When it comes to hair toning, purple toner is a popular choice for those looking to neutralize brassy tones and achieve a cool, ashy blonde color. But one of the most common concerns for those who have taken the plunge and applied purple toner to their locks is: how long does it take to wash it out?
The Science Behind Purple Toner
Before we dive into the answer, it’s essential to understand how purple toner works. Purple toner is a type of demi-permanent hair color that is designed to counteract warm, brassy tones in blonde hair. It contains purple pigments that neutralize the orange and yellow tones, resulting in a cooler, more ashy blonde color.
Purple toner is typically applied to the hair after bleaching or coloring, and it can last anywhere from a few washes to several weeks, depending on the individual’s hair type, porosity, and maintenance routine. But what happens when it’s time to wash the toner out?
The Factors that Affect Purple Toner Removal
Several factors can influence how long it takes to wash purple toner out of your hair. These include:
Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to how well your hair can absorb and retain moisture and color. If you have low porosity hair, the purple toner may take longer to wash out, as it can be more difficult for the color to penetrate the hair shaft. On the other hand, high porosity hair may wash out the toner more quickly, as it can absorb and release color more easily.
Hair Type
The type of hair you have can also impact how long it takes to wash out purple toner. For example, if you have fine or damaged hair, the toner may wash out more quickly, as these hair types tend to be more prone to color fade. Coarser or thicker hair, on the other hand, may hold onto the toner for longer.
Shampoo and Conditioner
The type of shampoo and conditioner you use can also affect how long it takes to wash out purple toner. If you use a clarifying shampoo or a sulfate-based shampoo, these can strip the hair of its color more quickly, resulting in faster toner removal. Gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, on the other hand, may help to preserve the color and prolong the toner’s lifespan.
Maintenance Routine
Finally, your maintenance routine can influence how long it takes to wash out purple toner. If you wash your hair frequently, use heat styling tools regularly, or swim in chlorinated pools, these can all contribute to faster color fade and toner removal.
How Long Does it Take to Wash Purple Toner Out?
So, how long does it take to wash purple toner out of your hair? The answer can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. On average, it can take anywhere from a few washes to several weeks to completely remove purple toner from your hair.
In the first few washes, you can expect a significant amount of color to be washed out, especially if you use a clarifying shampoo or sulfate-based shampoo. However, it’s not uncommon for some residual color to remain in the hair, especially if you have porous or damaged hair.
After 4-6 washes, the toner may start to fade more gradually, with the color becoming less vibrant and more muted. At this point, you may start to notice a return of warm, brassy tones, especially if you have blonde hair.
After 2-3 weeks, the purple toner should be largely removed from your hair, although some subtle remnants of the color may still remain. At this point, you can consider re-toning your hair to maintain the desired color.
Tips for Removing Purple Toner
If you’re looking to remove purple toner from your hair more quickly, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a clarifying shampoo or sulfate-based shampoo to strip the hair of its color.
- Try a color-correcting shampoo or treatment, specifically designed to remove toner and other color deposits.
- Use a warm water when washing your hair, as this can help to open up the hair cuticle and release the color more quickly.
- Avoid using hot water, as this can cause the color to set more deeply into the hair shaft.
- Consider using a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment to help repair and nourish your hair, especially if it’s been damaged by the toning process.
Conclusion
Washing out purple toner can be a process that requires patience, persistence, and the right techniques. By understanding the factors that affect toner removal and following the tips outlined above, you can help to remove the color more quickly and efficiently. Remember, it’s essential to be gentle with your hair during this process, as over-stripping the color can lead to damage and dryness.
Ultimately, the key to successful purple toner removal is to find a balance between removing the color and preserving the health and integrity of your hair. With the right approach, you can achieve a beautiful, ashy blonde color that’s free from pesky purple tones.
How long does it take for purple toner to wash out of my hair?
