The Science Behind Color Changes in Hair with Shampoos of Different Colors
Have you ever dyed your hair a vibrant purple and then wondered what would happen if you washed it with red shampoo? Would the shampoo just turn your hair red, or would it be a wash-off solution that leaves no trace? In this article, we will delve into the chemistry and science behind these scenarios and clarify what you can expect from different types of hair products.
Understanding Hair Color
Hair color is primarily a result of the pigments and chemicals that temporarily or permanently alter the hair's surface and cuticle. Hair dyes, whether temporary or permanent, chemically alter the hair's natural colors by either depositing new pigments or breaking down the existing ones. Purple hair, in particular, is achieved by using shades of blue or violet, which can be notoriously tricky to maintain due to the delicate nature of purple pigments.
Red Shampoo: Purpose and Effectiveness
Red shampoo is specifically designed for hair that has been treated with certain hair coloring metals or to help neutralize unwanted yellow or brass tones. These shampoos contain counteracting pigments that can mitigate the brassiness in hair.
Red Shampoo for Purple Hair
If you wash purple hair with a red shampoo, the result will depend on the specific type of shampoo and the current condition of your hair. While some red shampoos are designed to neutralize brassiness, others are more about clarifying the scalp and removing product residue, which may not directly affect the purple pigment in your hair.
The Nature of Purple Hair Dye
Purple hair dye typically contains a mixture of blue and sometimes gray pigments, which can be challenging for shampoo to fully remove without specific preparations. Red shampoos that are not specifically designed to tackle purple tones may not be as effective in reversing purple to its previous shade.
Types of Red Shampoos and Their Effects
Red shampoos come in varying strengths and types. Some are clarifying and can help clean the scalp and hair of residues from other products, while others are more focused on neutralizing brassiness. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
1. Clarifying Shampoos
Clarifying shampoos are very effective at removing buildup from hair care products, including temporary color. If you use a clarifying shampoo on purple hair, you may notice a change in the color, but it will not turn the hair red. It is more likely to strip away any residual products, bringing your hair closer to its natural color.
2. Anti-Brass Shampoos
Anti-brass shampoos are designed to help hair maintain its true color, especially if it has been colored with metallic pigments. These shampoos contain pigments that counteract the effects of brassiness, which can appear in hair treated with metallic dyes. However, if your purple hair has been treated with a large dose of blue or violet pigments, these shampoos may not be effective in changing the color to a red or brown tone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you wash purple hair with a red shampoo, the outcome will depend on the type of shampoo and the nature of the hair dye used. Not all red shampoos are created equal, and they won’t directly turn purple hair red. Instead, they can help maintain the longevity of your color, reduce brassiness, or remove buildup. For the best results, always read the label and use hair care products designed for maintaining colored hair.
Steps to Maintain Your Purple Hair
Choose a shampoo specifically designed for maintaining colored hair to keep it vibrant and free of unwanted tones.
Regular trims can help remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy, preventing the cuticles from lifting and dulling the color.
Avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible, and if you must, protect your hair with heat protectant.
Consider using a hair dye that is specifically formulated for purple shades to ensure the best longevity.
Use a leave-in conditioner or hair mask to help seal the cuticles and prevent the hair from losing its color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you turn purple hair red with a red shampoo?
No, red shampoo is not designed to change purple hair to red. Instead, it helps maintain or mitigate brassiness in your hair.
What is the best way to maintain purple hair?
The best way to maintain purple hair is to use a hair dye designed for purple shades, avoid brassiness, and regularly condition your hair to keep the cuticles sealed.
Can washing hair with a clarifying shampoo remove purple color?
Yes, a clarifying shampoo can help remove any residue that may dull your purple hair, bringing it closer to its natural state. However, it won’t necessarily turn it red.