Fix Purple Hair: Toner Turned Hair Purple? Here's How

Hey guys! Ever used purple toner to banish those brassy yellow tones and ended up with, well, purple hair? Don't panic! It's a common mishap, and lucky for you, it's usually a pretty easy fix. In this guide, we'll dive deep into how to tackle this colorful conundrum, turning that purple haze back into the gorgeous blonde (or lightened) locks you were aiming for. We'll cover everything from why this happens in the first place to various methods you can use to correct it, ensuring you feel confident and informed every step of the way. So, let's get started and reclaim your perfect hair color!

Why Did My Hair Turn Purple After Toning?

Before we jump into the solutions, let's understand why your hair might have taken on a purple hue in the first place. Purple shampoo and toners are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in blonde or lightened hair. They contain purple pigments that counteract these warm tones, bringing your hair closer to a cooler, more neutral shade. However, several factors can lead to over-toning, resulting in unwanted purple strands.

One of the most common reasons is over-application. Leaving the toner on for too long allows the purple pigments to deposit excessively into your hair, leading to a noticeable purple tint. This is especially true for those with very light or porous hair, as these hair types tend to absorb pigment more quickly. Think of your hair like a sponge – the more porous it is, the more liquid (in this case, purple pigment) it will soak up. So, if your hair is naturally very light blonde or has been heavily processed, it's more susceptible to grabbing onto that purple color.

Another culprit could be the strength of the toner itself. Some toners are more potent than others, containing a higher concentration of purple pigment. If you're using a strong toner, it's crucial to monitor the processing time closely and adjust it based on your hair's porosity and how quickly it takes to color. It's always better to start with a shorter processing time and add more time if needed, rather than overdoing it from the start. This gives you more control over the final result and helps prevent unwanted purple tones.

Hair porosity plays a significant role in how your hair absorbs color. High porosity hair, which has a raised cuticle layer, tends to absorb color quickly but also lose it just as fast. Low porosity hair, on the other hand, has a tightly closed cuticle layer, making it more resistant to absorbing color. If you have high porosity hair, it's more likely to grab onto the purple pigments in toner, leading to over-toning. Knowing your hair's porosity is key to predicting how it will react to color treatments and adjusting your application accordingly. A simple strand test can help you determine your hair's porosity before you apply any toner.

Uneven application can also cause purple patches in your hair. If the toner isn't applied evenly, some areas may receive more pigment than others, resulting in a patchy purple appearance. This is why it's so important to be meticulous when applying toner, ensuring that every strand is evenly coated. Using a tint brush and working in small sections can help achieve a more uniform application. If you're new to toning your hair at home, consider asking a friend for help to ensure even coverage, especially in hard-to-reach areas like the back of your head.

Finally, using purple shampoo too frequently can contribute to the problem. While purple shampoo is great for maintaining blonde hair and preventing brassiness, using it too often can lead to a buildup of purple pigment, especially on light or porous hair. Think of purple shampoo as a supplement – a little goes a long way. Overusing it is like taking too many vitamins; it can actually have the opposite effect and throw things out of balance. It’s generally recommended to use purple shampoo only once or twice a week, or even less frequently if you notice your hair starting to develop a purple tint. Pay attention to how your hair responds and adjust your usage accordingly.

Quick Fixes: How to Remove Purple Tones Immediately

Okay, so you've got purple hair. Don't stress! There are several quick fixes you can try right away to tone down the purple and get closer to your desired shade. The key is to act fast, as the sooner you address the issue, the easier it will be to correct.

One of the simplest and most effective immediate solutions is to wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse the hair, removing buildup, oils, and product residue. This deep-cleaning action also helps to lift excess pigment from the hair shaft, which can significantly reduce the purple tint. Unlike regular shampoos, clarifying shampoos have a higher pH level, which helps to open the hair cuticle and release the trapped color molecules. When using a clarifying shampoo, be sure to massage it thoroughly into your hair, focusing on the areas that are most purple. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner, as clarifying shampoos can be drying.

