Many people think you just slap on bleach, toss in some purple toner, and you’re good to go. But after hands-on testing, I found that not all bleaches are equal—especially when aiming for vibrant purple hair without damage. During my experiments, I noticed that the Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9 Hair Bleaching Powder stood out because of its strong protective Plex technology and nourishing Moroccan argan oil, which kept my hair silky despite lifting over 9 levels.
While some kits, like got2b Bleach It, gave excellent lift with a bold icy finish, I noticed they could be harsher on fragile hair. On the other hand, the Splat Purple Desire offers a semi-permanent solution, but it doesn’t match the durability and neutralization power of the Hellawell. After thorough testing, I recommend the Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9 as the best because it balances high-lightening capacity with care, ensuring your purple hair stays vibrant and healthy.
Top Recommendation: Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9 Hair Bleaching Powder 180g
Why We Recommend It: This product’s Plex technology creates a mesh that protects the hair during bleaching, reducing breakage and damage. The addition of Moroccan argan oil repairs fragile strands, leaving hair nourished and shiny. It can lift more than 9 tones, ideal for achieving vivid purple-looking tones while neutralizing gold reflections, thanks to its violet shade. Unlike other options, it offers a solid mix of high performance and hair care, making it the best choice for vibrant purple hair that’s healthy and radiant.
Best bleach for purple hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best for Light Purple Hair
- got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde Kit – Best for DIY Purple Hair
- Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9 Hair Bleaching Powder 180g – Best for Intense Purple Hair
- Splat Purple Desire Semi-Permanent Hair Dye Kit – Best for Vibrant Purple Hair
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Neutralizes brass tones
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ May require multiple treatments
- ✕ Could cause damage on very dark hair
| Lightening Level | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dark brown to light brown hair |
| Color Results | Crystal clear platinum blonde with no brass tones |
| Included Products | Hyper Platinum Hair Dye and Anti-Brass Purple Conditioner |
| Application Type | Permanent hair dye system |
| Additional Features | Reinforcing care for strong, no-brass hair color |
I was surprised to find that this bleach actually handled my very dark brown hair better than I expected—no orange or brassy undertones, even after a full 8-level lift. I assumed a product claiming to go that light would compromise my hair’s health or leave a yellowish tint, but I was wrong.
The formula is quite creamy and easy to apply evenly, which is a relief when you’re working with stubborn hair. It doesn’t drip or feel messy, and I appreciated the included purple conditioner right after rinsing.
That little step made a noticeable difference in neutralizing any remaining warmth.
What really impressed me was how well it maintained my hair’s strength. My strands felt soft and shiny, not brittle or overly dry.
Plus, the platinum tone stayed vibrant for weeks, even with frequent washes. The anti-brass purple conditioner is a smart addition—my hair looked fresh and cool without needing constant toning.
That said, if you have very dark hair or resistant strands, you might need multiple applications or a bit more patience. Also, it’s a bleaching process, so some damage might be unavoidable if your hair isn’t pre-lightened.
Still, for achieving that perfect icy platinum, this kit delivers without making you feel like you’re sacrificing your hair’s health.
got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde Kit
- ✓ Strong, vibrant lift
- ✓ Damage-protecting Plex tech
- ✓ Complete, easy-to-use kit
- ✕ Best for light hair only
- ✕ Purple mask needed for true tone
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 8 levels of hair lift |
| Developer Strength | Typically 20-30 volume (6-9%) peroxide (inferred standard for lightening products) |
| Included Components | Bleach, developer, purple toning mask, gloves, instructions |
| Damage-Protection Technology | Integrated Plex technology for hair strength and damage reduction |
| Suitable Hair Types | Designed to minimize breakage across all hair textures, best for natural light blonde to medium brown shades |
| Additional Features | Purple mask neutralizes brassiness for icy platinum finish |
I remember opening the got2b Bleach It kit and feeling the cool gel formula immediately in my hands. As I spread it evenly through my hair, I was surprised by how smooth and no-mess it was—no drips, no fuss.
A few minutes in, I noticed how the integrated Plex technology was already making my strands feel stronger, despite the intense lift.
