Hair color is a powerful form of self-expression, but sometimes the results aren’t quite what we hoped for. Red tones, whether brassy or overly vibrant, can be a common frustration. The question then arises: can purple cancel out red in hair? The answer is nuanced and depends on several factors. Let’s delve into the science of color correction and explore the world of purple shampoos, toners, and more.
Understanding Color Theory and Hair Color
To understand how purple can neutralize red, we need to grasp basic color theory. The color wheel is a visual representation of color relationships, showing which colors are complementary, analogous, and more.
The Color Wheel and Complementary Colors
The color wheel is arranged so that complementary colors are directly opposite each other. Complementary colors neutralize each other when mixed. In the context of hair color, this means that using a color opposite the unwanted tone can help to cancel it out.
For example, green cancels out red, yellow cancels out purple, and blue cancels out orange. So, where does purple fit in when trying to neutralize red tones? While not a direct opposite of red itself, purple plays a crucial role in counteracting red-orange or red-yellow brassiness.
Hair Color Levels and Underlying Pigments
Hair isn’t just one solid color; it contains a blend of pigments. When hair is lightened, these underlying pigments are revealed. These underlying pigments follow a predictable pattern, starting with red, then red-orange, orange, orange-yellow, yellow, and pale yellow as the hair lightens further.
This is why many people experience brassiness (orange or yellow tones) after bleaching or lightening their hair. The darker your starting hair color, the more likely you are to encounter red and orange tones during the lightening process. Understanding these underlying pigments is key to successful color correction.
Why is My Hair Turning Red?
Several factors can contribute to unwanted red tones in hair.
Natural Pigment
Some people naturally have more red pigment (pheomelanin) in their hair than others. This means that even when aiming for a cool or neutral shade, red tones can stubbornly peek through.
Sun Exposure and Environmental Factors
Sunlight can oxidize hair color, leading to fading and the appearance of red or brassy tones. Pollution and hard water can also contribute to color changes.
Box Dye and Previous Hair Color
Box dyes often contain high levels of ammonia and developer, which can damage the hair and contribute to uneven color results. They can also deposit artificial pigments that are difficult to remove or neutralize. Previous hair color, especially permanent dye, can interact with new colors, leading to unexpected results.
Purple Shampoo and Red Tones: What to Expect
Purple shampoo is a staple in the haircare routine of many blondes and those with highlighted hair. But how effective is it at neutralizing red tones?
How Purple Shampoo Works
Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that deposit a small amount of color onto the hair shaft. This violet pigment counteracts yellow tones, making blonde hair look brighter and cooler. It primarily targets yellow, and to a lesser extent, orange tones.
Purple Shampoo for Red Brassy Hair
While purple shampoo is excellent for tackling yellow brassiness, its effectiveness against red tones is limited. It can help to tone down red-orange or red-yellow brassiness, but it won’t completely eliminate strong red tones. Think of it as a maintenance product for cooler tones, rather than a powerful color corrector for strong red.
When to Use Purple Shampoo
Use purple shampoo when you notice your hair is developing yellow or slightly orange brassiness. It’s best used as a preventative measure, rather than a fix for already very red hair. Overuse can lead to a purple tint, especially on very light or porous hair.
Alternatives to Purple Shampoo for Red Hair
If purple shampoo isn’t the ideal solution for your red hair woes, several other options are available.
Green Shampoo and Color Depositing Conditioners
As green is directly opposite red on the color wheel, green-tinted shampoos and conditioners are specifically designed to neutralize red tones. These products deposit green pigment onto the hair, effectively canceling out red. Green shampoos can be more effective than purple shampoo for truly red brassiness.
Color-depositing conditioners also offer a gentler way to tone hair. They come in various colors, including green, blue, and violet, allowing you to customize your color correction.
Hair Toners
Hair toners are demi-permanent hair colors that deposit tone without lifting the existing color. They can be used to neutralize unwanted brassiness and create a more balanced color. Toners come in a variety of shades, including ash, violet, and green.
For red tones, a green-based toner is the most effective choice. Toners are generally applied to damp hair and processed for a specific amount of time. They require a bit more skill and knowledge than purple shampoo, but can provide more dramatic and precise results.
Professional Color Correction
For significant color correction, especially when dealing with stubborn red tones or damaged hair, seeking a professional is always recommended. Hair stylists have the expertise and tools to assess your hair’s condition, identify the underlying pigments, and formulate a custom color correction plan.
