Mixing hair dye colors can create beautiful, vibrant results. However, it takes an understanding of color theory and the ingredients in hair dye to mix colors successfully. Dark red and purple are rich, intense shades that can combine to make striking shades from wine red to bold berry when mixed properly. With some knowledge of how these shades interact, you can customize your own perfect red-purple hair color.
How Do Red and Purple Mix?
When looking at a color wheel, red and purple sit next to each other. Colors that are side-by-side tend to have a harmonious relationship and mix well together.
Red and purple both have strong, saturated pigments. When you blend deep shades of these together, they will retain their richness and intensity. The resulting color will be a vivid reddish purple.
Each primary color has its own undertones. Red leans warm, while purple is a cool tone. When they meet in the middle, these undertones neutralize into a balanced shade. This makes red and purple ideal for mixing.
The Effect of Color Ratios
The ratio of red to purple that you use will significantly impact the final color. Pay attention to the amount of each shade you are mixing.
More purple than red will shift the color towards an eggplant or wine-red purple. Using more red than purple will produce a crimson or magenta shade. Varying the proportions allows you to customize your perfect red-purple blend.
It helps to mix small test batches before applying anything to your full head of hair. This gives you a chance to tweak the formula until you reach your desired shade. Keep notes on the ratios that created your favorite tones.
How Light or Dark Shades Change the Outcome
The lightness and darkness of the red and purple dyes also make a difference. Pastel shades will blend into soft reddish lavenders or pinkish purples. Meanwhile, mixing darker pigments leads to deeper wine hues.
For the most dramatic results, choose an intense dark red and an extra-rich purple. The deeper shades have more pigment to interact with each other and create bold, saturated colors.
However, you can also combine a lighter red with a deeper purple or vice versa. Pay attention to the undertones so that the shades complement rather than muddle each other. Lighter and brighter reds tend to look more pink, so they may create a fuscia effect.
Impact of Tone on Tone
There are variations in tone within red and purple hair dyes. Look for clues on the packaging or descriptions like “blue-red” and “burgundy.” These indicators let you know what direction the undertones lean.
Mixing two shades with similar undertones enhances those shared tones. For instance, a blue-based purple and blue-toned red will accentuate the cooler notes. On the other hand, two reds with strong gold leanings will intensify warmth.
Choose shades with contrasting undertones to strike more of a balance. Otherwise the tones can overpower each other and make muddy colors. A blue-red with a warm amethyst or magenta-red with cool violet create vibrancy.
Permanent vs. Semi-Permanent Dye Results
Permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes have different chemical compositions, which affects mixing results.
Permanent dyes use strong peroxide developers to fully penetrate and alter the hair shaft. This allows the pigments to combine completely and create true, saturated blends.
Semi-permanent dyes simply coat the outside of the hair without lightening. While the colors layer together, they do not fuse as deeply. Mixing them creates subtler and more short-lived effects.
For bold, long-lasting red-purple shades, stick with mixing permanent dyes. To test drive a color temporarily, you can blend semi-permanent options.
| Permanent Dye Mixing | Semi-Permanent Dye Mixing |
|---|---|
| Deeper, richer final color | More subtle, translucent color |
| Lasts 4-6 weeks | Lasts 4-8 washes |
| Can lighten hair | Deposits only, no lightening |
How Hair Color Affects Results
Your natural hair color and any existing dye on your hair will influence the final mixed shade.
Light or pre-bleached hair has no pigment blocking the new dyes, so they show through accurately. Colors on medium blonde to light brown hair will appear slightly muted but still blend well.
On darker hair with warm undertones, the purple may not show up as vividly. Cool toned dark hair can make the red look more muted.
If color-treating previously dyed hair, any leftover pigment interacts with the new shades. For example, old faded reds may boost the red tones of your new color. Using a clarifying or color-removing treatment first provides a blank canvas.
Performing a patch test on a small section of hair gives you a preview before committing your whole head. Check how the mixed color reacts to your particular hair canvas.
Impact of Developer Volume
When using permanent dye, the developer you choose impacts the intensity of the color. Developers come in different volumes like 10, 20, 30, and 40. Higher developer volumes lift more of your natural pigment and deposit more of the new color.