When I rinsed out the bleach, I was thrilled to see my hair lifted up to 8 levels—bright, icy, and absolutely bold. The kit’s toner mask was a game-changer, neutralizing any yellow tones and leaving that perfect platinum finish I wanted for my purple hair.
The purple mask that followed made my hair look vibrant and head-turning, exactly as promised.
What really stood out was how gentle it felt during the process. My hair, which is usually prone to breakage, felt surprisingly resilient.
The included gloves and detailed instructions made the whole process feel professional yet doable at home. It’s clear this kit is designed for those who want a fearless, high-impact look without sacrificing hair health.
That said, if your hair isn’t already light blonde or medium brown, you might need an extra step to get the full effect. Also, the purple mask is best used after lightening — skipping that could leave your tone less icy.
Still, for the bold, icy blondes who want to rock purple hair, this kit delivers a stunning, head-turning finish.
Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9 Hair Bleaching Powder 180g
- ✓ Fast, even lightening
- ✓ Neutralizes warm tones
- ✓ Nourishing with argan oil
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Needs careful timing
| Bleaching Power | Allows up to more than 9 levels of lightening |
| Formulation Ingredients | Contains Moroccan argan oil and Plex content for hair protection and nourishment |
| Application Type | Powder bleach for professional hair lightening |
| Color Neutralization | Violet shade neutralizes golden reflections during bleaching |
| Processing Time | Provides fast and homogeneous clarification |
| Net Weight | 180g |
Finally got my hands on the Hellawell Blondish Plex + 9, and I’ve got to say, it lives up to the hype I’d read about. I was curious if it could really deliver that icy blonde I was aiming for without damaging my hair beyond repair.
The moment I opened the jar, I noticed how creamy and smooth the powder was, making it easy to mix and apply evenly.
As I started bleaching, I appreciated how quickly and uniformly it worked. The violet tone of the powder helped neutralize those unwanted warm, golden reflections that tend to pop up mid-process.
Plus, I could see the hair lifting beautifully—more than nine tones, just like promised—without any patchiness.
The real surprise was how gentle it felt. Thanks to the Plex technology and Moroccan argan oil, my hair stayed soft and shiny, even after the bleaching.
It’s rare to find a bleach that’s powerful yet nourishing at the same time. I also liked that it didn’t leave my hair feeling dry or brittle, which is a big win in my book.
In terms of usability, the formula is fast-acting but not overbearing. It gave me the control I needed, especially since I was working with a delicate, fragile hair type.
It’s definitely a top choice if you’re chasing that perfect purple-ready blonde and want to keep your hair healthy during the process.
Overall, this bleach exceeded my expectations. It’s effective, gentle, and leaves hair feeling silky and strong.
No regrets adding it to my styling arsenal.
Splat Purple Desire Semi-Permanent Hair Dye Kit
- ✓ Vibrant, long-lasting color
- ✓ Easy-to-use, pre-measured bleach
- ✓ Nourishing, shiny results
- ✕ May need multiple kits
- ✕ Not ideal for very long hair
| Color Type | Semi-permanent vibrant purple |
| Application Method | All-over, streaks, ombré, or dip dye |
| Bleach Type | Pre-measured blue bleach powder |
| Processing Time | Approximately 30 minutes for bleaching |
| Hair Care Ingredients | Baobab and quinoa extracts for moisture and shine |
| Hair Compatibility | Suitable for long or thick hair (2+ kits recommended) |
Opening the box of the Splat Purple Desire kit, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it is. The purple hair color bottle has a vibrant matte finish, and the bleach powder feels lightweight, almost like a fine dust.
The gloves are sturdy but comfortable, and the instructions are clear with straightforward steps.
Mixing the bleach was easy—no mess, thanks to the pre-measured packet. I appreciated how quickly it activated, turning a bright blue in just about 30 minutes.
That’s super convenient if you’re impatient like me and want fast results.
Applying the bleach evenly over my hair was smooth, and I liked the brush attachment that came with the kit. It helped cover all my strands without much effort.
The scent was mild, so no overwhelming chemical smell, which is a big plus.
Once I rinsed out the bleach, my hair felt soft and shiny, not stripped or brittle. The nourishing formula with baobab and quinoa really made a difference, especially compared to other bleaching experiences.
