Bondbar 5Vv

When I first discovered Bondbar 5Vv, I wasn’t just buying another hair color—I was investing in a transformation. After years of experimenting with various brands and shades, I’ve come to appreciate that not all violet hair colors are created equal. This isn’t just another product review; it’s a journey through the world of Bondbar 5Vv from someone who’s seen the good, the bad, and the downright disastrous in hair coloring.

As a self-proclaimed hair color enthusiast (my bathroom cabinet is evidence enough), I’ve spent countless hours researching, testing, and perfecting my approach to achieving that perfect purple. Whether you’re a professional stylist looking to add another tool to your arsenal or a home colorist seeking that elusive violet hue, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Bondbar 5Vv.

What Exactly Is Bondbar 5Vv and Why Should You Care?

Let’s cut to the chase—Bondbar 5Vv is a professional-grade permanent hair color that falls into the violet-violet family. The double “v” isn’t a typo; it’s an indication of the color’s intensity and undertone. While most people think of purple hair as a single shade, those of us in the know understand that violet can range from barely-there lavender to deep eggplant.

Bondbar 5Vv sits in a sweet spot—it’s a vibrant, cool-toned violet that delivers consistent results across various hair types. What makes it stand out in a crowded market is its combination of color payoff and hair protection technology. Unlike many vibrant colors that leave your hair feeling like straw, Bondbar’s formula includes bond-building technology (hence the name) that helps maintain hair integrity during the coloring process.

I remember my first experience with purple hair dye years ago—my bathroom looked like a crime scene, and my hair felt like I’d taken sandpaper to it. Fast forward to today, and Bondbar 5Vv has revolutionized how we approach vibrant color without sacrificing hair health.

Permanent or Semi-Permanent? The Truth About Bondbar 5Vv

One of the most common questions I get from friends and followers is whether Bondbar 5Vv is permanent or semi-permanent. The answer is straightforward: Bondbar 5Vv is a permanent hair color. This means it uses oxidative technology to open the hair cuticle, deposit color, and create lasting results.

Unlike semi-permanent colors that sit on top of the hair shaft and gradually wash away, Bondbar 5Vv chemically alters the hair’s natural pigment. This is why it requires developer to activate and why it can effectively cover gray hair (more on that later).

That said, even permanent violet colors are known to fade faster than natural shades like browns and blacks. This isn’t a flaw in the product—it’s simply the nature of vibrant pigments. The larger color molecules in violet shades tend to wash out more easily, which is why proper maintenance is crucial (and why I’ll be sharing my tried-and-true maintenance tips later in this guide).

The Violet Spectrum: How Bondbar 5Vv Stands Apart

Not all violet hair colors deliver the same result, and understanding the nuances can save you from disappointment. Bondbar 5Vv offers a distinctly cool-toned violet that leans more blue than red. This positioning on the color wheel makes it exceptional for:

• Neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy tones
• Creating true purple results without reddish undertones
• Achieving that sought-after “editorial” violet look

In my experience, many violet dyes on the market claim to be true violet but end up pulling too red or too blue once applied. Bondbar 5Vv maintains its color integrity remarkably well, delivering consistent results that match what you see on the color chart—a rarity in the world of vibrant hair colors.

What sets it apart from competitors is its depth and dimension. Rather than a flat, one-dimensional purple, Bondbar 5Vv creates a multifaceted violet that catches light beautifully and changes subtly depending on lighting conditions. It’s like having multiple shades of purple in one, which gives hair movement and life rather than the “helmet head” look of cheaper dyes.

The Application Process: Mastering Bondbar 5Vv

I’ve applied countless hair colors over the years, and I can confidently say that Bondbar 5Vv has one of the more forgiving application processes. However, technique matters, and following the right steps will elevate your results from good to stunning.

