Will Purple Shampoo Lighten Brown Hair?

We thoroughly assess all products before recommending them. We may be compensated if you choose to buy through links on our site.

Understanding Purple Shampoo and Brown Hair

Purple shampoo enjoys popularity for its toning effects on blonde and gray hair. Many brunettes wonder if purple shampoo can lighten their brown hair. This article explores the relationship between purple shampoo and brown hair, clarifying its effects and appropriate usage.

How Purple Shampoo Works

Purple shampoo contains purple pigments. These pigments neutralize yellow tones in hair. Yellow tones appear as hair lightens, particularly in blonde, gray, and lightened brown hair. Purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel. This opposing position allows purple to counteract yellow, creating a cooler, brighter appearance.

Purple shampoo does not lift or bleach hair. It deposits pigment to neutralize unwanted tones. The shampoo’s effectiveness depends on the hair’s porosity and the concentration of purple pigment.

Related Article: Will Purple Shampoo Lighten My Hair?
Related Article: Can You Use Purple Shampoo on Natural Blonde Hair?

Purple Shampoo’s Effect on Brown Hair

Purple shampoo generally does not lighten brown hair. It lacks the lifting agents found in hair lighteners or bleaches. Brown hair typically contains underlying orange and red tones, not yellow. Purple shampoo primarily targets yellow. While purple shampoo may slightly reduce yellow tones present in light brown hair, the effect remains subtle. For darker brown hair, the effect is often negligible.

If brown hair undergoes lightening treatments, purple shampoo can prove beneficial. It can help manage unwanted yellow tones resulting from the lightening process. However, it won’t lighten the hair further, only tone it.

#1

dae Violet Hour Purple Shampoo

Best Overall

$28 Sephora

★★★★☆ 644 Reviews

#2

Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Purple Shampoo

Best for Blonde Hair

$37 Ulta Beauty

★★★★☆ 2,274 Reviews

#3

Ouai Detox Shampoo

Best for Brown Hair

$24 Amazon

★★★★☆ 6,492 Reviews

Choosing the Right Purple Shampoo for Brown Hair

When selecting a purple shampoo for brown hair, consider the following:

• Hair Shade:

  For light brown hair, choose a purple shampoo with a lighter pigment concentration. For darker brown shades, a highly pigmented shampoo might deposit too much purple, creating an unwanted tint.

• Hair Porosity:

  Highly porous hair absorbs pigment more readily. If your brown hair is porous, opt for a less pigmented shampoo or reduce application time. Less porous hair requires a more pigmented formula or longer application time.

• Ingredients:

  Look for shampoos with moisturizing ingredients to counter potential dryness caused by some purple shampoos.

Always perform a strand test before applying any new purple shampoo to your entire head of hair. This allows you to assess the product’s impact and determine the ideal application time and frequency.

Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair

If you decide to try purple shampoo on your brown hair, follow these steps:

• Wet your hair thoroughly:

  Ensure your hair is completely wet before applying shampoo.

• Apply the shampoo:

  Distribute a small amount evenly throughout your hair, focusing on areas with yellow or brassy tones.

• Monitor application time:

  Start with a short application time (1-2 minutes) and gradually increase if needed. Avoid leaving it on for too long, as this can lead to an undesirable purple tint.

• Rinse thoroughly:

  Rinse your hair until the water runs clear. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner.

• Frequency:

  Use purple shampoo once or twice a week, depending on your needs and the product instructions. Excessive use can lead to over-toning or dryness.

Alternatives to Purple Shampoo for Brown Hair

For those seeking to lighten brown hair, purple shampoo is not the solution. Consider these alternatives:

• Hair Lighteners:

  These products contain chemicals that lift the hair’s natural pigment. Choose a lightener specifically formulated for brown hair.

• Highlights or Balayage:

  These techniques involve lightening select sections of hair, creating a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. Consult a professional stylist for personalized recommendations and application.

• Hair Color:

  Consider using a hair dye to achieve a lighter shade of brown. Choose a color that complements your skin tone and desired look.

Consult a professional hair stylist for advice on the most suitable lightening method for your specific hair type and desired results.

Click for more information about Labooshy

Conclusion

Purple shampoo effectively neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, gray, and lightened brown hair. However, it does not lighten natural brown hair. If your goal is to lighten your brown hair, explore alternatives like hair lighteners, highlights, or hair dye. Consult with a hair care professional for personalized guidance on achieving your desired hair color and maintaining its health.