Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color

Diving into the Wild World of Temporary Hair Color: My Journey with Strawberry Leopard

Hey there, fellow color enthusiasts! After spending years experimenting with various hair colors and brands, I’ve finally found my holy grail of temporary hair color. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color – the game-changer that’s revolutionized my approach to hair experimentation.

Remember when changing your hair color meant commitment, damage, and sometimes regret? Those days are gone! Let me take you through my comprehensive guide to these vibrant, temporary hues that have transformed not just my hair, but my entire approach to self-expression.

What Exactly Is Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color?

When I first stumbled across Strawberry Leopard, I was immediately intrigued by their bold, eye-catching packaging – but what really sets this brand apart is what’s inside the bottle. Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color is a wash-out hair color formula designed for people like me who love experimenting without commitment.

Unlike permanent dyes that chemically alter your hair structure, Strawberry Leopard’s temporary formula coats the outside of the hair shaft with pigment that gradually washes away. It’s essentially makeup for your hair – vibrant, fun, and importantly, not a long-term decision you might regret.

The first time I used it, I was genuinely surprised by how vibrant the color was despite its temporary nature. The formula is thicker than traditional dyes, with a consistency similar to a conditioning mask, which actually makes application less messy and more precise than I expected.

Temporary vs. Semi-Permanent: Understanding the Difference

Before discovering Strawberry Leopard, I made the common mistake of confusing temporary and semi-permanent dyes. Let me clear this up based on my experience:

Temporary hair color like Strawberry Leopard sits on top of your hair strand and washes out within 1-8 shampoos, depending on your hair porosity and the specific shade. It doesn’t penetrate the hair cuticle or use developers.

Semi-permanent dye, meanwhile, partially penetrates the hair cuticle and typically lasts 4-12 washes. Brands like Manic Panic or Arctic Fox fall into this category.

The beauty of Strawberry Leopard’s temporary formula is that it gives you the vibrant color payoff you’d expect from semi-permanent options, but with significantly less commitment. This makes it perfect for:

• Weekend events or festivals
• Trying a color before committing to something more permanent
• Adding temporary pops of color to specific sections
• Experimenting with wild colors in professional settings where you need to return to a natural look quickly

How Long Does the Color Actually Last?

In my experience, how long Strawberry Leopard colors last depends on several factors. On my highlighted blonde hair, I’ve had colors last anywhere from 2-8 washes, with the more vibrant shades (especially pinks and purples) tending to cling longer than cooler tones like blues and greens.

Some important factors that affect longevity:

• Hair porosity (more porous hair holds color longer)
• Water temperature (hot water fades color faster)
• Hair product usage (clarifying shampoos remove color more quickly)
• Sun exposure (UV rays can fade color)

What I appreciate most is the predictable fade-out. Unlike some brands that leave a strange greenish or yellowish tint as they fade, Strawberry Leopard colors tend to gradually lighten while maintaining their hue family. This means even the fade-out process can look intentional and pretty.

One-Wash Wonders? Not Exactly

Let’s be honest – despite what some temporary color brands claim, most temporary hair colors don’t completely wash out in just one shampoo, and Strawberry Leopard is no exception. Based on my testing across multiple shades:

• On pre-lightened or blonde hair: Expect a subtle tint to remain after one wash, with complete removal taking 2-4 shampoos
• On natural light brown hair: You’ll see a subtle tint that usually disappears within 2-3 washes
• On darker hair: The color effect is more subtle to begin with and typically washes out completely in 1-2 shampoos

Here’s my pro tip: If you need the color gone ASAP for work or an event, try a clarifying shampoo with warm (not hot) water, followed by a deep conditioning treatment. I’ve found that shampooing twice in one session with a clarifying formula removes most of the color without overly drying my hair.

The Bleaching Question: Do You Need It?

One of the most common questions I get asked is whether bleaching is necessary before using Strawberry Leopard. The short answer is: it depends on your hair color and your expectations.

On my natural dark blonde hair, Strawberry Leopard shows up as a noticeable tint without bleaching. When I’ve applied it to my friend’s light brown hair, the result was a subtle but present color shift – beautiful but not as vibrant as shown on the packaging.

Here’s my honest assessment:

• Platinum to medium blonde hair: No bleaching needed, colors will appear true to bottle
• Dark blonde to light brown hair: No bleaching necessary, but colors will be more subtle and darker than shown on packaging
• Medium to dark brown hair: Most colors will show as a subtle tint in direct sunlight
• Black hair: Only the most vibrant shades will show a slight reflect in bright lighting

The best part about Strawberry Leopard is that you can test it without bleaching first, and if you love the subtle effect, great! If you want more intensity later, you can always consider lightening your hair for your next application.