What You’ll Need:

• Bondbar 5Vv color (obviously!)
• Developer (20 volume for standard application, 30 volume for resistant gray)
• Mixing bowl (non-metallic)
• Application brush
• Gloves (the darker the better—violet stains are no joke)
• Old towel or cape
• Timer
• Sectioning clips

The Step-by-Step Process I Swear By:

1. Preparation is key. Start with dry, unwashed hair—natural oils help protect your scalp during the coloring process. Section your hair into four quadrants for easier application.
2. Mix with precision. Combine Bondbar 5Vv with developer in a 1:1 ratio. For a standard application on non-resistant hair, 20 volume developer works perfectly. If you’re tackling stubborn grays or particularly resistant hair, you might need to step up to 30 volume. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
3. Apply methodically. Begin application at the roots, working in thin sections (about 1/4 inch thick). Ensure every strand is saturated with color. For virgin hair, start at the mid-lengths and ends, leaving roots for last as they develop faster due to scalp heat.
4. Timing matters. Let the color process for 35-45 minutes. If you’re covering grays, you might need the full 45 minutes. I recommend checking a small section after 30 minutes to gauge development.
5. Rinse thoroughly. When time’s up, rinse with cool water until it runs clear. Follow with a color-safe shampoo and deep conditioning treatment. Cool water is your best friend when it comes to color longevity.

One technique I’ve found particularly effective with Bondbar 5Vv is the “double application” method for previously colored or damaged hair. Apply to mid-lengths and ends first, let it process for 15 minutes, then apply to roots and let the entire head process for an additional 30 minutes. This compensates for the different porosity levels throughout the hair shaft and ensures even color deposition.

Dark Hair Dilemma: Can You Use Bondbar 5Vv Without Bleaching?

This is perhaps the most asked question in my DMs, and I wish I had better news. The reality is that Bondbar 5Vv, like all vibrant colors, requires a light base to show its true potential. On dark brown or black hair, you’ll get a subtle violet tint at best without pre-lightening.

Here’s what you can realistically expect based on your starting color:

• Blonde hair: Vibrant, true-to-tone violet results
• Light brown hair: Visible violet with deeper, more subdued finish
• Medium to dark brown: Subtle violet tint visible mainly in sunlight
• Black hair: Minimal effect, perhaps a very subtle shift in certain lighting

If you have darker hair and want noticeable results, pre-lightening is unavoidable. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean bleaching your entire head to platinum. Even lifting to a level 7 or 8 (think dirty blonde) can provide enough of a canvas for Bondbar 5Vv to show beautifully while minimizing damage.

My personal recommendation for dark-haired folks wanting to try Bondbar 5Vv is to start with highlights or balayage. This creates dimension and allows you to experience the color without committing your entire head to the lightening process.

Sensitive Scalp Concerns: Is Bondbar 5Vv Gentle Enough?

As someone with a notoriously sensitive scalp (most patch tests leave me looking like I’ve tangled with poison ivy), I approach new hair colors with caution. Bondbar 5Vv contains many of the same ingredients as other permanent colors, including PPD and ammonia, which are known irritants for some people.

However, the formulation does include conditioning agents that help buffer potential irritation. In my experience, Bondbar 5Vv is middle-of-the-road when it comes to sensitivity—not as gentle as ammonia-free demi-permanents but certainly not as harsh as some high-lift colors I’ve tried.

If you have a sensitive scalp, I recommend these precautions:

1. Always do a patch test 48 hours before full application
2. Don’t wash your hair for 1-2 days before coloring to build up natural protective oils
3. Apply a barrier cream around your hairline, ears, and nape
4. Consider diluting the formula slightly with a clear protein filler (though this will also dilute the color intensity)

While Bondbar markets their products as gentler than conventional colors thanks to their bond-building technology, they still contain chemicals that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. When in doubt, consult with a dermatologist or professional colorist.

Gray Coverage: Does Bondbar 5Vv Tackle Silver Strands?

Gray hair can be notoriously resistant to color, especially vibrant shades like violet. The good news is that Bondbar 5Vv, being a permanent color, does effectively cover gray hair when used correctly. The key phrase here is “when used correctly.”

