Mixing hair dyes to create custom shades is a popular DIY technique for people who want to experiment with fun, unique hair colors. When it comes to mixing purple and pink hair dye, the resulting color can vary quite a bit depending on the specific shades you choose. Generally speaking, combining a vivid purple and a soft pink will create a stunning mauve or lilac shade. But the color possibilities are endless! Here’s a deeper look at how to mix these two colors for beautiful, blended results.
Complementary Color Theory
In color theory, purple and pink are considered complementary colors. This means they are directly opposite each other on the color wheel. When complementary colors are mixed together, they neutralize each other to create a muted, soft shade.
For example, mixing a bold, cool-toned purple with a warm, light pink will balance each other out. The purple cancels out some of the pink’s warmth and brightness, while the pink tones down the purple’s bold vividness. When colors with opposite undertones are blended, the result is a perfectly balanced, harmonious new shade.
How Pigments Mix
On a chemical level, hair dye contains pigments that deposit color onto the hair. Purple contains red and blue pigments, while pink contains red and white pigments. When you mix these two colors, the red pigments combine to create a stronger red tone in the end result. The blue and white balance each other out to form a soft mauve or lavender shade.
More vivid or intense shades of purple and pink will result in a deeper, bolder mauve. Pastel or dusty shades will mix to create a very light, delicate lilac color. The specific concentration of pigments in each dye makes a big difference.
Trying Different Purple and Pink Shades
There are so many different shades of purple and pink hair dye out there. Mixing and matching leads to endless custom color options. Here are some examples of popular purple and pink combinations:
| Vivid violet + blush pink | Creates a bold lilac or magenta shade |
| Pastel purple + baby pink | Mixes into a soft, delicate lavender |
| Eggplant purple + fuchsia | Makes a deep berry or wine-colored hue |
| Lavender + peachy pink | Blends into a warm mauve with a hint of peach |
Mixing Tips
Follow these tips when mixing purple and pink dye at home:
– Use professional semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes. Avoid box dyes as they are harder to blend.
– Use compliant plastic dye bowls and brushes to mix your colors. Metal bowls can react with dye ingredients.
– Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands. Use petroleum jelly around hairline and ears to prevent skin staining.
– Start by dispensing a pea-sized amount of each color into the bowl. Mix well before adding more.
– Add small amounts of each shade until you achieve your desired tone. Keep track of ratio.
– Do an allergy test 48 hours before full application to check for sensitivities.
– Strand test hair to preview color result. Adjust mixture if needed.
– Process mixed shade according to the longest processing time of the two dyes.
Application Tips
Once you’ve mixed your perfect purple-pink shade, follow these tips for flawless application:
– Work in sections starting at the bottom. Use a tint or color brush to apply dye from roots to ends.
– Thoroughly saturate each section while avoiding excess dripping.
– Clip hair up and cover with a processing cap to trap in warmth.
– Time your development carefully according to instructions. Rinse when time is complete.
– Use a sulfate-free shampoo for first few washes to extend color longevity.
– Give hair a deep conditioning treatment after to nourish and seal cuticles.
– Avoid washing too frequently, heat styling, and pool/ocean water to prevent fading.
Maintaining Your New Hue
To keep your custom purple-pink color looking vibrant:
– Use color-depositing or toning shampoos as needed between salon visits.
– Opt for cool water when washing and rinsing hair. Hot water opens cuticles causing color to fade out quicker.
– Replenish shine and moisture with weekly masks. Nourished hair better retains dye pigments.
– Trim ends regularly to remove dryness and prevent splitting that can lead to fading.
– Avoid excessive heat styling that can degrade and leach dye from the hair shaft.
– Use sun protection spray when outdoors. UV rays accelerate color fading.
Consult a Colorist
For best results with custom color blends, consult a professional hair colorist. Experienced colorists have the right tools and training to:
– Properly formulate and measure out ratios of each shade.
– Do a strand and patch test to preview the color result.
– Time the processing perfectly to achieve desired saturation.
– Expertly apply dyes for clean, even saturation from roots to ends.
– Recommend proper aftercare and maintenance products.
While going the DIY route can save money, a professional touch ensures your custom purple-pink shade comes out looking stunning. The boost of confidence from a salon-perfect result is well worth the investment!
Conclusion
Blending purple and pink hair dyes opens up a world of possibilities for creating your own unique, custom color. With some color theory basics, mixing techniques, and professional guidance, you can craft a beautiful shade that’s all your own. Whether you prefer a vivid violet-pink or subtle lavender, embrace your creative freedom and enjoy the process of color experimentation. Your dream mauve or lilac locks are waiting to be mixed up!
