Oct 25, 2023 14 min read Health & Beauty

The Purple Shampoo Edit: Our Top Picks for Bright, not Brassy Hair

We're going to teach you how these magical potions work, what makes a good one, and give you the lowdown on the top picks on the market for bright, not brassy hair color.

Hey there, silver foxes and bleach blondies… and the rest of us in-between! Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Why does my hair look like a traffic cone?" Well, my friend, you've got yourself some brassy hair.

It's caused by a bunch of things, like hanging out in the sun too long or washing your hair with hard water. But fear not, there's a magical solution: purple shampoo. It's like a superhero for your hair, fighting off the evil orange and yellow tones and leaving your locks looking luscious and cool.

Purple shampoo works by depositing violet pigments onto the hair, which counteracts the warm, yellow, and orange tones that make hair look brassy. This type of shampoo is especially useful for blondes, gray-haired people, and those with highlights or 'balayage'. However, with so many purple shampoos on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your hair type and needs.

So, get ready to say bye-bye to brassy hair because we're gonna spill the tea on the best purple shampoos out there. We'll teach you all about this topic plus, throw in some hot tips on how to use them without turning your hair into a lavender disaster. By the end of this post, you'll be a purple shampoo pro and your locks will be as fierce as a unicorn's mane!

The Science Behind Color-correcting Shampoo: Why It's Not Just for Grandma Anymore

Did you know that blue and purple shampoos aren't just colorful gimmicks? Nope, they actually serve a purpose! Blue shampoo kicks orange tones to the curb, while purple shampoo says "bye bye" to pesky yellows.

I'm about to introduce you to the magical world of purple or blue shampoo. These little gems are designed to knock out those pesky yellow tones (or orange tones) and brassy tones that try to take over your blonde hair, making it look anything but fabulous. We've all been there, whether it's from too much sun, too much dye, or just plain hard water.

This magical potion contains violet pigments that cancel out those nasty yellow tones, leaving you with a cooler and brighter mane. It's not just for blonde hair, either – even folks with gray hair and brunette hair, can benefit from it. But let's be real, if you have dark hair, the purple pigments won't be as visible, but, well, we'll explain about that later in this blog.

A Hairy Situation: The Truth About Whether Purple Shampoo Works on All Hair Types

If you're dealing with brassy tones and dull hair, it's time to shake things up with some purple shampoo magic. Just make sure to pick the best purple shampoo for your hair type and follow the tips for use (we promise they're not rocket science).

Don't forget to check the pigment concentration. The higher the pigment concentration, the more powerful the potion! A low concentration may take a few more washes to see results. So, choose wisely and may the purple power be with you!

Blond Tresses

If you're dealing with brassy tones in your hair, finding the best purple shampoo can be a game-changer. It's not just for bottle blondes! These shampoos are specifically formulated to counteract unwanted brassy tones and restore your hair's natural vibrancy. So, read on!

woman standing on sunflower field - purple shampoo edit — Photo by DESIGNECOLOGIST / Unsplash

Bottle blondes

If you have bleached or colored hair, maintaining the perfect hair color can be a challenge. Over time, hair color can start to fade and unwanted warm tones can start to appear, resulting in a less-than-perfect look. Lightening your hair can cause damaged hair or breakage, making it crucial to use the right products to keep your hair healthy.

Highlighted hair and dye jobs require special care to maintain their color and vibrancy. One way to counteract orange or red tones or yellow and brassy ones in hair, is to use a blue or purple shampoo.

Another way to combat these unwanted warm tones is by using a blonde shampoo that is specially formulated to neutralize brassy tones and restore the hair's natural color. These shampoos contain violet or purple pigments that help counteract the yellow and orange tones that can develop in blonde hair. You can always rely on a trusty color-correcting treatment or toner to get rid of those pesky warm tones.

