How to Lighten Purple Hair

Are you tired of your dark hair? Do you want to try something new but fear going too bold? Then why not consider lightening your hair with a subtle hue like purple? Adding purple tones to your hair can add dimension and personality without being too drastic.

How to lighten purple hair can be an exciting and bold fashion statement, but sometimes you may want to lighten the hue for a softer look or to make it more adaptable to different occasions. Lightening purple hair can be a delicate process that requires understanding the right products and techniques to avoid unwanted damage.

Whether you’re looking to transition to a pastel lavender, blend in more natural tones, or simply refresh your vibrant color, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and tips to achieve your desired shade safely and effectively.

What Will You Need?

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary items and materials to lighten your purple hair successfully. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Lightening Product: You’ll need a lightening product such as bleach or high-lift dye to achieve a lighter shade. Depending on your hair’s condition and desired result, consult with a professional or research to determine which option is best for you.
• Developer: A developer is typically used in conjunction with a lightening product to help activate it and lift the color from your hair. Choose one with the appropriate volume for your hair and desired shade.
• Toner: A toner is crucial to achieve the right tone if you’re aiming for a pastel or ashy purple. Toners help neutralize any unwanted brassy tones and create a more even color.
• Purple Hair Dye: Of course, you’ll need some purple dye to add color back to your lightened hair. If you want the color to last longer, consider choosing a semi-permanent or demi-permanent option.
• Hair Brush or Comb: You’ll need a brush or comb to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the harsh chemicals by using gloves while applying the lightening product and dye.
• Old Towels or Shirts: Lightening hair can get messy, so it’s best to use old towels or shirts to avoid staining your favorite ones.
• Hair Clips or Ties: These will come in handy when sectioning off your hair for ease of application.

Now that you have all the necessary materials let’s dive into the process of lightening purple hair!

10 Easy Steps on How to Lighten Purple Hair

Step 1. Prepare Your Workspace:

Before you begin the lightening process, setting up a clean and organized workspace is essential. Choose an area with good lighting and ventilation to ensure visibility and safety. Lay down old towels or protective sheets to catch spills and stains. Arrange all your tools and materials within easy reach, including your lighting product, developer, toner, purple dye, brush or comb, gloves, and hair clips. Having everything organized will help you work efficiently and minimize the risk of error. Additionally, wear an old shirt that you don’t mind getting stained, and ensure you have a mirror to monitor the application process closely. Proper workspace preparation is key to a smooth and successful lighting experience.

Step 2. Perform a Strand Test:

Before applying the lightening product to your entire head of hair, perform a strand test. This involves using the product to a small, hidden section of hair to gauge how your hair will react. Follow the lighting product instructions for the timing, and check the strand frequently. The strand test will help you determine the appropriate processing time and whether any adjustments need to be made to the formula. It’s also a crucial step to ensure you won’t react adversely to the product.

Step 3. Section Your Hair:

Divide your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or ties. Sectioning helps ensure even application and prevents missing any spots. Typically, dividing your hair into four main sections – two at the front and two at the back – is effective. For thicker hair, you may need additional sections. Secure each section with a clip, and work on one section at a time for the most consistent results.

Step 4. Mix the Lightening Product:

Mix the lightening product and developer in a non-metallic bowl according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Getting the proportions right is crucial to avoid under or over-processing your hair. Always wear gloves while handling these chemicals to protect your skin.

Step 5. Apply the Lightening Product:

Starting with one section, use your brush or comb to apply the lightening product evenly from the roots to the ends. Make sure each strand is fully saturated to avoid patchiness. Work through each section methodically, ensuring full coverage. Be mindful of the application time, as leaving the product on for too long can damage your hair.

Step 6. Monitor the Process:

Keep a close eye on your hair as it lightens. Check the progress every few minutes to ensure you achieve the desired shade. The lightening process can vary in time depending on your original hair color and the strength of the product. Avoid distractions and stay vigilant during this period to prevent over-processing.