For optimal gray coverage with Bondbar 5Vv, I recommend:

1. Using 30 volume developer instead of 20 volume
2. Extending processing time to the full 45 minutes
3. Ensuring thorough saturation of resistant areas
4. Pre-treating especially stubborn grays with a protein filler

In my experience, Bondbar 5Vv provides about 80-90% gray coverage on most hair types. The result on gray hair tends to be slightly more vibrant than on pigmented hair, which can actually create beautiful dimension throughout your style.

One thing to note: if your hair is more than 50% gray and you want a consistent violet result, consider mixing Bondbar 5Vv with a small amount of Bondbar’s natural base (like 5N) to ensure full coverage while maintaining the violet tone.

Inside the Bottle: Bondbar 5Vv Ingredients Breakdown

While I’m not a cosmetic chemist, I’ve developed a reasonable understanding of hair color ingredients through years of research. Bondbar 5Vv contains the standard components of permanent hair color:

• Ammonia (to open the hair cuticle)
• Hydrogen peroxide (in the developer, to activate the color)
• PPD/PTD (primary color molecules)
• Resorcinol (color developer)
• Conditioning agents (to offset potential damage)

What distinguishes Bondbar from many competitors is their proprietary bond-building complex. Similar to other bond-building treatments in the market, this technology helps maintain the disulfide bonds in hair that are typically damaged during the coloring process.

The violet pigments in Bondbar 5Vv come from a combination of blue and red dyes that create the signature violet shade. These pigments are designed for longevity but are still subject to the natural fading process that affects all vibrant colors.

If you’re concerned about specific ingredients, Bondbar provides a full ingredient list on their packaging, which I appreciate as someone who likes to know exactly what I’m putting on my body.

Longevity: How Long Will Your Violet Locks Last?

Let’s be honest—no vibrant color lasts forever, and violet is particularly prone to fading. In my extensive experience with Bondbar 5Vv, you can expect:

• Weeks 1-2: Vibrant, true-to-tone violet
• Weeks 3-4: Slightly softer violet with minimal fading
• Weeks 5-6: Noticeable fading, shifting toward a softer lavender
• Weeks 7-8: Significant fading, often revealing underlying warm tones

This timeline assumes you’re following proper maintenance protocols (which I’ll detail later). Your mileage may vary depending on:

• How often you wash your hair
• Water temperature (hot water is color’s enemy)
• Exposure to sunlight
• Use of heat styling tools
• Your hair’s porosity and condition

One thing I appreciate about Bondbar 5Vv is that it tends to fade true to tone rather than shifting dramatically to unwanted colors. While many violet dyes eventually fade to a muddy pink or brassy tone, Bondbar 5Vv typically maintains its cool undertone even as it lightens, resulting in a pretty lavender as it fades.

The Cool Factor: Understanding Bondbar 5Vv’s Undertone

In the world of hair color, undertones make all the difference. Bondbar 5Vv falls decidedly in the cool-toned category. This makes it:

• Excellent for neutralizing brassiness
• Perfect for creating icy, editorial violet looks
• Complementary to fair skin with cool undertones
• A striking contrast against warm skin tones

If you’re familiar with color theory, Bondbar 5Vv sits on the blue-violet segment of the color wheel rather than the red-violet side. This is why it creates that coveted “true purple” look rather than the magenta or burgundy result that many supposed violet dyes deliver.

For those seeking a warmer violet, Bondbar also offers 5Rv (violet-red), which leans more toward the berry end of the spectrum. I find that mixing a small amount of 5Rv into 5Vv can create a beautiful custom shade that’s still predominantly violet but with a touch more warmth if that’s your preference.

The Verdict: Real Reviews of Bondbar 5Vv

I’ve not only used Bondbar 5Vv myself but have recommended it to countless friends, followers, and clients. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with most users citing:

• Truer violet results compared to competitor brands
• Better gray coverage than expected for a fashion color
• Less damage than previous vibrant color experiences
• Reasonable longevity for a violet shade

The most common criticisms center around:

• Higher price point than drug store alternatives
• Limited availability compared to larger brands
• Potential for staining on very light or damaged hair
• Need for pre-lightening on darker hair

In professional circles, Bondbar 5Vv has gained a solid reputation for delivering consistent results, which is why you’ll increasingly find it in high-end salons. Most colorists appreciate its predictability and the way it processes evenly across different hair textures.