Strawberry Leopard on Dark Hair: What to Expect

As someone who’s fluctuated between blonde and brunette over the years, I’ve tested Strawberry Leopard on various base colors. On darker hair, don’t expect the same vibrancy you see on the packaging – those results are typically achieved on pre-lightened hair.

However, I’ve found that on dark hair:

• Vibrant pinks, purples, and reds create a beautiful subtle tint visible in sunlight
• Blues and greens are less effective on dark bases without pre-lightening
• You can create a “peek-a-boo” effect by applying to just the ends or underlayers that catch the light

If you’re a brunette wanting more intense results without bleaching, try:

1. Focusing the product on the ends where hair is naturally lighter
2. Applying more product and leaving it on for the maximum recommended time
3. Using a hair dryer on low heat during processing (the warmth can help the color deposit more effectively)
4. Layering the application over multiple days for more intensity

The Full Spectrum: Available Shades in the Range

Strawberry Leopard’s color range is nothing short of impressive. When I first discovered them, there were about 10 shades, but they’ve since expanded to include over 15 vibrant options. Some of my personal favorites include:

• Electric Paradise: A vibrant hot pink that fades beautifully
• Raspberry Rave: A rich purple-toned pink that looks different depending on lighting
• Cosmic Cobalt: A true blue that’s surprisingly vibrant even on darker bases
• Mint to Be: A pastel mint green that creates the prettiest ethereal look on blonde hair
• Velvet Violet: A deep purple that can look almost burgundy in certain lights
• Coral Classified: A stunning coral-orange that’s perfect for summer
• Emerald Envy: A jewel-toned green that stands out amazingly on pre-lightened hair

What sets this range apart is how well the colors can be mixed together. I’ve created some of my favorite custom shades by combining two or more colors – something not all temporary color brands allow for.

Vegan and Cruelty-Free: Beauty Without Compromise

As someone who’s become increasingly conscious about the products I use, I was thrilled to discover that Strawberry Leopard is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. Their formulas contain no animal-derived ingredients, and they don’t test on animals.

Beyond the ethical considerations, I’ve found that their plant-based formula is generally gentler on hair than many traditional dyes. The colors contain conditioning ingredients that leave my hair feeling soft rather than dry and straw-like after application.

Their commitment to ethical beauty extends to their packaging too, which uses recyclable materials where possible – a small but meaningful detail for those of us trying to reduce our environmental impact.

Performance Across Different Hair Types and Textures

Having tried these colors on both my naturally wavy hair and my friend’s tightly coiled 4C hair, I can confirm that Strawberry Leopard works across different hair textures. However, there are some differences worth noting:

• On straight to wavy hair (Types 1-2): The color distributes very evenly and is easy to apply
• On curly hair (Type 3): The product works well but requires more careful application to ensure it reaches all curls
• On coily and kinky hair (Type 4): The color takes beautifully but often requires more product due to higher porosity

For curlier hair types, I recommend working in smaller sections and using a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly after applying with your fingers or a brush.

An important note for those with highly textured hair: I’ve found that Strawberry Leopard doesn’t typically cause the dryness that some other color brands do, which is a significant advantage for naturally drier hair types.

Application Secrets: How to Get the Best Results

After numerous applications (and a few initial mistakes), I’ve perfected my Strawberry Leopard application technique. Here’s my step-by-step process for the most vibrant, even results:

1. Prep properly: Start with clean, dry hair. Unlike many dyes, Strawberry Leopard works best on dry hair as it allows the product to adhere better.
2. Section strategically: Divide your hair into manageable sections – I typically use 4-6 sections for my shoulder-length hair.
3. Protect everything: Wear gloves (included in the box) and apply petroleum jelly around your hairline and ears to prevent skin staining.
4. Apply generously: Use more product than you think you need, especially on the first application. A thin layer won’t give you the vibrant results you’re after.
5. Process properly: Cover with a shower cap to prevent the product from drying out. I’ve found that heat can intensify the results, so occasionally I’ll sit under a hooded dryer or use my blow dryer on low heat.
6. Rinse correctly: When it’s time to rinse, use cool water and minimal shampoo for the first wash. I rinse until the water runs mostly clear, then apply conditioner.
7. Style smartly: For the first 24-48 hours, avoid heat styling as it can cause the color to fade more quickly.

For even more vibrant results, I sometimes apply the color to slightly damp hair that has been towel-dried after shampooing, then let it process overnight. This gives the most intense color payoff but does make the product slightly messier to work with.

The Staining Situation: What You Need to Know

Let’s address the elephant in the room – temporary hair colors can stain. From my experience with Strawberry Leopard, here’s what to expect:

Skin staining: On a scale of 1-10, I’d rate Strawberry Leopard around a 6 for skin staining. It will temporarily color your skin, but it’s not as bad as some brands I’ve tried. The staining typically washes away within 1-2 days with regular cleansing. My tip: Apply a barrier of petroleum jelly around your hairline, ears, and neck before application.

