Purple shampoo is a must-have product for anyone looking to maintain blonde, silver, or gray hair. Its unique violet pigments neutralize brassy, yellow tones, keeping your hair color vibrant and cool-toned. But using purple shampoo correctly is key to achieving the best results. In this article, we’ll cover a step-by-step guide on how to use purple shampoo effectively.

How to Use Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is a specially formulated product infused with purple pigments. These pigments cancel out yellow and brassy tones because purple is directly opposite yellow on the color wheel. By depositing a small amount of pigment, the shampoo enhances cool tones and restores a balanced, natural look to light hair colors. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use it to achieve the best results;

1. Choose the Right Purple Shampoo

• Pick a purple shampoo suited to your hair type and color. For lighter blondes or silver hair, a stronger purple pigment may be necessary, while darker blondes can use a milder formula.

2. Wet Your Hair

• Start with thoroughly wet hair to ensure even application of the shampoo.

3. Apply Purple Shampoo

• Dispense a small amount of shampoo into your palms.
• Work it through your hair, focusing on areas prone to brassiness (e.g., the ends or any highlighted sections).

4. Let It Sit

• Leave the shampoo in your hair for 1-5 minutes, depending on the level of toning you need.
• For first-time use, start with 1-2 minutes to avoid over-toning.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

• Rinse out the purple shampoo completely to prevent residue buildup.

6. Follow with Conditioner

• Purple shampoo can be slightly drying, so use a hydrating conditioner or a purple conditioner for added toning.

Tips for Best Results

1. Frequency of Use: Use purple shampoo 1-2 times per week or as needed to maintain your desired tone. Overuse can lead to a purple tint or dullness.
2. Patch Test: If you’re new to purple shampoo, test a small section of hair to see how it reacts before applying it all over.
3. Alternate with Regular Shampoo: To avoid buildup or over-toning, alternate purple shampoo with your regular sulfate-free shampoo.
4. Use a Hair Mask: Incorporate a hydrating or strengthening hair mask once a week to counteract dryness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving It On Too Long: This can result in an unwanted purple hue.
• Using It Daily: Overuse can dry out your hair.
• Skipping Conditioner: Purple shampoo may leave hair feeling slightly dry without proper conditioning.

FAQs About How to Use Purple Shampoo

1. What is purple shampoo used for?

Purple shampoo neutralizes yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, gray, or highlighted hair, keeping it vibrant and cool-toned.

2. How often should I use it?

Use it 1-2 times per week. Overusing can lead to a purple tint or overly dry hair.

3. How long should I leave it in my hair?

Start with 1-2 minutes for first-time use. For stronger toning, leave it in for up to 5 minutes.

4. Can I use it on dark hair?

Yes, if you have highlights or balayage, purple shampoo can help reduce brassiness in the lighter sections.

5. Does purple shampoo replace regular shampoo?

No, purple shampoo should be used in combination with your regular shampoo to maintain a balanced routine.

6. Can it damage hair?

It isn’t inherently damaging, but overuse can cause dryness. Always follow with a hydrating conditioner.

7. What happens if I leave it on too long?

Your hair might develop a temporary purple or lavender tint, which usually washes out after a few washes.

8. Should I use conditioner after purple shampoo?

Yes, it can be drying, so follow it with a hydrating or purple conditioner to nourish your hair.

9. Can I use it on dry hair?

While some people apply it to dry hair for stronger toning, this method increases the risk of uneven results or over-toning. It’s best to use on wet hair.

10. Is it safe for natural gray hair?

Yes, it works well to neutralize yellow tones in natural gray or white hair, keeping it bright and silvery.

Final Thoughts

Purple shampoo is a powerful tool to maintain bright, brass-free hair, but proper usage is key to avoiding over-toning or dryness. By following this guide, you can enjoy vibrant, salon-fresh hair from the comfort of your home. Incorporate it into your routine as a reliable ally for stunning blonde, silver, or highlighted hair.

Note: Leaving purple shampoo on for too long can result in an unwanted purple or ashy tint. If this happens, don’t worry, it’s temporary. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove excess pigment.