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Best Purple Hair Dye for Dark Hair: 8 Top Picks for 2024

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best purple hair dye for dark hairAre you ready to take the plunge and transform your dark hair into a vivid purple hue? You’ve come to the right place! We know that finding the best purple hair dye for dark hair can be tricky, so we’ve compiled a list of our top 8 picks for 2023.

Imagine yourself with vibrant shades of violet or eggplant cascading down your locks – stunning! Before making any decisions, it is important to consider what type of dye you will use and if it suits your natural color as well as skin sensitivity.

But don’t worry – we have all the information here so you can make an informed choice about how to get that perfect shade for liberation, power, and understanding.

Key Takeaways

  • Arctic Fox Purple AF and Manic Panic Purple Haze are both vegan and free of harsh chemicals, making them suitable options for those concerned about their hair health.
  • Lunar Tides Orchid offers a vibrant purple shade but may stain the skin and carries a risk of allergic reactions, so it’s important to be cautious when using this dye.
  • The ION Plum Kit provides intense plum color and also covers grays, making it a convenient choice for those looking to address both gray hair and dark hair color.
  • Overtone Purple is a deposit-only formula that yields subtle results on brown hair, making it a good option for individuals who want a more subdued purple shade.

Top 8 Best Purple Hair Dyes for Dark Hair

If you’re looking for the perfect purple hair dye for dark hair, then look no further. From Arctic Fox’s Purple AF Hair Dye to Overtone’s Purple Conditioner Brown, this list of the top 8 best purple dyes will help you find the right shade that works with your skin tone and lasts long without harsh chemicals.

Arctic Fox Purple AF Hair Dye

ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-FreeView On Amazon
Try Arctic Fox Purple AF Hair Dye for a vibrant, true purple look that will last and leave your hair soft, shiny, and healthy. This deep shade works well on a variety of base colors, from platinum to light brown, and does not contain any harsh chemicals or animal by-products.

The color covers faded shades effectively while nourishing your hair with natural oils like avocado, olive oil, and shea butter for added vibrancy.

Plus, it pairs nicely with other Arctic Fox colors, such as Wrath (burgundy) or Poseidon (indigo), so you can mix up the shades if you’d like! It is long-lasting without smudging easily, and it has an attractive scent.

This dye is hard to beat when looking for a versatile purple hue that won’t damage your locks in the process.

Pros
  • Vibrant & true purple look
  • Lasts long & leaves hair soft & shiny
  • No harsh chemicals; vegan formula
  • Covers faded color effectively
  • Pairs well with other Arctic Fox colors
  • Smears less; sweet scent
Cons
  • Not available in Sally’s stores
  • May require multiple applications on darker hair
  • Can stain skin/hands

Lime Crime Unicorn Hair Dye Pony

Lime Crime Unicorn Hair DyeView On Amazon
For a vibrant, damage-free color that will last without harsh chemicals, take a look at Lime Crime Unicorn Hair Dye Pony – it’ll give you the royal treatment!

This semi-permanent hair dye is specifically formulated for light blonde hair to add subtle tone and brightening effects. It’s vegan and cruelty-free, with no PPDs, ammonia, or parabens. The color payoff is high but won’t cause any damage like bleach would.

Results may vary depending on pre-existing base colors, so always do a strand test before use.

For those looking for long-lasting purple hues without sacrificing their tresses’ health, this product is the perfect solution – just make sure you have an 8 oz jar handy since one application might not be enough for darker shades of brown hair!

Pros
  • High Color Payoff
  • Damage-Free Formulation
  • Vegan & Cruelty-Free
  • Contains Nourishing Oils & Vitamins
Cons
  • Small Jar Size
  • Can Turn Out Darker Than Expected On Light Brown Hair
  • Color Fades Faster On Damaged And Porous Hair

Manic Panic Purple Haze Hair Gel

MANIC PANIC Purple Haze HairView On Amazon
Manic Panic Purple Haze Hair Gel adds a brightening effect to your locks without harsh chemicals, making it perfect for kids and seniors. This temporary hair color is vegan and cruelty-free with no PPD, ammonia, parabens, gluten, resorcinol, or phthalates.

