Arctic Fox hair dye is well-known among color enthusiasts for its vegan, cruelty-free formulation and vibrant, long-lasting results. If you’re looking to achieve the mesmerizing turquoise shade with Arctic Fox, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from understanding the base color, to mixing ratios, application techniques, and aftercare—to ensure your turquoise dream becomes a dazzling reality.
Understanding Arctic Fox Hair Dye and Why It’s Perfect for Turquoise Tones
Arctic Fox is a semi-permanent hair dye that contains no harsh chemicals like peroxide, ammonia, or alcohol. This makes it ideal for those who want to color their hair without damaging it. With a wide range of vivid and pastel tones, Arctic Fox is a go-to for fantasy colors like turquoise, blue, purple, and even silver.
The key to achieving turquoise lies in the dye’s base pigments, which can be manipulated through mixing and layering to attain the right hue. Arctic Fox doesn’t currently offer a turquoise-toned dye off the shelf, which means turquoise needs to be created by combining existing shades.
Why You Can’t Buy Turquoise Dye—But Can Make It Yourself
Turquoise is a unique blend of blue and green, often leaning toward teal or aqua depending on the lighting and base color of the hair. While some companies sell pre-mixed turquoise shades, Arctic Fox enthusiasts often prefer mixing to customize the tone to their liking. The brand offers a vibrant Mardi Gras Green and Azure blue, both of which serve as ideal bases for creating a custom turquoise shade that’s uniquely yours.
What You Need Before You Begin
Before diving into the color mixing process, here’s a quick checklist of the items you’ll need:
- Arctic Fox dyes (Azure Blue and Mardi Gras Green or comparable shades)
- Empty mixing bowl (preferably non-metallic)
- Brush and applicator bottle or wide-tooth comb
- Plastic gloves
- Old towel or dye cape
- Conditioner for application
- Hair clips and sectioning tools
- Protective petroleum jelly (for hairline)
- Time and patience
The Importance of Base Color: The Foundation of Turquoise
Turquoise is a light-dependent color. It looks dramatically different on light brown hair compared to platinum or bleached white hair. For the most accurate and vibrant turquoise, your hair should be at least level 9 or 10 (very light blonde to white).
If your hair is naturally dark, you may need to bleach it first. This step is crucial because Arctic Fox is semi-permanent and doesn’t lift natural pigments. The brighter the base, the better your turquoise will appear.
Prep Your Hair Thoroughly
Before applying the turquoise mixture:
- Ensure hair is bleached properly and fully healed.
- Perform a patch test with Arctic Fox in advance, as allergic reactions can happen. Most formulas are safe, but it’s always better to check.
- Deep condition your hair the day before to ensure it can take in the dye and hold onto it for as long as possible.
Mixing Your Turquoise Shade: A Balanced Blend
To create the perfect turquoise, the basic formula involves mixing blue and green dyes in the right proportions.
Start with Arctic Fox Azure and Mardi Gras Green
- Azure Blue: Provides a deep, vibrant blue base.
- Mardi Gras Green: A bright, vivid green that lightens turquoise’s depth.
The standard starting mix for a medium turquoise is a:
| Color | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Azure Blue | 2 parts |
| Mardi Gras Green | 1 part |
This gives you a balance between depth and brightness. However, you can adjust the color by adding:
- More blue for a deeper, navy-type turquoise (or teal).
- More green for a lighter, aquatic effect.
Pro Tip:
Always test the color on a small hair strand or paper towel before applying it to your entire head. Hair can show colors differently based on texture, porosity, and lighting. If needed, tweak the formula and test again.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Here’s how to apply your turquoise color for even, long-lasting results.
1. Protect Your Skin and Apply Vaseline
Use petroleum jelly along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent staining. Always wear gloves when handling Arctic Fox dye—this will save you from temporary hand staining.
2. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into four quadrants and secure each section with clips. This makes the application easier and ensures even coverage.
3. Mix the Dye
In your mixing bowl, carefully measure and mix the blue and green dyes in your chosen ratio. Stir until well-blended—uneven mixing leads to inconsistent results.