Using a 20 or 30 volume developer will create more dramatic, saturated results when mixing dyes. It fully activates the color molecules for deepest penetration.
A 10 volume developer is gentler but more subtle. Great for adding a sheer tint or gloss but not bold color fusion. Match the developer to your goal, whether a soft blend or standout shade.
How to Mix Red and Purple Hair Dye
Once you’ve selected your products and ratios, mix your custom red-purple hair dye following these steps:
1. Prep your hair by shampooing and towel-drying. For best results, use a clarifying shampoo to remove residue.
2. Separate your chosen dyes into different mixing bowls. Follow the brand instructions to activate each one with its proper developer ratio.
3. Add the activated colors together in the bowl of your choice. Stir thoroughly with a tinting brush to blend.
4. Section your hair and use a tint brush to apply the mixed dye evenly from roots to ends.
5. Allow to process for the full development time of the permanent dye used for complete saturation.
6. Rinse until water runs clear. Finish by conditioning hair to restore moisture and shine.
Best Practices for Dyeing
Follow these tips when mixing dyes for flawless, lasting results:
– Strand test first to confirm desired color before full application
– Wear gloves to protect hands from stains
– Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhalation
– Apply petroleum jelly to hairline and ears to prevent skin staining
– Use an old towel and clothing you don’t mind ruining
– Follow all timing and processing instructions precisely
– Rinse hair with cool water and wash with sulfate-free shampoo
– Avoid washing hair for 72 hours after coloring for maximum hold
– Use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner system
– Refresh color with a gloss or toner as needed between full dye sessions
Recommended Red and Purple Shades to Mix
Here are some suggested pre-made dye shades that would blend beautifully:
– Pravana ChromaSilk Vivids Amethyst + Wild Orchid
– Manic Panic Rock n’ Roll Red + Ultra Violet
– Arctic Fox Virgin Pink + Wrath
– Adore Creative Image Cherry Red + African Violet
– Ion Color Brilliance Brights Scarlet + Radiant Orchid
– Lime Crime Velvetines Red Rose + Squid Purple
– Overtone Extreme Red + Extreme Purple
– Lunar Tides Pendulum + Abyss
– Punky Colour Plum + Fuchsia
– Special Effects Nuclear Red + Pimpin’ Purple
How to Maintain Your Custom Color
Preserving your vibrant blended hue requires some extra care:
– Use shampoo and conditioner made for color-treated hair
– Wash with cooler water to avoid fading from heat
– Limit washing to every 2-3 days
– Use a sulfate-free, color-safe dry shampoo between washes
– Rinse with a mix of cold water and 2 tablespoons vinegar to seal color
– Apply weekly color-depositing hair masks or gloss treatments
– Shield hair from sun exposure with hats or scarves
– Get regular trims to remove dry ends and keep color fresh
Troubleshooting Color Mixing Issues
If your test strands don’t turn out as envisioned, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Muddy or Dull Results:
– Too much of one color compared to the other – Adjust ratios
– Colors are too close in tone – Use shades with more contrast
– Insufficient developer strength – Use 20 or 30 volume for vivid results
– Colors didn’t process fully – Leave on for longer time
Uneven Coverage:
– Hair not pre-lightened enough – Lighten first for even base
– Insufficient mixing of dyes – Stir thoroughly before and during application
– Patchy application method – Section hair neatly and apply dyes systematically
Lack of Vibrancy:
– Semi-permanent dyes used – Switch to permanent for richer color
– Natural hair too dark – Pre-lighten for brighter results
– Developer ratio too low – Use higher 20 or 30 volume
– Didn’t leave on long enough – Follow exact timing guidelines
Conclusion
Blending red and purple hair dyes allows for stunning customizable shades. With the right color combinations and techniques, you can create everything from bold red-violet to mellow reddish-lavender hues. Pay attention to the ratio of shades, their lightness levels, undertones, and dye types. Permanent dyes provide the most dramatic saturation and lasting power. Follow the steps properly to mix and apply your red-purple concoction. Maintain your ideal shade with color-safe products and glossing treatments. With a little practice, you’ll be able to mix up personalized red-purple hair color perfection.
