Are you considering dyeing your blue hair purple, but unsure of the outcome? You’re not alone. Many people have experimented with layering different hair dye colors, but the results can be unpredictable. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair dye and explore what happens when you put purple hair dye over blue.
Understanding Hair Dye
Before we dive into the specifics of layering purple over blue, it’s essential to understand how hair dye works. Hair dye is a mixture of chemicals that penetrate the hair shaft and alter its color. The color of your hair is determined by the presence of melanin, a pigment produced by cells in the hair follicle. There are two types of melanin: eumelanin, which produces brown and black colors, and pheomelanin, which produces red and yellow colors.
Hair dye can be classified into three categories:
- Temporary: These dyes coat the hair shaft with color but do not penetrate the cortex. They typically last for a few washes.
- Semi-permanent: These dyes penetrate the hair shaft but do not contain ammonia. They last longer than temporary dyes but may not be as vibrant.
- Permanent: These dyes contain ammonia and penetrate the hair shaft, altering the color of the hair. They can last for several weeks.
The Color Wheel and Hair Dye
To understand what happens when you put purple hair dye over blue, it’s essential to consider the color wheel. The color wheel is a circular representation of colors, with primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) at the center. Secondary colors (orange, green, and purple) are created by mixing two primary colors.
When you apply hair dye, the color of the dye interacts with the color of your hair. If you’re applying purple dye over blue hair, the resulting color will depend on the shade of blue and the shade of purple.
Blue Hair and the Color Wheel
Blue hair can range from a light sky blue to a deep navy blue. On the color wheel, blue is a primary color, which means it can’t be created by mixing other colors. However, blue hair dye can be formulated to produce different shades of blue.
- Cool blue: This shade of blue has a purple undertone and is often used to create a vibrant, electric blue color.
- Warm blue: This shade of blue has a green undertone and is often used to create a more natural, sun-kissed blue color.
Purple Hair Dye and the Color Wheel
Purple hair dye can range from a light pastel purple to a deep, rich plum. On the color wheel, purple is a secondary color created by mixing red and blue.
- Cool purple: This shade of purple has a blue undertone and is often used to create a vibrant, pinkish-purple color.
- Warm purple: This shade of purple has a red undertone and is often used to create a more natural, earthy purple color.
What Happens When You Put Purple Hair Dye Over Blue?
Now that we’ve explored the color wheel and hair dye, let’s discuss what happens when you put purple hair dye over blue. The resulting color will depend on the shade of blue and the shade of purple.
- Cool blue and cool purple: If you apply a cool purple dye over cool blue hair, the resulting color will be a vibrant, pinkish-purple color. This is because the blue undertones in the purple dye will enhance the cool blue color of your hair.
- Warm blue and warm purple: If you apply a warm purple dye over warm blue hair, the resulting color will be a more natural, earthy purple color. This is because the red undertones in the purple dye will enhance the warm blue color of your hair.
- Cool blue and warm purple: If you apply a warm purple dye over cool blue hair, the resulting color will be a unique, blueish-purple color. This is because the red undertones in the purple dye will clash with the cool blue color of your hair, creating a interesting, multi-dimensional color.
- Warm blue and cool purple: If you apply a cool purple dye over warm blue hair, the resulting color will be a vibrant, pinkish-purple color. This is because the blue undertones in the purple dye will enhance the warm blue color of your hair, creating a cool, ashy tone.
Factors That Affect the Resulting Color
While the color wheel can give us an idea of what to expect when layering purple over blue, there are several factors that can affect the resulting color. These include:
- Hair porosity: Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs color. If your hair has low porosity, the color may not penetrate evenly, resulting in a patchy, uneven color.
- Hair condition: The condition of your hair can also affect the resulting color. If your hair is damaged or over-processed, the color may not take evenly, resulting in a dull, lackluster color.
- Dye formulation: The formulation of the hair dye can also affect the resulting color. If the dye is highly pigmented, it may produce a more vibrant color. If the dye is less pigmented, it may produce a more subtle color.
Tips for Achieving the Desired Color
If you’re looking to achieve a specific color by layering purple over blue, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right shade of purple: Select a purple dye that complements the shade of blue you’re starting with. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional stylist or do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head.
- Consider your hair porosity and condition: If you have low porosity or damaged hair, you may need to use a pre-color treatment to open up the hair cuticle and allow the color to penetrate evenly.
