Fix Purple Hair: Easy Steps & Prevention Tips

Hey guys! Ever had that moment when you're trying to banish brassy tones from your blonde hair with toner, and suddenly you're rocking a purple hue that wasn't exactly the goal? Don't worry, you're definitely not alone! Purple hair after toning is a super common issue, and thankfully, it's usually a pretty easy fix. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the whys and hows of purple toner mishaps and, more importantly, how to get your hair back to the color you actually want. Let's get started!

Why Did My Hair Turn Purple After Toning?

So, you've got purple hair now, and you're probably wondering, "How did this happen?" Let's break down the reasons behind the purple: The primary culprit behind purple hair after toning is usually over-toning. Toners contain pigments, often purple or blue, designed to neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones in blonde or lightened hair. These toners work on the color wheel principles, where purple cancels out yellow, and blue cancels out orange. When used correctly, toners can create beautiful, balanced blonde shades. However, when left on the hair for too long, the purple pigment can overdeposit, leading to a noticeable purple tint. Essentially, the hair absorbs too much of the purple pigment, resulting in an unwanted color change. This is especially common in hair that is very porous or damaged, as it tends to absorb color more quickly and intensely. Porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture and color. High porosity hair, which has a more open cuticle layer, absorbs toner much faster than low porosity hair. This means that the purple pigment can penetrate the hair shaft more easily, leading to over-toning. Damaged hair often exhibits increased porosity due to the compromised cuticle layer, making it more susceptible to absorbing excess pigment. Understanding the hair's porosity is crucial in determining the appropriate toning time and strength to prevent unwanted purple hues. Overuse of purple shampoo can also contribute to this issue. While purple shampoo is great for maintaining blonde hair and preventing brassiness, it contains purple pigments similar to toners. Using it too frequently or leaving it on for extended periods can lead to a buildup of purple pigment in the hair. This buildup can intensify the purple tones, resulting in an overall purplish appearance. Therefore, it is essential to use purple shampoo as directed and not overdo it. Consider the condition of your hair before using toner. If your hair is already quite light or has cool undertones, it may not need as much toning. Applying a strong toner to already light hair can easily result in over-toning and purple hues. This is because the toner's purple pigment is more likely to deposit and become visible when there are fewer yellow tones to neutralize. In such cases, a weaker toner or a shorter processing time might be more appropriate. It's always best to err on the side of caution and carefully monitor the hair's color during the toning process. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Toning products come with specific guidelines for application and processing time. Ignoring these instructions can lead to undesirable results, including purple hair. Processing time is crucial because it determines how much pigment the hair absorbs. Leaving the toner on for longer than recommended increases the risk of over-toning. Likewise, improper application techniques, such as uneven distribution of the toner, can result in patchy or overly purple areas. Therefore, meticulously following the instructions ensures that the toner is used safely and effectively. To avoid purple hair after toning, it is essential to understand these factors. Over-toning, high hair porosity, damaged hair, excessive use of purple shampoo, the hair's initial color, and failure to follow instructions can all contribute to this common hair coloring issue. Being aware of these potential pitfalls can help you take preventive measures and achieve the desired results without unwanted purple tones.

