Best Dark Purple Hair Dye for Dark Hair

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent countless hours scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest, admiring those stunning deep purple locks that just pop, especially on dark hair. Getting that vibrant, rich dark purple hair dye to truly show up and last on darker hair can feel like a quest, and trust me, I’ve been there with the trial and error. That’s why I’ve put together this hands-on guide, diving deep into some of the best dark purple hair dye options out there designed specifically for dark hair. We’ll explore what makes each one stand out, from their formulas to how they perform in the real world, so you can confidently pick the perfect shade to transform your mane without endless experimenting. Let’s find your next favorite purple!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair…	View on Amazon
	Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Hair Dye, Fade Resist Hair…	View on Amazon
	Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme,…	View on Amazon
	ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color…	View on Amazon
	20 Purple Premium Natural Semi Permanent Hair Color	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, V38 Violet Vixen

This dye isn’t just one note; it’s a multi-faceted permanent hair color that delivers a shimmering, deep purple with incredible depth. Feria has always been my go-to when I want a bold, head-turning shade that feels salon-quality. This particular “Violet Vixen” shade is designed to give you intensified, brilliant results, featuring a prismatic color spectrum that truly catches the light. The kit includes a nourishing formula that seals and smooths your hair, ensuring it never looks dull or flat. It’s perfect for those seeking a vibrant, long-lasting dark purple that truly shines, even on darker base tones.

• Key features:

  • Multi-Faceted Permanent Hair Color with 3X highlights
  • Prismatic color spectrum for brilliant results
  • Nourishing Formula seals and smooths hair
  • Kit includes Conditioning Colour Crème, Developer, Aromatic Shimmer Serum, and Power Shimmer Conditioner
  • Designed for bold, shimmering, multi-tonal colors

• Pros:

  • Provides intense, shimmering results with depth
  • Permanent formula means longer-lasting color
  • Conditioning agents help keep hair smooth and shiny
  • Great for achieving a vibrant purple on darker hair
  • Relatively easy to apply at home

• Cons:

  • Permanent dye can be more damaging than semi-permanent options
  • Color may fade over time, requiring touch-ups
  • Strong chemical smell during application

• Best for: Those looking for a bold, shimmering, permanent dark purple on their dark hair with a salon-like finish.

• User feedback summary: Many users rave about the vibrancy and multi-dimensional shine of this dye, noting that it provides a noticeable and beautiful dark purple even on unbleached dark hair, though some mention needing multiple boxes for longer, thicker hair.

Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Hair Dye, Fade Resist Hair Color, Vivacious Violet

When it comes to coloring textured hair, Softsheen-Carson is a name many trust, and their Dark and Lovely Vivacious Violet doesn’t disappoint. This is an expertly made permanent hair color for textured hair that truly pops on dark hair for up to 8 weeks. It’s designed to provide up to 2.5 levels of lift, which is fantastic for ensuring the purple hue shows vibrantly on naturally dark strands, working beautifully across all curls, coils, and hair textures. The kit also includes a new 97% naturally derived Moisture Mask featuring Shea Butter, Sunflower oil, and Vitamin E, ensuring your curls are nourished and detangled post-coloration. The no-drip formula for easy application makes the process smoother, which is always a plus.

• Key features:

  • Rich, fade-resistant permanent color for up to 8 weeks
  • Designed for textured hair, working on all curl types (including 4C)
  • Provides up to 2.5 levels of lift for better color visibility on dark hair
  • Includes a 97% natural derived Moisture Mask with Shea Butter, Sunflower oil, and Vitamin E
  • No-drip formula for easy application
  • Vegan, paraben-free, and silicone-free

• Pros:

  • Specifically formulated to show vibrantly on dark, textured hair
  • Long-lasting, fade-resistant color
  • Nourishing after-color care mask is a huge bonus for hair health
  • Easy, mess-free application
  • Gentle, vegan formula without parabens or silicones

• Cons:

  • May still require some initial lift for extremely dark hair to achieve maximum vibrancy
  • Limited shade range compared to some other brands
  • Permanent dye can be a commitment

• Best for: Individuals with textured, dark hair (especially 4C) looking for a vibrant, long-lasting dark purple that provides good color payoff and includes nourishing after-care.