If you want to keep your bleached or colored blond hair looking great, use a blonde shampoo that's as gentle as a kitten's purr to prevent unwanted warm tones from developing. Look for one with keratin and argan oil to keep your locks luscious and shiny. Also, use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

Silver manes

For those with silver or gray hair, a good purple shampoo can help eliminate any yellow tones that may be present. But be sure to choose a sulfate-free purple shampoo that won't dry out your hair or damage its delicate structure. Then you can lose the hat!

woman using eyeglasses and wearing hat - The Purple Shampoo Edit — Photo by RepentAnd SeekChristJesus / Unsplash

Brunette beauties

Brunettes with lightened hair can also benefit from this magical potion. So don't be afraid to add some purple pizzazz to your hair routine, because who doesn't love a little bit of color therapy, am I right? However, it's important to choose a product that is designed specifically for your hair color to avoid any unwanted color changes.

woman in gray crew-neck top - The Purple Shampoo Edit — Photo by Ann Agterberg / Unsplash

If you have brunette hair color, you may be wondering if purple shampoo is right for you. While it may not be as effective at counteracting unwanted orange tones in brown hair, it can still help maintain the color and prevent fading.

Highlighted hair and dye jobs require special care to maintain their color and vibrancy. A blue or purple shampoo can be an effective tool in keeping your hair looking its best.

Purple Shampoo on Thick and Thin Manes

Alright folks, let's talk about hair thickness. Are you blessed with luscious, thick locks that could rival a lion's mane? Or are you stuck with fine, wispy strands that make you look like you got caught in a light breeze?

Don't worry, we won't judge. You may also want to consider the consistency of the blue or purple shampoo you choose. A shampoo can be harder to distribute evenly throughout your thick hair, while fine hair needs a rich formula that is gentle enough for damaged hair and won't strip away essential oils. Consider your hair type when selecting a purple shampoo to ensure that you get the right balance of cleansing and conditioning.

What to Look for in a Purple Shampoo

A few key things to look for when searching for the best product

When shopping for a purple shampoo, there are a few key things to look for in order to ensure you choose the best product for your hair. Choose the best purple shampoo for your hair and consider factors such as your hair type and whether you have any specific concerns, such as damage or dryness.

Look for a toning shampoo that is gentle enough for regular use, and consider a vegan purple shampoo if you prefer to use cruelty-free products. We've got some things for you to think about listed here:

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Quality is the key: While some purple shampoos can be quite expensive, there are also affordable options available that offer similar benefits. A high-quality purple shampoo can be an effective way to maintain the color and vibrancy of your natural, highlighted or dyed hair. Choose the best product for your needs and use it as directed to enjoy healthy, beautiful hair that looks its best.

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Color opposites: Did you know that purple and yellow are mortal enemies on the color wheel? It's true! So, if you're tired of those pesky yellow tones in your hair, just whip out some purple pigment and watch those bad boys neutralize like a boss.

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Violet pigments: Look for a shampoo that contains high-quality violet pigments, as these are what will neutralize the brassy tones in your hair. Make sure the shampoo's packaging or ingredients list specifies that it contains violet pigments.

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Moisturizing ingredients: Some purple shampoos can be drying to the hair, so look for a formula that contains moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or argan oil. These will help to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

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Strength: Consider the strength of the purple shampoo you're purchasing. If your hair is particularly brassy, you may want to choose a stronger formula, but if your hair is more fragile, you may want to opt for a milder product.

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Allergens and irritants: Check the ingredients list for any potential allergens or irritants that could cause a negative reaction on your scalp or skin. Some common ingredients to avoid include sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.

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Brand reputation: Look for a purple shampoo from a reputable brand with good customer reviews. This can help ensure that you're getting a high-quality product that delivers results.

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Toning: Look for a toning shampoo that is gentle enough for regular use. Purple shampoo works well for toning hair, but it is not a substitute for a professional dye job. If you're looking to drastically change your hair color, it's best to consult with a hairstylist to ensure you achieve the desired results.