With an easy application process that won’t stain skin or clothes like some permanent dyes might do, just apply the gel directly from the tube. It’s great for root touch-ups and refreshing mid-length styles. The formula also works on all hair types and colors but may not show up as vibrantly on darker shades of hair.

Use it for costumes or cosplay too. Just shampoo out after use if needed.

Pros
  • Cruelty-free & vegan formula free of harmful chemicals
  • Easy application – no need for gloves/brush
  • Works on all hair types & colors
Cons
  • Shows up better in lighter hairs than dark ones
  • Can leave your locks feeling stiff/strawy
  • Not suitable to lift existing color

Lunar Tides Orchid Purple Hair Color

Lunar Tides Semi-Permanent Hair ColorView On Amazon
Lunar Tides Orchid Purple Hair Color is a great choice if you’re looking to get the intense, vibrant purple color you desire – with up to 2.5x more shine than untreated hair! This permanent cream dye provides great coverage on light and bleached hair, but it may require multiple applications for good coverage on darker locks.

It can also cause staining of the skin and hands, so take caution when applying it. Be aware that some users have experienced an allergic reaction due to its fragrance in the past.

Pros
  • Vibrant & intense purple color
  • Great coverage on light & bleached hair
  • Up to 2.5X more shine than untreated hair
Cons
  • May need multiple applications for dark locks
  • Can stain skin & hands
  • Risk of allergic reactions

ION Plum Hair Color Kit

ION Intensive Shine Permanent Liqui-Creme HairView On Amazon
If you’re looking for a vibrant and long-lasting plum hue, ION’s permanent liqui-creme hair color kit is an excellent choice. This all-inclusive package contains everything needed to achieve salon-quality results at home.

The non-drip formula helps to ensure even coverage, while the naturally conditioning oils add vibrancy and up to 2.5X more shine than untreated hair! It effectively covers grays, providing intense medium violet with 3X highlights for prismatic results that last through multiple washings.

With this product, it’s easy to get professional-looking color without having to leave your house or pay high prices at salons!

Pros
  • Non-drip formula
  • Up to 2.5x more shine than untreated hair
  • Naturally conditioning oils
  • Intense medium violet with 3x highlights for prismatic results
Cons
  • Some customers had issues with color result and process
  • Not available in Sally’s stores

Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color V2 Dark Intense Violet

Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse UltraView On Amazon
Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color V2 Dark Intense Violet gives your hair a bold, nourished look that lasts up to 8 weeks. This permanent liqui-creme color kit contains naturally conditioning oils and up to 2.

5X more shine than untreated hair. It is effective at covering grays and lasting through multiple washings for vibrant, natural-looking color in the shade of Spiced Plum (Dark Intense Violet).

Plus, it comes with a grapeseed oil ampoule to nourish your locks during coloring, as well as gloves and instructions for best results!

Pros
  • Bold & long-lasting color
  • Nourishing formula helps protect against dryness & boost shine
  • Covers gray hairs effectively
  • Convenient all-in-one box includes gloves & instructions
Cons
  • Results may fade slightly over time
  • Multiple applications may be needed on some hair types
  • Hair coloring skill requires practice

Loreal Paris Feria Hair Color V48 Violet Vixen

LView On Amazon
Try L’Oreal Paris Feria Hair Color V48 Violet Vixen for a vibrant, prismatic look that will last through multiple washings. This multi-faceted permanent hair color is custom-blended by L’Oreal master colorists, providing intense medium violet with 3X highlights for an eye-catching hue.

The nourishing formula seals and conditions while providing long-lasting coverage and up to three times the shine of untreated hair.

Enjoy bold results at home or find it more affordably on Amazon than in stores – either way, you won’t be disappointed!

Pros
  • Long-lasting vibrant purple color
  • Gets many compliments
  • Good for covering grays
Cons
  • Messy application process
  • Can damage hair if left on too long
  • Color may fade faster on blonde hair

Overtone Purple Conditioner Brown

OVERTONE Haircare Semi-Permanent Color DepositingView On Amazon
Overtone’s Purple Conditioner for Brown Hair allows you to achieve a subtle, deep amethyst hue with pink undertones without compromising the health of your hair. This deposit-only formula won’t lift or lighten existing color and is free from ammonia, bleach, and developers.