Professional color correction may involve using a combination of techniques, such as bleaching, toning, and color depositing. They can also use protein treatments and other products to protect the hair from damage during the process.
Tips for Preventing Red Tones
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help prevent red tones from developing in your hair.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Regular shampoos can strip color from your hair, leading to fading and the appearance of brassiness. Color-safe shampoos and conditioners are formulated to be gentle on colored hair, helping to preserve the color and prevent fading.
Protect Hair from the Sun
Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by the sun. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
Use a Heat Protectant
Heat styling tools can damage the hair and contribute to color fading. Always use a heat protectant spray before using a hairdryer, straightener, or curling iron.
Filter Your Shower Water
Hard water contains minerals that can deposit on the hair, leading to color changes. Installing a shower filter can help to remove these minerals and protect your hair color.
Avoid Over-Washing
Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils and cause the color to fade. Try to wash your hair only when necessary.
Choosing the Right Product for Red Hair
Selecting the right product to combat red tones depends on the severity of the brassiness and your hair’s condition.
Assessing the Level of Redness
Is it a subtle hint of red-orange, or a vibrant, noticeable red? Subtle brassiness might be manageable with green-tinted shampoos or conditioners. Strong red tones likely require a more powerful solution, such as a toner or professional color correction.
Considering Your Hair’s Condition
Damaged or porous hair is more susceptible to color changes and can absorb pigment unevenly. If your hair is damaged, opt for gentler color correction methods, such as color-depositing conditioners or a glaze. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can further damage the hair.
Patch Testing
Before applying any color correction product to your entire head, always perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a hidden area of your hair, such as behind your ear, and wait 24 hours to see if you experience any adverse reactions. This will help you avoid any surprises or allergic reactions.
DIY Color Correction: Proceed with Caution
While DIY hair color can be tempting, especially with the abundance of online tutorials, it’s important to proceed with caution, especially when attempting color correction.
Potential Risks of DIY Color Correction
DIY color correction can be tricky and may lead to unexpected results, such as uneven color, banding (uneven color distribution), or damage to the hair. Using the wrong products or techniques can also make the problem worse, requiring professional intervention.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re dealing with significant color correction, damaged hair, or are unsure about which products or techniques to use, it’s best to consult a professional hair stylist. They have the knowledge and experience to assess your hair’s condition, identify the underlying pigments, and create a customized color correction plan that will achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
Maintaining Your Corrected Hair Color
Once you’ve successfully corrected your hair color, it’s important to maintain it to prevent red tones from returning.
Regular Toning
Regular toning is essential for maintaining your corrected hair color. Depending on your hair type and the frequency of washing, you may need to tone your hair every few weeks.
Using Color-Protecting Products
Continue using color-safe shampoo and conditioner to protect your hair color and prevent fading. Look for products that contain ingredients that help to seal the cuticle and prevent color from leaching out.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Minimize the use of heat styling tools, and always use a heat protectant spray before styling. High heat can damage the hair and contribute to color fading.
Regular Trims
Regular trims help to remove split ends and prevent breakage, which can make the hair look dull and uneven in color.
In Conclusion: Purple vs. Red
While purple shampoo is a great tool for combating yellow tones, it’s not the most effective solution for neutralizing red tones. Green shampoos and toners are specifically formulated to counteract red brassiness, making them a better choice for truly red hair. Understanding your hair’s underlying pigments, choosing the right products, and practicing preventative care are essential for achieving and maintaining your desired hair color. When in doubt, consult a professional hair stylist for expert advice and color correction services. They can help you achieve your dream hair color without damaging your hair.
Why does red brassiness appear in hair, and how is it related to color correction?
Red brassiness, or unwanted red tones, often appears in dark hair that has been lightened, especially during bleaching or highlighting processes. This is because dark hair naturally contains red and orange pigments, which are more resistant to removal than other colors. When the hair is lightened, these stubborn pigments become visible, leading to the undesirable reddish hue that many people seek to correct.
Color correction, in this context, aims to neutralize these unwanted red tones. It involves using complementary colors, like green or blue-based tones, to counteract the red and achieve a more balanced and neutral hair color. Understanding why the red brassiness appears is crucial for choosing the appropriate color correction method and achieving the desired results without further damaging the hair.
