If you’ve ever bleached your hair blonde, you may have experienced your hair turning orange instead of the desired platinum shade.
This can be frustrating and discouraging, but don’t worry, there’s a solution. Purple shampoo is a popular remedy for toning down the brassy or orange tones in blonde or bleached hair. But does it really work on orange hair?
Understanding the Science Behind Purple Shampoo
To understand how purple shampoo can tone orange hair, we need to know a little bit of science. Purple is opposite to yellow on the color wheel, which means they cancel each other out.
When purple shampoo is applied to hair, the purple pigments neutralize the yellow tones in the hair. This is why purple shampoo is often recommended for blonde or bleached hair, as these hair colors tend to develop yellow undertones over time.
How Purple Shampoo Can Help Correct Orange Tones
While purple shampoo is not specifically made to tone down orange hair, it can still be effective in correcting orange tones. This is because orange and yellow tones are often intermingled in hair, and purple shampoo can neutralize the yellow tones, making the orange tones appear less vibrant. It’s important to note that if your hair is extremely orange, purple shampoo may not be enough to fully correct the color. In that case, other methods may be needed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can neutralize yellow tones in hair | May not be effective on extremely orange hair |
| Easy to use and widely available | Can dry out hair if overused |
| Can help maintain blonde or bleached hair | Can leave a purple tint on hair if overused |
Tips for Using Purple Shampoo on Orange Hair
If you’ve decided to give purple shampoo a try on your orange hair, here are some tips to get the best results:
- Wet your hair thoroughly before applying purple shampoo.
- Use a generous amount of shampoo and massage it into your hair.
- Leave the shampoo on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it out.
- Repeat the process if necessary, but be careful not to overuse the shampoo.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment after using purple shampoo to keep your hair moisturized.
The Difference Between Purple and Blue Shampoos
Blue shampoo is also a popular remedy for toning down brassy or orange tones in hair. While purple shampoo is best for neutralizing yellow tones, blue shampoo is best for neutralizing orange tones. This is because blue is opposite to orange on the color wheel and therefore can cancel out orange tones in hair. If your hair is extremely orange, it’s best to use blue shampoo instead of purple.
| Purple Shampoo | Blue Shampoo |
|---|---|
| Neutralizes yellow tones | Neutralizes orange tones |
| Best for blonde or bleached hair | Best for brown or darker hair |
| Can leave a purple tint on hair if overused | Can leave a blue tint on hair if overused |
Potential Risks of Using Purple Shampoo on Orange Hair
While purple shampoo can be effective in toning down orange tones in hair, there are some potential risks to be aware of. Overusing purple shampoo can dry out your hair and leave a purple tint on your hair. It’s important to use purple shampoo only once or twice a week and to always follow up with a deep conditioning treatment. Additionally, if your hair is extremely orange, purple shampoo may not be effective enough to correct the color.
Other Methods for Toning Orange Hair
If purple shampoo doesn’t work for your orange hair, there are other methods you can try. One option is to use a toner specifically made for orange hair, which can be found at most beauty supply stores. Another option is to visit a professional hairstylist, who can use more advanced techniques to correct the color of your hair.
Achieving Your Desired Hair Color with Purple Shampoo
Overall, purple shampoo can be a great tool for toning down brassy or orange tones in hair. By understanding the science behind purple shampoo and following the tips for use, you can achieve your desired hair color. Just remember to use purple shampoo in moderation and follow up with deep conditioning treatments to keep your hair healthy and moisturized.