4. Begin Application
Apply the mixture using a brush or bottle, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. Don’t forget the hair under the clips.
Take your time—rushing leads to missed spots and uneven color. If your hair is especially porous, applying the dye post-wash (with just conditioner) yields better absorption.
5. Let It Rest and Process
Allow the turquoise color to sit for at least 45–60 minutes. The longer you leave it, the more vibrant and saturated your results will be.
Because Arctic Fox hair dye does not require heat, you can sit under a hooded dryer or let it air-dry—just don’t towel-dry or rinse early.
6. Rinse and Condition
Rinse the dye with cool water only until the water runs clear. Hot water strips color faster.
After rinsing, apply Arctic Fox’s Color Shield Conditioner or a deep-concentrated colorless conditioner. Conditioning locks in color and improves longevity.
Maintaining Your Turquoise Hair: Tips to Extend Vibrancy
To ensure your Arctic Fox turquoise lasts as long as possible, proper care is essential.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Sulfates and harsh detergents fade semi-permanent colors quickly. Opt for sulfate-free, color-safe products like:
- Arctic Fox Reconstructor Conditioner
- Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- R+Co Candy Rose Color Care Shampoo
Minimize Washing Frequency
You can go 3–5 days between washes to maintain your turquoise. When you do wash, use cold or lukewarm water.
Refresh with Color Depositing Conditioners
Over time, turquoise can fade. Instead of re-dyeing every few weeks, use color-depositing conditioners to top up vibrancy. You can even add a tiny bit of leftover Arctic Fox dye into your conditioner bottle to revitalize your color while conditioning.
Keep It Hydrated
Because Arctic Fox hair dye is vegan and lightweight, it works best on healthy, moisturized strands. Use a weekly deep conditioning mask or oil treatments like argan oil to keep your hair soft and color locked in.
Turquoise Variations with Arctic Fox: Customizing Your Shade
Depending on your desired aesthetic, you can tweak your turquoise further by:
- Adding silver tones (via Arctic Fox Silver or White out)
- Creating a turquoise ombre or balayage by adding green and blue in layers
- Combining turquoise with blues or pastels for a mermaid or cyber look
Turquoise & Silver: A Frosty Duo
For an icy, arctic look, mix a small amount of Arctic Fox Silver into your turquoise shade. This subtle change leans more towards muted pastel turquoise and looks stunning in natural light.
Apply via Foil to Create Strands
You can create a turquoise balayage or highlights by painting turquoise mix onto select strands with a brush. This technique gives dimension and a custom flair to your color.
Layering for Ombre Effect
If you want fading from darker (green-heavy turquoise) at the roots to lighter at the ends (blue-heavy), apply the denser green mix to the top half and gradually increase blue content toward the tips.
Turquoise Dye Longevity: How Long Will It Last?
On average, Arctic Fox lasts 4–8 weeks, depending on your hair type, frequency of washing, and how light your base hair is. On platinum blonde hair, you can expect greater fade resistance, while on porous or brown-based hair, the turquoise tone might fade faster.
Factors affecting color longevity:
| Factor | Impact on Dye Longevity |
|---|---|
| Base color (light vs dark) | Lighter hair retains color better |
| Porosity | More porous hair fades faster |
| Shampoo type | Sulfate-free products extend life |
| Frequency of washing | Less washing = longer color retention |
Proper aftercare ensures that your turquoise doesn’t fade unevenly and that your hair remains healthy during the color process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Turquoise with Arctic Fox
Getting a clean turquoise look isn’t just about mixing—it’s also about knowing what not to do.
Mixing Too Much Green
Green is a strong pigment and can overpower blue easily. To maintain balance, always start with more blue, and then add green sparingly.
Skipping the Strand Test
Hair porosity and texture can drastically change the way color appears. Always perform a strand test before going full-on turquoise to avoid surprises.
Not Conditioning After Use
Because Arctic Fox hair color doesn’t set with heat or chemicals, conditioning is crucial to keeping it bonded to the hair shaft.