The duration it takes for purple toner to wash out of your hair depends on several factors, including the type of toner used, the porosity of your hair, and how well you care for your locks. Generally, purple toner can last anywhere from a few washes to several weeks, depending on how vibrant you want the color to remain.
To get a better idea, if you’ve used a semi-permanent purple toner, it may wash out after 4-6 washes, while a demi-permanent toner may last up to 8 washes. However, if you’ve opted for a more permanent purple toner, it may take several weeks for the color to completely fade. It’s also important to note that using a sulfate-based shampoo can strip your hair of its color faster, so it’s recommended to use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to help preserve the color.
Can I speed up the process of washing out purple toner from my hair?
Yes, there are a few ways to speed up the process of washing out purple toner from your hair. One way is to use a clarifying shampoo, which can help strip your hair of the toner faster. Another way is to use a shampoo specifically formulated to remove toner, such as a color-removing shampoo. You can also try using a mixture of baking soda and shampoo to help lift the color out of your hair.
However, it’s important to note that using these methods can be harsh on your hair, so be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help hydrate your locks. Additionally, if you’re looking to completely remove the purple toner from your hair, it may take several attempts and patience. It’s also important to consider that using harsh chemicals or methods to remove toner can cause damage to your hair, so be gentle and cautious when trying to remove the color.
Can I use purple shampoo to wash out purple toner from my hair?
Using a purple shampoo to wash out purple toner from your hair may seem counterintuitive, but it can actually help to neutralize the color and speed up the washing out process. Purple shampoo is formulated to help cancel out brassy tones in blonde hair, but it can also help to absorb excess purple pigment in the hair.
When using a purple shampoo, be sure to follow the instructions and use it as directed. You may need to use it several times to see results, and be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help hydrate your hair. Additionally, keep in mind that using a purple shampoo may not completely remove the toner, but it can help to fade it faster.
How can I prevent my purple toner from fading too quickly?
To prevent your purple toner from fading too quickly, there are a few tips you can follow. First, use a sulfate-free shampoo that’s formulated for color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip your hair of its color, causing it to fade faster. Additionally, try to limit your use of heat styling tools, as heat can cause the color to fade faster.
You can also try using a color-protecting spray or serum to help lock in the color and prevent it from fading. When washing your hair, use cool water and avoid using hot water, which can cause the color to fade faster. Finally, consider getting regular touch-ups at a salon to help maintain the color and prevent it from fading too quickly.
Can I use a hair mask to wash out purple toner from my hair?
Using a hair mask can actually help to wash out purple toner from your hair, but it depends on the type of mask you use. A hydrating hair mask can help to moisturize your hair and lift out some of the excess purple pigment, but it may not completely remove the toner.
Look for a hair mask that’s formulated to remove impurities and product buildup, as these can help to lift out the toner. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. You can also try using a hair mask that’s specifically formulated to remove toner, such as a color-removing mask.
Will purple toner damage my hair?
Purple toner can be damaging to your hair if it’s not used properly or if you have already damaged hair. The toner can contain harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. Additionally, if you leave the toner on for too long or use it too frequently, it can cause damage to the hair cuticle.
However, if you use a high-quality purple toner that’s formulated for your hair type, and follow the instructions carefully, it’s possible to minimize damage. Be sure to do a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head, and consider getting a professional application at a salon if you’re unsure. Additionally, be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help hydrate your hair.
Can I use purple toner on my hair if I’ve previously colored it?
If you’ve previously colored your hair, it’s possible to use purple toner, but it depends on the type of color you’ve used and the condition of your hair. If you’ve recently bleached or lightened your hair, it may be more porous and able to absorb the purple toner more easily.
However, if you’ve previously used a permanent hair dye, it may be more difficult for the purple toner to penetrate the hair shaft. In this case, it may be better to use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent purple toner to achieve the desired results. It’s also important to consider the condition of your hair and whether it’s healthy enough to withstand the toner. Be sure to do a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head to ensure the best results.