The Truth About Purple Shampoo…
Purple shampoo has become the go-to for blondes and silver-haired beauties hoping to keep brass at bay. It promises cooler tones and a brighter finish, and yes, it can help. But here’s the thing: while it does make your hair look less yellow, it’s not the magic solution it’s hyped up to be. And overuse can actually do more harm than good.
Let’s talk about what purple shampoo really does, why it’s not a great tool long-term, and how to keep your color fresh the right way.
What Purple Shampoo Actually Does
Purple shampoo deposits violet pigment to counteract unwanted yellow and warm tones. Since purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, it helps neutralize that brassiness and gives blonde or silver hair a cooler tone.
Sounds great, right? Kind of, in moderation.
But There’s a Downside
When you rely on purple shampoo too often, it can actually sabotage your color goals.
1. It Dries Out Your Hair
Purple shampoos tend to be drying, especially if they’re loaded with sulfates or pigments. If your hair is already lightened, you’re working with delicate strands that need moisture, not extra stripping.
2. It Can Make Your Hair Look Darker
Excessive pigment builds up, especially on porous hair, making your blonde look dull, muddy, or even slightly violet or gray. Instead of brightening your blonde, you’re dimming it down.
3. It Sets You Back
Too much purple shampoo can throw off your tone and create uneven color that your stylist has to correct. That means clarifying, re-toning, and extra time in the chair, all to undo something that could’ve been avoided.
How to Actually Use Purple Shampoo
Use it only once a month. That’s right, not weekly. Think of it as a color bandage, not a cure.
Don’t leave it on too long. A few minutes is enough. Longer isn’t better here.
Always deep condition afterward. Your hair will thank you.
Clarify once in a while if you’re starting to notice buildup or weird tones.
For Best Results, Trust Your Toner
Purple shampoo is a tool, but not a great one. It’s not precise, it can cause buildup, and it won’t replace what a professional toner does. If you want that clean, fresh, salon-blonde look, the best thing you can do is book a toner appointment between your blonding sessions.
A proper toner refresh will bring back shine, balance your color, and keep your blonde looking its best without the dryness and guesswork of purple shampoo.
Need help dialing in your tone or planning your color maintenance? Let’s chat. I’ll help you find a rhythm that keeps your hair healthy, bright, and brass-free the right way.