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Purple shampoo: What does it do for your hair? Get answers here
by Lotte Lindgren on Jun 20, 2023
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Read through by Dorthe Kristensen
Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on February 14, 2025.
Table of contents
Make your gray hair shine with purple shampoo. But what exactly is a purple shampoo and how does it work? In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about this amazing product that can do wonders for gray hair.
What is a purple shampoo?
Purple shampoo is a special type of shampoo designed to complement the color of light hair. It often contains blue-purple or purple pigments that neutralize yellow and orange tones in the hair. It can also moisturize and add shine to your hair and have a repairing effect on damaged locks.
If you have gray or colored hair with a yellow or orange tint, Purple shampoo can help you get that cool look again. Purple shampoo acts as a cleansing product to remove accumulated dirt and oil from the hair. Use it regularly to maintain your lighter color and get rid of unwanted yellow shades in your hair.
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What does a purple shampoo do?
Neutralizes yellow tones in the hair, contains blue and violet pigments and can be combined with regular shampoo.
This is how a purple shampoo works
Purple shampoo is a special cleansing product that gives your gray or blonde hair the cool look you want. The product works by neutralizing the orange and yellow shades in your hair using complementary colors such as blue-purple.
A purple shampoo is also known to give shine to colored hair. In addition to its color correcting properties, it also has moisturizing and repairing effects on the hair thanks to ingredients such as oil or other caring ingredients. Using a purple shampoo once a week will leave your gray or light hair sparkling clean without any yellow cast.
What ingredients are in purple shampoo?
Purple shampoo is a type of shampoo specially made to remove unwanted yellow tones in blonde, gray or silver colored hair. It typically contains ingredients that help neutralize yellow tones and lighten hair.
One of the most common ingredients in purple shampoo is violet pigment, which helps to neutralize yellow tones and give the hair a cooler color. In addition, purple shampoo can also contain ingredients such as amino acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals that help strengthen and hydrate the hair.
It is important to note that different brands of purple shampoo may contain different ingredients. It is therefore a good idea to read the list of ingredients on the product and examine the individual ingredients to ensure that they are suitable for your hair type and needs.
What are the benefits of using a purple shampoo?
Remove unwanted yellow tones in gray hair, and preserve the color of colored hair with a purple shampoo. These are just some of the benefits of using this particular cleansing product. In addition to giving the hair a more shiny and fresh look, purple shampoo can also neutralize the orange or yellow tint in light hair.
Here are additional benefits of using a purple shampoo:
- Complementary colour: The blue purple tone helps to neutralize and remove yellow shades in the hair. This is especially helpful after bleaching, where warm tones often appear in lighter hair colors. Regular use ensures a consistent, cool-toned finish.
- Moisturizing: Some varieties contain oil, vitamins that help moisturize dry locks. Purple shampoos enriched with nourishing ingredients, like argan oil or keratin, can provide hydration while maintaining color-treated hair.
- Repairing: Some types can also have repairing properties for damaged hair. These shampoos not only enhance color but also help strengthen hair strands that have been weakened by chemical treatments or heat styling.
Summary: Using a purple shampoo has many benefits besides making your gray hair shine. It removes unwanted tones in light or gray hair, preserves your hair color and at the same time gives the locks a shiny look.
How often do you use purple shampoo?
How to use purple shampoo?
Purple shampoo is a hair care product specially designed to take care of blonde, silver and gray colored hair. It works by neutralizing unwanted yellow and orange shades in the hair, which can occur due to sun damage, natural hair color change or dyeing.
To use purple shampoo, you can follow these steps:
1. Wash your hair with your usual shampoo to remove dirt and excess oils. This step ensures your hair is clean and free from buildup, allowing the pigments in the purple shampoo to deposit evenly and work effectively.
2. Apply a small amount of purple shampoo to your hair and gently massage it into the hair. Start at the scalp and work your way down to the ends.
3. Leave the shampoo in the hair for 3-5 minutes, or according to the instructions on the bottle.
4. Rinse the shampoo thoroughly from the hair with warm water. Make sure to rinse completely, as any leftover product can cause uneven toning or dryness.