- Follow the instructions carefully: Always follow the instructions carefully when applying hair dye. Make sure to mix the dye correctly and apply it to your hair in the recommended time frame.
Conclusion
Layering purple hair dye over blue can produce a unique, multi-dimensional color. However, the resulting color will depend on the shade of blue and the shade of purple, as well as factors such as hair porosity and condition. By understanding the color wheel and how hair dye works, you can achieve the desired color and create a look that’s all your own.
Remember to always follow the instructions carefully and consider your hair porosity and condition before applying hair dye. With a little patience and practice, you can create a vibrant, purple color that’s sure to turn heads.
What happens when I put purple hair dye over blue hair dye?
When you put purple hair dye over blue hair dye, the resulting color will depend on several factors, including the shade and tone of the blue dye, the type and quality of the purple dye, and the porosity and condition of your hair. In general, the purple dye will mix with the existing blue color to create a new shade that can range from a deep, rich plum to a pastel lavender, depending on the specific colors and products used.
The key to achieving the desired result is to choose a purple dye that is formulated to work well over blue hair. Look for a dye that is specifically designed to be used over previously colored hair, and follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. It’s also a good idea to do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head to get an idea of how the color will turn out.
Will the purple dye completely cover the blue color?
The purple dye may not completely cover the blue color, especially if the blue dye is a vibrant or dark shade. In some cases, the blue color may still be visible underneath the purple dye, creating a multi-dimensional or layered effect. This can be a desirable outcome for some people, but if you’re looking for a solid, uniform color, you may need to use a different approach.
To increase the chances of the purple dye covering the blue color, use a high-lift or high-deposit purple dye that is formulated to provide maximum color coverage. You can also try using a color corrector or a toner to help neutralize the blue color before applying the purple dye. However, keep in mind that the results may vary depending on the specific products and techniques used.
How long will the purple color last over blue hair?
The longevity of the purple color over blue hair will depend on several factors, including the quality of the dye, the condition of your hair, and how well you care for your hair after the dye job. In general, the purple color may fade faster over blue hair than it would over virgin hair, as the blue color can continue to affect the tone and vibrancy of the purple dye.
To make the purple color last longer, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using hot water or heat styling tools, which can cause the color to fade faster. You can also try using a color-depositing treatment or a color-protecting spray to help lock in the color and keep it looking vibrant for longer.
Can I use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent purple dye over blue hair?
Yes, you can use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent purple dye over blue hair, but the results may vary depending on the specific product and the condition of your hair. Semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes are generally less damaging than permanent dyes, but they may not provide the same level of color coverage or longevity.
If you’re looking for a temporary or low-maintenance color solution, a semi-permanent or demi-permanent purple dye may be a good option. However, keep in mind that the color may not last as long as a permanent dye, and you may need to reapply the dye more frequently to maintain the desired color.
Will the purple dye damage my hair if I apply it over blue hair?
The purple dye may cause some damage to your hair, especially if you’re using a permanent dye or if you’re applying the dye over previously damaged or over-processed hair. However, the level of damage will depend on the specific product and the condition of your hair.
To minimize the risk of damage, use a high-quality, sulfate-free purple dye that is formulated to be gentle on hair. Also, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This will help you identify any potential issues and take steps to prevent damage.
Can I use a purple toner over blue hair to achieve a pastel color?
Yes, you can use a purple toner over blue hair to achieve a pastel color. Toners are designed to deposit color onto the hair shaft without lifting the cuticle, making them a great option for achieving a pastel or subtle color effect.
To use a purple toner over blue hair, apply the toner to your hair after shampooing, and leave it on for the recommended amount of time. The toner will deposit a layer of purple color onto your hair, creating a soft, pastel effect. You can repeat the process as needed to achieve the desired level of color.
How can I remove the purple dye from my hair if I don’t like the color?
If you don’t like the color, you can try to remove the purple dye from your hair using a color remover or a bleach. However, the process can be damaging, and the results may vary depending on the specific product and the condition of your hair.
To minimize the risk of damage, use a gentle color remover that is specifically designed to remove purple dye. Follow the instructions carefully, and be sure to do a strand test before applying the remover to your entire head. If you’re unsure about how to remove the dye or if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn color, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist for advice.