In this article
Blondes, silver-haired beauties, and highlighted brunettes know the struggle, as keeping hair fresh, cool-toned, and brass-free isn’t easy. That’s where purple shampoo steps in. But with so many options and techniques, knowing how to use purple shampoo properly is just as important as choosing the right product. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of purple shampoo, from how to use it to how often to apply it. Want to know everything about it? Let’s move on!
1. Neutralizes brassiness and yellow tones
Let’s talk about the color theory that purple cancels out yellow because they sit opposite each other on the color wheel. That’s why purple shampoo works like a magic eraser.
Why this happens:
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Lightened hair is porous, meaning it absorbs pollution, minerals, and product buildup all of which can make it look dull and yellow.
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Purple pigments counteract those warm tones, keeping hair icy, platinum, or soft ash-blonde instead of golden or brassy.
What stylists say:
Celebrity colorist Justin Anderson, who’s behind some of Hollywood’s most iconic blondes, swears by purple shampoo: “It’s the easiest way to tone your hair at home and extend the life of your salon color. A good purple shampoo makes a world of difference.”
Real user results:
A reviewer of Redken Color Extend Blondage shared, “I was shocked after the first wash. My brassy blonde turned into a salon-fresh cool blonde without an expensive toner appointment!”
2. Brightens blonde, silver, and white hair
Over time, blonde and gray hair can lose its shine. Purple shampoo revives brightness and enhances the cool undertones. It gives your hair that fresh-from-the-salon glow.
Who needs it?
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Platinum blondes who want to maintain a bright, icy tone.
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Gray and silver-haired beauties looking to prevent a yellowish cast.
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Natural white-haired individuals who want a more clean-looking shade.
Expert advice:
Top hairstylist Jack Martin, known for his stunning silver transformations, explains: “Silver hair tends to pick up environmental dullness. Purple shampoo keeps it fresh and bright.”
Pro tip:
For extra shine and vibrancy, pair your purple shampoo with a deep-conditioning treatment once a week. This prevents dryness while keeping your color looking fresh.
3. Extends the time between salon visits
Salon color doesn’t come cheap, and no one wants to deal with constant touch-ups just to keep their blonde looking fresh. A high-quality purple shampoo helps prolong your color and keep brassiness in check.
Why it works:
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Helps preserve cool tones between salon visits.
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Reduces the need for frequent toner applications.
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Prevents blonde from turning too warm or golden.
Real results:
A dedicated user of Fanola No Yellow Shampoo wrote, “Before using this, I had to get a salon toner every six weeks. Now? I only need one every three months, and my color stays PERFECT.”
Stylist recommendation:
“If you’re on a budget but still want salon-quality blonde, invest in a good purple shampoo. It’s the easiest way to keep your color fresh,” says hairstylist Tracey Cunningham.
4. Protects hair from environmental damage
Blonde and light-colored hair is more susceptible to damage from everyday elements like:
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UV rays (which fade color and cause brassiness)
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Chlorine (which adds an unwanted green or yellow tint)
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Hard water minerals (which make hair look dull and discolored)
A solid purple shampoo routine helps shield your hair from these environmental stressors by neutralizing discoloration before it becomes a major problem.
Haircare hack:
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If you swim regularly, rinse your hair with filtered water before and after to prevent chlorine from affecting your tone.
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Live in a hard-water area? Pair your purple shampoo with a clarifying treatment once a month.
Customer experience:
One review of Amika Bust Your Brass Shampoo noted, “I used to struggle with my blonde looking dull due to hard water, but this shampoo keeps it fresh and bright—like I just walked out of the salon.”
5. Enhances highlights and balayage on brunettes
Think purple shampoo is just for blondes? Think again. If you’re a brunette with balayage, ombré, or lighter highlights, purple shampoo keeps those lighter sections from turning brassy or orange.
Who should use it?
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Brunettes with caramel, honey, or golden highlights that start looking too warm.
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Balayage lovers who want to maintain a blended look.
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Ashy brunette tones that need to avoid warmth and brassiness.
Expert insight:
Celebrity colorist Rita Hazan, known for working with Beyoncé and Jessica Simpson, explains: “Purple shampoo works wonders for brunettes with highlights. It keeps their lighter pieces fresh while preventing overly warm tones.”
What users say:
One user of Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo shared, “I thought purple shampoo was just for blondes, but after using it on my balayage, my highlights looked as fresh as day one!”
FAQs
Q1: When should you use purple shampoo?
Use purple shampoo when you notice unwanted yellow or brassy tones in your blonde, silver, or highlighted hair. It’s especially helpful if you have light-colored hair that tends to turn warm due to sun exposure, heat styling, or hard water. If you want to maintain a cool, ashy, or platinum tone, purple shampoo is your best friend!
Q2: What is the downside of purple shampoo?
While purple shampoo helps neutralize brassiness, overuse can lead to:
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It’s not a moisturizing shampoo, so it can leave hair feeling dry.
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Using too much can make your hair look lifeless or even slightly purple.
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If not applied properly, some sections may turn cooler while others stay warm.
Q3: Why do hairdressers say not to use purple shampoo?
Some hairdressers caution against purple shampoo because: If your hair is overly brassy, you may need a professional toner, not just purple shampoo. And frequent use can strip moisture, especially for bleached hair. Also, many people leave it on too long or don’t distribute it evenly.
Q4: How often to use purple shampoo?
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Blondes & silver hair – 1-2 times a week to maintain cool tones.
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Light brunettes with highlights – Once a week to avoid brassiness.
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If hair is too ashy – Reduce use to once every two weeks.
Q5: Does purple shampoo permanently tone hair?
No, purple shampoo only deposits temporary pigment to neutralize yellow tones. It washes out over time, so it’s not a permanent solution like a professional toner. If you stop using it, the brassiness will return.
Q6: Can I use purple shampoo 2 days after bleaching?
Yes, but be careful! Freshly bleached hair is fragile and prone to dryness. If your hair feels weak, wait a few more days and focus on hydration first.