Applying on Previously Toned Hair
If you’ve toned your hair with ash or violet toner, it can skew your turquoise final result. It’s best to ensure the hair is neutral or slightly yellow-based before applying your turquoise mix.
What to Do If It Fades to an Undesired Color
Sometimes, turquoise leaves behind a greenish cast as it fades, or blue if the green was under-applied. You can:
- Mix in small amounts of white-out or silver to neutralize the tone.
- Redye using a fresh turquoise batch to restore balance.
- Use a color depositing mask during your next conditioning session.
Enhancing Your Look with Complementary Makeup and Outfits
Turquoise isn’t just a bold statement in hair—it can inspire your entire look. Pairing turquoise hair with the right makeup and fashion choices enhances your aesthetic.
Makeup Ideas
- Icy blue or green eyeshadow to complement the turquoise tone.
- Silver highlighter for a frosty glow.
- Bold metallics or whites can mirror the hair’s clarity.
- Darker lip shades like plum or mauve for contrast.
Clothing Pairings
- Neutrals (off-white, grey, black) to let turquoise pop.
- Denim for a casual, coastal-chic look.
- Reflective or metallic pieces that echo the color’s vibrancy.
Conclusion: Turquoise Made Simple With Arctic Fox
Creating your own turquoise shade with Arctic Fox may seem daunting, but with the right base, a thoughtful mixture, and a few smart techniques, you can achieve a bright, vibrant, and icy-cool turquoise that’s uniquely yours. Whether you’re chasing a tropical or futuristic aesthetic, this DIY color formula gives you the creative freedom to explore bold choices—while keeping your hair healthy and gorgeous.
With patience, attention to detail, and consistent care, you can rock turquoise locks that turn heads and stand out from the crowd. So go ahead—experiment, mix, and transform your style into something wild, vibrant, and totally you.
Can I achieve a turquoise hair color using only Arctic Fox dye without pre-lightening?
Achieving a true turquoise color with Arctic Fox dye typically requires a very light blonde or pre-lightened base. Arctic Fox is a semi-permanent dye, meaning it doesn’t lift natural pigment from your hair. If your hair is dark—like brown or black—the natural undertones will influence the final color, likely resulting in a muted or muddy turquoise. For the best icy, vibrant results, it’s recommended to bleach your hair to at least level 9 or 10 (very pale yellow or white blonde) before applying the dye.
To maintain your hair’s health during the lightening process, consider doing it in stages or consulting a professional. Over-bleaching can cause damage and breakage. Once your hair is light enough, Arctic Fox’s turquoise shades like “Sky” or a custom mix can be applied more effectively. Semi-permanent formulas also fade slowly, so starting with the correct base color ensures you can see multiple washes of vibrant turquoise before needing a touch-up.
How do I mix Arctic Fox colors to create turquoise?
Arctic Fox doesn’t offer a direct turquoise color in its standard lineup, so achieving the perfect icy turquoise may involve mixing their existing shades. A popular method is to combine “Sky” (a pastel blue) with a small amount of “Mauve” or “Icy” (violet and silver-toned pastels). Start by blending equal parts blue and the purpling shade, then test on a small swatch or strand of hair. Depending on the desired effect, you can adjust the ratio by adding more blue for a stronger turquoise or more violet to calm it down.
It’s important to thoroughly mix the colors before applying them to your hair to avoid patchiness. Also, since Arctic Fox dyes are semi-permanent and rich in pigmentation, small quantities can go a long way. Remember that mixing will alter the label shades, so keep detailed notes on your ratios for future touch-ups. Arctic Fox’s vegan and cruelty-free formula allows for safe experimentation without risking significant harm to your hair.
How long does the turquoise color last when using Arctic Fox dye?
Arctic Fox is a semi-permanent hair dye, and under normal circumstances, the turquoise color can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks depending on how often you wash your hair and how light your base is. Since Arctic Fox uses high-quality pigments and conditioning agents, it fades more slowly than many other brands. However, the cooler tones that contribute to a true turquoise may fade faster than warmer shades, causing your color to shift slightly over time.