It also contains naturally conditioning oils to nourish your hair as it colors for up to 2.

To use this product effectively, simply apply it on clean, dry hair and leave it in for 10-15 minutes before washing out for best results.

Pros
  • Damage-free vegan & cruelty-free formula
  • Does not contain harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach
  • Deposit only – will not lift or lighten existing color
Cons
  • Not guaranteed to cover white/gray hairs completely
  • Subtle minty scent may be disliked by some people
  • Results vary depending on prelightened levels

What to Consider Before Dyeing Your Hair Purple

What to Consider Before Dyeing Your Hair Purple
Before dyeing your hair purple, it is important to check the condition of your locks and decide on a color that works for you. Additionally, it is essential to test for skin sensitivity and reactions, as well as think about aftercare maintenance when using semi-permanent or permanent dyes.

Check the Condition of Your Hair

Before you go ahead with dyeing your hair purple, assess the condition of your locks to give them some much-needed TLC. Do a patch test for skin sensitivities and use a color-depositing shampoo or hair mask before applying dye.

Consider using shea butter or a deep conditioning treatment to nourish dry, brittle strands. A strand test is also essential for determining how long it will take to get the desired hue on dark hair and selecting an appropriate product that will provide vibrant results without damage.

Hair Color

Choosing the right shade of purple to suit your skin tone can make all the difference in creating a look you love. When selecting dye, consider hair health and possible skin sensitivities. Permanent or semi-permanent dyes work best for dark hair, while color-depositing conditioners may help keep color vibrant longer.

For fair and cool tones, opt for pastel purples; olive complexions are complemented by plum purples; warm skins do well with burgundy hues.

Test for Skin Sensitivity and Reactions

Always patch test for skin sensitivity before dyeing your hair purple. It’s a must to prevent any unexpected reactions! Patch testing will help determine if you’re allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients found in hair dye.

This minimizes the chances of an adverse reaction. Hair prep is key. Use Vaseline around your ears, neckline, and forehead before applying the dye for protection against staining. Choose a color that complements your skin tone. Then, strand-test first. It could save you time and money in the long run.

Aftercare and Maintenance

To keep your purple mane looking vibrant, follow up dyeing with sulfate-free products and minimize sun exposure as if you’re protecting a delicate flower in the garden.

Color depositing shampoos and conditioners will help maintain color for longer. A swim cap can provide extra protection from chlorine when swimming.

Shade selection is key – pick hues that complement your skin tone! Dye brands like Arctic Fox, Lime Crime, or Garnier Nutrisse Ultra provide nourishing natural oils while coloring hair without harsh chemicals.

Check out colored hair guides online to learn more about UV rays and proper sun protection for dyed hair!

Semi-permanent or Permanent Hair Dye

Deciding between semi-permanent and permanent dye? Consider your hair type, color goals, and lifestyle needs when selecting a hue to make sure you get the look that fits. Semi-permanent dyes last 6-8 washes, no ammonia or bleach needed for subtle results on dark hair.

Permanent dyes like Punky Plum Semi-Permanent or Arctic Fox Vegan Semi-Permanent Hair Dye last 6+ months with ammonia lightening required for bright purple on darker locks.

Can I Dye My Hair Purple at Home?

Can I Dye My Hair Purple at Home
If you’re considering dyeing your hair purple at home, it’s important to know that up to 60% of people have experienced an allergic reaction from permanent dyes.

  1. Preparing – Do a patch test for skin sensitivities before applying color and make sure all supplies are ready beforehand.
  2. Permanent vs Semi-Permanent Dye – A semi-permanent option lasts 6-8 washes without ammonia or bleach, while permanent needs little maintenance but may require bleaching dark shades for vibrant results.
  3. Shade Selection – Choose a shade according to skin tone; pastel purples look great on cool tones, plums on olive complexions, and warm burgundies suit warmer skins best.
  4. DIY vs Salon Dyeing – Professional help is recommended if this is the first time coloring, as box dyes can be uneven in coverage and messy, whereas salon colors provide even application with expert advice.
  5. Maintaining Color – Use sulfate-free products specifically formulated for colored hair, such as UV protection shampoos/conditioners, and minimize heat styling tools like blow dryers and sun exposure when outdoors.

