Purple shampoos have gained popularity in recent years as a way to keep blonde or silver hair looking bright and toned.
These shampoos are designed to neutralize brassy or yellow tones in hair, leaving it looking cooler and more even.
Despite the name, purple shampoos aren’t actually purple in color, but rather have a violet undertone that helps to balance out warm tones in hair.
What Makes Purple Shampoos Unique?
While there are many types of clarifying shampoos on the market, purple shampoos are unique in their ability to specifically target and neutralize unwanted tones in blonde or silver hair.
They contain special pigments that work to cancel out warm tones, and are often formulated with nourishing ingredients like keratin and amino acids to help strengthen and protect hair.
The Science Behind Purple Shampoos
The science behind purple shampoos lies in the color wheel. Colors that are directly opposite each other on the wheel cancel each other out, which is why purple is used to neutralize yellow and orange tones in hair.
The violet pigments in purple shampoo penetrate the hair shaft and attach to the warm tones, neutralizing them and leaving the hair looking cooler and more toned.
It’s important to note that purple shampoos are not designed to lighten hair, but rather to enhance the color that is already present.
How Do Purple Shampoos Work on Hair?
Purple shampoos work by depositing violet pigments onto the hair shaft. These pigments attach to any warm tones in the hair, neutralizing them and leaving the hair looking cooler and more even.
To see the best results, it’s important to leave the shampoo on the hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out, allowing the pigments to fully penetrate the hair.
It’s also important to note that purple shampoos can be drying to the hair, so it’s important to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
Understanding the Clarifying Process
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup and residue from the hair and scalp.
They contain higher levels of surfactants than regular shampoos, which work to break down and dissolve any excess oils or products that may be weighing hair down.
While purple shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones in hair, they are not necessarily clarifying shampoos and may not be strong enough to remove heavy buildup.
Does Purple Shampoo Clarify Hair?
While purple shampoos can help to enhance the tone and color of blonde or silver hair, they may not necessarily clarify the hair in the same way that a dedicated clarifying shampoo would.
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup and residue from the hair and scalp, while purple shampoos are designed to neutralize unwanted tones.
That being said, some purple shampoos may contain surfactants that help to remove mild buildup, so it’s important to read the label and choose a product that is appropriate for your hair type and needs.
The Pros and Cons of Using Purple Shampoos
Like any hair care product, there are pros and cons to using purple shampoos. The main benefits include enhanced color and tone, as well as the ability to neutralize unwanted brassy or yellow tones.
However, some people may find that purple shampoos are drying to the hair, or that they don’t provide enough cleansing power for their needs. Additionally, some purple shampoos may stain clothing or towels, so it’s important to be careful when using them.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhances color and tone | Can be drying to hair |
| Neutralizes unwanted tones | May not provide enough cleansing power |
| Contains nourishing ingredients | Can stain clothing or towels |
Tips for Using Purple Shampoos Safely and Effectively
To get the most out of your purple shampoo, it’s important to use it safely and effectively. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a high-quality purple shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type and needs.
- Use the shampoo once or twice a week, depending on your hair’s level of brassiness.
- Leave the shampoo on the hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out.
- Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to prevent dryness and damage.
- Be careful not to overuse the shampoo, as it can lead to a purple tint in the hair.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly to prevent staining of clothing or towels.