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Hair type: When looking for the best purple shampoo and conditioner, it's important to consider your hair type and the specific concerns you have. There are products available that cater to different hair types, including fine, thick, damaged, and color-treated hair.

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Great ingredients: Some products contain additional ingredients such as silk amino acids, which can help to strengthen and smooth blonde locks. Others may include hyaluronic acid, which can add moisture and hydration to the hair.

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Silver shampoos: Silver shampoos are another option for those with blonde, silver, or gray hair. These shampoos are formulated to remove unwanted yellow undertones and keep cool tones in the hair.

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Brassy undertones: If you have brassy undertones, look for a product that is specifically designed to neutralize those shades. Some products contain sunflower seed extract, which can help to brighten and protect hair from environmental damage.

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Natures own: Natural oils are also a common ingredient in purple shampoos and conditioners, as they can help to nourish and moisturize the hair while also promoting shine.

When it comes to finding the perfect purple shampoo for your hair, don't give up! Remember that everyone's locks are unique, and what works for one person may not work for you.

Take the time to consider your specific needs and try out the different purple shampoos. You'll soon discover a purple shampoo that helps you achieve luscious, brass-free tresses.

Product Review

Top 5 Purple Shampoos for Brassy Hair

There are many purple shampoos (and conditioners) that are available on the market, but some stand out as particularly effective to deal with brassy hair.

Here is our list of the top purple shampoos for brassy hair:

This post includes affiliate links. To learn more, please check out the full disclosure with all the details.

Fanola No Yellow Shampoo & Nutri Care Restructuring Conditioner

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This strong formula contains a high concentration of violet pigments, making it incredibly effective at neutralizing brassy tones. It's best for those with very brassy hair and should be used sparingly.

Ideal for grey, super lightened or decolored hair and the violet pigments is sure to tone down unwanted yellow hues on grey, light blonde, or streaked hair. The Nutri Care Conditioner contains linseed oil to make hair silky, soft and vibrant and is ideal for dry, frizzy, and treated hair.

Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo & Conditioner

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This gentle formula contains a blend of violet pigments and moisturizing ingredients like keratin and coconut oil. It's a great option for those with fragile or dry hair.

The light crème conditioner gently moisturizes, balances and detangles frizzy and damaged hair.

jhirmack Silver Brightening Purple Shampoo Set

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This formula is specially formulated for our silver foxes out there! It contains macadamia nut oil, collagen and CoQ10. This shampoo strengthens and moisturizes coarse, limp hair.

Suitable for maintaining blonde highlights for all shades of silver, gray or blonde hair. Remove that yellow, brassy tones and get that well nourished and radiant hair!

Pravana The Perfect Blonde Purple Toning Shampoo and conditioner

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This formula contains a blend of violet pigments and natural oils like chamomile and lavender, making it gentle on the hair while still effective at neutralizing brassy tones.

It contains keratin and is perfect to tone dull hair.

L'Oreal Paris EverPure Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner Set

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This sulfate-free formula moisturizing conditioner and shampoo set is gentle on the hair and contains a blend of violet pigments and natural ingredients like coconut oil and hibiscus flower.

It's a great option for those with color-treated hair.

The Purple Reign

10 Tips to use Purple Shampoo like a Pro

Using purple shampoo is relatively simple, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to make sure you get the most out of your product. Here are some tips for using purple shampoo:

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Use a small amount of shampoo. Purple shampoo can be potent, so it's best to start with a small amount and work your way up if necessary

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Follow the instructions carefully and avoid leaving the purple shampoo on for too long, as this can turn your hair purple.

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To apply purple shampoo, wet your hair and apply the shampoo evenly throughout to help spread the product well. Massage the shampoo into your hair, focusing on areas where you have the most unwanted warm tones. Leave the shampoo on for 3-5 minutes (or as directed by the product instructions) before rinsing thoroughly.