With these tips in mind, you can achieve beautiful purple hues safely!

What Are the Different Types of Hair Dyes?

What Are the Different Types of Hair Dyes
When deciding to dye your hair purple, you have a few options available. Permanent dyes provide long-lasting color with bleach required for bright results on dark hair. Semi-permanent dyes offer no ammonia or bleach and last 6-8 washes but may give subtle results on dark hair.

Temporary colors are easy to wash out and can be used as a fun way of trying out different shades without commitment.

Permanent Hair Dyes

Try permanent hair dyes if you’re looking for a long-lasting color that won’t wash out easily. They contain ammonia to lighten your existing shade and may require bleach for bright purple on darker hair.

Box dye is an inexpensive option, but uneven coverage can be messy. Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color Dark Intense Violet provides more vibrant shades with up to 2x the shine of untreated locks.

For pre-lightened strands, sulfate-free products will help maintain vibrancy, and UV protection should be used in sunny climates or when exposed to heat styling tools.

Semi-Permanent Hair Dyes

Semi-permanent dyes last for 6 to 8 washes and do not require ammonia or bleach, making them a gentler option with more subtle results on dark hair. Use this dye to boost color without the commitment of permanent dyes! Look for sulfate-free formulas with conditioning ingredients like fruit oils and UV protection.

A strand test should always be done before using semi-permanent hair dye as allergic reactions may occur due to fragrances in the product.

Temporary Hair Colors

Make a statement with temporary hair color for dark hair and turn heads without commitment–give Overtone Purple Conditioner Brown a try!

Temporary dye is perfect if you want to boost your look or make an impression. Explore different techniques like sectioning off the desired area then applying it with gloves, clips, and a shower cap.

Have fun selecting from various brands depending on what you need; some may require multiple applications while others provide vibrant colors on lightened locks.

Maintenance tips are also essential when using temporary dyes such as avoiding heat styling tools or chlorine exposure from pools – wear swim caps too! Enjoy experimenting without worry thanks to this type of dye which washes out after 6-8 washes so go ahead and unleash your inner creativity today!

Choosing the Best Shade of Purple

Choosing the Best Shade of Purple
Are you looking for the perfect shade of purple? Whether you’re going for a bright, daring hue or something more subtle, there are plenty of dyes on the market to choose from.

Bright Purple Hair Dyes

For dark hair, brighten up with Arctic Fox Purple AF Hair Dye for a deep true purple or Lime Crime Unicorn Hair Dye in Pony for damage-free color that lasts.

  • Strand test before dyeing; use gloves and clips to section off strands for coloring basics.
  • Use sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner to retain color vibrancy for sulfate-free products.
  • Complement cool skin tones with pastel purples and suit plum hues well for warm skin tones with pastel shades.
  • Wear sun protectant products & swim caps when in pools/sun exposure for UV protection.
  • Bleaching is not required but can be used pre-dying process on darker hair for brighter results.

When searching for the perfect hue of purple, consider Arctic Fox’s Purple Rain or Manic Panic Electric Banana Neon Yellow Temporary Color Gel—both vegan formulas without harsh chemicals! For a permanent solution, try Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color – Dark Intense Violet, which will last 6+ months nourishing your locks as it colors them.

Deep Purple Hair Dyes

If you’re looking for a deep, true purple hue that won’t fade quickly, try Arctic Fox Purple AF Hair Dye. It is formulated with no harsh chemicals and provides long-lasting results. This cruelty-free vegan dye helps to condition and restore vibrancy in your hair while giving it an intense shade of purple.

For those on a budget who want bold color without the damage associated with bleaching or permanent dyes, you can opt for Manic Panic Electric Banana Neon Yellow Temporary Hair Color Gel or Got2b Metallic Permanent Hair Color.

