Embarking on a hair transformation, especially from a dark shade like black to a vibrant color like purple, can be an exciting yet daunting process. Achieving the perfect purple hue requires careful planning, patience, and the right techniques. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to achieve your dream purple hair while minimizing damage.
Understanding the Challenges of Lifting Black Hair
Transitioning from black to purple is not a one-step process. Black hair contains a high concentration of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. To achieve a vibrant purple, you must first lift the existing pigment from your hair, which typically involves bleaching.
Dark hair typically needs to go through multiple stages of lightening before it’s light enough to take on a vivid purple color. These stages often include red, orange, yellow, and pale yellow. The lighter you can get your hair, the more vibrant and true to tone your purple will be.
Bleaching can be damaging to your hair, as it weakens the hair shaft and can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and take necessary precautions.
Preparing Your Hair for the Transformation
Preparation is key to minimizing damage and maximizing the success of your purple transformation. Proper preparation involves several important steps.
Assessing Your Hair’s Condition
Before you even think about bleach, take a good, hard look at your hair. Is it dry and brittle? Are there split ends galore? Has it been previously processed with chemical treatments like perms or relaxers? If your hair is already damaged, bleaching can make it significantly worse. Consider postponing the transformation and focusing on repairing your hair first.
Deep conditioning treatments, protein masks, and regular trims can help to improve your hair’s overall health and resilience. Wait at least two weeks after your last chemical treatment before attempting to bleach your hair.
Gathering Your Supplies
Having the right tools and products at your disposal will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a checklist of essential items:
- Bleach Powder: Choose a high-quality bleach powder suitable for your hair type and desired level of lift.
- Developer: Developer comes in different volumes (10, 20, 30, 40). Lower volumes are less damaging but lift less effectively. Start with a lower volume (20 or 30) and assess your hair’s reaction.
- Purple Hair Dye: Select a purple dye that aligns with your desired shade and undertone. Consider a semi-permanent, demi-permanent, or permanent dye based on your desired longevity.
- Mixing Bowl and Application Brush: These are essential for mixing and applying the bleach and dye evenly.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
- Old Towel: Protect your clothing from stains.
- Hair Clips: Sectioning your hair makes the application process easier and more thorough.
- Deep Conditioner: A must-have for restoring moisture after bleaching.
- Toner (Optional): If your hair pulls too warm (yellow or orange) after bleaching, a toner can help neutralize these tones.
- Purple Shampoo and Conditioner: These products help to maintain the vibrancy of your purple hair and prevent fading.
Performing a Strand Test
A strand test is non-negotiable, especially when dealing with a significant color change. This crucial step allows you to see how your hair will react to the bleach and dye without risking damage to your entire head.
Select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair (e.g., underneath layer at the nape of your neck). Apply the bleach mixture to this section, following the same instructions you would use for your entire head. Monitor the strand closely, checking for damage or excessive breakage. This test will tell you how long the bleach needs to process to achieve your desired level of lift. Repeat the process with the purple dye to see how the color takes to your hair.
The Bleaching Process: Lifting Your Hair Color
Bleaching is the most critical and potentially damaging step in achieving purple hair. Approaching this step with caution and precision is essential.
Mixing the Bleach
Follow the instructions on your bleach powder and developer carefully. The ratio of bleach powder to developer is crucial for achieving the desired consistency and lift. A common ratio is 1:2 (one part bleach powder to two parts developer), but always refer to the product instructions. Mix the bleach in a well-ventilated area.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back. This ensures even application and prevents you from missing any spots. Use hair clips to keep the sections separate.
Applying the Bleach
Start applying the bleach mixture to the roots, as this area typically requires the most processing time. Work your way down the hair shaft, ensuring that each strand is thoroughly coated. Apply the bleach quickly and evenly to avoid uneven lifting.
