Purple lilac hair, a delicate blend of lavender and silver tones, has become a sought-after trend, coveted for its ethereal and enchanting appeal. It’s a color that evokes images of spring blossoms and fairytale princesses, but achieving this captivating shade requires careful planning and execution. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the process, ensuring you embark on your lilac hair journey with confidence.
Understanding the Foundation: Hair Lightening
Before even considering the purple and lilac hues, it’s crucial to address the foundation of any successful color transformation: hair lightening. The darker your natural hair color, the more lightening required to achieve the pale blonde canvas needed for the true lilac effect.
Assessing Your Hair’s Condition
The first, and perhaps most important, step is to honestly assess the health of your hair. Bleaching, the process of lightening hair, can be damaging, especially to hair that is already dry, brittle, or damaged from previous color treatments or heat styling. If your hair is in poor condition, consider focusing on strengthening treatments and postponing the color change until it’s healthier. Deep conditioning masks, protein treatments, and minimizing heat styling are essential for restoring hair health.
Choosing the Right Developer Volume
Developer volume is a critical component of the bleaching process. It determines the strength of the bleach and how quickly it lifts color. Lower volumes (10 or 20) are gentler and cause less damage but may require multiple applications to achieve the desired level of lift. Higher volumes (30 or 40) lift color faster but are more likely to cause damage. It’s generally recommended to start with a lower volume and gradually increase if necessary, rather than jumping straight to a high volume. A strand test is always recommended to gauge how your hair reacts to the bleach.
The Bleaching Process: Step-by-Step
The bleaching process itself requires careful attention to detail. Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Section your hair into manageable sections and apply the bleach evenly, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Avoid overlapping previously bleached hair, as this can cause breakage and damage. Monitor the color development closely, checking every few minutes. The goal is to lift the hair to a pale blonde or platinum blonde shade, free from any yellow or orange undertones.
Dealing with Uneven Lightening
Uneven lightening is a common challenge. If some sections of your hair lift faster than others, adjust your application technique accordingly. You can apply more bleach to the darker sections and less to the lighter sections. If necessary, you may need to do a second bleaching session, but always prioritize the health of your hair over achieving the desired color in a single session. Allow your hair to rest and recover for several days or even weeks between bleaching sessions, using deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture and strengthen the hair.
Selecting the Perfect Purple Lilac Dye
Once you’ve achieved a pale blonde base, the next step is to select the perfect purple lilac dye. The specific shade of purple lilac can vary, ranging from a more pastel, lavender-toned lilac to a richer, more vibrant purple with lilac undertones.
Permanent vs. Semi-Permanent Dye
Choosing between permanent and semi-permanent dye depends on your desired level of commitment and the health of your hair. Permanent dyes penetrate the hair shaft and provide long-lasting color but can be more damaging. Semi-permanent dyes coat the hair shaft and fade gradually with each wash, making them a gentler option. For pastel shades like lilac, semi-permanent dyes are often preferred, as they are less likely to over-saturate the hair with color.
Considering Undertones
Purple lilac dyes can have different undertones, such as blue, pink, or silver. Choosing a dye with the right undertones for your skin tone and personal preference is crucial for achieving a flattering result. Cool-toned skin typically looks best with dyes that have blue or silver undertones, while warm-toned skin can pull off dyes with pink undertones.
Popular Dye Brands and Shades
Numerous brands offer purple lilac dyes, each with its own unique formulation and color range. Some popular brands include Manic Panic, Arctic Fox, and Pravana. Researching different shades and reading reviews can help you find the perfect dye for your desired look. Look for dyes that are specifically formulated for pastel shades and are known for their vibrant color and longevity.
The Dyeing Process: Bringing Your Lilac Dream to Life
With the right dye in hand, it’s time to transform your hair into a dreamy shade of purple lilac.
Preparing Your Hair for Dyeing
Before applying the dye, make sure your hair is clean and dry. Avoid using conditioner, as this can create a barrier that prevents the dye from properly adhering to the hair. Detangling your hair is also important to ensure even dye application.
Applying the Dye Evenly
Section your hair into manageable sections and apply the dye evenly, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Use a tint brush to ensure thorough coverage. Pay close attention to the hairline and the nape of the neck, as these areas can be easily missed.
Processing Time and Monitoring
Follow the dye manufacturer’s instructions for processing time. The processing time can vary depending on the brand and the desired intensity of the color. Check the color development regularly to ensure you’re achieving the desired shade.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo, as this can strip the color. Follow up with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and seal the hair cuticle.
Maintaining Your Purple Lilac Hair
Maintaining purple lilac hair requires consistent effort and the right products to prevent fading and keep your color looking vibrant.
Washing Your Hair Less Frequently
Washing your hair less frequently is one of the most effective ways to prolong the life of your color. Aim to wash your hair only once or twice a week. When you do wash your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Using Color-Depositing Products
Color-depositing shampoos and conditioners can help to refresh the color and prevent fading. These products contain small amounts of dye that deposit color onto the hair shaft with each use. Choose a color-depositing product that matches your specific shade of purple lilac.
Protecting Your Hair from Heat
Heat styling can cause the color to fade more quickly. Minimize heat styling and always use a heat protectant spray before using any hot tools. Consider air-drying your hair whenever possible.
Avoiding Chlorine and Sun Exposure
Chlorine and sun exposure can also cause the color to fade. Wear a swimming cap when swimming in chlorinated water and protect your hair from the sun with a hat or scarf.
