Purple hair has become a staple in the world of fashion and beauty, with many individuals embracing this bold and vibrant color. However, achieving the perfect shade of purple can be a daunting task, especially for those new to hair coloring. One crucial aspect of achieving the desired purple hue is understanding the concept of hair levels. In this article, we will delve into the world of hair levels, exploring what level is purple hair and how to achieve the perfect tone.
Understanding Hair Levels
Hair levels refer to the lightness or darkness of hair, with level 1 being the darkest and level 12 being the lightest. The hair level system is used to determine the amount of lift or deposit required to achieve a specific color. There are several hair level systems, but the most commonly used is the Wella Color Charm system, which consists of 12 levels.
The Wella Color Charm System
The Wella Color Charm system is a widely used hair level system that categorizes hair into 12 levels, ranging from level 1 (black) to level 12 (platinum blonde). The system is based on the amount of melanin present in the hair, with level 1 having the most melanin and level 12 having the least.
| Level | Color Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Black |
| 2 | Dark Brown |
| 3 | Medium Brown |
| 4 | Light Brown |
| 5 | Dark Blonde |
| 6 | Medium Blonde |
| 7 | Light Blonde |
| 8 | Very Light Blonde |
| 9 | Platinum Blonde |
| 10 | Very Light Platinum Blonde |
| 11 | Lightest Platinum Blonde |
| 12 | Platinum Blonde with a Blue or Ash Tint |
What Level is Purple Hair?
Purple hair can range from a deep, rich plum to a light, pastel lavender. The level of purple hair depends on the desired shade and tone. Generally, purple hair falls within the range of levels 5 to 10.
Deep, Rich Plum (Level 5-6)
A deep, rich plum color is achieved by depositing a purple tone onto level 5 or 6 hair. This level of purple hair is ideal for those who want a bold, vibrant color that makes a statement.
Medium Purple (Level 7-8)
A medium purple color is achieved by depositing a purple tone onto level 7 or 8 hair. This level of purple hair is ideal for those who want a fun, playful color that is not too bold.
Light, Pastel Lavender (Level 9-10)
A light, pastel lavender color is achieved by depositing a purple tone onto level 9 or 10 hair. This level of purple hair is ideal for those who want a soft, subtle color that adds a touch of elegance to their look.
Achieving the Perfect Purple Tone
Achieving the perfect purple tone requires a combination of the right hair level and tone. There are several ways to achieve a purple tone, including:
Using a Purple Toner
A purple toner can be used to deposit a purple tone onto the hair. There are several types of purple toners available, ranging from deep, rich plums to light, pastel lavenders.
Using a Purple Dye
A purple dye can be used to achieve a bold, vibrant purple color. There are several types of purple dyes available, ranging from semi-permanent to permanent.
Using a Purple Gloss
A purple gloss can be used to add a subtle, shiny purple tone to the hair. Purple glosses are ideal for those who want to add a touch of purple to their look without making a long-term commitment.
Conclusion
Purple hair is a bold and vibrant color that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any look. Understanding the concept of hair levels is crucial to achieving the perfect purple tone. By determining the right hair level and tone, individuals can achieve a purple color that is tailored to their unique skin tone and personal style. Whether you’re looking for a deep, rich plum or a light, pastel lavender, there’s a purple hair color out there for everyone.
Additional Tips and Considerations
When it comes to achieving the perfect purple hair color, there are several tips and considerations to keep in mind. Here are a few:
Consider Your Skin Tone
When choosing a purple hair color, it’s essential to consider your skin tone. Cool skin tones look best with blue-based purple colors, while warm skin tones look best with red-based purple colors.
Consider Your Eye Color
When choosing a purple hair color, it’s also essential to consider your eye color. Blue eyes look best with cool, blue-based purple colors, while brown eyes look best with warm, red-based purple colors.
Use a Conditioning Treatment
Purple hair can be prone to dryness and damage, so it’s essential to use a conditioning treatment to keep the hair moisturized and healthy.
Avoid Using Hot Water
Hot water can cause the purple color to fade faster, so it’s essential to use cold water when washing the hair.
By following these tips and considerations, individuals can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting purple hair color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to their look.
What is the significance of understanding levels and tones in purple hair?
