Purple hair has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years. More and more people are experimenting with unnatural hair colors like pink, blue, green, and of course, purple. But is purple actually a good choice for those with brown hair? There are a few key factors to consider.
The Color Wheel
First, it helps to understand some color theory. On the color wheel, purple is located directly opposite orange. This means purple is a complementary color to orange tones. As a warm shade, brown hair usually contains subtle orange/red undertones. When you pair complementary colors together, they create a striking, high-contrast effect which allows each shade to stand out more. So purple can make brown hair ‘pop’ more.
Starting Shade of Brown
However, the exact effect will depend on your natural brown shade. Very dark browns with less warmth may not show a vivid purple tone. Light to medium warm browns with evident orange/red undertones will make the purple hues stand out most. If your brown is more ash or mousy, the purple may mix into a more muted result. So consider your exact starting shade if you want the purple to really be bold.
Purple Shades
You also have to factor in the particular shade of purple. Darker eggplant or plum purples will blend more seamlessly into brunette hair without huge contrast. Meanwhile, vivid violet or magenta-tinted purples will create a very eye-catching effect against brown strands. Pastel lilac or lavender purples will show up subtly on brown. So think about the particular purple tone you are aiming for, and how that interacts with your brown shade.
Placement of Color
Additionally, consider where you want the purple shade placed in your hairstyle. Doing an all-over application of purple on brown hair can certainly make a statement. However, it may be overly dramatic for some. More subtle options include using purple just on the tips, underneath layers, highlights throughout, or on bangs. These selective placements allow you to get a pop of purple without it dominating your entire look.
Upkeep
Maintenance is another factor for purple hair. Unnatural colors fade the fastest out of any hair dye. Depending on the purple tone and your hair porosity, you may need to re-touch the roots every 3-6 weeks. Using a color-depositing shampoo or conditioner can refresh the color between appointments. But keep in mind that vibrant purple hair requires more continuous upkeep than a traditional color. If you are not prepared to re-dye it frequently, you may want to go for something more low-maintenance.
Skin Tone Considerations
Your complexion should also help guide your purple hair decision. Cooler skin tones tend to suit cooler purples like lilac and lavender. Warmer complexions are complemented by warmer purples like violet and magenta. Staying in your color season for purple shades will ensure it flatters you most. Dramatic high-contrast looks work best for neutral to medium skin tones. If you have very pale or very dark skin, high-contrast can overwhelm your complexion. So stick with purples in the same tonal family.
Experimenting with Purple
Want to test out purple before committing to all over color? Here are some ways to experiment with less damage:
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Purple Hair Chalk | Gives temporary color that washes out in one shampooing |
| Purple Hair Mascara | Applies just to the outer hair strands for a subtle pop of color |
| Clip-in Purple Hair Extensions | Allows you to quickly clip in and out purple strands |
| Purple Hair Crayons | Color that lasts 1-3 shampoos, less permanent than dye |
Pros of Purple Hair on Browns
Some key benefits for choosing purple hair with a brown base include:
– Creates an exciting, eye-catching effect
– Adds richer dimension to brown hair
– Makes brown hair appear less flat or mousy
– Offers a fun, creative way to express your personality
– Cools down warm brown tones
– Highlights and accentuates brown eyes
– Freshens up your overall look
Cons of Purple Hair on Browns
Some potential drawbacks to keep in mind include:
– Can be overly harsh or flashy against some brown shades
– Requires very regular root upkeep as it fades quickly
– More dramatic and high-maintenance than subtle natural colors
– May not suit some lifestyle requirements like professional settings
– Can dry out and damage hair if not done properly
– Some shades of purple may clash with skin tone
Best Practices for Purple Brown Hair
If you decide to take the plunge with purple hair, follow these tips for the best results:
– Consult a licensed colorist experienced in vivid tones
– Pick a shade that complements your skin tone and eye color
– Start with highlights/lowlights first before going all over purple
– Use a bonding additive or Olaplex to reduce damage
– Shampoo less frequently to prolong the vibrancy
– Use sulfate-free shampoo and cold water rinses
– Apply weekly conditioning hair masks for hydration
– Trim every 6-8 weeks to remove faded ends
– Avoid overlap with hair lightening/bleaching sessions
Conclusion
Purple can be a gorgeous, creative color choice for brown hair. But success depends on choosing the right purple tone for your specific brown shade, skin tone, and lifestyle factors. When done correctly and carefully, it can add striking dimension and brightness to brown hair. Just be prepared for the commitment of frequent touch-ups. Or start slowly with lighter purple highlights first before gradually going bolder. Either way, embrace the chance to use this trendy hue to emphasize the beauty of your brown base!