• User feedback summary: Users with textured, dark hair consistently praise how well this dye shows up on their hair without pre-lightening, often highlighting the included moisture mask as a major benefit for maintaining hair health and softness after coloring.

Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme, V2 Dark Intense Violet (Spiced Plum)

The Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color V2 Dark Intense Violet, also known as “Spiced Plum,” is a fantastic option if you’re aiming for a dark purple hair dye with added intense violet tones on your naturally dark hair. This permanent hair color is specially designed to adapt to all hair textures and promises long-lasting bold color. What makes it particularly suitable for darker hair is its intensity-enhancing color boost technology, which helps you achieve high-impact color in just one step – crucial for getting purple to show up! Plus, it’s formulated with a luxurious blend of five fruit oils: Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea oils, ensuring that nourished hair equals bolder color. The after-color mask locks in moisture, leaving hair smooth, silky, and protected against dryness.

• Key features:

  • Dark Intense Violet (Spiced Plum) shade with rich purple tones
  • Permanent hair color suitable for natural hair between light brown and darkest brown
  • Color Boost Technology for high-impact, long-lasting color (up to 8 weeks)
  • Nourishing formula with 5 fruit oils (Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea)
  • After-color mask for moisture and protection
  • Cruelty-free and vegan hair dye

• Pros:

  • Specifically designed for dark hair, providing good color payoff without pre-lightening
  • Color Boost Technology enhances vibrancy
  • Deeply nourishing with a blend of fruit oils
  • Long-lasting color and moisture retention
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

• Cons:

  • The “spiced plum” might lean more reddish-purple for some
  • Like all permanent dyes, it can be a drying process if not properly conditioned
  • Results can vary greatly depending on your natural hair undertones

• Best for: Individuals with natural dark hair (light brown to darkest brown) who want a vibrant, intensely violet dark purple with excellent nourishing benefits, all in one step.

• User feedback summary: Many users report achieving a visible and rich dark purple shade on their unbleached dark hair, often praising the conditioning effect of the fruit oils which leave their hair feeling soft and shiny, though some note the color might appear darker than expected indoors.

ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color, Purple AF

For those who prefer a semi-permanent option or want to avoid harsh chemicals, Arctic Fox’s “Purple AF” (formerly Purple Rain) is an absolute standout. This deep, true purple is incredibly versatile and works well on a variety of base colors, from platinum to light brown, giving deep tints of color to darker hair and showing vibrantly on lightened hair. What I love most is that it’s made only from vegan ingredients with no animal by-products and no harmful chemicals like peroxide, ammonia, or PPD. It’s gentle enough for frequent use and actually conditions your hair as it restores vibrancy. Plus, it smells sweet and smears less, making application a more pleasant experience. It’s also fantastic for covering up other faded colors effectively.

• Key features:

  • Deep, true purple semi-permanent hair color
  • Vegan and cruelty-free formula
  • No harsh chemicals: No Peroxide, No Ammonia, No Ethyl Alcohol, No PPD
  • Conditions hair while coloring
  • Gentle enough for frequent use
  • Versatile: provides deep tints on dark hair, vibrant on lightened hair
  • Sweet scent and smears less

• Pros:

  • Gentle and non-damaging to hair
  • Conditions hair, leaving it soft
  • Great for experimenting without long-term commitment
  • Shows up as a noticeable tint on dark hair
  • No harsh chemical smell
  • Excellent for refreshing faded purple
  • Eco-conscious and ethical choice

• Cons:

  • Semi-permanent means more frequent reapplication for continuous vibrancy
  • True vibrancy on very dark hair typically requires pre-lightening
  • Can stain skin and surfaces if not careful

• Best for: Individuals who want a gentle, vegan, semi-permanent dark purple that conditions hair, provides a noticeable tint on dark hair, and is perfect for refreshing color or for those hesitant about permanent dyes.

• User feedback summary: Users frequently praise Purple AF for its rich, vibrant color and how incredibly conditioning it is, often noting their hair feels healthier after use. Many report that while it tints dark hair beautifully, it truly shines and becomes an intense purple on pre-lightened strands.