5. Repeat the process if necessary.
It is important to remember that purple shampoo can dry out the hair if used too often. Therefore, it is recommended to use it once or twice a week, or as needed.
To prevent dryness, follow up with a deeply hydrating conditioner or hair mask. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin to restore moisture and keep your hair soft and manageable.
How often should you use a purple shampoo?
The frequency of using purple shampoo depends on your hair type, color, and the level of brassiness you're experiencing. Generally, it's recommended to use purple shampoo once a week to maintain a cool tone and neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy hues.
Overusing purple shampoo can lead to an over-deposit of pigments, causing your hair to take on a violet tint. To prevent this, monitor your hair's response and adjust usage accordingly. If you notice a purple hue developing, reduce the frequency of use.
It's also important to follow the product's instructions regarding how long to leave the shampoo in your hair, as leaving it on for too long can result in undesired color changes. Always rinse thoroughly and follow up with a conditioner to maintain hair health.
In summary, start by using purple shampoo once a week, and adjust the frequency based on your hair's needs and how it responds to the treatment.
Who should use a purple shampoo?
People with gray or blonde hair with unwanted yellow tones can benefit from a purple shampoo. This special type of shampoo neutralizes the orange and yellow shades that can appear on gray or light hair. In addition, this type of shampoo is also ideal for people who want to preserve the color of their colored/grey hair and achieve a shinier and fresher look.
Anyone looking for a repairing, moisturizing oil will also be able to find it in a purple shampoo. The product has properties such as complementary color and blue-purple pigment to give your hair a cool look and remove any yellow cast from your white/silver gray hair.
Whether you’re looking to enhance natural silver tones or maintain a vibrant blonde, purple shampoo is a versatile solution that caters to various hair types and concerns.
It is also a cleansing product suitable for all ages and hair types due to its versatility.
What does purple shampoo do to brown hair?
Purple shampoo is commonly used to neutralize yellow tones in blonde and gray hair, but it can also benefit brown hair, especially if it has been lightened or highlighted. Here's how purple shampoo affects brown hair:
Neutralizes Brassiness: Brown hair, particularly when lightened or highlighted, can develop unwanted yellow or orange tones over time due to factors like sun exposure or hard water. Applying purple shampoo helps counteract these brassy hues, restoring a cooler, more natural brown shade.
Enhances Highlights: For brunettes with blonde highlights or balayage, purple shampoo can maintain the brightness and vibrancy of the lighter strands, ensuring they don't become dull or discolored.
Usage Recommendations: It's advisable to use purple shampoo once a week or as needed, depending on the level of brassiness. Overuse can lead to a subtle purple tint, so monitor the duration and frequency of application.
In summary, while purple shampoo is traditionally associated with blonde hair care, it can be a valuable tool for brunettes aiming to maintain a cool, rich brown hue by minimizing unwanted warm tones.
Hairdresser's advice
Hairdresser Nynne Lind answers 3 questions about using purple shampoo. Nynne has over 24 years of experience as a hairdresser, colour master and Hair Talk specialist. See her instagram here.
What is the most important thing to focus on in a purple shampoo?
- The most important thing is to use a purple shampoo from a reputable brand to ensure care while neutralising golden undertones.
How often should I use a purple shampoo?
- I recommend washing your hair max 2-3 times a week and always recommend using your purple shampoo along with your regular conditioning shampoo, i.e. take equal parts of each when washing your hair.
Do you have any tips for using purple shampoo?
- Less is more - use silver products in moderation otherwise the hair can fill up with cold pigments and often appear too cold and darker. This makes it more demanding when you need to colour your hair - I'm referring to customers who get their hair lightened at the hairdresser.
Is purple shampoo harmful to the hair?
Purple shampoo is not harmful to the hair as long as it is used correctly and in moderation. Purple shampoo is specially designed to remove yellow or orange tones from light or gray hair. However, the content of blue or violet pigments in silver shampoo can dry out the hair and lead to damage if used too often or in excessive amounts.