Both options are free from PPDs, ammonia, and parabens. However, they do require more frequent reapplication than permanent dyes.

If you prefer darker shades of plum, you can try Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color – Dark Intense Violet. This dye comes with an after-color conditioner infused with nourishing oils to seal in moisture and protect against fading over time.

When selecting the ultimate purple shade, don’t forget to consider your skin tone.

To maintain your perfect deep purple hue for weeks, remember to avoid heat styling tools or chlorine exposure from pools.

With the right selection process and maintenance tips, your deep purple hair will stay vibrant for weeks!

Dying Your Dark Hair Purple Without Bleach

Dying Your Dark Hair Purple Without Bleach
Before you dye your dark hair a vibrant purple hue, make sure to prepare your hair beforehand. Determine the natural shade of your hair and conduct both a patch test and strand test for safety. Gather all necessary accessories such as gloves, clips, Vaseline, a bowl, and a brush so that you can dye with ease and confidence, knowing that everything is taken care of before you start.

Prep Your Hair Beforehand

Before dyeing your hair purple, take the time to prepare it. Protect it with Vaseline, avoid breakage with a hydrating conditioner, and check for skin sensitivity. Choose dye based on your hair type and tone – lighter tones will produce vibrant colors while darker hues need bleaching agents.

Figure Out Your Natural Hair Shade

Take a moment to consider your natural hair shade before making the plunge into purple! If you have darker hair, you can achieve vibrant hues without bleaching. Prepare for dyeing by conducting a condition assessment and patch testing. Accessories like gloves, clips, and Vaseline are also necessary for successful application.

For guidance on selecting shades that suit your skin tone, try Garnier Color Sensation or L’Oreal Paris Feria Hair Color kits, and amethyst hair dyes from Manic Panic or Overtone color guides.

Perform a Patch Test

Always perform a patch test before dyeing your hair purple to ensure you don’t have any skin sensitivities. Get a patch test kit from the store or make one at home using some of the purple dye and Vaseline.

Different dyes come in different strengths, so choose one that suits your desired color depth and take protective wear into account when dyeing hair types with ammonia-containing products, such as permanent dyes.

Perform a Strand Test

Before coloring your hair, take a strand test to ensure that the color will be what you desire. To conduct one, use vegan ingredients and apply them to several hair strands in an inconspicuous area. If it produces the desired bold colors on dark hair without bleach, then proceed with dyeing your entire head.

Gather Your Accessories

Gather your dye, gloves, clips, Vaseline, and bowl so you’re ready to rock a bold new look.

  • Patch test for skin sensitivities
  • UV protection products
  • Warm-toned purple or cool-toned purple if desired red undertones.

    For best results when dyeing hair or coloring hair, ensure all accessories are on hand before beginning the process. From there, just follow the directions and enjoy the liberation of creating your own vibrant style!

Maintaining Purple Dyed Hair on Dark Hair

Maintaining Purple Dyed Hair on Dark Hair
Maintaining a vibrant purple shade in your dark hair requires careful upkeep, including the right shampoo, avoiding daily washes, and using lukewarm water. To keep your color looking its best, avoid heat styling tools such as blow dryers and opt for protective products instead.

Use the Right Shampoo

To keep your newly-dyed dark hair looking vibrant, use a sulfate-free shampoo for up to 6 months. In fact, over 80% of people who do so find that their color lasts longer. Consider using color-depositing shampoos and conditioners to maintain your warmer tint.

For lighter hair or short-duration results, try a UV protection product with lighter results from color-depositing shampoos. Minimize sun exposure and chlorine contact as well by using heat protectants when styling.

No Daily Washes

Avoid the temptation to wash your hair every day when you’ve got purple dyed locks. It’s best to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, as well as UV protection products. Those with dark hair should opt for long-lasting dyes such as Arctic Fox or Lime Crime, which nourish while coloring damage-free results.

For extra protection in chlorine pools, wear a swim cap and limit heat styling tools like blow dryers or flat irons that could strip away leftover dye from strands.