Comparison Shopping: Bondbar 5Vv vs. The Competition

I’ve tried more purple hair dyes than I care to admit, from high-end salon brands to $10 drug store options. Here’s how Bondbar 5Vv stacks up against the major players:

• Bondbar 5Vv vs. Pravana Violet: Bondbar offers better conditioning and less damage, while Pravana might have slightly more intensity initially but tends to fade faster.
• Bondbar 5Vv vs. Pulp Riot Velvet: Bondbar provides better gray coverage and more predictable results, while Pulp Riot offers more artistic mixes and potentially more vibrant initial color.
• Bondbar 5Vv vs. Wella Color Charm 5V: Bondbar delivers a truer violet tone, while Wella pulls slightly more blue and might be easier to find.
• Bondbar 5Vv vs. Arctic Fox Purple Rain: Bondbar offers permanent results and better longevity, while Arctic Fox is gentler (being semi-permanent) but requires more frequent reapplication.

What sets Bondbar apart is its balance of vibrancy, hair care, and longevity. While some competitors might excel in one area, Bondbar manages to perform well across all metrics, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and home colorists.

Color Chemistry: Mixing Bondbar 5Vv with Other Shades

One of the advantages of working with a professional color line like Bondbar is the ability to customize your shade. Bondbar 5Vv plays well with other colors in the line, opening up a world of possibilities:

• 5Vv + 5B (Blue): Creates an electric purple with stronger blue undertones
• 5Vv + 5R (Red): Produces a rich berry purple
• 5Vv + 10V (Lighter Violet): Results in a brighter, more vivid purple
• 5Vv + Clear: Dilutes the intensity while maintaining the tone

I’ve had particular success mixing Bondbar 5Vv with a touch of their 5B to create a galaxy-inspired deep violet that shifts between purple and blue depending on the light. The ratio I use is approximately 3 parts 5Vv to 1 part 5B.

If you’re new to color mixing, start with small adjustments—remember you can always add more but can’t take it away. Document your formula so you can replicate or adjust it for future applications.

The Developer Decision: Finding the Right Strength

Selecting the right developer strength is crucial for achieving your desired result with Bondbar 5Vv. Here’s my guide based on your specific goals:

• 10 volume: Deposit-only with minimal lift, ideal for refreshing faded color or toning pre-lightened hair. Produces the most conditioning result but with less longevity.
• 20 volume: Standard application for most situations. Provides good lift and deposit balance, adequate gray coverage, and reasonable longevity.
• 30 volume: Best for resistant gray hair or when maximum lift is needed. Provides the most longevity but with potentially more damage.
• 40 volume: Rarely necessary with Bondbar 5Vv and not recommended for on-scalp application due to potential irritation.

In my experience, 20 volume developer strikes the ideal balance for most Bondbar 5Vv applications. It provides enough lift to allow the violet pigments to show while minimizing unnecessary damage.

Pre-lightened Hair: The Ideal Canvas for Bondbar 5Vv

If you’re working with pre-lightened or bleached hair, you’re in for a treat—Bondbar 5Vv absolutely shines on a lightened base. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Ideal lightness level: Level 8-10 (pale yellow to platinum) will give you the most vibrant, true-to-tone results.
2. Porosity matters: Very porous bleached hair may grab color too quickly and unevenly. Consider using a protein filler before application to even out porosity.
3. Developer adjustment: You can often use 10 volume instead of 20 on pre-lightened hair, which minimizes additional damage.
4. Processing time: Pre-lightened hair typically requires less processing time—check after 20-25 minutes instead of waiting the full 35-45.

One technique I love for pre-lightened hair is the “color melt” approach with Bondbar 5Vv. Apply full strength at the roots, then dilute with conditioner as you move toward the ends to create a gradient effect. This not only looks stunning but helps protect potentially more damaged ends.

Hair Type Compatibility: Is Bondbar 5Vv for Everyone?