It is important to note that purple shampoo is not suitable for all hair types. If you have dry or damaged hair, purple shampoo can worsen the condition and lead to further damage. It is also important to follow the instructions for use on the product and avoid leaving the shampoo in the hair for too long.
In general, it is best to use purple shampoo once or twice a week to achieve the desired results without damaging your hair. If you are in doubt as to whether purple shampoo is suitable for your hair, you should contact a professional hairdresser for advice.
How to Achieve the Perfect Shade with Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is a blonde's best friend. It banishes brassy tones and reveals a cool, shimmering mane. Purple shampoo is also known as silver shampoo. This hair care product is specifically designed for blonde, silver, or gray hair. It contains purple or violet pigments that help neutralize yellow or brassy tones that can develop in these hair colors over time. The purple pigments in the shampoo work by counteracting the yellow undertones in the hair.
But achieving the perfect shade isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Here is how to achieve the perfect shade you desire. We will also explore - what does purple shampoo do to your hair while giving the desired shade.
● Know Your Starting Point:
Purple shampoo helps you to maintain the desired color and tone of blonde or gray hair. Before using one, you should know the following:
Natural Blonde: If you have naturally light blonde hair with minimal brassiness, you might only need purple shampoo occasionally to maintain coolness.
Colored Blonde: Colored blondes are more prone to brassiness. You will likely need to use purple shampoo more frequently.
Gray or White Hair: Purple shampoo can enhance the natural silver tones in gray or white hair and minimize yellowing.
● Tailor Your Technique:
You may wonder, how to use purple shampoo? Here, you can experiment a little with the application and time of using a purple shampoo. You may need to use it once or twice a week to maintain the desired color. However, the following is important.
Leave-in Time is Important: This is where the magic happens – and where you control the shade! Start with a shorter leave-in time (1-2 minutes) for a subtle cool down. Gradually increase the time (up to 5 minutes) for a more dramatic effect. Remember, more time means more purple pigment deposit, so go slow.
Application Matters: Focus on areas prone to brassiness, like the ends or highlighted sections. Avoid the roots unless they are significantly brassy. You must know that over-toning can leave an unwanted purple cast there.
● Tone Down the Purple:
So, if you are still wondering - what does purple shampoo do to brown hair? When you use purple shampoo on brown hair, it can help tone down any unwanted or brassy undertones. Use purple shampoo sparingly on brown hair to avoid over-toning.
If you got your hair too purple, don't panic! Use a regular clarifying shampoo to remove some of the purple pigment. You can also follow up with a purple-free conditioner to balance things out. For a more subtle toning effect, consider a purple conditioner. It deposits less pigment than shampoo and gives a hint of coolness without going overboard.
● Maintain Your Shade:
Once you achieve your desired shade, use purple shampoo strategically. Aim for 1-2 times a week, alternating with your regular shampoo. Monitor your hair's needs and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Purple shampoo can be slightly drying. Combat this with deep conditioning treatments once a week to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Purple Shampoo
To get the most out of your purple shampoo, follow these tips and tricks:
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Look for a purple shampoo specifically formulated for your hair color.
- Use It Sparingly: Purple shampoo can be drying if used too often. Start by using it once a week and adjust based on your hair's needs.
- Apply Evenly: Distribute the shampoo evenly through your hair to ensure all strands receive the toning benefits.
- Leave It In: For more intense toning, leave the shampoo in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Follow with Conditioner: Purple shampoos can be drying, so always follow up with a hydrating conditioner.
- Protect Your Hands: Purple shampoo can stain your hands, so wear gloves while applying it.
- Alternate with Regular Shampoo: To prevent over-toning, alternate between your regular shampoo and purple shampoo.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Heat styling can strip the toning effects of purple shampoo, so try to limit your use of hot tools.
Achieving the perfect shade with purple shampoo takes practice. Be patient with your process and experiment with the quantity and leave-in time. Enjoy the process of discovering the perfect purple shampoo for you!
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