Quick Fixes for Slightly Purple Hair

Okay, so you've got a slight case of the purples. Don't panic! There are several quick and easy fixes you can try right away to tone down the violet vibes: First things first, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse the hair and remove buildup, including excess pigment from toners. These shampoos have a higher pH level than regular shampoos, which helps to lift color molecules from the hair shaft. When using a clarifying shampoo, be sure to massage it thoroughly into your hair and scalp, focusing on the areas where the purple tint is most noticeable. You may need to wash your hair multiple times with the clarifying shampoo to achieve the desired results. However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive use of clarifying shampoo can dry out your hair. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner to restore moisture and prevent damage. This is the simplest solution and often works wonders for minor purple hues. If you notice that the purple tint is still present after the first wash, you can repeat the process a few more times, allowing the shampoo to sit on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing. Another effective method is using an anti-dandruff shampoo, which contains ingredients that can help fade the purple pigment. Anti-dandruff shampoos typically contain sulfates and other cleansing agents that can strip away excess color. These shampoos work similarly to clarifying shampoos by lifting color molecules from the hair shaft. Apply the anti-dandruff shampoo to wet hair, lather well, and leave it on for about 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Like clarifying shampoo, anti-dandruff shampoo can be drying, so it's crucial to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. If the purple tint persists, you can repeat this process a few times over the next few days. You can also try a baking soda paste. Baking soda is a natural cleansing agent that can help lift unwanted tones from the hair. To make a baking soda paste, mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the purple-tinted areas of your hair, making sure to saturate the strands thoroughly. Leave the paste on for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse it out with warm water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to replenish any lost moisture. Baking soda works by gently exfoliating the hair shaft and lifting the purple pigment. This method is particularly effective for mild purple tones and is a gentle alternative to harsh chemicals. You can repeat this process a couple of times if necessary, but be mindful not to overdo it, as baking soda can be drying to the hair. These quick fixes are great for slight purple hair. They're gentle, easily accessible, and often do the trick without requiring more drastic measures. Remember, patience is key! It may take a few washes or treatments to see the full effect, so don't get discouraged if the purple doesn't disappear immediately. If you've tried these methods and the purple tint remains noticeable, it might be time to consider some stronger solutions, which we'll discuss next.

More Intensive Solutions for Stubborn Purple Hair

Alright, so the quick fixes didn't quite cut it, and you're still rocking some noticeable purple tones? No worries! We've got some more intensive solutions up our sleeves to tackle that stubborn purple hair: For a slightly stronger approach, try a DIY hair mask. You can create a simple yet effective hair mask using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. A popular option is a mixture of honey, olive oil, and baking soda. Honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the hair, while olive oil provides deep conditioning. We've already discussed the benefits of baking soda as a gentle cleansing agent. To make the mask, combine equal parts honey and olive oil (about two tablespoons each) with one tablespoon of baking soda. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth paste. Apply the mask to your damp hair, focusing on the areas with the most purple tint. Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap to trap heat, which can help the mask penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. Leave the mask on for about 30-60 minutes, then rinse it out with warm water and shampoo as usual. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to replenish any lost moisture. This DIY hair mask works by gently lifting the purple pigment while nourishing and hydrating the hair. The combination of honey and olive oil helps to prevent dryness and damage, which is particularly important when trying to correct unwanted color. If the DIY hair mask doesn't fully eliminate the purple tones, you can repeat the treatment a couple of times a week until you achieve the desired results. Another option to explore is a color remover. Color removers are designed to remove artificial hair color without the harsh effects of bleach. They work by shrinking the dye molecules within the hair shaft, allowing them to be washed away. Unlike bleach, which lightens the hair by oxidizing the natural pigment, color removers target only the artificial dye, making them a gentler option for correcting unwanted tones. When using a color remover, it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully, as the process can vary depending on the product. Typically, you'll need to mix the color remover with a developer or activator, apply it to your hair, and let it process for a specified amount of time. After processing, you'll need to rinse your hair thoroughly and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture. It's important to note that color removers can sometimes leave the hair with a slightly different undertone, depending on the original hair color and the dyes used. If you're unsure about using a color remover yourself, it's best to consult with a professional hairstylist. If you're feeling unsure, see a professional stylist. Sometimes, the best course of action is to leave it to the experts. A professional hairstylist can assess the condition of your hair, determine the extent of the purple tint, and recommend the most appropriate course of action. They have access to a wide range of professional-grade products and techniques that can effectively correct the color without causing further damage. Additionally, a stylist can provide personalized advice on how to prevent purple hair after toning in the future. Trying to fix a significant color issue yourself can sometimes lead to further complications, such as uneven color or damage to the hair. A stylist can ensure that the color correction process is done safely and effectively, leaving you with healthy, beautifully toned hair. These more intensive solutions are designed to tackle stubborn purple hair that doesn't respond to quick fixes. Whether you opt for a DIY hair mask, a color remover, or professional help, remember to be patient and gentle with your hair. Correcting hair color can sometimes take time and multiple treatments, but with the right approach, you can achieve the color you desire without compromising the health of your hair.