Washing with a regular shampoo multiple times can also help fade the purple tones. While not as potent as clarifying shampoo, regular shampoos still have some cleansing action that can help to lift the excess pigment. This method may take a few washes to see noticeable results, but it's a gentle option that won't strip your hair of its natural oils as much as a clarifying shampoo might. For best results, use a shampoo that doesn't contain any purple pigments or color-depositing ingredients, as these could potentially exacerbate the problem. Each wash will gradually remove more of the purple pigment, bringing you closer to your desired shade. Remember to follow each wash with a good conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.

Another effective quick fix is to use a baking soda paste. Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help to lift color from the hair. To make a baking soda paste, mix baking soda with water until you have a thick, spreadable consistency. Apply the paste to the purple areas of your hair, making sure to coat the strands thoroughly. Let the paste sit for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse it out with warm water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to replenish any lost moisture. Baking soda can be drying, so it's important not to leave the paste on for too long and to condition your hair afterward. This method works by gently exfoliating the hair shaft, helping to dislodge the purple pigment and wash it away. It's a natural and relatively gentle option, but like clarifying shampoo, it's best not to overdo it to avoid drying out your hair.

If you have a vitamin C treatment on hand, this can also be a helpful remedy. Vitamin C is known for its lightening properties and can help to fade unwanted color. To use a vitamin C treatment, crush a few vitamin C tablets and mix them with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your purple hair, let it sit for about 20-30 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Vitamin C is a gentle ingredient, so this method is less likely to cause damage or dryness compared to other color-removing techniques. The vitamin C works by breaking down the chemical bonds of the dye molecules, making them easier to wash out of your hair. While this method may not completely eliminate the purple tones in one go, it can significantly reduce the intensity and help you get closer to your desired shade. As always, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated.

Remember, these quick fixes are most effective when used promptly after noticing the purple tones. The longer the purple pigment sits in your hair, the harder it will be to remove. So, if you find yourself with unwanted purple hair, don't hesitate to try one of these methods right away. And don't worry, even if the quick fixes don't completely solve the problem, there are still other options available. We'll explore some more in-depth solutions in the next section.

Deeper Solutions: More Intensive Methods for Stubborn Purple

Sometimes, those quick fixes just don't cut it, especially if the purple tones are particularly stubborn or have been lingering for a while. When that happens, it's time to bring out the big guns – more intensive methods that can help to effectively remove the unwanted purple. These solutions might require a bit more time and effort, but they're often necessary to restore your hair to its desired color. Let's explore some of these deeper solutions and how they work.

One of the most effective methods for removing stubborn purple is to use a clarifying shampoo combined with a heat treatment. As we discussed earlier, clarifying shampoo helps to lift excess pigment from the hair. When you add heat to the equation, the process becomes even more effective. Heat helps to open the hair cuticle, allowing the clarifying shampoo to penetrate deeper and remove more of the purple pigment. To try this method, start by applying a clarifying shampoo to your hair and lathering it thoroughly. Then, cover your hair with a shower cap and apply heat using a hairdryer for about 10-15 minutes. The heat will intensify the cleansing action of the shampoo, helping to break down the purple pigment. After the heat treatment, rinse your hair thoroughly and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to replenish any lost moisture. This method is particularly effective because the heat amplifies the clarifying shampoo's ability to lift the color, making it a powerful tool for tackling stubborn purple tones. However, it's important to be mindful of the heat and not overdo it, as excessive heat can damage your hair. Always use a moderate heat setting and monitor your hair's condition closely.

