Purple Dye On Brown Hair No Bleach – Is It Impossible?

Are you thinking of vibrant purple hair but hesitant to use bleach on your brown hair? Many people believe that applying purple dye on brown hair no bleach is impossible. In contrary, it is completely possible and you can totally achieve that. 

In this post, Jen Hair will present various options and techniques to help you achieve stunning shades of purple on your brown hair, from deep plum to soft lavender, and of course no need for bleach. Let’s dive in your hair transformations!

Many people believe that applying purple dye on brown hair no bleach is impossible. (Source: Pinkvilla)
Many people believe that applying purple dye on brown hair no bleach is impossible. (Source: Pinkvilla)

Can You Achieve Purple Hair on Brown Hair without Bleach?

Achieving vibrant purple hair on brown locks without bleach seems like an impossible feat at first. On the one hand, bleach is often used to lighten hair to create a blank canvas for applied vivid colors to shine. On the other hand, the good news is that you can totally apply purple hair on brown hair no bleach first.

While bleach can help achieve the brightest and most intense hues, you can take an alternative for it. At the moment, there are many available non-bleach methods that are specially formulated dyes developed to cater to dark hair. These dyes allow for beautiful color transformations without the need for bleach.

These non-bleach options focus on the specific challenges of dyeing dark hair. They are designed to deposit color while maintaining the integrity and health of your brown locks. With the right shade of purple and proper application techniques, you can achieve eye-catching purple results.

These non-bleach options focus on the specific challenges of dyeing dark hair. (Source: Living Gorgeous)
These non-bleach options focus on the specific challenges of dyeing dark hair. (Source: Living Gorgeous)

Purple Shades for Brown Hair

There is a wide array of purple shades that can be achieved, but the resulting purple shade will depend significantly on your natural hair color. In other words, the outcome of dyeing process will be based on the darkness of your natural hair shade.

If your hair is blonde or light brown, it is more likely to transfer to lighter and brighter purples. However, even if you have dark brown or black hair, you can still achieve expected results with certain purple shades.

In addition, when choosing a purple shade, you should consider how it will complement your skin tone. Warm purples with a reddish undertone will pair well with warm-toned skin. On the other hand, cool purples with a blue undertone tend to suit cool-toned skin.

Following are some purple shades that particularly complement dark brown and black hair:

For a vibrant look:

– Magenta: a bright pinkish purple shade

– Amethyst: a jewel-toned purple shade

For a deeper hue:

– Plum: a deep purple shade with blue undertones

– Burgundy: a reddish-brown purple shade

– Eggplant: a versatile shade with both red and blue undertones, suitable for various skin tones.

The outcome of dyeing process will be based on the darkness of your natural hair shade. (Source: Pinterest)
The outcome of dyeing process will be based on the darkness of your natural hair shade. (Source: Pinterest)

Options for Purple Dye On Brown Hair No Bleach

How long the purple color will last on your hair depends on the type of hair dye you choose. There are generally three options: permanent dyes, semi-permanent dyes, and temporary hair dyes.

Permanent hair colors use ammonia to lighten your hair, making the color brighter and last longer, while semi-permanent and temporary dyes do not contain any of such elements. If your hair is brown or black, it is difficult to achieve a dramatic color change without using semi-permanent or temporary hair dyes.

Permanent dyes

Permanent hair dye usually contains ammonia, which lightens hair during the dying process. While ammonia is not as good at lightening hair as bleach, it helps you apply a more vibrant purple color. 

Permanent hair dye lasts longer than other types of dye, but the color will still fade over time. Its duration depends on how well you take care of your hair, but the color often look good for about 6-8 weeks.

Some permanent purple hair dye suggestions:

  • Garnier Olia’s Violet Permanent Hair Dye

The Garnier’s hair dye is a super convenient and budget-friendly option to find in most stores. It gives your hair a gorgeous, vibrant color. The dye is made with 60% oils to keep your locks feeling soft and healthy. Plus, it is ammonia-free and has a nice scent! If you have long hair, you might need to use two boxes for full coverage.

The Garnier's hair dye is a super convenient and budget-friendly option. (Source: Amazon)
The Garnier’s hair dye is a super convenient and budget-friendly option. (Source: Amazon)
  • L’Oreal Paris Feria

If you are looking for the best permanent purple hair dye for dark hair without bleach, this L’Oreal Paris branded dye is an excellent choice. This dye consistently delivers reliable results, even for black hair purple. And it is also very affordable. 

However, it is important to note that Midnight Violet is a very dark shade of purple, so it may not be suitable for bright and vibrant purple hair.

This dye consistently delivers reliable results, even for black hair purple. (Source: Health and Beauty Aisle)
This dye consistently delivers reliable results, even for black hair purple. (Source: Health and Beauty Aisle)
  • Schwarzkopf LIVE

This permanent purple hair dye is not only vibrant and long-lasting, but it also gives your locks a dose of TLC with coconut oil. It is like a two-for-one deal – you get a killer look and healthy hair in one swoop! With its unique blend of style and care, this hair dye will take your look to the next level with the stunning purple shade!

