Transforming dark hair into fantasy colors like blue, purple, or pink is an intricate process that requires a solid understanding of hair chemistry, patience, and skill. Here’s a breakdown of what it takes and the time involved:

Step 1: Consultation

Before starting, assess the client’s hair condition, history, and goals. Dark hair transitioning to vibrant colors often requires pre-lightening, so it’s important to discuss the potential damage, maintenance, and realistic expectations.

Consultation Time: 30 minutes

Application 1 to 2 hours pre lighting whole head or heavily

Step 2: Pre-Lightening (Bleaching)

Dark hair must be lifted to a pale blonde or even white for vibrant colors to show true. This step involves:

1. Lightener Application: Choose the appropriate developer strength based on the hair’s condition.

2. Monitoring: Lightener is checked frequently to avoid over-processing.

3. Multiple Sessions: For very dark or color-treated hair, lightening may require more than one session to reach the desired level at times up to three applications with lightener.

Challenges:

• Natural dark pigments are harder to lift and may result in warm undertones (yellow or orange) that must be neutralized. Box dyed black hair will be charged extra and will take longer, may required some extra cutting.

• Hair health must be prioritized to prevent breakage.

Time: 1 to 6 + hours per session, depending on starting level and desired lift.

Step 3: Toning

After lifting, the hair often needs toning to cancel out unwanted undertones. For fantasy colors, achieving a neutral base (Level 9 or 10) is crucial for the colors to appear vibrant.

Step 4: Fantasy Color Application

Once the hair is lightened and toned:

1. Color Selection: Use high-quality semi-permanent or direct dyes. For a smooth blend of blue, purple, and pink, precise placement is key.

2. Application: Section hair carefully and apply colors in a planned gradient or pattern. Tools like ColourWand can assist in achieving seamless balayage effects.

3. Processing Time: Allow the colors to set, typically 20-45 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse and Style

Rinse hair with cool water to preserve color vibrancy and style as desired. A deep conditioning treatment can be applied to restore moisture.

Time all depends on hair history and desired look

Total Time Estimate

For a single session, transitioning dark hair to blue, purple, and pink may take 4 to 8 hours or more. If multiple lightening sessions are required, the full transformation may span several weeks to protect hair integrity.

Key Considerations

• Hair Health: If hair is compromised, it’s better to proceed in stages.

• Maintenance: Vibrant colors fade quickly and require frequent touch-ups and proper care (color-safe shampoo, cool water, minimal heat styling).

• Cost: The process is labor-intensive and product-heavy, making it a significant investment.

Expert Tip

Using tools like the ColourWand for precise application ensures smooth transitions and blends, especially when working with bold, multidimensional colors.

Schedule your appointment

https://martinrodriguez.com

Text 714 366-6964

All hair color appointments require a deposit of $200 towards visit no exceptions

Plan your visit these looks require over 4 hours.

Hair colorist MartinRodriguez