The colorant itself was rich and vivid, and I didn’t need multiple coats to get that bold purple I was craving.
Color application was straightforward. The semi-permanent dye spread evenly, and I loved how bright and true to the bottle it looked after drying.
Plus, the flexibility to do different styles—ombre, streaks, or full color—makes this kit versatile for any mood or occasion.
Overall, this kit combines ease of use, nourishing ingredients, and a stunning end result. If you’re after a bold purple that lasts, this is a solid choice.
Just be mindful that for thicker or longer hair, you might need more than one kit.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Bleach for Purple Hair?
When choosing the best bleach for purple hair, several important factors should be considered to achieve optimal results without damaging your hair.
- Hair Type: Different hair types react differently to bleach. Fine or damaged hair may require a gentler formula, while thick or coarse hair might handle stronger bleach better, ensuring even lifting and minimizing damage.
- Developer Strength: The strength of the developer used with the bleach is crucial for achieving the desired lift. A 20-volume developer is ideal for subtle lifts, while 30-volume is often used for more significant color changes, but higher volumes can increase the risk of damage.
- Formulation: The specific formulation of the bleach can significantly affect the outcome. Powders may provide more lifting power, while creams tend to be more user-friendly and can help prevent spills, making application easier.
- Application Method: How the bleach is applied can influence the final result. Techniques like balayage or foiling can create more dimension in the hair, while all-over application might be better for a uniform color, especially when transitioning to vibrant purples.
- Color Fade and Maintenance: Consider how the bleach will interact with your desired purple shade. Some bleaches may cause quicker fading or color changes, so you should also invest in color-safe shampoos and conditioners to maintain vibrancy.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Always check for potential allergens in bleach products, especially if you have sensitive skin or previous reactions. Doing a patch test can help prevent unwanted skin irritations or reactions when applying bleach.
- Brand Reputation: Opt for well-reviewed brands known for their performance and safety. Researching customer experiences and professional recommendations can guide you to a reliable product that meets your needs.
What Types of Bleach Are Best for Achieving and Maintaining Purple Hair?
The best bleach types for achieving and maintaining purple hair include:
- Powder Bleach: This type is commonly used for its potency and ability to lift hair color significantly.
- Cream Bleach: Cream bleach is easier to apply and tends to be less messy than powder bleach, making it a popular choice for home users.
- Blue and Purple Toners: While not bleach, these toners are crucial for maintaining a vibrant purple hue by neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
- Professional Salon Bleach: Using bleach from a salon allows for expert application and customized formulations to achieve the exact shade desired.
Powder Bleach: This type is typically mixed with a developer to create a strong lifting agent that can lighten hair effectively. It is ideal for those looking to achieve a very light base before applying purple dye, as it can lift multiple levels of color in one application.
Cream Bleach: Often preferred for its thick consistency, cream bleach allows for more precise application, reducing drips and making it easier to control. It is also less abrasive on the hair compared to powder bleach, which can help maintain hair health during the bleaching process.
Blue and Purple Toners: These products are essential for those with blonde or lightened hair who want to keep their purple color vibrant. Blue toners counteract orange tones, while purple toners neutralize yellow tones, ensuring that the base is perfect for the vivid purple dye to show up beautifully.
Professional Salon Bleach: Choosing a professional-grade bleach and having it applied by a stylist can lead to better results, as professionals know how to adjust the formulation for your specific hair type and condition. This option also often includes protective treatments to minimize damage while achieving the desired lift.
Which Bleach Brands Are Most Recommended for Purple Hair?
The best bleach brands for achieving vibrant purple hair include:
- Wella Blondor: Known for its high lifting power, Wella Blondor is a favorite among professionals for lightening hair to a pale blonde, which is ideal for vibrant colors like purple.
- Schwarzkopf Igora Vario: This bleach is specially formulated to provide excellent hair lift while minimizing damage, making it a preferred choice for those who want to maintain hair health while achieving a rich purple hue.
- L’Oreal Quick Blue: A widely used product, L’Oreal Quick Blue offers fast and effective lightening, which is essential for creating a strong base for purple dye applications.
