Fixing Red Hair Dye That Came Out Purple
Fixing Faded Reds: The Truth About Red Hair Turning Purple & How to Prevent It
Why Red Hair Turns Purple Over Time
Red hair dye is one of the most vibrant and fun colors to work with, but it’s also one of the most fragile. Unlike darker pigments, red molecules are larger and sit more on the surface of your hair shaft. That means they're more prone to fading and when red hair begins to fade, it often takes on an undesirable purple or magenta hue. This usually happens when previous cool-toned dyes, lingering chemicals, or underlying ash tones interfere with the warm pigments. If you've ever asked how to fix red hair dye that came out purple, you're not alone. The key is understanding your hair's color history and working with a professional stylist who can assess the full picture.
Vibrant red hair freshly colored by professional stylists at Ergun Tercan hair salon, free from purple undertones.
Always Start with a Strand Test
Before applying any red hair dye, your stylist should conduct a strand test. This simple test checks how your hair will react to the new color. If you've had previous treatments especially those with black, blue, or ash undertones—they can blend with red dye to create violet or burgundy hues. At top salons in Denver, like this downtown hair salon, professionals use strand tests to identify and neutralize problematic tones early on. This helps you avoid color surprises and gives your stylist a roadmap for creating vibrant, warm red results.
How to Fix Red Hair Dye That Came Out Purple
If your red hair already shifted to purple, all is not lost. A professional colorist can tone the violet out using color correction techniques. This might include applying a warmer pigment to balance the cool tones or using a cleansing treatment to lift residual dye.
It's essential not to try this yourself at home, box dye or DIY fixes can make the issue worse. Instead, visit a certified balayage specialist in Denver who understands color theory and how pigments interact with different hair textures..
The Importance of Using the Right Products
Once you've achieved your ideal red, the next step is protecting it. Many clients unknowingly strip their color with everyday shampoo. If your shampoo is stripping your hair dye, switch immediately to sulfate-free, color-safe formulas. Products like Kérastase (available at select Kerastase salons in Denver) help maintain pigment and protect hair health.
Avoid clarifying shampoos or those with strong detergents unless prescribed for specific buildup. Investing in the right aftercare is key to long-lasting results, especially if you also have extensions or have undergone a keratin treatment in Denver.
Protecting Your Red Hair Between Appointments
Sun, water, heat tools, and even the wrong towel can cause fading. Red hair is especially susceptible to UV exposure, which not only fades pigment but can also dry out strands making color fade unevenly. Use a color-protectant leave-in or serum before blow drying.
Also, if you’ve had bonded extensions, you need to be even more careful. Heat and aggressive brushing can pull at the bonds and expose underlying tones. Let your stylist recommend the best aftercare routine tailored to your extension type, whether you’re wearing tape-in hair extensions in Denver or keratin bonds.
Expert Tips to Preserve Your Red Hair Color
Rinse with cool water: Hot water opens the cuticle and allows color to escape. Always rinse your hair with lukewarm or cool water to lock in color.
Use dry shampoo between washes: This helps prolong time between washes without stripping color.
Sleep on silk or satin: These materials reduce friction and help preserve your color longer.
Clarifying treatments: Schedule monthly in-salon gloss or toning sessions to keep the hue fresh.
These additional habits will boost the longevity of your color and keep your strands strong and shiny. Ask your stylist about aftercare kits or in-salon glossing treatments ideal for red tones.
Why You Should Leave Red Hair to the Pros
DIY red hair might seem tempting, but box dyes often include cool-toned bases or are mislabeled, resulting in unintended purple hues. A trained stylist not only ensures your hair stays the exact shade of red you want they also factor in your skin tone, undertones, hair history, and hair health. At a reputable hair salon in downtown Denver, the team will help you select the perfect red tone and apply it with precision, followed by a personalized haircare plan. Whether you're going red for the first time or returning to your signature look, investing in professional color makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Red Radiant
Red hair is bold, beautiful, and worth the extra effort. With the right preparation, products, and professional care, you can keep your red hair vibrant without worrying about fading into purple. Schedule a strand test, choose warm-toned formulas, and avoid product buildup. Whether you're pairing your color with micro bead extensions in Denver or rocking your natural waves, consistency in aftercare is what makes color last.
Looking for more tips or ready to refresh your red? Book a FREE consultation today.