Iroiro 20 Purple Premium Natural Semi Permanent Hair Color

Iroiro’s 20 Purple Premium Natural Semi Permanent Hair Color is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing natural ingredients and eco-friendly practices. This 100% vegan and cruelty-free semi-permanent dye delivers vibrant, long-lasting color while being incredibly gentle. Its formula, made with 95% natural ingredients and pure coconut oil, nourishes and hydrates your hair, even restoring dry or damaged strands. You won’t find any petrol-based chemicals, PEGs, parabens, synthetic fragrances, peroxide, ammonia, or PPD here, making it a truly clean beauty option. Plus, Iroiro is committed to sustainability with its innovative eco-pouches, which reduce waste and carbon footprint. It leaves your hair smelling delightful with a natural yuzu-cranberry fragrance, making the coloring process a pleasant experience.

• Key features:

  • Vibrant, long-lasting semi-permanent color
  • 100% vegan and cruelty-free
  • 95% natural ingredients and pure coconut oil
  • Free from harsh chemicals (petrol-based, PEGs, parabens, peroxide, ammonia, PPD, etc.)
  • Gentle and nourishing, restores dry/damaged hair
  • Delightful natural yuzu-cranberry fragrance
  • Eco-friendly eco-pouches packaging

• Pros:

  • Incredibly gentle and nourishing, won’t damage hair
  • Excellent choice for those with sensitivities or a preference for natural products
  • Eco-friendly packaging is a big plus
  • Leaves hair feeling soft and healthy
  • Pleasant scent
  • Provides vibrant color, especially on lighter bases, and a good tint on dark hair

• Cons:

  • Like all semi-permanents, it requires more frequent application
  • For extremely vibrant results on very dark hair, pre-lightening is often recommended
  • Can be messy during application, like most semi-permanent dyes

• Best for: Eco-conscious individuals prioritizing natural, vegan, and chemical-free semi-permanent dark purple hair dye that conditions and nourishes hair, while also being environmentally responsible.

• User feedback summary: Users often praise Iroiro for its beautiful, rich purple shades and the noticeable improvement in their hair’s condition and softness after use, with many appreciating the natural ingredients and pleasant scent. They confirm it provides a good color deposit on dark hair, though a brighter pop is achieved on lighter bases.

Comparison Insights

When choosing the best dark purple hair dye for dark hair, it really comes down to what you prioritize: permanency, ingredients, and how much “pop” you expect without pre-lightening.

For those committed to a long-lasting, intense dark purple with a shimmering finish, the L’Oreal Paris Feria and Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color are your top permanent contenders. L’Oreal Feria offers a unique multi-faceted shimmer, while Garnier Nutrisse stands out with its intensity-enhancing color boost technology and nourishing blend of five fruit oils, making it particularly great for hair health during a permanent color process. Both are designed to show up well on darker bases.

If you have textured hair, especially 4C curls, Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely is specifically formulated for you. It’s a permanent dye that promises vibrant color and includes a fantastic 97% natural derived Moisture Mask to keep those curls happy and healthy. Its ability to provide up to 2.5 levels of lift is a significant advantage for dark, textured hair.

On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals and are open to more frequent touch-ups, the semi-permanent options like ARCTIC FOX Purple AF and Iroiro 20 Purple Premium Natural are excellent. Arctic Fox is beloved for its conditioning, vegan, and cruelty-free formula that provides a deep tint on dark hair and brilliant color on lighter bases. Iroiro takes the natural approach even further with 95% natural ingredients, pure coconut oil, and eco-friendly packaging, offering a super gentle, nourishing experience. Both semi-permanents are fantastic for those seeking to enhance their dark hair with a purple hue without the commitment or potential damage of permanent dyes.

While permanent dyes generally offer a more pronounced and lasting color on dark hair without necessarily needing bleach, semi-permanent dyes like Arctic Fox and Iroiro can still give a beautiful, deep purple tint or sheen that looks stunning and subtle. If you want maximum vibrancy from a semi-permanent on very dark hair, a light pre-lightening might still be beneficial, but for a noticeable deep purple, these options do a commendable job.

Final Verdict

Choosing the absolute “best” dark purple hair dye for dark hair really depends on your personal hair goals and preferences.

If you’re after a permanent, shimmering, multi-dimensional dark purple that truly shines, L’Oreal Paris Feria is an outstanding choice. It delivers on vibrancy and depth, making it a staple for a bold, lasting look.