Step 7. Rinse Thoroughly:

Once you’ve reached the desired lightness, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. Ensure all the lightening product is removed to prevent further lifting. This step is critical to avoid unwanted damage and to prepare your hair for the next phase.

Step 8. Apply Toner:

If you’re aiming for a pastel or ashy purple, now is the time to apply the toner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and processing time. The toner will neutralize any brassy tones and help you achieve a more uniform color. Once the processing time is complete, rinse the toner out with cool water.

Step 9. Dye Your Hair Purple:

Now that your hair is lightened and toned apply the purple hair dye. Work through the sections methodically, ensuring even coverage. Follow the instructed processing time, which depends on the dye type (semi-permanent or demi-permanent). Use a brush or comb for smooth, even distribution.

Step 10. Rinse and Condition:

Rinse out the purple dye until the water runs clear. Follow up with a conditioner to nourish and soften your hair. Deep conditioning treatments are highly recommended after any chemical process to help restore moisture and maintain hair health. Style your hair as desired, and enjoy your new, lighter purple shade!

Following these ten simple steps, you can lighten your purple hair at home. Remember always to use caution when working with chemicals and perform a strand test beforehand to ensure the best results.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Clarifying Shampoo: Use a clarifying shampoo to help strip some of the purple dye from your hair. This type of shampoo is designed to remove buildup and can lighten the color gradually with regular use.
2. Baking Soda and Shampoo Mix: Mix baking soda and regular shampoo. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. The baking soda is a gentle abrasive to help fade the purple color.
3. Vitamin C Treatment: Crush a few vitamin C tablets and mix them with anti-dandruff shampoo. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it for about an hour before rinsing. The acid in the vitamin C can help reduce the intensity of the purple color.
4. White Vinegar Rinse: Rinse your hair with equal parts white vinegar and water. Vinegar helps break down the hair dye, leading to a lighter shade over time. Leave the mixture in your hair for 20-30 minutes before rinsing it.
5. Bleach Bath: As a last resort, consider a bleach bath. Mix a small amount of bleach powder with your shampoo and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, checking the color regularly, then rinse it thoroughly. This method is more aggressive and can damage your hair, so it should be used sparingly and cautiously.

With these additional tips and tricks, you can lighten your purple hair at home with ease. Remember always to take precautions and perform a strand test before trying any new methods, and enjoy your beautifully lightened locks!

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Excessive Heat Styling: Avoid using heat-styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers on high settings. Excessive heat can cause further damage to your hair, making it more challenging to manage and potentially leading to breakage.
2. Harsh Chemicals: Avoid harsh chemical treatments, such as strong bleach or hair strippers, which can severely damage your hair. These methods might lighten your hair quickly, but they often lead to dryness, brittleness, and long-term damage.
3. Overwashing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip away its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Stick to a regular washing schedule without overdoing it to maintain the health of your hair while you are lightening it.
4. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause your hair color to fade unevenly and increase its susceptibility to damage. If you need to be out in the sun, consider wearing a hat or using a protective hair product with UV filters.
5. Skipping Conditioner: Forgoing conditioner is a common mistake. Conditioner helps to keep your hair hydrated and manageable, which is crucial when lightening your hair color. Use a deep conditioner regularly to maintain moisture and strength in your hair.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your hair stays healthy and vibrant throughout the lightening process.

Conclusion

How to lighten purple hair requires a combination of patience and careful technique.

Opt for gentle methods first, such as using a clarifying shampoo, baking soda mixes, vitamin C treatments, and vinegar rinses, which can gradually reduce the intensity of the purple color without causing significant damage. If these methods do not achieve the desired results, a bleach bath can be considered, but it should be used sparingly due to its potential to damage hair. Equally important is avoiding practices that can exacerbate hair damage, such as excessive heat styling, harsh chemicals, over-washing, excessive sun exposure, and neglecting conditioner use.

Combining these strategies and tips can effectively lighten your purple hair while maintaining its overall health and vibrancy.