Best Purple Shampoo: Your Ultimate Guide to Vibrant, Brass-Free Hair

Introduction

Purple shampoo has become a must-have in the hair care routine of anyone with blonde, silver, or lightened hair. It helps maintain that perfect cool tone by neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy hues. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about purple shampoo, from understanding how it works to selecting the best product for your hair type.

What Is Purple Shampoo and How Does It Work?

The Science Behind Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is a toning shampoo designed to keep blonde, silver, and highlighted hair looking fresh and vibrant. The key ingredient? Purple pigment. On the color wheel, purple is the opposite of yellow, which means it effectively cancels out yellow tones in your hair. By using purple shampoo regularly, you can maintain a cooler, more ashy tone in your hair.

Who Should Use Purple Shampoo?

Blondes: Whether natural or dyed, blondes can benefit from purple shampoo to maintain their hair’s brightness.
Silver/Grey Hair: Purple shampoo helps keep silver or grey hair from turning yellow.
Highlighted/Balayage Hair: It keeps the lighter sections of hair vibrant and free from brassy tones.

How to Use Purple Shampoo for Best Results

Step-by-Step Guide

Wet Your Hair: Start with thoroughly wet hair. This helps the shampoo spread evenly.
Apply the Shampoo: Work the purple shampoo through your hair, focusing on the areas that tend to get brassy.
Leave It On: Depending on your hair type and the shampoo’s instructions, leave the product on for 3-5 minutes.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo.
Follow Up With Conditioner: Purple shampoo can be drying, so follow up with a hydrating conditioner to keep your hair soft and manageable.

How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo?

Blonde Hair: Use 1-2 times a week.
Silver/Grey Hair: Use 2-3 times a week.
Highlighted/Balayage Hair: Use once a week or as needed.

Top 5 Best Purple Shampoos of 2024

1. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo

Best For: Intense toning
Why We Love It: Fanola’s No Yellow Shampoo is a cult favorite for a reason. It’s super pigmented and works wonders on extremely brassy hair. Perfect for those looking to achieve a cool, icy blonde.

2. Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo

Best For: Damaged hair
Why We Love It: Combining the toning power of purple shampoo with Olaplex’s bond-building technology, this product not only neutralizes yellow tones but also strengthens your hair from the inside out.

3. L’Oréal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Shampoo

Best For: Drugstore option
Why We Love It: Affordable and sulfate-free, this purple shampoo is gentle enough for regular use while effectively keeping brassy tones at bay.

4. Matrix Total Results So Silver Purple Shampoo

Best For: Silver hair
Why We Love It: Specifically designed for grey and silver hair, this shampoo brightens and tones without over-drying.

5. Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo

Best For: Color-treated hair
Why We Love It: Joico’s purple shampoo protects your color while neutralizing yellow and orange tones, leaving your hair vibrant and shiny.

DIY Purple Shampoo: Is It Worth It?

Making Your Own Purple Shampoo

If you’re into DIY, you might consider making your own purple shampoo by adding a few drops of purple food coloring or hair dye to your regular shampoo. However, be cautious with the amount of colorant you add, as too much can leave your hair with a purple tint.

Pros and Cons of DIY Purple Shampoo

Pros: Cost-effective, customizable.
Cons: Inconsistent results, risk of over-toning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Purple Shampoo

Overusing the Shampoo

While purple shampoo is great for toning, using it too often can lead to dry, dull hair, or even a slight purple tint. Stick to the recommended usage frequency.

Applying to Dry Hair

Always apply purple shampoo to wet hair. Dry hair can absorb too much pigment, leading to uneven toning or unwanted purple hues.

Skipping Conditioner

Purple shampoo can be drying, so always follow up with a good conditioner to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can purple shampoo be used on brown hair?
Yes, it can help to neutralize orange tones in lightened sections of brown hair, such as balayage or highlights.

2. How long does it take for purple shampoo to work?
You can see a difference after just one use, but consistent use over time will give the best results.

3. Can purple shampoo damage your hair?
No, but it can be drying, so it’s essential to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

4. What should I do if my hair turns purple from using purple shampoo?
If your hair picks up a purple tint, stop using the shampoo for a few washes, and it should fade on its own.

5. Is purple shampoo safe for daily use?
It’s best used 1-2 times a week, depending on your hair’s needs.