Schwarzkopf LIVE Urban Metallics permanent purple hair dye gives your locks a dose of TLC with coconut oil. (Source: LIVE Colour)
Schwarzkopf LIVE Urban Metallics permanent purple hair dye gives your locks a dose of TLC with coconut oil. (Source: LIVE Colour)

Semi-permanent dyes

If you are looking to try out a purple dye on brown hair no bleach, which is harsh on your locks, a great option is semi-permanent hair dye. Unlike permanent dyes, semi-permanent dyes do not contain much ammonia, which means they will not damage your hair as much. These dyes only lightly coat the hair shaft and do not lighten dark hair, making them a gentler alternative. Just keep in mind that the color will fade after 6-8 washes.

  • Arctic Fox Purple AF

Arctic Fox Purple AF dye is free of harsh chemicals like ammonia and PPD, so it is vegan and cruelty-free. This semi-permanent hair color is packed with high-quality ingredients to deliver vibrant, long-lasting color. The results will be more intense on light brown or dark blonde hair than dark brown or black hair that come with more subtle tones.

Arctic Fox Purple AF dye is free of harsh chemicals like ammonia and PPD. (Source: Walmart)
Arctic Fox Purple AF dye is free of harsh chemicals like ammonia and PPD. (Source: Walmart)
  • Manic Panic Purple

Manic Panic is a well-known brand with a range of vibrant vegan hair dyes in various shades. Their most popular colors include Ultra Violet, Purple Haze, and Electric Amethyst, and a plenty of purple hair options. What’s great is that these dyes are not only cruelty-free and ammonia-free, but they can last for up to 6 weeks, which is impressive for a semi-permanent dye.

Manic Panic is a well-known brand with a range of vibrant vegan hair dyes. (Source: Manic Panic)
Manic Panic is a well-known brand with a range of vibrant vegan hair dyes. (Source: Manic Panic)
  • Crazy Color Aubergine

This premium dye offers a deep, rich wine or plum color for a lasting impression. Not only does it add vibrancy to your locks, but it will also nourish your hair with conditioning and oil properties. Plus, this Aubergine dye is vegan-friendly and free from harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia, so you can enjoy a gentle yet bold color experience.

This Aubergine dye is vegan-friendly and free from harsh chemicals. (Source: Costaline Hair & Beauty Supplies)
This Aubergine dye is vegan-friendly and free from harsh chemicals. (Source: Costaline Hair & Beauty Supplies)

Temporary dyes

If you want to give your hair a temporary purple look for a day or two, like for a party or Halloween, a temporary hair color is the way to go. Color sprays, hair chalks, and coloring shampoos can create a vibrant color even on dark hair. These dyes wash out easily because they only stay on the surface of the hair.

Suggested temporary dyes:

  • L’Oreal Paris Makeup

L’Oreal offers two temporary hair color options: gel and spray. Both are free of ammonia and peroxide, and can be easily washed out. They are both great for a quick, one-day style. The color looks similar, but the spray is easier to use. However, the spray can dry out hair and only works on dry hair.

L'Oreal offers two temporary hair color options: gel and spray. (Source: Influenster)
L’Oreal offers two temporary hair color options: gel and spray. (Source: Influenster)
  • ALOXXI InstaBoost

This amazing product of ALOXXI helps you easily add vibrant color to your locks with just one use, and the nourishing ingredients will leave your hair feeling silky smooth for up to 10-15 washes. Containing coconut oil, sugar beet extract, and shea butter, this mask provides deep conditioning and hydration for a radiant, healthy-looking mane. 

This amazing product of ALOXXI helps you easily add vibrant color to your locks. (Source: Amazon)
This amazing product of ALOXXI helps you easily add vibrant color to your locks. (Source: Amazon)

How To Make DIY Purple Hair Dye At Home

Homemade purple hair dye is a simple and safe way to add purple dye on brown hair no bleach. These techniques offer semi-permanent results and come with no harsh chemicals, making them environmentally friendly dying alternatives. Experiment with these homemade purple hair dye techniques for a temporary pop of color that is both affordable and gentle on your hair. Let’s take a look at the most popular materials including blackberry, food coloring, and drink mixes:

All-Natural Blackberry Dye

Here are the steps to dye your hair at home with blackberries:

– Gather two cups of blackberries, gloves, and a bowl.

– Dampen your hair slightly.

– Mash the blackberries in the bowl and put on the gloves.

– Apply the mashed blackberries to your hair like shampoo.

– Let it sit for a couple of hours.

– Rinse out with water and towel-dry your hair.

The shade of purple achieved depends on the color of the blackberries used.

The shade of purple achieved depends on the color of the blackberries used. (Source: The Times of India)
The shade of purple achieved depends on the color of the blackberries used. (Source: The Times of India)

Purple Food Coloring

While not all-natural, using food coloring is a cost-effective and chemical-free method:

– Combine half a cup of conditioner, red food coloring, and blue food coloring in a bowl.

