Purple shampoo is a type of shampoo formulated with a violet pigment that is designed to help neutralize brassy tones in blonde, silver, and highlighted hair.
It is a lifesaver for people who have dyed their hair blonde or highlighted their hair because these hair colors tend to turn yellow or brassy over time. Purple shampoo helps to keep the hair color looking fresh, bright, and cool-toned.
Purple shampoo can come in different shades of purple, from light lavender to deep violet, depending on the intensity of the pigments. It is important to choose a purple shampoo that suits your hair color and the level of brassiness that you want to neutralize.
Some purple shampoos are more pigmented than others, so it is important to read the labels and follow the instructions carefully.
Why Does Hair Turn Brassy?
Hair turns brassy when the cool-toned pigments in blonde or highlighted hair fade or oxidize, revealing the warm undertones of the hair color.
This can happen due to various reasons, such as exposure to the sun, heat styling tools, hard water, chlorine, and hair products that contain sulfates and silicones.
Over time, the hair color can become yellow, orange, or even green, depending on the hair color and the level of brassiness.
To prevent hair from turning brassy, it is important to use hair products that are formulated for color-treated hair and to avoid exposing the hair to harsh environmental factors.
Purple shampoo can help to neutralize the brassy tones in the hair, but it is not a permanent solution. Regular touch-ups at the salon may be necessary to maintain the desired hair color.
How Does Purple Shampoo Work?
Purple shampoo works by depositing violet pigments onto the hair strands, which help to cancel out the warm, yellow tones in blonde or highlighted hair.
The purple pigments are opposite to yellow on the color wheel, so they neutralize each other. When used regularly, purple shampoo can help to maintain the cool, ashy tone of blonde or silver hair.
It is important to note that purple shampoo is not a substitute for regular shampoo. It should be used in conjunction with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated. Overuse of purple shampoo can lead to dryness and breakage, so it is important to follow the instructions and use it only as needed.
Is Purple Shampoo Suitable for All Hair Types?
Purple shampoo is suitable for blonde, silver, and highlighted hair that tends to turn yellow or brassy over time. It is not recommended for natural brunette or red hair, as it can make the hair appear dull and muddy. If you have dark hair with blonde highlights, you can use purple shampoo on the highlighted sections only, but be careful not to get it on the darker sections, as it can discolor them.
When Should You Start Using Purple Shampoo?
You should start using purple shampoo when you notice your hair turning yellow or brassy, which can happen any time after you dye or highlight your hair. If you have naturally blonde or silver hair, you can use purple shampoo as a preventative measure to maintain the cool, ashy tone of your hair. It is important to choose a purple shampoo that is suitable for your hair color and the level of brassiness that you want to neutralize.
| Hair Type | When to Start Using Purple Shampoo |
|---|---|
| Dyed Blonde Hair | 1-2 weeks after dyeing |
| Highlighted Hair | 2-3 weeks after highlighting |
| Natural Blonde Hair | Once a week as a preventative measure |
| Silver Hair | Once a week to maintain the cool tone |
Can Overuse of Purple Shampoo Damage Hair?
Overuse of purple shampoo can lead to dryness, breakage, and even a purple tint to the hair. This is because purple shampoo contains pigments that can stain the hair if left on for too long or used too frequently. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and use purple shampoo only as needed. If you notice any signs of dryness or damage, reduce the frequency of use or switch to a gentler formula.
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo?
The frequency of using purple shampoo depends on the hair color, the level of brassiness, and the condition of the hair. Generally, purple shampoo should be used once a week or as needed to maintain the desired hair color. If you have highly porous or damaged hair, you may need to use purple shampoo less frequently to avoid over-drying the hair. If you have naturally blonde or silver hair, you can use purple shampoo once a week as a preventative measure.
| Hair Type | Frequency of Using Purple Shampoo |
|---|---|
| Dyed Blonde Hair | Once a week or as needed |
| Highlighted Hair | Once a week or as needed |
| Natural Blonde Hair | Once a week as a preventative measure |
| Silver Hair | Once a week to maintain the cool tone |
What Other Products Can Help Maintain Hair Color?
In addition to purple shampoo, there are other products that can help maintain the color and health of your hair. These include:
- Color-safe shampoo and conditioner: These are formulated to gently cleanse and moisturize color-treated hair without stripping the color.
- Leave-in conditioner: This can help to hydrate and protect the hair from environmental stressors that can cause damage and fade the color.
- Hair masks: These are deep conditioning treatments that can help to strengthen and nourish the hair, preventing breakage and keeping the color looking vibrant.
- Heat protectant spray: This can help to protect the hair from heat styling tools, which can cause damage and fade the color.