For those with textured, dark hair who need a dye specifically formulated to pop on their curl pattern, Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely is your winner. Its fade-resistant formula and included nourishing mask make it a thoughtful option.

If you desire a permanent, intensely violet dark purple with incredible nourishing benefits from fruit oils, Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color “Spiced Plum” is a reliable pick. Its color boost technology ensures a noticeable shade on dark hair.

However, if healthier hair, ethical choices, and flexibility are paramount, then the semi-permanent options like ARCTIC FOX Purple AF or Iroiro 20 Purple Premium Natural are your best bet. ARCTIC FOX Purple AF is fantastic for a conditioning, vibrant tint that’s gentle and smells great. But if you lean towards ultra-natural ingredients and eco-conscious packaging, Iroiro offers an unparalleled gentle and nourishing experience with a beautiful purple payoff.

Ultimately, each of these dyes offers a distinct advantage, ensuring there’s a perfect dark purple for every dark-haired beauty out there.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Do I need to bleach my dark hair to achieve a dark purple hair color?
A: Not always for a dark purple! Many dark purple hair dyes, especially those designed for dark hair like Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color and Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely, are formulated to provide noticeable color without pre-lightening. You’ll likely get a rich, deep purple tint or a subtle dark plum shade. For a more vibrant, “true” purple that really pops, especially with semi-permanent dyes, a light pre-lightening to a dark blonde or light brown base might be beneficial, but it’s often not strictly necessary for a beautiful dark purple.

Q2: How long does dark purple hair dye last on dark hair?
A: This depends on the type of dye. Permanent dark purple hair dye, like L’Oreal Feria or Garnier Nutrisse, can last for several weeks (typically 4-8 weeks) before noticeable fading, usually requiring root touch-ups. Semi-permanent dark purple hair dye, such as Arctic Fox or Iroiro, will gradually fade with each wash and generally lasts 2-6 weeks, depending on hair porosity and how often you wash your hair.

Q3: Will dark purple hair dye look good on my dark skin tone?
A: Absolutely! Dark purple hair dye, especially shades with cool undertones like violet or plum, can beautifully complement a wide range of dark skin tones, adding depth and richness. It can create a striking contrast or a harmonious blend, making your complexion glow. It’s a versatile color that tends to be flattering on many.

Q4: How can I prevent my dark purple hair color from fading quickly?
A: To prolong your dark purple hair dye, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair. Wash your hair with cool or lukewarm water, as hot water opens the cuticle and leaches color. Limit hair washing, use dry shampoo between washes, and avoid excessive heat styling. UV protectant sprays can also help guard against sun-induced fading. For semi-permanent dyes, you can mix a little dye into your conditioner for a color-boosting mask.

Q5: Is dark purple hair dye damaging to dark hair?
A: Permanent dark purple hair dyes contain chemicals like ammonia and peroxide, which open the hair cuticle to deposit color, and can cause some damage, especially if your hair is already compromised. However, many modern formulas, like Garnier Nutrisse, include nourishing oils to minimize this. Semi-permanent dark purple hair dye, like Arctic Fox and Iroiro, are generally much gentler as they don’t penetrate the hair shaft in the same way and often contain conditioning ingredients, making them less damaging.

Q6: Can I apply dark purple hair dye over previously dyed hair?
A: Yes, you can. However, the result will depend on your current hair color. If your hair is currently a different dark shade, the purple might take on a different tone (e.g., if you have dark red hair, purple might look more plum). If your hair is lighter, the purple will be more vibrant. Always perform a strand test first to see how the dark purple hair dye will react with your existing color. For the best and most predictable results, ensure your hair is a relatively uniform dark color.

Q7: What’s the difference between a permanent and semi-permanent dark purple hair dye for dark hair?
A: Permanent dark purple hair dye uses a chemical process to open the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to deeply penetrate the hair shaft. This results in long-lasting, often more vibrant color that doesn’t wash out. Semi-permanent dark purple hair dye, on the other hand, deposits color molecules on the outside of the hair shaft without using harsh chemicals. It gradually fades with washing and is less damaging, offering a temporary color change or a vibrant tint.