If you’re into hair care or are a regular at the salon, you may have heard the terms “purple shampoo” and “toner.”
While both products are used to tone hair, they are actually different in their own ways. In this article, we’ll explore what purple shampoo and toner are, how they work, and if purple shampoo can be used as a toner.
What is Purple Shampoo?
Purple shampoo is a type of shampoo that is formulated with purple pigments. It is used to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in blonde, grey, and silver hair.
Purple shampoo works by depositing a small amount of violet pigment onto the hair, which cancels out the yellow tones that can make blonde hair look dull and lifeless.
Purple shampoo is not meant for everyday use and is recommended to be used once or twice a week, depending on your hair’s needs.
Overuse of purple shampoo can lead to purple or blue tones in the hair, which can be difficult to remove.
How Does Purple Shampoo Work?
Purple shampoo works by using the color theory to neutralize the unwanted tones in the hair. Yellow and purple are complementary colors, which means they cancel each other out when mixed.
The purple pigments in the shampoo neutralize the yellow and brassiness in the hair, making it look brighter and more vibrant.
Using purple shampoo regularly can help maintain blonde, silver, or grey hair color for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent salon visits. It is also an excellent option for those who want to add some shine and vibrancy to their blonde hair without spending too much.
What is a Toner?
A toner is a hair product that is used to modify the hair’s color. It is typically used after bleaching or lightening hair, as it helps to correct unwanted tones and brings the hair to the desired shade. Toners come in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, and silver, and are used to create cooler tones in the hair.
Toners work by depositing color pigments onto the hair. They are acidic and work to close the hair cuticle, sealing in the color and leaving the hair with a smooth and shiny finish.
How Does a Toner Work?
Toners work by using the opposite color on the color wheel to neutralize the unwanted tones in the hair. For example, purple toner is used to neutralize yellow tones in blonde hair, blue toner neutralizes orange in hair, and silver toner neutralizes yellow tones in platinum hair.
Toners are typically left on the hair for 15-30 minutes, depending on the desired result. After rinsing out the toner, the hair is left with a cooler and more even tone.
{TABLE: Differences between Purple Shampoo and Toner}
Is Purple Shampoo a Toner?
Purple shampoo and toner are both used to tone hair, but they are different products. While purple shampoo is used to neutralize unwanted tones in blonde, silver, or grey hair, toner is used to modify the hair’s color after bleaching or lightening.
Purple shampoo is not as potent as a toner, as it only deposits small amounts of pigment onto the hair. Toners, on the other hand, are more concentrated and can significantly alter the hair’s color.
The Differences Between Purple Shampoo and Toner
{TABLE: Differences between Purple Shampoo and Toner}
How to Use Purple Shampoo as a Toner
While purple shampoo can be used to tone hair, it is not as effective as a toner. However, if you want to use purple shampoo as a toner, here’s how to do it:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup.
- Apply purple shampoo to your hair and leave it on for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse out the shampoo and apply a deep conditioner to your hair.
- Rinse out the conditioner and style your hair as usual.
Conclusion: Which Should You Use?
If you have blonde, silver, or grey hair and want to maintain its vibrancy, purple shampoo is an excellent choice. However, if you have recently bleached or lightened hair and want to modify its color, toner is the better option.
Remember to be careful when using purple shampoo, as overuse can lead to purple or blue tones in the hair. Always follow the instructions on the bottle and use the product in moderation.
Ultimately, both purple shampoo and toner have their uses and benefits. It’s up to you to decide which product is best for your hair and your needs.
