What you'll need:
* Your purple hair dye: Choose the purple you want to pastel-ize.
* White mixing base: This can be a white hair dye conditioner.
* Mixing bowl and applicator brush
* Gloves
* Old towel or cape to protect your clothing.
The Process:
1. Strand Test (CRUCIAL): Before applying anything to your entire head, perform a strand test. Mix a small amount of your pastel dye mixture and apply it to a hidden section of your hair. This allows you to see the resulting color and adjust the mixture if needed. Leave it on for the recommended processing time, rinse, and dry.
2. Mix the Dye: In your mixing bowl, start with a small amount of the white mixing base. Add a tiny amount of the purple hair dye and mix thoroughly. The key is to add the purple dye *gradually*.
* The ratio will vary greatly depending on the intensity of your purple dye and the pastel shade you want. Start with a ratio of something like 1 part purple dye to 5-10 parts white base.
* Mix well and assess the color. The mixture should look noticeably lighter than the original purple dye.
* Add more purple dye *very sparingly* until you achieve the desired pastel shade. Remember, it's easier to add more dye than to take it away.
3. Application:
* Apply the pastel dye mixture evenly to your hair, following the instructions on the dye packaging (for processing time, etc.).
* Ensure you saturate all the hair you want to dye.
4. Processing Time: Follow the instructions on the dye and white conditioner package. Pastel colors tend to fade quickly.
5. Rinse and Condition: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Then, use a color-safe conditioner.
Important Considerations:
* Hair Porosity and Base Color: Your hair's porosity and existing color will significantly affect the final result. Porous hair tends to absorb more color, so you may need a lighter pastel mixture. The lighter your hair before dying it pastel, the truer the final color will be.
* White Mixing Base: The quality and type of white mixing base can also influence the outcome. A thick, creamy base will dilute the color effectively.
* Fading: Pastel colors are notorious for fading quickly. Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners, wash your hair less frequently, and avoid excessive heat styling to prolong the color.
* Toning: After bleaching you may need to tone your hair to remove any yellow or orange tones before applying the purple dye.
* Dye Quality: Not all dyes are created equal. High-quality dyes will generally give you better results and last longer.
Tips for Success:
* Start Light: It's always better to start with a lighter mixture and gradually add more purple dye.
* Consistency is Key: Ensure the dye mixture is smooth and consistent to avoid patchy color.
* Be Patient: Achieving the perfect pastel shade may require some experimentation.
* Document Your Process: Take notes of the ratios you use for each strand test. This will help you replicate the results later.
By following these steps and being patient, you can create beautiful pastel purple hair. Good luck!