Another powerful solution is to use a color remover. Color removers are specifically designed to remove artificial hair color without causing as much damage as bleach. They work by shrinking the dye molecules, making them small enough to be washed out of the hair. Unlike bleach, which lightens the hair's natural pigment, color removers primarily target the artificial color, making them a gentler option for removing unwanted tones. When using a color remover, it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully. Most color removers come in two or three parts that need to be mixed together before application. Apply the mixture evenly to your hair, focusing on the areas with the most purple tones. Let the color remover process for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly and shampoo your hair. It's common for the hair to appear a bit warmer after using a color remover, as the underlying pigments are revealed. You may need to tone your hair again after using a color remover to achieve your desired shade. Color removers are a great option for tackling stubborn purple tones because they specifically target the artificial color, making them more effective than general cleansing methods. However, it's still important to condition your hair well after using a color remover, as they can be slightly drying.

For particularly resistant purple tones, you might consider using a bleach wash, also known as a bleach bath. This is a diluted bleach mixture that can gently lift color without the harshness of a full bleach application. A bleach wash is a good option when you need to lighten your hair slightly to remove the purple, but you don't want to cause significant damage. To create a bleach wash, mix bleach, developer, and shampoo in a bowl. The exact proportions will depend on your hair's condition and the intensity of the purple tones, but a common starting point is a 1:1:1 ratio of bleach, developer (usually 10 or 20 volume), and shampoo. Apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the purple areas, and let it process for a short period, usually 5-15 minutes. Monitor your hair closely during processing, as bleach can cause damage if left on for too long. Rinse your hair thoroughly and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment. A bleach wash works by gently lifting the hair cuticle and lightening the artificial pigment, making it easier to remove the purple tones. This method is more aggressive than clarifying shampoo or color remover, so it's important to use it cautiously and only when necessary. Always perform a strand test before applying a bleach wash to your entire head to ensure you're not causing excessive damage.

If all else fails, or if you're uncomfortable trying these methods on your own, consulting a professional hairstylist is always a wise choice. A stylist can assess your hair's condition, determine the best course of action, and correct the purple tones without causing further damage. They have access to professional-grade products and techniques that may not be available to the general public, and their expertise can help you achieve the desired results safely and effectively. A professional stylist can also help you understand why your hair turned purple in the first place and provide advice on how to prevent it from happening again. They can customize a color correction plan specifically for your hair, taking into account its unique needs and sensitivities. Investing in a professional color correction can save you time, stress, and potential damage to your hair, making it a worthwhile option for tackling stubborn purple tones.

Prevention is Key: Tips to Avoid Purple Hair in the Future

Now that we've covered how to fix purple hair, let's talk about prevention. After all, it's always better to avoid the problem in the first place! By taking a few precautions and understanding how toner works, you can significantly reduce your chances of ending up with unwanted purple tones. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.

One of the most important things you can do is to always do a strand test before applying toner to your entire head. A strand test allows you to see how your hair will react to the toner and helps you determine the correct processing time. To perform a strand test, select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair, such as underneath the back of your head. Apply the toner to this section and let it process for the recommended time. Rinse and dry the strand to see the results. If the strand looks good, you can proceed with applying the toner to the rest of your hair. If the strand turns too purple, you'll know to reduce the processing time or use a less potent toner. Strand tests are particularly crucial if you're using a new toner or if you've recently made changes to your hair, such as lightening it further. They give you a small-scale preview of the final result, allowing you to make adjustments and avoid any surprises. Think of a strand test as a dress rehearsal for your hair color – it helps you iron out any wrinkles before the big show!

Carefully monitor the processing time when applying toner. As we discussed earlier, over-processing is one of the main reasons why hair turns purple. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and set a timer to ensure you don't leave the toner on for too long. It's always better to err on the side of caution and rinse the toner out a bit early rather than leaving it on for too long. You can always reapply the toner for a shorter period if needed, but it's much harder to remove purple tones once they've set in. Checking your hair's color every few minutes during processing can also help you catch any unwanted purple tones before they become too intense. If you notice your hair starting to turn purple before the recommended processing time is up, rinse the toner out immediately. Close monitoring and precise timing are key to achieving the perfect shade without any purple surprises.

