Achieving vibrant, head-turning purple hair can be a fun and expressive way to showcase your personality. However, what happens when that purple hue no longer suits your style, or worse, turns into an unflattering shade? Many people find themselves searching for a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair color, and Color Oops often emerges as a popular contender. But does Color Oops really work on purple hair? Let’s dive deep into the specifics.
Understanding Color Oops and How It Works
Color Oops is a popular hair color remover designed to reverse the hair dyeing process. Unlike bleach, which lifts color from the hair shaft, Color Oops works by shrinking the dye molecules, allowing them to be washed away. It’s formulated to remove artificial hair color without damaging the natural pigment of your hair. The active ingredients in Color Oops are generally sulfur-based, and they break down the chemical bonds that hold the artificial dye to your hair strands.
The Science Behind Color Removal
The magic of Color Oops lies in its ability to penetrate the hair cuticle and target the artificial dye molecules. These molecules, once large and firmly attached, are reduced in size, making them water-soluble. This shrinking process allows the dye to be rinsed out of the hair during the thorough rinsing steps required by the product. This is a crucial difference compared to bleaching, which oxidizes the color molecules, potentially leading to damage and altering the natural hair pigment.
Types of Hair Dye and Color Oops Effectiveness
Color Oops is most effective on permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes. These types of dyes penetrate the hair shaft and deposit color molecules that bond to the hair’s protein structure. Direct dyes, often used to achieve vibrant colors like purple, may be more challenging for Color Oops to remove completely. This is because direct dyes often coat the hair shaft rather than penetrating it deeply.
The Specific Case of Purple Hair
Purple hair dye presents unique challenges and considerations when it comes to color removal. The effectiveness of Color Oops depends on several factors, including the type of purple dye used, the porosity of your hair, and the number of times you’ve dyed your hair purple.
Understanding Different Types of Purple Hair Dye
Purple hair dye comes in various formulations, each with different chemical compositions and levels of permanence. These include:
- Permanent Purple Dye: Designed to last until the hair grows out or is cut.
- Semi-Permanent Purple Dye: Fades gradually with each wash, typically lasting several weeks.
- Demi-Permanent Purple Dye: Blends with the natural hair color and washes out after a certain number of washes.
- Direct Dye/Fashion Colors: These deposit color on the hair shaft without requiring a developer.
How Porosity Affects Color Removal
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. High porosity hair has a more open cuticle layer, which can readily absorb dye but also lose it quickly. Low porosity hair has a tightly closed cuticle, making it resistant to absorbing dye and, potentially, more resistant to color removal. The more porous your hair is, the more likely the purple dye has deeply penetrated, potentially making it more difficult for Color Oops to remove completely.
Multiple Applications of Purple Dye
If you’ve repeatedly dyed your hair purple, especially with permanent or semi-permanent dyes, you might find it more difficult to remove all the color with a single application of Color Oops. Multiple layers of dye build-up can make it harder for the color remover to penetrate effectively and shrink all the dye molecules. In such cases, multiple applications of Color Oops might be necessary, but it’s crucial to proceed with caution to avoid excessive dryness or damage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Color Oops on Purple Hair
If you decide to use Color Oops to remove purple hair dye, follow these steps carefully to maximize its effectiveness and minimize potential damage.
Preparation is Key
Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies, including:
- Color Oops
- Gloves (included with the product)
- A well-ventilated area
- An old towel to protect your clothing
- A plastic bowl and applicator brush (optional)
- A clarifying shampoo
- A deep conditioner
The Application Process
Follow the instructions provided with your specific Color Oops product, but here’s a general guide:
- Perform a Strand Test: Before applying Color Oops to your entire head, test it on a small, inconspicuous section of your hair. This will help you assess how your hair reacts to the product and predict the final result.
- Mix the Product: Combine the Color Oops activator and remover as directed in the instructions.
- Apply to Dry Hair: Apply the mixture evenly to dry, unwashed hair. Focus on the areas with the most purple color.