Clothing: Be careful during application and the first 1-2 washes. I always wear dark-colored tops on color application day and avoid white pillowcases for the first night. After that, the risk of transfer diminishes significantly.

Bathroom surfaces: Surprisingly, Strawberry Leopard is less likely to permanently stain porcelain and tile than some other brands. However, I still wipe down my shower immediately after rinsing to be safe. If you do get staining, a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide usually removes it.

An unexpected benefit I’ve found is that Strawberry Leopard rinses cleaner from my shower than many semi-permanent brands – a small but significant advantage for those of us who share bathrooms!

Using Strawberry Leopard on Chemically Treated Hair

As someone who has highlights and has gone through periods of Japanese straightening, I was initially concerned about using temporary color on chemically processed hair. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Highlighted or bleached hair: Strawberry Leopard adheres extremely well – sometimes too well! Colors can last much longer on bleached portions, so be prepared for that commitment. The good news is that the conditioning formula helps counteract some of the dryness from bleaching.

Color-treated hair: If you have permanent dye in your hair, Strawberry Leopard works as an excellent color refresher or toner. I’ve used purple shades to cool down brassy highlights with great success.

Permed or chemically straightened hair: The product works fine on these hair types, but I recommend waiting at least two weeks after any chemical treatment before applying Strawberry Leopard to minimize potential damage.

Damaged hair: One of the things I appreciate most about Strawberry Leopard is that it doesn’t seem to exacerbate damage. The conditioning formula can actually make dry, damaged hair feel temporarily better, though it’s not a substitute for proper hair repair treatments.

Kid-Friendly and Gentle: Safety Considerations

As an aunt who occasionally gives in to my niece’s requests for “mermaid hair,” I’ve researched the safety aspects thoroughly. Strawberry Leopard is generally gentle enough for kids (with parent supervision) and those with sensitive scalps for several reasons:

• It doesn’t contain ammonia or peroxide
• The formula is free from many harsh chemicals found in permanent dyes
• It doesn’t require any mixing with developers that could cause irritation

That said, I always recommend a patch test 24 hours before full application, especially for children or anyone with skin sensitivities. Apply a small amount behind the ear or on the inside of the elbow and watch for any reaction.

For kids, I’ve found that applying just to the ends or doing small streaks is easier than full-head application, both for the process and for school-appropriate styling afterward.

Comparing Strawberry Leopard to Other Temporary Color Brands

Having tried numerous temporary color brands over the years, I can offer some honest comparisons between Strawberry Leopard and other popular options:

Strawberry Leopard vs. L’Oréal Colorista: Colorista tends to fade faster in my experience, usually within 2-3 washes. Strawberry Leopard generally lasts 3-8 washes on similar hair. However, Colorista is more widely available in drugstores.

Strawberry Leopard vs. Good Dye Young: Good Dye Young’s temporary products have a similar vibrancy but tend to be slightly more drying on my hair. Strawberry Leopard’s formula feels more conditioning during and after application.

Strawberry Leopard vs. Manic Panic: Manic Panic is technically semi-permanent rather than temporary, and it lasts significantly longer (often 2-6 weeks rather than 1-2 weeks). Strawberry Leopard is better if you want something truly temporary.

Strawberry Leopard vs. Overtone: Overtone is marketed as a color-depositing conditioner rather than a temporary dye. It builds up with multiple uses, while Strawberry Leopard gives more immediate vibrant results with a single application.

What gives Strawberry Leopard the edge for me is the balance between vibrancy and impermanence. It’s bright enough to satisfy my color cravings but temporary enough that I can change my mind in a week.

Layering Techniques for Maximum Impact

One of my favorite discoveries has been how well Strawberry Leopard colors can be layered – both in terms of applying multiple coats and combining different shades. Here are some techniques I’ve perfected:

Double processing: For maximum vibrancy, apply the color, let it process for the recommended time, rinse without shampooing, dry your hair, and immediately apply a second coat. This creates an intensity that rivals semi-permanent colors.

Color melting: Apply one shade at the roots, a second at mid-lengths, and a third at the ends, blending where they meet for a beautiful gradient effect. I’ve created stunning sunset hair using their pink, orange, and purple shades this way.

Strategic placement: Apply bolder colors underneath and softer shades on top for a peek-a-boo effect that’s subtle for professional settings but shows when you move or style your hair up.

The dip-dye approach: For those new to color, applying just to the ends (the bottom 2-3 inches) creates a beautiful effect that’s easy to apply and grows out seamlessly.

