Fix Purple Hair After Toner: Easy Solutions & Prevention
Hey guys! Ever used toner to banish those unwanted yellow tones in your blonde hair, only to end up with a surprising shade of purple? You're not alone! Purple hair from toner is a common mishap, but don't worry, it's usually a pretty easy fix. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the whys and hows of fixing purple hair caused by toner. We'll cover everything from understanding why it happens in the first place to tried-and-true methods for getting your hair back to the color you desire. So, whether you’re a seasoned DIY hair color enthusiast or a newbie just starting your blonde journey, this guide is for you. Let's get started and reclaim your perfect blonde!
Understanding Why Toner Turns Hair Purple
Toner and Its Purpose: To really tackle this purple predicament, let's first understand what toner is and what it does. Toner, in the world of hair coloring, is a product that neutralizes unwanted undertones in bleached or blonde hair. Think of it as a color corrector for your hair. The most common culprit it combats? Yellow or brassy tones. These warm tones often pop up after bleaching, and that's where toner steps in to save the day. Most toners contain purple pigments, and guess what? Purple sits directly opposite yellow on the color wheel. This means purple pigment cancels out yellow, leading to a more neutral, cooler blonde. The magic of color theory, right?
The Role of Purple Pigments: The purple pigments in toner are the key to neutralizing yellow tones. When used correctly, they leave you with a beautiful, balanced blonde. However, problems arise when the purple pigment is overapplied. This can happen for several reasons, which we'll explore below. When there's too much purple pigment, your hair can literally turn purple. It's a bit like adding too much blue to a painting – the result is, well, blue! So, while purple is fantastic for neutralizing yellow, too much of it can lead to an unintended violet hue.
Common Causes of Purple Hair After Toning: So, how does this purple problem happen? There are a few common culprits. First off, over-toning is a big one. This means leaving the toner on your hair for longer than the recommended time. Toner is potent stuff, and the longer it sits, the more pigment gets deposited. Another reason is hair porosity. Porous hair, which has a raised cuticle layer, absorbs color more quickly and intensely than less porous hair. If your hair is highly porous, it might grab onto the purple pigment much faster, leading to an over-toned result. The strength of the toner itself can also play a role. Some toners are more pigmented than others, so using a strong toner increases the risk of going purple. Finally, the starting color of your hair matters. If your hair is already quite light or has very little yellow to neutralize, even a normal application of toner could deposit too much purple.
Quick Fixes for Mild Purple Tones
Shampooing with a Clarifying Shampoo: Okay, so you've got a touch of the purples. Don't panic! A great first step is to reach for a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse your hair and remove buildup, including excess pigments. Think of them as a reset button for your hair color. These shampoos are more potent than your regular shampoo, so they can help fade the purple tone without stripping your hair completely. When using a clarifying shampoo, really lather it in and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. This gives it time to work its magic. You might need to shampoo a couple of times to see a noticeable difference. Just be sure to follow up with a good deep conditioner, as clarifying shampoos can sometimes be a bit drying. Remember, moderation is key – overusing clarifying shampoo can lead to dryness and damage, so don't go overboard.
Washing with a Regular Shampoo (Multiple Times): If you don't have clarifying shampoo on hand, don't fret! Your regular shampoo can also help, especially if the purple is mild. The key here is repetition. Washing your hair multiple times over the next few days can gradually fade the purple. Each wash will lift a little bit of the unwanted pigment. Again, just be mindful of dryness. Try to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and space out your washes as needed. You can also try letting the shampoo sit in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing, similar to using a clarifying shampoo, to help lift more pigment. This method is gentler than using a clarifying shampoo, so it's a good option if your hair is already dry or damaged.
Using an Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Here's a slightly unconventional but surprisingly effective trick: anti-dandruff shampoo. These shampoos often contain sulfates, which are strong cleansing agents that can help fade hair color. The active ingredients that fight dandruff can also help to lift the purple pigment. The process is simple: use the anti-dandruff shampoo just like you would a regular shampoo, lathering it in and letting it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. As with clarifying shampoos, anti-dandruff shampoos can be drying, so make sure to follow up with a hydrating conditioner or hair mask. This method is a bit stronger than just using regular shampoo, so it's a good option if you need something more powerful but don't want to go straight for a clarifying shampoo. Keep an eye on your hair and stop using the anti-dandruff shampoo once you've achieved your desired result.
Effective Methods for More Intense Purple Hues
Baking Soda Paste: For those stubborn purple tones that just won't quit, a baking soda paste can be a real lifesaver. Baking soda is a natural cleansing agent and has a mild abrasive quality that can help lift color. To make the paste, mix baking soda with water until you get a thick, spreadable consistency. Gently apply the paste to the purple areas of your hair, making sure to coat the strands evenly. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, keeping a close eye on your hair to make sure it doesn't dry out too much. Then, rinse thoroughly and condition your hair. Baking soda can be drying, so a good conditioning treatment is crucial after this method. It's also a good idea to do a strand test before applying the paste to your entire head, just to ensure it doesn't damage your hair. This method is more intense than shampooing, so use it sparingly and only when necessary.