– Mix well and adjust the shade of purple to your liking.

– Apply the mixture evenly to your hair using a paintbrush or your hands.

– Leave the dye in for four to six hours.

– Rinse out the dye with water and towel-dry your hair.

Note to avoid washing your hair with shampoo or conditioner for a few days to allow the color to set.

Drink Mixes

Various powdered drink mixes, such as purple drink mixes or Jell-O mix, can be used to achieve different shades of purple:

– Mix your chosen drink mix with half a cup of conditioner in a small bowl.

– Apply the mixture evenly to your hair using a paintbrush or your hands.

– Allow the dye to set for four to six hours.

– Rinse out the dye with water and towel-dry your hair.

Note: For a deeper or brighter shade, additional drink mix can be added.

Additional Notes

– These techniques are semi-permanent, and the color will fade over time.

– To enhance color longevity, avoid washing your hair for a few days after dyeing.

– Rinse your hair with vinegar before washing out the dye to help lock in the color.

Purple Dye On Brown Hair No Bleach Before And After

Wondering what happens when you use purple dye on brown hair without bleach? Let’s explore a reference of before and after transformations.

  • At the start, you have your natural brown hair color as a base. The shade and darkness of your brown hair will affect how the purple dye will come out.
  • Once you apply the purple dye, the outcome can vary. It depends on factors like the specific shade of purple, the dye’s formulation, your hair’s condition, and the application technique. You can achieve a subtle tint or shimmering effect to add depth to your brown hair. For a more vibrant look, an intense shade of purple can create a noticeable transformation.

Finally, conducting strand tests beforehand can help you understand how the dye will interact with your brown hair.

For a more vibrant look, an intense shade of purple can create a noticeable transformation. (Source: Pinterest)
For a more vibrant look, an intense shade of purple can create a noticeable transformation. (Source: Pinterest)

Maintaining Purple Dyed Hair on Brown Hair

To ensure your hair color looks fabulous for as long as possible, permanent or semi-permanent dye, it is important to follow a proper hair care routine. Here are some essential steps for taking care of your purple-dyed hair:

  • Avoid using traditional shampoos with sulfates, as they can strip your hair color. Instead, opt for gentle sulfate-free shampoos to maintain your purple color.
  • Invest in hair products specifically designed to protect color-treated hair. Color-protecting shampoos and conditioners can help extend the vibrancy of your hair color. You should also consider color-depositing shampoos and conditioners for an extra color boost.
  • Washing your hair every day can cause your color to fade faster. Try at least one day between washes, or even longer if possible. Also, you can use dry shampoo between washes to freshen up your hair if needed.
  • Hot water opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the hair dye to escape and fade more quickly. Therefore, always use lukewarm or cooler water when washing your hair. For a better result, a final rinse with cold water can seal the cuticles and add extra shine.
  • Heat styling tools can dry and damage your hair, which is even more significant with colored hair. Whenever possible, let your purple hair air dry naturally. Otherwise, if you have to use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant product first to minimize damage.
  • Chlorine is detrimental to hair dye, causing it to fade faster or even alter the color completely. If you swim regularly, wear a swim cap to protect your hair when taking a dip.
  • Maintain your colored hair by using deep conditioners and hair masks at least once a week. Look for masks and conditioners containing nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil to provide extra moisture and care for your purple hair color.
It is important to follow a proper hair care routine to ensure your hair color looks fabulous for a long time. (Source: Wella Blog)
It is important to follow a proper hair care routine to ensure your hair color looks fabulous for a long time. (Source: Wella Blog)

FAQs

How Long Does Purple Color Last on Hair?

The duration of purple-dyed hair varies depending on the type of dye used. Permanent dyes can last for 6-8 weeks, while semi-permanent and temporary dyes last a few days to a few weeks. The longevity of the color also depends on your hair care routine and how well you care for your hair.

How Do You Make Purple Dye Brighter on Brown Hair?

To achieve a vibrant result with light or bright purple on dark hair, it is necessary to bleach the hair beforehand. However, wash-out temporary dyes like hair chalk, colored hair waxes, and sprays can still provide a significant bright hair color effect, even on black hair.

Is It Neccessay to Wash My Hair After Coloring It Purple?

It is recommended to refrain from washing your hair for 72 hours after dyeing it purple. This  way allows the color to fully penetrate and lock into the hair strands. Washing your hair too soon can lead to the dye being washed out prematurely. During the initial washes, you will notice some purple color in the water, but using gentle color-protective shampoos can help minimize this effect.

In Conclusion

A purple dye on brown hair no bleach is indeed possible. While the outcome varies based on your natural hair color and the specific shade of purple you choose, with the right dye and techniques, you can achieve beautiful before and after transformations. Remember to consider your skin tone and hair’s natural undertones that suits you best when selecting a shade.

If you are looking to enhance your hair further or explore other options, consider contacting Jen Hair for hair extensions. Whether you want to add length, volume, or experiment with different colors, Jen Hair can provide professional guidance and assistance. Contact us today!

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