Fading Patterns and Aftercare

After tracking how different shades fade across multiple applications, I’ve noticed some patterns worth sharing:

Even fading: Unlike some brands that become patchy, Strawberry Leopard generally fades evenly if applied correctly. The color gradually becomes less intense rather than disappearing in spots.

Residue concerns: I haven’t experienced any waxy buildup or residue after the color fades – a problem I’ve had with some other temporary brands.

Aftercare tips that have helped me extend the life of my color:

• Wash with cool to lukewarm water (never hot)
• Use sulfate-free shampoo when possible
• Limit washing to 2-3 times per week if your hair type allows
• Apply a color-safe leave-in conditioner to protect from UV fading
• Avoid chlorinated pools (they can dramatically accelerate fading or even shift the color)

Quick-Fix Options: Spray Formulations

For those who want even less commitment, Strawberry Leopard does offer spray-in temporary colors that wash out in 1-2 shampoos. I’ve found these useful for:

• Testing a color before committing to the more intense wash-out formula
• Creating highlights or accents without applying full-coverage color
• Festival or event looks that need to be gone by Monday morning
• Quick touch-ups between applications of the regular formula

The spray formula is more prone to transfer onto clothing and pillowcases, so I’m extra careful when using it. I also find it works best when sprayed on smaller sections rather than trying to cover large areas, which can result in uneven application.

Creating Custom Colors: Mixing Magic

One of my absolute favorite things about Strawberry Leopard is how well the colors mix together. I’ve created some stunning custom shades that have garnered tons of compliments. Some successful combinations I’ve tried:

• Equal parts Electric Paradise (pink) and Velvet Violet (purple) for a vibrant magenta
• Two parts Mint to Be (mint green) with one part Cosmic Cobalt (blue) for a stunning teal
• Equal parts Coral Classified (coral) and Lemon Lightshow (yellow) for a beautiful peachy tone
• A tiny bit of Emerald Envy mixed into Platinum Pearl for a subtle mint tint on blonde hair

When mixing colors, I combine them thoroughly in a separate bowl rather than trying to mix directly on my hair, which ensures even distribution of the custom shade.

Learning Resources: Tutorials and Demonstrations

When I first started using Strawberry Leopard, I found several helpful resources that improved my application technique. The brand maintains an active social media presence with numerous tutorials showing different application methods and color combinations.

YouTube has been an invaluable resource, with both official and user-generated content demonstrating:

• How to create ombré effects
• Application techniques for different hair textures
• Color mixing demonstrations
• Before and after comparisons on different base colors

What I appreciate most about the online community around this brand is the honesty – creators typically show the true results rather than heavily edited versions, which helped me set realistic expectations.

Where to Find Strawberry Leopard Products

Initially, I had some trouble finding Strawberry Leopard in physical stores, as they were primarily available online. However, their distribution has expanded significantly. You can now find their products:

• In select beauty supply stores (particularly Sally Beauty in the US)
• Through their official website
• On major online retailers like Amazon and Ulta
• In some specialized hair color boutiques

When purchasing, I’ve found that buying directly from authorized retailers ensures you’re getting the freshest product. This matters because I once purchased from a third-party seller and noticed the color wasn’t quite as vibrant as usual – likely due to the product being older stock.

Pricing typically ranges from $8-15 per application, depending on where you purchase and whether there are any promotions running. Considering the quality and how many applications you can get from one box (I typically get 2-3 applications for my shoulder-length hair), I find it reasonably priced compared to salon color services.

My Final Verdict on Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color

After extensive testing across multiple shades and hair types, here’s my honest assessment of Strawberry Leopard Temporary Hair Color:

Strengths:

• Vibrant, true-to-bottle colors (on appropriate base colors)
• Conditioning formula that doesn’t damage hair
• Predictable, even fading pattern
• Versatility for both subtle and bold looks
• Truly temporary nature perfect for commitment-phobes
• Ethical, vegan and cruelty-free formulation

Considerations:

• Not as vibrant on dark hair without pre-lightening
• Can potentially stain very light or porous bathroom surfaces
• Limited availability in some physical retail locations
• Doesn’t truly wash out in just one shampoo as sometimes claimed

Overall: For anyone wanting to experiment with vivid hair colors without the long-term commitment of permanent or even semi-permanent dye, Strawberry Leopard offers the perfect balance of impact and impermanence. After trying nearly every temporary color brand on the market, it remains my go-to recommendation for friends, family, and now you!

Whether you’re a color veteran looking for your next brand or a curious newcomer dipping your toes into the vivid hair color world, Strawberry Leopard provides a safe, fun, and surprisingly sophisticated way to transform your look without regrets.

Have you tried Strawberry Leopard or are you considering it? I’d love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions you might have! The world of temporary color is all about experimentation and self-expression – embrace the journey and enjoy the transformation, however temporary it may be.