Monitoring the Bleach
Keep a close eye on your hair while the bleach is processing. Check the strand test regularly to assess the level of lift. Do not exceed the maximum processing time recommended by the bleach manufacturer. The time might range from 20 minutes to 45 minutes.
Rinsing and Toning (Optional)
Once your hair has reached the desired level of lift, rinse it thoroughly with cool water. Apply a toner if your hair is too yellow or orange. Follow the toner instructions carefully. Rinse again.
Applying the Purple Hair Dye
Now that your hair is lightened, it’s time for the fun part: applying the purple dye.
Preparing the Dye
Prepare your purple dye according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using a semi-permanent dye, it typically doesn’t require mixing with a developer. For demi-permanent or permanent dyes, follow the instructions for mixing with the appropriate developer volume.
Applying the Dye
Section your hair again, and apply the purple dye evenly from root to tip. Use your application brush to ensure that each strand is thoroughly saturated.
Processing the Dye
Follow the dye manufacturer’s instructions for processing time. This typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Apply a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and seal the cuticle. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time, and then rinse again.
Maintaining Your Purple Hair
Maintaining vibrant purple hair requires a dedicated care routine. Purple hair is prone to fading, so implementing strategies to prolong its vibrancy is crucial.
Using Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Invest in a high-quality color-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for dyed hair. These products are formulated to be gentle on your hair and prevent color from stripping away.
Washing Your Hair Less Frequently
The more you wash your hair, the faster the purple color will fade. Try to extend the time between washes as much as possible. When you do wash your hair, use cool water, as hot water can cause the color to fade more quickly.
Using Purple Shampoo and Conditioner
Purple shampoo and conditioner contain purple pigments that help to neutralize yellow tones and keep your purple hair looking vibrant. Use these products once or twice a week, or as needed to maintain your color.
Protecting Your Hair from Heat
Heat styling tools can damage your hair and cause the purple color to fade. Minimize your use of heat styling tools, and always use a heat protectant spray before using them.
Avoiding Sun Exposure
Sunlight can also cause your purple hair to fade. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays.
Deep Conditioning Regularly
Bleaching can dry out your hair, so it’s important to deep condition regularly. Use a deep conditioning mask once or twice a week to replenish moisture and keep your hair healthy.
Dealing with Potential Problems
Even with careful planning and execution, problems can arise during the hair dyeing process. Knowing how to address these issues can save your hair from further damage.
Uneven Bleaching
If your hair lifts unevenly, you may need to do a second bleaching session, focusing only on the areas that are still too dark. Be very careful not to over-process the lighter areas.
Brassy Tones
If your hair pulls too yellow or orange after bleaching, a toner can help to neutralize these tones. Choose a toner that is specifically designed to counteract brassiness.
Hair Damage
If your hair becomes dry, brittle, or breaks easily after bleaching, it’s crucial to focus on repairing the damage. Use deep conditioning treatments, protein masks, and avoid heat styling. If the damage is severe, consider getting a trim to remove the damaged ends.
Fading Color
Purple hair is prone to fading, so it’s important to take steps to maintain its vibrancy. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, wash your hair less frequently, and use purple shampoo and conditioner.
The Journey to Purple: Patience and Care
Transforming black hair to a vibrant purple is a journey that requires patience, careful planning, and a commitment to hair care. By understanding the challenges, preparing your hair properly, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve your dream purple locks while minimizing damage. Remember to always prioritize the health of your hair and seek professional help if you’re unsure about any step of the process. Good luck, and enjoy your stunning new purple hair!
What are the key considerations before dyeing my black hair purple?
Before embarking on your purple hair transformation, consider the current health and condition of your hair. Black hair often needs to be pre-lightened to achieve a vibrant purple, and this process can be damaging, especially if your hair is already dry, brittle, or chemically treated. Assess your hair’s strength and hydration levels. It may be necessary to deep condition regularly for several weeks beforehand to prepare it for the color change.
