple conditioner, and gradually increase it as needed. Pay close attention to how your hair responds and adjust your usage accordingly. Regularly monitor your hair’s color to avoid any unwanted purple tint and achieve the desired toning effect.