My Experience with Purple Shampoo: The Real Pros and Cons I Discovered
- Chelsea Mahala
- Jun 7
- 4 min read
The love for purple shampoo runs deep in the blonde part of the world. It is a great tool that can help keep your ashy blonde tone for longer, however, like everything in this world.... There is the good and the bad. Knowing how to use purple shampoo and why will help you make those educated decisions on when or if you want to use it.
As a blonde is isn't a necessary product to have in your bathroom, especially if you are in the warm tones.
What is Purple Shampoo?
Purple shampoo is designed specifically for blonde, gray, and silver hair colors. It contains purple pigments that neutralize yellow tones. Think of it as color correction in a bottle. For those who have invested both time and money to achieve the perfect blonde look, purple shampoo often serves as a go-to solution. However, with any product, there are both positives and negatives.
If you are seeing more orange tones in your hair, you will want to reach for a blue shampoo, and if you're see red..... reach for green.
Pros of Using Purple Shampoo
1. Neutralizes Brassiness
One of the most immediate effects I noticed was the reduction in brassiness. After a few weeks without toning, my blonde highlights often turned a brassy yellow. However, using purple shampoo made a significant difference. After just one wash, the purple pigments helped return my hair to a balanced and fresh appearance. According to studies, using a quality purple shampoo can reduce unwanted warm tones by up to 80%.
2. Enhances Shine
Another unexpected benefit of purple shampoo is how much it can enhance shine. The violet pigments not only neutralized warm tones but also gave my hair a vibrant gloss. My hair looked healthier and more radiant. This boost in shine made my hair feel salon-worthy. In fact, reports indicate that users experience a noticeable 70% increase in hair luster after integrating purple shampoo into their routine.
3. Affordable Alternative
Compared to professional salon treatments that can cost over $100, purple shampoo is an affordable alternative. Many reputable brands priced around $10 to $30 allow you to maintain your hair's perfect tone at home. This not only saves money but also provides the flexibility to customize your hair care without being tied to appointment schedules.
Cons of Using Purple Shampoo
1. Risk of Overuse
One of the bigger downsides I encountered was the risk of overuse. I was so happy with the results at first that I started using it every wash. I soon learned that this can result in an undesired violet hue, especially on lighter blonde shades. After a bit of experimentation, I found that using purple shampoo once a week yielded the best results. This way, my hair maintained its balance and avoided any harsh tones.
2. Potential to Dry Out Hair
Some purple shampoos can be drying, which I discovered with one concentrated formula I tried. It worked wonders for toning but left my hair feeling brittle. To avoid this issue, I introduced a nourishing conditioner into my routine. It's important to note that not all purple shampoos are the same. It's crucial to read the labels and choose a hydrating option.
3. Can Stain Hands and Surfaces
A less glamorous aspect of purple shampoo is its staining potential. The vibrant purple pigments can easily transfer to your hands and surfaces. On my first few uses, I surprised myself with purple-stained fingers that lingered for days. To avoid this, I recommend wearing gloves during application and rinsing off any spills immediately—especially on bathroom tiles.
How to Use Purple Shampoo Effectively
Here are some tips that helped me make the most of my purple shampoo experience:
1. Use It Sparingly
Limit your use to about once a week, particularly if you are new to it. This approach allows you to gauge your hair's response without overwhelming it.
2. Choose a Quality Formula
Look for purple shampoos labeled as hydrating. This small detail can make a significant difference in ensuring your hair remains moisturized.
3. Follow Up with Conditioner
Always apply a quality conditioner after using purple shampoo. This balance helps counteract any dryness while keeping your hair manageable.
Some
Purple Shampoo Brands
After trying several brands, here are three that stood out in terms of performance and quality:
1. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
This shampoo is highly regarded for its powerful formula. It effectively neutralized brassiness with noticeable effects. However, I learned to space out its use to once every week and a half to avoid any unwanted violet tinge.
2. L'Oreal Paris Ever Pure Blonde Shampoo
An extremely budget-friendly option, this shampoo works wonderfully to maintain color without significant drying effects. It kept my hair moisturized while doing its job.
3. Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo
This brand has a well-balanced formula that neutralizes brassiness while keeping hair hydrated. It has become a staple in my hair care routine.
Final Thoughts
In my exploration of purple shampoo, I've experienced both significant benefits and some challenges. The ability to neutralize brassiness and enhance shine is remarkable, but I also had to navigate potential dryness and the risk of overuse.
If you decide to try purple shampoo, I encourage you to proceed with caution. Test various brands, establish a usage routine, and always remember that it's just one piece of your overall hair care strategy. Every hair type is unique, so take your time to find what works best for you and enjoy the journey to fabulous hair!
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