
We thoroughly assess all products before recommending them. We may be compensated if you choose to buy through links on our site.
Question: How to Use Purple Shampoo Correctly?
Answer: To use purple shampoo correctly apply it to wet, clean hair, focusing on brassy areas. Leave on for 1-5 minutes depending on the product and your hair’s needs, then rinse thoroughly.
Understanding Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, gray, and silver hair. It contains purple pigments that deposit onto the hair, counteracting brassiness. This helps maintain a cool, vibrant color. Purple shampoo does not lighten hair. It works on the color wheel principle: purple sits opposite yellow, canceling it out.

Recommended Purple Shampoos
Purple Shampoo
From gentle toning to intense color correction, these purple shampoos offer targeted solutions for blonde and highlighted hair...
Choosing the Right Purple Shampoo
Select a purple shampoo based on your hair color and level of brassiness. For light blonde hair, use a lighter purple shampoo. For darker blonde or gray hair, a more pigmented shampoo might be suitable. Consider your hair’s porosity. Porous hair absorbs color quickly, so use a lighter formula or dilute it. Less porous hair may require a more concentrated formula.
Related Article: What to Use Instead of Purple Shampoo?
Related Article: Why is My Hair Falling Out After Using Purple Shampoo?
Preparing Your Hair
Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water before applying purple shampoo. This ensures even distribution of the product. Lukewarm water opens the hair cuticle, allowing the purple pigments to penetrate the hair shaft effectively. Hot water can dry out your hair, while cold water may not effectively open the cuticle.
Applying Purple Shampoo
Apply purple shampoo to wet hair. Focus on the areas with the most yellowing or brassiness. Massage the shampoo into your hair, ensuring it covers all strands. Do not apply purple shampoo to your scalp directly. This can lead to staining and irritation. Instead, focus on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
Timing and Rinsing
Leave the purple shampoo on for the recommended time. This varies depending on the specific product and your hair’s porosity. Start with a shorter duration (1-2 minutes) and gradually increase it if needed. Monitor your hair closely to avoid over-toning, which can result in lavender or purple hues. Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water once the desired toning effect is achieved. Cool water helps seal the hair cuticle, locking in the color and promoting shine.
Maintaining Results and Additional Tips
Use purple shampoo as needed to maintain your desired tone. The frequency depends on your hair type and how quickly it becomes brassy. For some, once a week is sufficient; others may need to use it twice a week or less. Avoid overusing purple shampoo, as this can dry out your hair or lead to an undesirable purple tinge. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to hydrate your hair after using purple shampoo. This helps replenish moisture and maintain healthy-looking hair.
Consider a Strand Test:
Before applying purple shampoo to your entire head, perform a strand test. Apply the shampoo to a small, hidden section of your hair to assess the color deposit and determine the appropriate application time.Dilute the Shampoo:
For a less intense toning effect, dilute the purple shampoo with water or your regular shampoo. This can prevent over-toning, especially for those with light blonde or porous hair.Alternate with Regular Shampoo:
Avoid using purple shampoo every time you wash your hair. Alternate with a moisturizing or color-safe shampoo to maintain hair health and prevent over-toning.Use a Deep Conditioner:
Purple shampoo can sometimes dry out hair. Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine once or twice a month to replenish moisture and maintain healthy hair.Protect Your Hair from Environmental Factors:
Environmental factors such as sun exposure and hard water can contribute to brassiness. Use hair products with UV protection and consider installing a shower filter to minimize these effects.Consult a Professional:
If you are unsure about using purple shampoo or experiencing difficulties achieving your desired results, consult a professional hairstylist for personalized advice.
Conclusion
Purple shampoo offers a simple and effective way to neutralize unwanted yellow tones in blonde, gray, and silver hair. By understanding how to use purple shampoo correctly, you can maintain a cool, vibrant color and keep your hair looking its best. Following these guidelines will ensure you achieve desired results while preserving hair health. Remember to choose the right purple shampoo, prepare your hair properly, apply the product correctly, and rinse thoroughly to maintain a beautiful, brass-free color.