Vitamin C Treatment: Another natural remedy you can try is a Vitamin C treatment. Vitamin C, in its acidic form, can help lift color pigments from the hair. This method is gentler than some of the other options, making it a good choice if your hair is fragile or damaged. To do a Vitamin C treatment, crush a handful of Vitamin C tablets (the kind you find at the drugstore) and mix them with a bit of warm water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your hair, focusing on the purple areas, and let it sit for about 30-60 minutes. The longer you leave it on, the more effective it will be, but keep an eye on your hair to make sure it doesn't become dry or irritated. Rinse thoroughly and condition well afterward. This method might take a few tries to see significant results, but it's a gentle and natural way to fade purple tones.
Dish Soap Wash (Use with Caution): Now, we're moving into more intense territory. Dish soap is a powerful degreaser and can strip color from hair, but it should be used with extreme caution. This is because dish soap is very harsh and can severely dry out and damage your hair if used improperly. If you're going to try this method, use a small amount of dish soap mixed with your regular shampoo. Apply it to your hair, lather well, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up immediately with a deep conditioning treatment. It is crucial to moisturize your hair after using dish soap, as it can leave your strands feeling brittle and dry. This method should only be used as a last resort when other methods have failed, and always with the understanding that it carries a higher risk of damage. It is also recommended to perform a strand test before applying dish soap to your entire head.
Preventing Purple Hair in the Future
Timing is Key: Prevention is always better than cure, right? So, let's talk about how to avoid the purple hair predicament in the first place. First and foremost, timing is key when it comes to using toner. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and don't leave the toner on for longer than recommended. Set a timer and stick to it! Even a few extra minutes can make a big difference. It's better to under-tone slightly than to over-tone and end up with purple hair. Remember, you can always tone again if needed, but it's much harder to fix over-toned hair. So, read those instructions carefully and watch the clock!
Consider Hair Porosity: Hair porosity plays a huge role in how your hair absorbs color. Highly porous hair, as we discussed earlier, grabs onto pigment quickly and intensely. If your hair is porous, it's more prone to over-toning and turning purple. To manage this, you might want to use a toner with a weaker pigment or apply it for a shorter amount of time. You can also try applying a protein treatment before toning to help fill in the gaps in the hair shaft, which can reduce porosity. It's also a good idea to do a strand test before applying toner to your entire head. This will give you a sense of how quickly your hair absorbs the pigment and help you adjust your timing and application accordingly. Knowing your hair's porosity is crucial for successful toning!
Choose the Right Toner: Choosing the right toner is another crucial step in preventing purple hair. Toners come in different strengths and formulations, so it's important to pick one that's suitable for your hair and your desired results. If you're not sure which toner to use, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional stylist. They can assess your hair and recommend the best product for your needs. If you're toning at home, start with a toner that's less pigmented, especially if you're new to toning or if your hair is already quite light. You can always go stronger next time if needed, but it's better to start slow and avoid the purple surprise. Read reviews and do your research to find a toner that's known for its reliability and gentle results. The right toner can make all the difference!
When to Seek Professional Help
Severe Discoloration: Okay, guys, sometimes DIY just isn't enough. If you've tried a few of these methods and your hair is still stubbornly purple, or if the discoloration is severe, it might be time to call in the pros. A professional stylist has the expertise and the products to correct even the most challenging color mishaps. They can assess the condition of your hair, determine the best course of action, and get you back to your desired shade without causing further damage. Trying to fix severe discoloration on your own can sometimes make the problem worse, so it's often best to leave it to the professionals.
Hair Damage: If, in the process of trying to fix the purple, your hair has become damaged, it's definitely time to seek professional help. Over-processing, using harsh chemicals, or even excessive washing can take a toll on your hair. Signs of damage include dryness, brittleness, breakage, and split ends. A stylist can recommend treatments to repair and strengthen your hair, as well as advise you on how to avoid further damage. They might suggest a protein treatment, a deep conditioning mask, or even a trim to remove damaged ends. Remember, healthy hair is beautiful hair, so don't hesitate to get professional help if your hair is suffering.
Unsure of Next Steps: Finally, if you're feeling unsure of what to do next, there's no shame in seeking professional advice. Coloring and toning hair can be tricky, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. A stylist can provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you create a plan to achieve your hair goals. They can also give you personalized advice based on your hair type, color, and condition. Think of it as an investment in your hair's health and beauty. Sometimes, just talking to a professional can give you the confidence and clarity you need to move forward.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to fixing purple hair from toner! We've covered everything from understanding why it happens to tried-and-true methods for getting your hair back on track. Remember, purple hair from toner is a common issue, and in most cases, it's totally fixable. Whether you opt for a quick fix like clarifying shampoo or a more intense method like a baking soda paste, there's a solution out there for you. And, of course, prevention is always key, so pay attention to timing, consider your hair porosity, and choose the right toner for your needs. But most importantly, don't panic! With a little patience and the right approach, you'll be rocking your perfect blonde in no time. And if all else fails, remember that professional help is always an option. Happy toning, guys!
