When it comes to colored hair, maintaining its vibrancy and brilliance is a must. This is where color-correcting shampoos come into play, specifically purple shampoo for blonde hair and red shampoo for red hair.
However, with purple shampoo being popular in the market, some may wonder if it is good for red hair too.
Purple shampoo, which is also known as toning shampoo, is designed to neutralize brassy or yellow tones on blonde hair.
Meanwhile, red shampoo is used to enhance and maintain the richness of red hair color. At first glance, purple shampoo may seem like an odd choice for red hair, but the science behind it may prove otherwise.
The Science behind Purple Shampoo and How It Works on Red Hair
Purple shampoo is formulated with purple pigment, which sits opposite to yellow on the color wheel.
This means that purple pigment can cancel out yellow tones, and in the case of red hair, it can counteract any unwanted warm or orange tones that may appear over time due to the sun, heat styling, or other factors.
The same principle applies to red shampoo, which contains red pigment to enhance and maintain the red tones in hair color.
However, using purple shampoo on red hair can be a bit tricky since red is a primary color, and purple is a secondary color made from combining blue and red.
Therefore, using too much purple shampoo on red hair can result in a bluish tint. It is important to use the right amount and frequency to achieve the desired results.
| Color Wheel | Toning Shampoos |
|---|---|
| Purple sits opposite to yellow | Purple shampoo neutralizes brassy or yellow tones on blonde hair |
| Red sits opposite to green | Red shampoo enhances and maintains red tones in hair color |
Advantages of Using Purple Shampoo on Red Hair
Using purple shampoo on red hair has several advantages, including:
- Neutralizes unwanted warm or orange tones – Red hair is prone to fading and developing unwanted tones over time, especially with exposure to heat and sun. Using purple shampoo on red hair can neutralize these tones, resulting in a more vibrant and cool-toned red hair color.
- Enhances shine – Purple shampoo can also add shine to red hair, making it look healthier and more lustrous.
- Cost-effective – Using purple shampoo in between salon visits can help maintain red hair color and extend its longevity, reducing the need for frequent salon touch-ups.
Common Misconceptions about Purple Shampoo on Red Hair
One common misconception about using purple shampoo on red hair is that it will turn the hair purple. While this may happen if too much purple shampoo is used, it is unlikely to occur with proper usage.
Another misconception is that purple shampoo is not suitable for red hair since it is designed for blonde hair. However, as mentioned earlier, purple shampoo can neutralize unwanted warm tones in red hair, making it a viable option for maintaining red hair color.
Do’s and Don’ts of Using Purple Shampoo on Red Hair
To ensure the best results when using purple shampoo on red hair, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do’s:
- Use a sulfate-free purple shampoo
- Use a small amount of purple shampoo
- Leave the shampoo on for a few minutes before rinsing
- Follow up with a conditioner to prevent dryness
Don’ts:
- Use too much purple shampoo
- Leave the shampoo on for too long
- Use purple shampoo too frequently (once a week is sufficient)
- Skip the conditioner
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo on Red Hair?
The frequency of using purple shampoo on red hair depends on several factors, such as hair type, condition, and color intensity. As a general rule, it is recommended to use purple shampoo once a week to maintain red hair color and neutralize any unwanted warm tones.
However, if the hair is particularly brassy or orange, using purple shampoo twice a week may be necessary. It is important to note that overusing purple shampoo can lead to dryness and damage, so it is best to use it in moderation.
Purple Shampoo vs. Other Color-Correcting Shampoos for Red Hair
Aside from purple shampoo, there are other color-correcting shampoos that can be used to maintain and enhance red hair color. These include:
- Red shampoo – specifically designed for red hair, contains red pigment to enhance and maintain red tones
- Green shampoo – used to neutralize red tones in hair color, making it ideal for those with green or blue undertones in their hair
- Blue shampoo – used to neutralize orange or brassy tones in hair color, making it suitable for those with dark or brunette hair
The choice of color-correcting shampoo depends on the specific needs of the hair, but using a combination of different shampoos can also be effective in achieving the desired results.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Using Purple Shampoo for Red Hair
In conclusion, purple shampoo is a viable option for maintaining and enhancing red hair color, as long as it is used in moderation and with proper care. It can neutralize unwanted warm tones and add shine to red hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant.
However, it is important to choose the right type of purple shampoo, use it at the right frequency, and follow the do’s and don’ts to achieve the best results. As with any hair care product, it is best to consult with a professional hairstylist before using purple shampoo on red hair.