Choose the right toner for your hair. Different toners have different strengths and are designed for different hair colors. If you have very light blonde or porous hair, you'll want to use a gentler toner with a lower concentration of purple pigment. Stronger toners are better suited for hair that has more brassiness or yellow tones to neutralize. When selecting a toner, read the product description carefully and consider your hair's current color and condition. If you're unsure which toner is right for you, consult a professional stylist or a knowledgeable beauty supply store employee. They can help you assess your hair's needs and recommend a toner that will deliver the desired results without causing unwanted purple tones. Choosing the right toner is like selecting the right tool for a job – using the appropriate product is essential for achieving the best outcome.

Use purple shampoo sparingly. While purple shampoo is a great tool for maintaining blonde hair and preventing brassiness, overusing it can lead to purple buildup, especially on light or porous hair. Limit your use of purple shampoo to once or twice a week, or even less frequently if you notice your hair starting to develop a purple tint. On the days you don't use purple shampoo, opt for a regular shampoo that's designed for color-treated hair. This will help to cleanse your hair without depositing additional purple pigment. Think of purple shampoo as a maintenance product, not a daily cleanser. Using it in moderation will help you keep your blonde bright and beautiful without the risk of turning purple.

Finally, consider your hair's porosity when toning. As we mentioned earlier, hair porosity plays a significant role in how your hair absorbs color. If you have high porosity hair, it will absorb toner more quickly, making it more susceptible to over-toning. Low porosity hair, on the other hand, will take longer to absorb toner. Knowing your hair's porosity can help you adjust your toning technique and prevent purple tones. If you have high porosity hair, you may want to use a gentler toner, reduce the processing time, or apply the toner only to the areas that need it most. If you have low porosity hair, you may need to leave the toner on for a longer period to achieve the desired results. Understanding your hair's porosity is like understanding its personality – it helps you tailor your approach to achieve the best possible outcome. A simple strand test can help you determine your hair's porosity before you apply any toner.

By following these preventative measures, you can minimize your risk of ending up with purple hair and keep your blonde looking its best. Remember, a little bit of planning and caution can go a long way in achieving your hair color goals without any unwanted surprises.

Final Thoughts: Rocking Your Perfect Hair Color

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide on how to fix purple hair from toner and, more importantly, how to prevent it from happening in the first place. Toning your hair can be a fantastic way to achieve that perfect blonde or lightened shade, but it's essential to understand the process and take the necessary precautions. Whether you've already encountered the purple-hair dilemma or you're just looking to avoid it, the tips and tricks we've covered should help you navigate the world of toners with confidence.

Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to hair color. Understanding why your hair might turn purple after toning – whether it's due to over-application, the strength of the toner, your hair's porosity, uneven application, or overusing purple shampoo – is the first step in preventing and correcting the issue. By identifying the cause, you can tailor your approach and choose the most effective solution.

From quick fixes like clarifying shampoo and baking soda paste to more intensive methods like color remover and bleach washes, there are several options available for tackling stubborn purple tones. And if you're ever feeling overwhelmed or unsure, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A skilled hairstylist can provide expert advice and personalized solutions, ensuring that your hair remains healthy and vibrant.

Prevention, of course, is always the best medicine. By doing strand tests, carefully monitoring processing times, choosing the right toner, using purple shampoo sparingly, and considering your hair's porosity, you can significantly reduce your risk of ending up with purple hair. These preventative measures are like building a strong foundation for your hair color – they help you achieve and maintain your desired shade without any unwanted surprises.

Ultimately, the goal is to rock your perfect hair color with confidence and joy. Whether you're a seasoned blonde or just starting your hair-lightening journey, remember that mistakes can happen, and that's okay! The key is to learn from them and equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to correct them. With a little patience, perseverance, and the right approach, you can achieve the hair color of your dreams.

So go ahead, embrace your blonde ambitions and experiment with toners. Just remember to stay informed, be cautious, and have fun. And if you ever find yourself with a touch of purple, don't panic – you now have the knowledge to fix it! Here's to achieving and maintaining your perfect hair color, guys!