To extend the life of your turquoise color, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, wash your hair with cold water, and limit exposure to direct sunlight and heat styling tools. Arctic Fox’s formula is ammonia-free and gentle on hair, so the color won’t go through dramatic shifts but rather fade gradually. Touch-ups every few weeks can help maintain vibrancy, especially if you prefer a bold and icy look without warm undertones creeping in.
What should I do to prepare my hair before applying Arctic Fox turquoise dye?
Before applying Arctic Fox dye, it’s crucial to ensure your hair is at the right lightness level—ideally a pale yellow or white blonde. If you’re lightening your own hair, take all precautions to avoid over-processing. Once your hair reaches the desired level, perform a clarifying shampoo session to remove any buildup or residual minerals that could interfere with color deposition. Avoid using conditioner beforehand, as it can create a barrier that prevents the dye from adhering properly.
Additionally, prepare your dyeing space with gloves, a plastic cape, and old towels to protect your clothes and surroundings. Arctic Fox hair dye is highly pigmented and can stain surfaces. Since it’s semi-permanent, it doesn’t require a developer and is easy to apply. Make sure to have mixing bowls, brushes, and clips on hand to section your hair for an even and efficient application. If mixing colors, test your custom turquoise on a swatch first before applying it to your entire head.
Why is my Arctic Fox turquoise hair looking green instead of blue?
A turquoise hair color turning unexpectedly green is usually due to the underlying tone of your hair or residual warmth. Arctic Fox dye will deposit color on top of your existing hair pigmentation, so if there’s a yellow or orange base, the turquoise (which normally blends blue and green) may lean more toward green overall. To correct this, you can apply a toner with violet or blue tones to neutralize the warmth and push the color back toward a cooler turquoise.
Another way to combat this is using Arctic Fox’s “Purple Rain” or other toning shades in small amounts to counteract any brassiness or yellow undertones. Keep in mind that the turquoise effect will also look different under various lighting conditions. Indoor lighting may show a bluer cast, while natural light can emphasize green tones. For long-term results, maintain your color with Arctic Fox’s color-depositing conditioners or occasional touch-ups to fine-tune your shade.
How can I care for my turquoise-colored hair to keep it vibrant and icy?
Caring for Arctic Fox turquoise-colored hair starts with using sulfate-free products, which help preserve the color and maintain your hair’s moisture balance. Conditioner should be rich and hydrating to offset dryness, especially if you’ve gone through a bleaching process. Wash your hair less frequently and rinse with cold water to seal the cuticle and lock in color. Using a color-safe or color-depositing conditioner can also help refresh your icy turquoise tone between applications.
Avoiding heat styling and using UV protection are also key steps in maintaining vibrancy. Sunlight and heat can both cause fading and shift your color to a warmer tone. Consider wearing a hat or scarf when spending extended time outdoors. Additionally, Arctic Fox dyes are enriched with vegan ingredients and require minimal aftercare, meaning maintaining a turquoise hue is fairly simple compared to other synthetic dyes. If you notice any color shifts, you can safely reapply or use a small amount of “Purple Rain” to brighten and cool your turquoise.
Can I apply Arctic Fox turquoise dye to only part of my hair, like streaks or highlights?
Yes! Arctic Fox dye is ideal for applying to specific sections of your hair, such as streaks, highlights, or ombre effects. In fact, since it’s semi-permanent, you can customize your look without long-term commitment. The process is the same as coloring all your hair—just make sure the sections you plan to dye are at the proper lightness for turquoise results. If your natural hair varies in color levels, the turquoise may appear different in each section.
You can use a brush and clips to section off strands, or apply with foils for more controlled placement. Make sure to distribute the dye evenly to avoid patchiness, and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or longer for deeper pigment absorption. Because Arctic Fox is conditioning and mess-free compared to other dyes, spot-coloring is both easy and convenient. Touch-ups can be done as needed, and other hair colors won’t be affected or stained if you apply the dye carefully.