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Focus on the brassy areas. Apply the shampoo to the areas of your hair that are most brassy, such as the roots or ends. This will help to target those areas specifically and prevent over-toning in other parts of your hair.

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Rinse thoroughly. Make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water after using the shampoo. This will help to remove any excess product and prevent over-toning.

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Use purple shampoo once a week or as needed. Overusing purple shampoo can lead to over-toning or dryness, so it's best to use it once a week or as needed to maintain the color of your hair.

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Highlighted hair and dye jobs require special care to maintain their color and vibrancy. A blue or purple shampoo can be an effective tool in keeping your hair looking its best. Blue shampoo works to counteract orange tones, while purple shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow tones.

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When choosing the best purple shampoo for your hair, it's important to consider factors such as your hair type and whether you have any specific concerns, such as damage or dryness. Look for a toning shampoo that is gentle enough for regular use, and consider a vegan purple shampoo if you prefer to use cruelty-free products.

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It's important to note that while purple shampoo works well for toning hair, it is not a substitute for a professional dye job. If you're looking to drastically change your hair color, it's best to consult with a hairstylist to ensure you achieve the desired results and to enjoy the benefits of purple pigments in your hair care routine.

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Use a conditioner or hair mask afterward. Purple shampoo can be drying, so it's important to follow up with a conditioner or hair mask to restore moisture to your hair.

Life is Too Short for Dull Hair: The Wonders of Purple Conditioner

Okay, so you've already heard of purple shampoo, but did you know that there's a whole new level of hair care wizardry out there? Enter purple conditioner! Perfect help to maintain cool tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair.

Not only does it help keep your hair looking fresh, but it's also formulated for color-treated hair and can even help repair damaged hair. It's like a magic potion for your hair!

smiling woman wearing gray hoodie - The Purple Shampoo Edit — Photo by Ivana Cajina / Unsplash

When looking for a purple conditioner, consider the same factors as you would for a purple shampoo, such as your hair type and the specific shades of blonde you are trying to maintain. Look for a product that is designed to neutralize brassy hues and keep blonde shades bright and vibrant.

Chemical & Engineering News, a news outlet of the American Chemical Society, reports that companies are looking for natural alternatives to traditional chemicals in personal care products to be more eco-friendly. They're also switching to renewable materials for existing products to meet sustainability goals.

Some purple conditioners claim to deliver results after just one wash, but it's important to remember that hair care is a process and it may take several uses to see the desired effects.

Purple conditioners that contain salicylic acid, which can help to remove buildup and promote a healthy scalp. Other ingredients to look for in a purple conditioner include violet extract, which can help to neutralize yellow tones, and other nourishing ingredients that can help to repair and strengthen damaged hair.

You may also want to try out a brass cool blonde shampoo as well to achieve the best results for your hair.

Overall, using a purple conditioner in conjunction with a purple shampoo can help to maintain cool tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair and keep highlights bright and vibrant.

Last Words of a Purple Shampoo Connoisseur

No More our Faded Locks

Alrighty folks, I’m signing off! But remember, if you're on the hunt for a purple shampoo, don't just pick any old bottle.

Purple shampoo is your new best friend! This magical potion does wonders by neutralizing those pesky warm tones in your hair, so you can keep rocking the color you love.

Make sure it's got some top-notch violet pigments and moisturizing goodies in there. And don't forget to read those instructions, because trust me, you don't want to end up looking like a grape. With a little know-how and the right product, you'll be rocking brass-free locks that'll make all the other gals green with envy.

Trust us, your hair will thank you for it. Plus, who doesn't love a good hair transformation? Give purple shampoo and conditioner a shot, and watch your locks regain their vibrant and stylish charm in no time!

The Purple Shampoo Edit: Our Top Picks for Bright, not Brassy Hair

The Science Behind Color-correcting Shampoo: Why It's Not Just for Grandma Anymore