Hair type plays a significant role in how color performs, and Bondbar 5Vv is no exception. Here’s how it works across different hair types:

• Fine hair: Absorbs color quickly and evenly but may fade faster due to fewer cuticle layers. Use 10-20 volume developer and watch processing time carefully.
• Medium hair: The “standard” for which most color instructions are written. Follow regular guidelines with 20 volume developer.
• Coarse hair: May be more resistant to color penetration. Consider longer processing time and potentially 30 volume developer for stubborn areas.
• Curly/textured hair: Often more porous and prone to dryness. Pre-treat with conditioning treatments and consider diluting developer slightly to minimize damage.
• Asian hair: Typically resistant and may require pre-lightening to achieve visible results with Bondbar 5Vv.

Regardless of hair type, a strand test is always your best insurance policy against unexpected results. Take the time to test on a small, hidden section before committing your entire head.

Where to Buy: Sourcing Authentic Bondbar 5Vv

As Bondbar has gained popularity, so too have counterfeit versions of their products. To ensure you’re getting the genuine article, I recommend purchasing from:

• Licensed professional beauty supply stores (with valid cosmetology license)
• Bondbar’s official website
• Authorized salon distributors
• Reputable salons that carry the Bondbar line

Be wary of suspiciously discounted Bondbar products on marketplace sites or from unauthorized sellers. The old adage “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is” definitely applies to professional hair color.

Price-wise, expect to pay between $15-25 for a tube of Bondbar 5Vv, depending on the retailer and any current promotions. While this is more expensive than drug store options, the quality difference justifies the investment, especially considering the potential cost of correcting a color gone wrong.

Maintenance Magic: Keeping Your Violet Vibrant

The real work begins after you’ve achieved that perfect violet with Bondbar 5Vv. Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your color and preserving its vibrancy. Here’s my tried-and-true maintenance regimen:

1. Wait 48-72 hours after coloring before washing. This allows the cuticle to fully close and the color to set.
2. Switch to sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner. I recommend products specifically formulated for violet or purple hair.
3. Incorporate a purple depositing conditioner into your routine once a week to refresh the tone.
4. Reduce washing frequency. Every other day at most, preferably 2-3 times per week.
5. Use cool or lukewarm water only. Hot water is the fastest way to watch your color go down the drain—literally.
6. Heat protectant is non-negotiable before using any hot tools, as heat accelerates color fading.
7. UV protection is essential. Either use hair products with UV filters or wear a hat in strong sunlight.
8. Deep condition weekly to maintain hair health and color vibrancy.
9. Consider a color-sealing treatment after coloring to extend longevity.
10. Schedule regular touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to maintain color intensity.

One of my favorite tricks for maintaining Bondbar 5Vv is creating a color-depositing mask by mixing a small amount of the color (without developer) into my deep conditioner. This gentle refresh helps maintain the tone between full color applications without causing additional damage.

Final Thoughts: Is Bondbar 5Vv Worth Your Money?

After extensive personal use and professional observation, I can confidently say that Bondbar 5Vv is one of the most reliable violet hair colors on the professional market. While no hair color is perfect, and individual results will always vary based on starting condition and maintenance, Bondbar 5Vv consistently delivers on its promises.

Is it worth the higher price point compared to drug store alternatives? In my opinion, absolutely. The combination of color payoff, condition protection, and fade resistance makes it a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re serious about maintaining violet hair.

That said, it’s not a miracle product. It still requires proper application, suitable base color, and diligent maintenance. No hair color can completely defy the natural tendency of violet pigments to fade more quickly than natural shades.

Whether you’re a professional looking to expand your color arsenal or a home colorist ready to elevate your purple game, Bondbar 5Vv deserves serious consideration. Its performance consistency, true-to-tone results, and relatively gentle formulation make it a standout in the increasingly crowded world of vibrant hair colors.

Remember that the most beautiful hair color results come from a combination of quality products, proper technique, and committed maintenance. With Bondbar 5Vv and the knowledge you’ve gained from this guide, you’re well-equipped to achieve the violet of your dreams.

Have you tried Bondbar 5Vv or have questions about incorporating it into your color routine? I’d love to hear about your experiences and answer any questions you might have!