Preventing Purple Hair in the Future

Okay, so you've successfully banished the purple! High five! Now, let's talk about how to prevent this from happening again. Prevention is key when it comes to hair color mishaps: The most important tip is to use toner correctly. Toners are powerful products, and using them incorrectly is the most common reason for unwanted purple hues. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Pay close attention to the recommended processing time, as over-toning is a primary cause of purple hair. Start by applying the toner to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to test how it reacts. This strand test can help you determine the appropriate processing time and avoid over-toning your entire head. When applying the toner, ensure that you distribute it evenly throughout your hair to prevent patchy results. Use a tint brush and work in small sections to ensure thorough coverage. Additionally, avoid applying toner to hair that is already very light or has cool undertones, as this can easily result in over-toning. If you're unsure about how to use toner correctly, consult with a professional hairstylist for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your hair type, color, and condition. Another crucial aspect is to monitor processing time carefully. Setting a timer and checking your hair's color development throughout the toning process can help you avoid over-toning. Start checking your hair after about half the recommended processing time to see how the color is changing. If you notice that the purple tones are becoming too intense, rinse the toner out immediately. Remember, it's always better to under-tone than over-tone, as you can always apply more toner if needed, but it's much harder to remove excess purple pigment. Regular monitoring ensures that you achieve the desired color without the unwanted purple tint. Purple shampoo is a lifesaver for maintaining blonde hair, but moderation is key. While purple shampoo is essential for neutralizing brassy tones and keeping blonde hair bright, using it too frequently or leaving it on for too long can lead to purple buildup. This buildup can intensify purple tones in the hair, resulting in an overall purplish appearance. To prevent this, use purple shampoo no more than once or twice a week, or as directed by your hairstylist. When using purple shampoo, apply it to wet hair, lather well, and leave it on for the recommended amount of time, typically 2-5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to prevent dryness. If you notice that your hair is starting to develop a purple tint, reduce the frequency of purple shampoo use or switch to a gentler toning shampoo. It's also essential to understand your hair's porosity. Porosity refers to your hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture and color. High porosity hair absorbs color quickly and intensely, while low porosity hair is more resistant to color absorption. Knowing your hair's porosity can help you adjust your toning techniques and prevent over-toning. If you have high porosity hair, use toners with caution and reduce the processing time to prevent excessive purple pigment absorption. Low porosity hair may require a slightly longer processing time to achieve the desired results. You can determine your hair's porosity by performing a simple strand test. Take a few strands of clean, dry hair and place them in a glass of water. If the strands sink quickly, your hair has high porosity. If they float on the surface, your hair has low porosity. If they sink slowly, your hair has medium porosity. Adjusting your hair care and coloring practices based on your hair's porosity can help you achieve consistent and predictable results. By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of ending up with purple hair after toning. Using toner correctly, monitoring processing time, moderating purple shampoo use, and understanding your hair's porosity are all crucial steps in maintaining beautiful, brass-free blonde hair without the unwanted purple hue. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so take the time to implement these tips into your hair care routine.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! From quick fixes to more intensive solutions, and even preventative measures, you're now armed with all the knowledge you need to tackle purple hair from toner. Remember, a little purple panic is normal, but it's usually a pretty easy problem to solve. Just be patient, follow the steps, and your hair will be back to its beautiful, brass-free self in no time. And hey, if all else fails, a trip to the salon is always a great option. Happy toning, guys!