Understanding levels and tones is crucial when it comes to achieving the perfect purple hair color. Levels refer to the lightness or darkness of the hair, ranging from 1 (black) to 12 (lightest blonde). Tones, on the other hand, refer to the underlying hue of the hair, such as warm, cool, or neutral. By understanding how levels and tones interact, you can create a customized purple hair color that complements your skin tone, eye color, and personal style.
For instance, if you have a cool skin tone, you may look best with a purple hair color that has a blue or pink undertone. Conversely, if you have a warm skin tone, you may look best with a purple hair color that has a golden or yellow undertone. By considering both levels and tones, you can create a purple hair color that is tailored to your individual characteristics and preferences.
What are the different levels of purple hair, and how do they vary?
The levels of purple hair range from a light, pastel purple (Level 9-12) to a deep, rich plum (Level 1-3). The lightest levels of purple hair are often achieved with a combination of bleach and toner, while the darkest levels are achieved with a combination of permanent dye and gloss. In between, there are various shades of purple hair that can be achieved with semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye.
For example, a Level 6 purple hair color might be a medium, rich purple with a slight blue undertone. A Level 9 purple hair color, on the other hand, might be a light, pastel purple with a pink undertone. By understanding the different levels of purple hair, you can choose the one that best suits your desired look and maintenance level.
What are the different tones of purple hair, and how do they affect the overall color?
The tones of purple hair can be broadly categorized into three groups: warm, cool, and neutral. Warm tones of purple hair have a golden or yellow undertone, while cool tones have a blue or pink undertone. Neutral tones, on the other hand, have a balanced mix of warm and cool undertones. The tone of purple hair can greatly affect the overall color, as it can make the hair appear more vibrant, rich, or muted.
For instance, a purple hair color with a warm tone might appear more golden or honey-like, while a purple hair color with a cool tone might appear more blue or pink-like. By choosing the right tone of purple hair, you can create a color that complements your skin tone, eye color, and personal style.
How do I choose the right level and tone of purple hair for my skin tone?
Choosing the right level and tone of purple hair for your skin tone involves considering your natural skin undertones. If you have a cool skin tone, you may look best with a purple hair color that has a blue or pink undertone. If you have a warm skin tone, you may look best with a purple hair color that has a golden or yellow undertone. Neutral skin tones can often pull off a wide range of purple hair colors.
For example, if you have a cool skin tone with pink undertones, you might look best with a light, pastel purple hair color with a blue undertone. If you have a warm skin tone with golden undertones, you might look best with a rich, plum purple hair color with a golden undertone. By considering your skin tone, you can choose a purple hair color that complements your natural coloring.
Can I achieve purple hair without bleaching my hair?
Yes, it is possible to achieve purple hair without bleaching your hair. If you have light or medium-colored hair, you can use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye to achieve a purple hair color. These types of dye deposit color onto the hair shaft without lifting the natural pigment, making them a great option for those who want to avoid bleach.
However, if you have dark hair, you may need to use a permanent dye or bleach to achieve a vibrant purple hair color. This is because dark hair has a lot of natural pigment that can make it difficult for color to penetrate. In this case, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist who can help you achieve the desired color while minimizing damage to your hair.
How do I maintain my purple hair color and prevent fading?
Maintaining purple hair color requires regular touch-ups and proper care. To prevent fading, use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using hot water or heat styling tools. You can also use a color-depositing mask once a week to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair.
In addition, consider getting regular touch-ups with a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye to help maintain the color and prevent fading. You can also use a color-enhancing spray or gloss to add a temporary boost of color to your hair. By following these tips, you can help maintain your purple hair color and keep it looking vibrant and healthy.
Can I achieve purple hair at home, or do I need to see a professional stylist?
While it’s possible to achieve purple hair at home, it’s often best to see a professional stylist, especially if you’re new to purple hair or want a complex color. A professional stylist has the training and experience to help you choose the right level and tone of purple hair, and can apply the color in a way that minimizes damage and maximizes results.
However, if you’re looking to touch up your existing purple hair color or make minor adjustments, you can try using at-home dye kits or color-depositing products. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test before applying the color to your entire head. By being cautious and taking the necessary precautions, you can achieve great results at home.