When to Seek Professional Help
While it’s possible to achieve purple lilac hair at home, there are situations where seeking professional help is recommended.
If Your Hair Is Severely Damaged
If your hair is severely damaged or has been heavily processed, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist before attempting to lighten or dye it. A stylist can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best course of action.
If You’re Unsure About the Process
If you’re unsure about any part of the lightening or dyeing process, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional help. A stylist can guide you through the process and ensure that you achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
For Corrective Color
If you’ve already attempted to dye your hair purple lilac at home and the results are not what you expected, a professional stylist can help you correct the color. Corrective color is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and skills.
Achieving and maintaining purple lilac hair requires dedication and careful attention to detail. By understanding the lightening process, selecting the right dye, and following a consistent maintenance routine, you can transform your hair into a stunning shade of purple lilac and enjoy its ethereal beauty for weeks to come. Remember to prioritize the health of your hair throughout the process, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With patience and the right approach, you can achieve your dream of having beautiful purple lilac hair.
What level of hair lightness is required to achieve purple lilac hair?
To achieve a true purple lilac shade, your hair needs to be lifted to a very pale blonde, ideally level 9 or 10. This ensures that the purple lilac dye will deposit evenly and vibrantly without being muddied by underlying pigments. Anything darker will result in a less intense, potentially more muted or brownish-purple color, rather than the desired dreamy lilac.
Attempting to apply lilac dye to hair that is not light enough often leads to disappointing results. The existing color of your hair will heavily influence the final outcome, potentially leading to a shade that’s closer to a dark violet or even a murky brown. Prior to applying the lilac dye, ensure you’ve achieved the necessary lightness for the most accurate and vibrant result.
What types of purple lilac hair dyes are available, and which is best for me?
There are several types of purple lilac hair dyes available, including semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent options. Semi-permanent dyes are deposit-only and fade gradually with each wash, making them a less damaging option and ideal for those experimenting with the color. Demi-permanent dyes contain a low-volume developer and can slightly alter the hair’s tone, offering a longer-lasting but still relatively gentle option. Permanent dyes, while offering the most longevity, can be more damaging and require more upkeep with root touch-ups.
The best type of dye for you depends on your commitment level, hair health, and desired longevity. If you want a temporary change with minimal commitment and damage, a semi-permanent dye is a good choice. For longer-lasting color and slight tonal changes, opt for a demi-permanent dye. If you’re looking for a long-term color change and don’t mind the upkeep, a permanent dye might be suitable, but be mindful of potential damage. Always consider a strand test before applying any dye to your entire head.
How can I minimize damage when bleaching my hair to achieve a light enough base?
Minimizing damage during the bleaching process is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Use a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) and consider bleaching in stages, allowing your hair time to recover between sessions. Incorporate bond-building treatments like Olaplex or Redken’s pH-Bonder into your bleaching routine to strengthen the hair’s structure and prevent breakage.
Also, avoid applying heat to your hair for several weeks before and after bleaching, and ensure your hair is properly moisturized with deep conditioning treatments. Applying bleach to clean, unwashed hair can also help protect the scalp’s natural oils. Avoid over-processing by carefully monitoring the hair’s color and stopping when you reach the desired level, even if it takes multiple sessions.
How do I choose the right purple lilac shade for my skin tone?
Choosing the right purple lilac shade involves considering your skin’s undertones. Individuals with cool undertones (pink or blue) tend to look best with cooler, ashier lilac shades. These shades will complement their complexion and enhance their natural coloring.
Conversely, those with warm undertones (yellow or golden) may find that warmer, slightly more vibrant lilac shades work better. These shades often contain hints of pink or red, which can add warmth and vibrancy to their overall look. Conducting a virtual try-on or consulting with a professional colorist can help you determine the most flattering shade for your skin tone.
How can I maintain the vibrancy of my purple lilac hair color?
Maintaining the vibrancy of purple lilac hair requires specific care. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner formulated for pastel or fantasy colors. These products are designed to gently cleanse the hair without stripping away the dye molecules, helping the color last longer.
Wash your hair less frequently, opting for dry shampoo in between washes, and use cool or lukewarm water when you do shampoo. Hot water can cause the dye to fade faster. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and heat styling, or use heat protectant sprays to minimize damage. Regular touch-ups with a color-depositing conditioner or hair gloss will also help maintain the color’s vibrancy.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when dyeing your hair purple lilac?
One common mistake is not lightening the hair to a sufficiently pale base before applying the purple lilac dye. As mentioned earlier, this will result in a muddy or inaccurate color. Another mistake is neglecting a strand test before applying the dye to the entire head. A strand test allows you to see how the dye will react with your hair and ensures you’re happy with the result.
Furthermore, using cheap or low-quality dyes can lead to uneven color distribution and quicker fading. Over-processing the hair during bleaching is also a frequent mistake that causes significant damage. Properly reading the instructions is crucial to ensure the dye is processed for the correct amount of time to achieve the desired vibrancy.
What are some alternative methods to achieve a purple lilac hue without permanent dye?
There are several alternatives to permanent dye for achieving a purple lilac hue. Color-depositing conditioners, such as those from brands like Overtone, deposit pigment onto the hair while conditioning it. These are a great option for maintaining existing color or adding a subtle tint.
Hair waxes and hair makeup provide a temporary color change that washes out easily with shampoo. These options are ideal for special occasions or experimenting with color without the long-term commitment. Hair chalks can also be used, but they tend to be less vibrant and can be drying to the hair.