Wash With Lukewarm Water

Wash your dyed purple hair with lukewarm water to keep the color vibrant and prevent fading. Consider the temperature when choosing a shampoo, conditioner, and other products for optimal hair health. Avoid bleach in order to maintain the hue you desire without damaging your locks.

Avoid Heat Styling

Heat styling your hair, such as blow dryers and curling irons, can be a slippery slope to dullness for dyed purple locks. To keep color vibrant and undamaged, use sulfate-free products; minimize sun exposure with UV protection; avoid chlorine from pools by wearing a swim cap; use protective products and limit heat styling tools.

For best results without heat damage, opt for color depositing shampoos and conditioners that won’t strip away pigment or dry out strands.

Can You Dye Black Hair Without Bleach?

Can You Dye Black Hair Without Bleach
If you’re looking to dye your dark hair purple, you’ve come to the right place. With these tips and tricks, we’ll show you how to do it without having to bleach it first.

How Do I Dye Dark Hair Purple?

Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and get ready to dye your dark hair purple! There are several chemical-free dyes on the market for those who want to keep their hair healthy. Arctic Fox, Lime Crime, Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color, L’Oréal Paris Feria, and Manic Panic Purple Haze Hair Gel all offer vibrant hues without harsh chemicals.

For maximum impact, pick pastel purples for fairer complexions or plum/burgundy shades if you have an olive complexion. Warm purples suit warmer tones while cool hues compliment cooler ones. But before you go ahead with it, make sure to patch test for any skin sensitivities as well as do a strand test first.

Then section off the desired area of hair into subsections so you can apply evenly and cover completely with dye from roots to ends using gloves & clips.

With these tips in mind, enjoy rocking beautiful purple locks!

Tips and Tricks

Before deciding on the perfect shade of purple for your hair, make sure to consult an expert or do a strand test to ensure optimal results. Bleaching tips should be considered carefully before attempting at-home dyeing, as it can cause damage if done incorrectly.

When selecting color, warm purples are best suited for warm skin tones and cool purples work better with cooler complexions. DIYs require patience and the proper tools, but box dyes may yield uneven coverage while salons provide professional help yet come with a higher price tag.

To keep color vibrant, use sulfate-free shampoo paired with UV protectants when outdoors and chlorine protection in pools—swim caps recommended! For dark hair, permanent dyes such as Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color – Dark Intense Violet offer vivid results over months of wear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I dye my hair purple?

For long-lasting, vibrant color, consider dyeing your hair purple every 6 to 8 weeks.

Is purple hair dye damaging to hair?

Purple hair dye can be damaging if not applied correctly. On average, those with dark hair should wait 6-8 weeks before re-dyeing for optimal results.

What are the best products to use when dyeing dark hair purple?

Choose a permanent or semi-permanent dye depending on your desired results and preferences. Arctic Fox, Lime Crime, Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color – Dark Intense Violet, Manic Panic Electric Banana Neon Yellow Temporary Hair Color Gel are great options for dark hair.

Select the right shade to match your skin tone; warm purples for warm tones and cool purples for cool tones.

How long does purple hair dye last?

Purple hair dye can last for months, even up to 6-8! With the right products and care, you can keep your color vibrant and daring. Take a leap of faith with Arctic Fox’s long-lasting results or Lime Crime’s nourishing, damage-free formula — both will have you feeling fabulous in no time! Plus, their colors are so vivid they’ll make your head spin like never before.

Are there any special techniques for dyeing dark hair purple?

Dyeing dark hair purple requires a few special techniques. Start by bleaching for vibrant color or leave it dark to get a deep tint. Always use sulfate-free products and protectant from heat, sun, and chlorine exposure to maintain your hue’s vibrancy.

Conclusion

You’ve reached the end of your search for the best purple hair dye for dark hair. From Arctic Fox to Manic Panic, there is a variety of options that can help you achieve the desired look. Whether you’re looking for a permanent or semi-permanent dye, there is something for everyone.

Make sure to do a patch test to check for skin sensitivities and consider the natural shade of your hair before choosing a product. With the right combination of color and care, you can confidently rock your purple locks for months to come.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.