- Process According to Instructions: Allow the product to process for the recommended time, usually around 20-30 minutes.
- The Crucial Rinsing Phase: Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water for at least 20-30 minutes. This is the most important step, as it removes the shrunk dye molecules from your hair. Insufficient rinsing is a common cause of color re-depositing.
- Shampoo and Condition: Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to further remove any remaining dye molecules. Follow with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.
Post-Treatment Care
After using Color Oops, your hair will likely be drier and more porous. It’s essential to follow up with a nourishing hair care routine to restore moisture and prevent breakage.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Use deep conditioning masks or treatments regularly to hydrate your hair.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons.
- Use Gentle Products: Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Protein Treatments (Use with Caution): If your hair feels weak or damaged, consider a protein treatment, but use it sparingly, as too much protein can lead to brittleness.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While Color Oops is generally considered a safer alternative to bleach, it’s not without its potential risks and side effects.
Hair Dryness and Damage
The process of shrinking and removing dye molecules can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential damage. Proper rinsing and post-treatment care are crucial to minimize these effects.
Color Re-Depositing
If you don’t rinse your hair thoroughly enough after using Color Oops, the shrunk dye molecules can re-deposit back into your hair, resulting in a less-than-desirable color. This is why the rinsing step is so critical.
Unpredictable Results
The final result of using Color Oops can be unpredictable, especially on previously dyed or damaged hair. You might not achieve your desired shade in one application, and you might need to adjust your approach based on the initial outcome.
Smell
Color Oops has a strong, sulfur-like smell that some people find unpleasant. Be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area to minimize the odor.
Alternatives to Color Oops for Purple Hair
If you’re hesitant to use Color Oops or if it doesn’t yield the desired results, several alternative methods can help remove or fade purple hair dye.
Bleach Bath
A bleach bath is a diluted form of bleaching that can gently lift color from the hair. It involves mixing bleach, developer, and shampoo to create a less harsh mixture. This is an option to consider only after careful consideration of the potential damage to your hair.
Vitamin C Treatment
Crushed vitamin C tablets mixed with shampoo can help fade direct dye colors like purple. This method is gentler than bleach but might require multiple applications to achieve noticeable results.
Clarifying Shampoos
Using a clarifying shampoo regularly can gradually fade purple hair dye over time. This method is best for removing semi-permanent or direct dyes.
Professional Color Correction
For the most predictable and potentially least damaging results, consult a professional hairstylist who specializes in color correction. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
While Color Oops can be a viable option for removing purple hair dye, its effectiveness depends on various factors, including the type of dye used, your hair’s porosity, and the number of times you’ve dyed your hair. Thorough rinsing and proper post-treatment care are crucial to minimize damage and achieve the best possible results. Always perform a strand test before applying Color Oops to your entire head, and consider alternative methods or professional help if you’re concerned about potential risks or side effects. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use Color Oops on purple hair should be based on a careful assessment of your hair’s condition, your desired outcome, and your comfort level with the potential risks involved. Remember that patience and a gentle approach are key to achieving your desired hair color transformation without causing unnecessary damage.
Can Color Oops effectively remove purple hair dye?
Color Oops is designed to remove artificial hair color, but its effectiveness on purple hair depends on several factors. The type of purple dye (direct dye, demi-permanent, or permanent), the hair’s porosity, and how many times the purple has been applied all play a role. Generally, Color Oops works best on direct dyes and some demi-permanent colors, often lifting out a significant amount of the purple pigment. However, deeply pigmented permanent purples or purple dyes that have been repeatedly applied may require multiple applications or alternative color removal methods.
The product works by shrinking the dye molecules within the hair shaft, allowing them to be washed away. It’s important to follow the instructions meticulously, including the thorough rinsing and buffering steps, to prevent the color from re-oxidizing and darkening again. Results can vary widely, and a strand test is always recommended before applying Color Oops to your entire head of hair to assess its effectiveness on your specific purple shade and hair type.