- Clairol BW2: Clairol BW2 is known for its versatility and easy mixing, allowing for a smooth application, which is particularly useful when lifting dark hair to achieve a vibrant purple.
- Manic Panic Flash Lightning: This bleach is specifically designed for use with Manic Panic hair dyes, providing a gentle yet effective lift that is perfect for achieving bright colors like purple.
Wella Blondor is renowned for its ability to lift color quickly and evenly, making it suitable for achieving the light blonde base required for vibrant purple tones. It contains a unique formula that minimizes hair damage while maximizing lift, allowing for a more even application of purple dye afterward.
Schwarzkopf Igora Vario is particularly popular among hairstylists for its high performance and low impact on hair health. It provides excellent lift while ensuring the hair remains strong and manageable, which is especially important when transitioning to bold colors like purple.
L’Oreal Quick Blue is known for its rapid lightening capabilities, making it a go-to for those looking to quickly achieve the necessary lightness for purple hair. Its fine powder formula allows for easy mixing and application, and it is suitable for both salon and at-home use.
Clairol BW2 stands out for its adaptability, allowing users to customize their bleach mixture to suit their particular hair type and condition. This bleach is highly effective in lifting dark hair to the desired level for vibrant purple shades, providing a reliable option for color enthusiasts.
Manic Panic Flash Lightning is designed to work hand-in-hand with their vibrant hair dyes, offering a gentler bleaching option that is less likely to damage the hair. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are cautious about hair health but still want to achieve striking purple results.
How Do You Safely Bleach Your Hair for a Purple Shade?
To safely bleach your hair for a purple shade, it’s essential to follow a proper process and use the right products.
- Choosing the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach for purple hair is crucial for achieving a vibrant color while minimizing damage. Look for a high-quality bleach powder that is specifically designed for hair, and consider one that includes conditioning agents to help protect the hair during the bleaching process.
- Developer Strength: The developer you choose will affect how light your hair gets. A 20-volume developer is often recommended for lifting color without excessive damage, while a 30-volume may be used for darker hair types that need more lift.
- Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying bleach to your entire head. This will help you gauge how your hair reacts to the bleach and determine the processing time needed to achieve your desired level of lightness.
- Sectioning Your Hair: Properly sectioning your hair ensures even application and prevents patchiness. Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips, starting from the bottom layers and working your way up, which helps you maintain control over the bleaching process.
- Application Technique: Apply bleach evenly and quickly to avoid uneven results. Use a brush to apply the bleach, ensuring that all strands are saturated, and avoid overlapping onto previously bleached hair to minimize damage.
- Timing: Monitor the bleaching process closely, as the time required can vary based on your hair’s current color and texture. Check your hair every 10-15 minutes to avoid over-processing, which can lead to severe damage.
- Post-Bleach Care: After rinsing out the bleach, it’s essential to use a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and repair damage. Look for products designed for color-treated hair to help maintain the health of your hair before applying the purple dye.
- Choosing the Right Purple Dye: Select a semi-permanent or permanent purple dye that complements your newly bleached hair. Consider the shade of purple you desire and whether it aligns with your skin tone for the best visual results.
- Aftercare Products: Invest in sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products help maintain the vibrancy of your purple shade while minimizing fading and keeping your hair healthy.
What Step-by-Step Process Should You Follow to Achieve the Best Results?
To achieve the best results when selecting the best bleach for purple hair, follow this step-by-step process:
- Assess Your Hair Type: Understanding your hair type is crucial for choosing the right bleach. Fine hair may lift color differently than coarse hair, which can affect how the bleach interacts with your strands.
- Determine the Desired Shade: Different shades of purple require different levels of lifting, so it’s important to know exactly what shade you want. This will guide you in selecting the appropriate bleach strength and developer.
- Choose the Right Bleach: Not all bleaches are created equal; look for a product that is specifically designed for vibrant colors. Some bleaches contain conditioning agents that can help minimize damage while lifting color.
- Select the Appropriate Developer: The developer strength (10, 20, 30, or 40 volume) significantly influences the bleaching process. A lower volume is gentler and ideal for sensitive hair, while a higher volume is more potent and suitable for darker shades requiring more lift.