Furthermore, think about the specific shade of purple you desire and how well it will complement your skin tone. Darker purples tend to be more forgiving and easier to achieve on darker hair, while lighter, more vibrant purples require a higher level of bleaching, potentially leading to more damage. Research different purple shades and consider consulting with a professional stylist to determine the best option for your hair type and complexion.
How much should I lighten my black hair to achieve a true purple color?
The extent of lightening required depends heavily on the specific purple shade you’re aiming for. For deep, rich purples like plum or eggplant, you may only need to lift your hair to a level 7 or 8, which is a dark blonde or light brown. This is generally less damaging than trying to achieve a very light blonde. Doing a strand test first is crucial to assessing how your hair lifts and how the purple dye will take.
However, if you’re after a vibrant, pastel, or neon purple, you’ll likely need to lift your hair to a level 9 or 10, a very pale yellow. This high level of lightening can be significantly more damaging to black hair, increasing the risk of breakage and dryness. Consider using a lower volume developer and multiple sessions, spaced apart to allow your hair to recover between each lightening process.
What type of purple dye is best for black hair?
For black hair, direct dyes are often the best option as they don’t require mixing with a developer and are generally less damaging. Look for highly pigmented dyes formulated for use on pre-lightened hair. Brands that specialize in vibrant colors often have strong purple options. Semi-permanent dyes are a good choice, but they will fade over time.
Alternatively, you can use a demi-permanent dye specifically designed for depositing color onto darker hair. These dyes contain a small amount of developer, but they are less damaging than permanent dyes and can provide a longer-lasting purple hue. Read reviews and compare ingredients to choose a dye that suits your hair type and desired color longevity.
How can I minimize damage when lightening my black hair for purple?
Prioritize hair health by deep conditioning regularly for several weeks before any lightening process. Use moisturizing masks and leave-in conditioners to strengthen your hair and improve its elasticity. Incorporate protein treatments to help repair any existing damage and protect your hair during the lightening process.
When lightening, opt for a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) and apply it carefully, avoiding the scalp area to minimize irritation. Consider using a bond-building treatment like Olaplex or a similar product to protect and rebuild the hair’s internal structure during the chemical process. Avoid overlapping the bleach onto previously lightened hair to prevent further damage.
How do I maintain the purple color and prevent fading in my black hair?
To prolong the vibrancy of your purple hair, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip away the dye molecules, causing the color to fade quickly. Wash your hair less frequently, ideally only 2-3 times per week, and use dry shampoo in between washes to absorb excess oil.
When washing, use cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can also contribute to fading. Consider using a color-depositing conditioner or hair mask in a similar shade of purple to refresh the color and add vibrancy between dye sessions. Protect your hair from direct sunlight by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray.
How often will I need to touch up my purple hair, and what’s the best approach?
The frequency of touch-ups depends on several factors, including the dye used, your hair growth rate, and how well you maintain the color. Semi-permanent dyes typically require touch-ups every 4-6 weeks, while demi-permanent dyes may last longer, around 6-8 weeks. Monitor your hair for fading and root growth to determine when it’s time for a touch-up.
When touching up your roots, be extremely careful to avoid overlapping the dye onto previously colored hair, as this can lead to banding and uneven color. Apply the dye only to the new growth, and consider using a professional applicator brush for precision. You may also need to refresh the overall color with a color-depositing conditioner or a quick dye application to maintain vibrancy.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when dyeing black hair purple?
One of the most common mistakes is not properly preparing the hair before lightening. Black hair often requires extra moisture and protein to withstand the chemical process. Skipping deep conditioning treatments and protein masks can lead to significant damage and breakage. Ensure your hair is strong and healthy before starting.
Another mistake is using a high-volume developer in an attempt to lighten the hair quickly. This can severely damage the hair shaft and result in uneven lightening. It’s better to use a lower volume developer and multiple sessions if needed, allowing your hair to recover in between. Also, always perform a strand test before applying dye to your entire head to assess the color result and prevent unexpected outcomes.