Will purple shampoo neutralize red tones in hair?
Purple shampoo is specifically formulated to neutralize yellow and brassy tones, not red. It works on the principle of color theory, where purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel. Therefore, it effectively cancels out yellow pigments in blonde or lightened hair, preventing it from becoming overly brassy or dull. However, it won’t have the same effect on red or orange tones.
If you’re dealing with red brassiness, using purple shampoo will likely have minimal to no impact. While it might slightly cool down the overall tone of your hair, it won’t effectively neutralize or diminish the red pigments. To combat red tones, you’ll need to use products with green or blue undertones, as they are the complementary colors to red and orange, respectively.
What color should I use to effectively counteract red tones in my hair?
The most effective color to counteract red tones in hair is green. Green sits opposite red on the color wheel, meaning they neutralize each other when combined. This principle is used in color correction to balance out unwanted red hues and achieve a more neutral or cool-toned result. Green-based toners, color correctors, or even specialized shampoos can be used to introduce green pigments to the hair.
It’s important to choose the correct shade and intensity of green to avoid an undesirable green tint. The amount of green needed will depend on the intensity of the red in your hair. Starting with a diluted green toner or a color-depositing conditioner with green undertones is generally recommended to gradually neutralize the red without overdoing it and causing a noticeable green cast. Always strand test before applying to the entire head.
How can I use a green toner to correct red tones in my hair at home?
Begin by selecting a green toner that is specifically formulated for hair. Choose a shade that is slightly darker than the red tones you’re trying to neutralize, but not so dark that it drastically changes your overall hair color. Always perform a strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of your hair to assess the color outcome and processing time. This helps prevent any surprises when applying the toner to your entire head.
Apply the green toner evenly to your hair, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay close attention to areas where the red tones are most prominent. Leave the toner on for the recommended processing time, regularly checking the hair’s color to ensure it’s neutralizing correctly. Once the desired result is achieved, rinse the toner thoroughly with cool water and follow with a color-safe conditioner to seal the cuticle and lock in the color.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when correcting red tones in hair?
One common mistake is using purple-based products, such as purple shampoo, when trying to correct red tones. As mentioned earlier, purple neutralizes yellow, not red. Another frequent error is applying a green toner that is too intense or not diluting it properly. This can result in an undesirable green tint, especially on lighter hair. Failing to perform a strand test is also a significant oversight, as it doesn’t allow you to preview the color outcome and adjust the application accordingly.
Over-processing the hair with corrective toners or using excessive heat styling after color correction can lead to damage and dryness. It’s essential to choose gentle, color-safe products and use heat protectants when styling. Additionally, neglecting to address the underlying cause of the red tones, such as improper bleaching techniques, can lead to recurring brassiness. It’s best to consult with a professional stylist for severe or persistent color correction issues.
When should I seek professional help for color correcting red tones in my hair?
You should consider seeking professional help when dealing with significant red brassiness, especially if your hair is heavily damaged or unevenly colored. A professional colorist has the expertise to assess your hair’s condition, determine the underlying cause of the red tones, and create a customized color correction plan. They can also precisely formulate toners and apply them evenly to achieve the desired result without further damage.
If you’ve attempted at-home color correction with limited success or if you’re unsure about the process, consulting a professional is always recommended. Attempting complex color corrections without proper knowledge can lead to further damage, uneven color, or undesirable results that are even more challenging to fix. Investing in a professional color correction service can ultimately save you time, money, and potential hair damage.
Besides toners, what other products can help maintain a neutral or cool hair color after correcting red tones?
After correcting red tones with a green-based toner, maintaining a neutral or cool hair color involves incorporating color-depositing conditioners or shampoos with blue or green undertones into your hair care routine. These products help to subtly deposit pigment back into the hair, offsetting any emerging warmth and extending the life of your color correction. Choose products specifically formulated for color-treated hair to prevent fading and maintain vibrancy.
Regular use of moisturizing hair masks and leave-in conditioners is crucial for keeping your hair healthy and hydrated after chemical treatments. Hydrated hair retains color better and is less prone to dryness and damage, which can exacerbate brassiness. Protecting your hair from sun exposure with UV protectant sprays or hats can also prevent color fading and maintain the cool tones you’ve achieved. Limiting the use of heat styling tools can help minimize further color fading as well.