Mixing orange and pink hair dye can create a range of beautiful, vibrant hair colors. Orange and pink are complementary colors on the color wheel, meaning they are directly opposite each other. When mixed together, they create a dynamic balance and allow for tons of creativity. The exact shade you get when mixing orange and pink dye depends on the specific shades used and the ratio in which they are mixed. With some know-how, you can create your own custom hair color.
The Color Wheel
The color wheel is a visual representation of color theory. It contains the primary colors – red, blue, and yellow. Secondary colors are created by mixing two primary colors, giving us orange, green, and purple. Tertiary colors are made by mixing a primary and secondary shade. The wheel shows us that orange and pink are on opposite sides, meaning they complement each other well.
When complementary colors are mixed, they neutralize each other. This muting effect allows colors to be softened, shaded, and blended seamlessly. When pink and orange hair dyes are combined, they balance each other out to create a totally new hair color. The color possibilities are endless!
Mixing Ratios
The ratio of orange to pink dye you use will significantly impact the final hair color. Using more pink dye will result in a pastel or dusty tone. A higher ratio of orange dye gives a more saturated, bright color. Here are some common mixing ratios and the hair shades they produce:
| Orange Dye | Pink Dye | Resulting Hair Color |
|---|---|---|
| 1 part | 1 part | Peachy orange |
| 1 part | 2 parts | Coral |
| 2 parts | 1 part | Salmon |
| 3 parts | 1 part | Copper |
As you add more pink, the color becomes softer and more subtle. The more orange you use, the brighter and more saturated the final shade will be. Adjust the ratio to achieve your perfect custom color.
Shade Variations
Orange and pink hair dye come in a wide variety of shades and intensities. Light, pastel pink will mix differently than neon pink. Dark orange creates a different look than bright ginger orange. Here are some examples of how shade variations impact the mixed result:
– Pastel pink + peach orange = rose gold
– Hot pink + burnt orange = magenta
– Baby pink + bright orange = strawberry blonde
– Neon pink + dark orange = copper
Test out your chosen orange and pink shades on a hair strand first. The color possibilities are endless, so play around to create a unique hair color perfect for you.
Application Tips
Follow these tips when mixing and applying orange and pink hair dye:
– Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands
– Mix the dyes in a non-plastic bowl for even color distribution
– Start with a 1:1 ratio then adjust based on your desired shade
– Apply to clean, dry hair for best results
– Process for the full development time
– Rinse with cool water and wash with sulfate-free shampoo
– Condition well post-coloring to lock in vibrancy
Maintenance
To keep your custom pink and orange hair color looking its best:
– Use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner
– Wash hair in lukewarm water
– Avoid washing hair daily, aim for every 2-3 days
– Rinse with cold water to seal the cuticle and lock in color
– Limit use of hot tools like curling irons and blow dryers
– Apply a weekly hair mask to boost shine and hydration
The orange and pink pigments will fade over time. Use a color-depositing conditioner or gloss to refresh the shade between full dye jobs. Avoid fading by not washing hair too often and using gentle, sulfate-free hair products.
Dyeing Over Other Colors
You can absolutely mix orange and pink dye over other existing hair colors. Here is what to expect:
– On light blonde hair, it will show up true to tone
– On bleached or platinum hair, it will be more vibrant
– On darker blonde hair, it will create a muted tone
– On brown hair, it will add subtle warmth and dimension
– On black hair, it will add just a hint of color
Perform a strand test to see how the shades develop on your specific hair color. The orange and pink will mix together while neutralizing some of the underlying pigment.
How Long Does it Last?
How long your custom orange and pink hair color lasts depends on several factors:
– Your natural hair color – darker bases hold color longer
– The vibrancy of the dyes – neon lasts longer than pastel
– How porous your hair is – color washes out faster on damaged hair
– Your post-dye care and maintenance routine
On average, expect your mixed orange and pink shade to last:
– 4-6 weeks with semi-permanent dye
– 6-8 weeks with demi-permanent dye
– 8-10 weeks with permanent dye
Touch up your roots as they grow out to maintain a vibrant, all-over color. Use a toning shampoo or mask if the shades start to fade or look dull.
Professional Dyeing
For the best results and an expert touch, visit a licensed hair stylist. A pro can:
– Evaluate your hair’s current state and color
– Suggest the best orange and pink shades for your skin tone
– Properly mix and apply the dyes
– Time the processing and development
– Tone and seal in the color
– Recommend proper at-home care
Going to a salon ensures your hair will be in good hands from start to finish. The stylist can also incorporate special techniques like balayage, ombre, or root smudging.
Damage Risks
Like all hair dye and chemicals, mixing orange and pink does carry some damage risks. To minimize this:
– Do an allergy test 48 hours before dyeing
– Start with healthier, minimally processed hair
– Use a conditioning hair mask before and after
– Don’t overlap the dyes onto already-processed strands
– Apply a heat protectant before hot tool use
– Get occasional trims to snip away split ends
Going to a salon is safest since the dyes are higher quality and the stylist is trained in application. Always do a skin patch test before DIY dyeing to check for allergies.
Other Fun Color Combinations
Orange and pink make a gorgeous combo. But you can mix and match dyes for all kinds of custom hair colors. Some other fun combinations are:
| Color 1 | Color 2 | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Purple | Gold |
| Green | Red | Christmas! |
| Silver | Blue | Mermaid |
| Pink | Yellow | Peach |
| Orange | Blue | Fire |
Get creative and come up with your own color combos! With a basic knowledge of color theory, you can mix dyes for totally custom results.
Conclusion
Mixing orange and pink hair dye allows you to create a fun, vibrant hair color that’s uniquely your own. The shade possibilities are endless depending on the exact dyes used and the ratio in which they’re combined. For soft, pastel shades use more pink. Boost the orange for brighter copper and coral hues. Maintain your custom color by using sulfate-free hair products and limiting washes. Refresh it as needed with toning treatments. With the right know-how, you can dye your hair any color you desire by mixing and matching dye!