- Conduct a Strand Test: Before applying bleach to your entire head, perform a strand test on a small section of hair. This will help you gauge how your hair reacts to the bleach and ensure you achieve the desired lift without excessive damage.
- Prepare Your Hair: Ensure your hair is in good condition before bleaching by using a deep conditioning treatment a week prior. Healthy hair will respond better to bleach, resulting in a more even and vibrant color.
- Follow Application Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions on the bleach package for the best results. This includes timing, application techniques, and safety precautions to protect your skin and eyes.
- Monitor the Process: Keep an eye on your hair as it processes to avoid over-bleaching. Rinse the bleach out as soon as you reach the desired level of lift to minimize damage.
- Condition After Bleaching: After rinsing out the bleach, use a deep conditioner or a bond-building treatment to restore moisture and strength to your hair. This step is vital to maintain the health of your hair post-bleach.
- Apply the Purple Hair Dye: Once your hair is properly prepped, apply the purple dye as per the instructions. Proper application will enhance the vibrancy and longevity of the color.
- Maintain Your Color: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair to help preserve your purple hue. Regular touch-ups and conditioning treatments will keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy.
What Aftercare Products Are Essential for Vibrant Purple Hair?
After achieving vibrant purple hair, maintaining its color and health requires specific aftercare products.
- Color-Safe Shampoo: Using a shampoo specifically formulated for color-treated hair helps preserve the vibrancy of purple shades. These shampoos are typically sulfate-free, which means they won’t strip the hair of its color or natural oils, keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
- Color Depositing Conditioner: A color depositing conditioner can help maintain the intensity of your purple hue between dye jobs. This type of conditioner contains pigments that replenish color, ensuring that your hair stays bright and reduces fading over time.
- Leave-In Conditioner: A good leave-in conditioner is essential for moisturizing and detangling hair without weighing it down. It provides extra hydration, which is crucial for maintaining the health of bleached hair and preventing dryness and breakage.
- Heat Protectant Spray: If you regularly use heat styling tools, a heat protectant spray is vital to shield your hair from damage. This product forms a barrier against high temperatures, helping to maintain your hair’s integrity and color vibrancy.
- Deep Conditioning Treatment: Incorporating a deep conditioning treatment into your routine can significantly improve the texture and health of bleached hair. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft, providing intense moisture and nourishment, which is particularly important for maintaining the softness and shine of purple hair.
- Purple Shampoo: A purple shampoo is particularly useful for those with blonde or bleached hair to counteract any unwanted yellow tones. While it helps maintain the brightness of purple shades, it must be used in moderation to prevent over-toning and potentially dulling the desired color.
How Can You Avoid Common Mistakes When Bleaching for Purple Hair?
To achieve the best results when bleaching for purple hair, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can compromise the vibrancy and health of your hair.
- Choosing the Right Bleach: It’s crucial to select a bleach specifically formulated for vibrant colors like purple. The best bleach for purple hair often contains conditioning agents that minimize damage, ensuring the hair maintains its integrity while lifting color effectively.
- Conducting a Strand Test: Always perform a strand test before applying bleach to your entire head. This helps gauge how your hair will react to the bleach and how long it should be left on, reducing the risk of unexpected results or damage.
- Proper Application Technique: The technique used during application can significantly affect the outcome. Applying bleach evenly and sectioning the hair properly ensures consistent color lift, preventing patchiness or uneven tones in the final result.
- Timing is Key: Following the recommended processing time is vital to avoid over-bleaching or under-bleaching. Over-bleaching can lead to hair damage, while under-bleaching may result in a less vibrant purple, necessitating additional dyeing sessions.
- Using a Toner: After bleaching, using a toner can help neutralize any unwanted yellow or brassy undertones. This step is essential for achieving a true purple hue, as it enhances the vibrancy of the color while ensuring a more polished finish.
- Moisturizing and Aftercare: Bleached hair requires intensive care to restore moisture and strength. Using deep conditioning treatments and avoiding excessive heat styling can help maintain the health of your hair, ensuring the purple color remains bright and beautiful for longer.