Will Color Oops damage my hair if I use it on purple hair?
Color Oops is generally considered less damaging than bleach, but it can still be drying to the hair. The active ingredients, reducing agents, disrupt the artificial dye molecules without lifting the natural hair pigment. However, the process can strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture, potentially leading to dryness, frizz, and increased susceptibility to breakage, especially if the hair is already damaged or processed.
To minimize potential damage, it’s crucial to perform a deep conditioning treatment immediately after using Color Oops and to avoid heat styling for a few days. Using a protein treatment can also help to rebuild the hair’s structure. Regularly moisturizing your hair with leave-in conditioners and hair oils will replenish lost moisture and maintain its health and integrity post-treatment.
How many times can I safely use Color Oops on purple hair?
While Color Oops is less damaging than bleach, repeated use can still cause dryness and stress to the hair. The number of times you can safely use it depends on the condition of your hair and how well you care for it between applications. If your hair is already fragile, damaged, or highly porous, it’s best to avoid multiple applications in quick succession.
Ideally, space out Color Oops treatments by at least two weeks, allowing your hair time to recover and rebuild its moisture levels. During this period, focus on deep conditioning treatments, protein masks, and avoiding heat styling. Overusing Color Oops can lead to dryness, breakage, and a dull appearance, so it’s vital to prioritize hair health and hydration.
What should I do if Color Oops doesn’t completely remove the purple?
If Color Oops doesn’t fully remove the purple hair dye, you have a few options. You can try a second application of Color Oops, ensuring you follow the instructions precisely and conduct another strand test first. However, remember that multiple applications can be drying, so proceed with caution and prioritize hydration afterward.
Another option is to explore alternative color removal methods, such as a bleach bath or a color remover specifically formulated for stubborn dyes. Consult a professional hairstylist for personalized advice and treatment recommendations, especially if your hair is already damaged. They can assess your hair’s condition and suggest the safest and most effective approach to achieve your desired color result.
What color will my hair be after using Color Oops on purple hair?
The color your hair will be after using Color Oops on purple hair is unpredictable and depends on various factors. It’s unlikely to return to your original virgin hair color. Instead, you’ll likely be left with a lighter or faded version of the purple, or a different undertone altogether. For example, if the purple dye had a blue base, you might see a blue-ish or greenish tint after the purple pigment is removed.
Your hair may also reveal underlying warmth, such as orange or yellow tones, especially if the purple dye was applied over pre-lightened hair. The final result also hinges on the type of purple dye used, its longevity, and your hair’s porosity. Therefore, it’s crucial to prepare for potential color correction after using Color Oops to achieve your desired final shade.
How soon after using Color Oops on purple hair can I re-dye it?
It’s recommended to wait at least a week, or even two, before re-dyeing your hair after using Color Oops on purple hair. This waiting period allows your hair to recover from the color removal process and rebuild its moisture levels. Re-dyeing too soon can lead to further damage, uneven color absorption, and potentially undesirable results.
During this time, focus on deep conditioning treatments and protein masks to strengthen your hair and restore its elasticity. When you do re-dye, consider using a demi-permanent or semi-permanent color to minimize damage and allow your hair to continue recovering. Conducting a strand test before applying the new color to your entire head is always a good idea to ensure you achieve the desired shade and prevent any unforeseen color reactions.
What precautions should I take when using Color Oops on purple hair?
Before using Color Oops on purple hair, perform a strand test to assess its effectiveness and potential damage. Work in a well-ventilated area due to the product’s strong odor. Wear gloves throughout the application process to protect your skin. Carefully follow the instructions provided with the product, paying close attention to the rinsing and buffering steps to prevent re-oxidation.
Avoid using Color Oops on hair that is already severely damaged or chemically treated. After using the product, deep condition your hair to replenish lost moisture and consider using a protein treatment to strengthen your hair’s structure. Be patient and avoid rushing the process, prioritizing your hair’s health and integrity over achieving immediate results.