Never Make These Purple Shampoo Mistakes Again: The Ultimate Guide for Blondes

Struggling with brassy, yellow tones in your blonde hair?

Purple shampoo may be the answer, but using it incorrectly can cause more harm than good. In this guide, we’ll show you the right way to use purple shampoo, avoid common mistakes, and keep your blonde hair looking fresh.

Don’t wait—get it right today

Key takeaways:

1. Use Purple Shampoo Sparingly: Overuse can lead to unwanted purple or greyish tones. Limit application to once a week, or as needed, to maintain a natural blonde hue.

2. Apply to Damp Hair and Leave for 2–5 Minutes: For optimal results, apply purple shampoo to damp hair and leave it on for 2–5 minutes. Longer exposure may cause over-toning, especially for fine or porous hair.

3. Avoid Using Before Salon Visits: Cease using purple shampoo a week before your color appointment. Build-up can affect color application and may require additional treatments.

What Is Purple Shampoo and Why It’s Essential?

Purple shampoo is a color-correcting shampoo that neutralizes yellow and orange tones in blonde, silver, or highlighted hair. It contains purple pigments, which counteract warm, brassy hues. This helps maintain a natural, cool-toned blonde.

How Does Purple Shampoo Work?

1. Purple Pigment Neutralizes Brassiness
   Purple is opposite to yellow and orange on the color wheel. When you apply purple shampoo, it balances out the warm tones in your hair, leaving it cooler and brighter.
2. Tones Blonde and Silver Hair
   Purple shampoo doesn’t bleach your hair; it simply removes unwanted yellow or orange hues. It helps your hair maintain its cool, fresh blonde or silver appearance.

Who Should Use Purple Shampoo?

1. For Blondes: If you have blonde hair, whether natural or dyed, purple shampoo is essential to prevent unwanted warmth from creeping in.
2. For Silver Hair: Silver hair tends to pick up warm undertones, making purple shampoo an ideal choice for keeping it icy and sleek.
3. For Highlights: If your hair is highlighted, purple shampoo helps maintain the brightness of your blonde streaks, preventing brassiness from setting in.

Example: If you’ve recently dyed your hair blonde and notice it turning yellowish after a week or two, a purple shampoo will help restore its vibrant tone.

Top 5 Purple Shampoo Mistakes You’re Probably Making

Purple shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with blonde or highlighted hair. But, like all good things, it can be misused. Here are the top five mistakes people make with purple shampoo and how to fix them:

Mistake 1: Using Too Much Purple Shampoo

• Why It’s a Problem: Overapplying purple shampoo can leave your hair with a purple tint, which is difficult to fix.
• How to Fix It: Use a small amount—about a quarter-sized dollop is plenty. Follow the recommended usage for your hair type.
• Tip: If you’re new to purple shampoo, start by using it once a week and adjust as needed.

Mistake 2: Forgetting to Moisturize

• Why It’s a Problem: Purple shampoo can dry out your hair due to its toning ingredients. If you don’t moisturize afterward, your hair may feel brittle or dull.
• How to Fix It: Always follow up with a hydrating conditioner. This keeps your hair soft and prevents dryness.
• Tip: Look for sulfate-free conditioners to protect your color and keep your hair hydrated.

Mistake 3: Not Choosing the Right Purple Shampoo for Your Hair Type

• Why It’s a Problem: Different blonde shades need different levels of toning. Using the wrong shampoo could leave your hair too toned or not toned enough.
• How to Fix It: Choose a purple shampoo that matches your blonde shade. If you have light blonde or platinum hair, go for a stronger formula.
• Tip: For warm-toned hair, use a mild purple shampoo to gently neutralize brassiness.

Mistake 4: Using It on Darker Hair

• Why It’s a Problem: Purple shampoo is most effective for blonde or lightened hair. Using it on dark hair will not have the same effect and may not yield noticeable results.
• How to Fix It: Use purple shampoo only on blonde, highlighted, or silver hair. For dark hair, look for a shampoo designed to enhance your natural color.
• Tip: If you have dark roots with blonde tips, focus the purple shampoo only on the blonde areas.

Mistake 5: Leaving It in Too Long

• Why It’s a Problem: Purple shampoo can leave your hair over-toned if you leave it on too long. This might result in an unnatural violet tint.
• How to Fix It: Stick to the recommended time—usually 3-5 minutes. If your hair is very brassy, you can leave it on a bit longer, but never exceed 10 minutes.
• Tip: Always rinse thoroughly to avoid any product residue.

How to Use Purple Shampoo Without Making These Mistakes

Purple shampoo is a must-have for anyone with blonde, silver, or highlighted hair. However, using it incorrectly can yield unintended results. Here’s how to use purple shampoo correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Apply on Wet Hair:
Always apply purple shampoo to wet hair. Wet hair allows for even distribution, ensuring the product works its magic without streaks.

Use the Right Amount:
A quarter-sized amount of purple shampoo is enough for medium-length hair. Don’t over-apply; it’s about quality, not quantity.

Leave It on for 3-5 Minutes:
For the best results, leave the shampoo in for 3-5 minutes. The longer you leave it, the more neutralized your hair will be, but don’t leave it too long to avoid an overly purple hue.

Condition After Use:
Purple shampoo can be drying. Always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair soft and hydrated. This will prevent your hair from feeling brittle.

Frequency:
Use purple shampoo 1-2 times per week. If your hair is extremely brassy, use it more frequently, but avoid using it daily. Excessive use of purple shampoo can lead to dryness.

Pro Tip:

If your hair is very brassy, leave the shampoo in for a few extra minutes to intensify the toning effect. This can help correct those stronger yellow or orange tones in one use.

Top Purple Shampoos for Blonde Hair Types

1. For Platinum Blonde Hair

Product: Fanola No Yellow Shampoo

Why It Works: Formulated with intense purple pigments, it effectively neutralizes yellow tones in platinum blonde hair.

Benefits:

• Strong color correction for pale blondes.
• Leaves hair cool-toned without over-drying.

Price: ₹986.31 for 350ml

User Tip: Apply cautiously and leave on for 3–5 minutes to avoid over-toning.

2. For Highlighted Blonde Hair

Product: Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo

Why It Works: Contains purple pigments and protein to strengthen and tone highlighted blonde hair.

Benefits:

• Adds protein to strengthen highlighted strands.
• Neutralizes brassy, yellow tones without drying.

Price: ₹3,397.30 for 300ml

User Tip: Use 2–3 times a week for optimal results.

3. For Natural Blonde Hair

Product: Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo

Why It Works: Gently tones and neutralizes brassiness while providing moisture and protection to natural blonde hair.

Benefits:

• Protects color and prevents fade.
• Adds moisture, leaving hair soft and shiny.

Price: ₹1,135.02 for 266ml

User Tip: Suitable for daily use, and it’s particularly great for those with sensitive or dry hair.

4. For Gray or Silver Hair

Product: Better Not Younger Silver Lining Purple Brightening Shampoo

Why It Works: Specifically designed for gray and silver hair, it helps to neutralize yellow tones while keeping your hair vibrant and shiny.

Benefits:

• Brightens gray and silver hair, restoring shine.
• Gentle formula, free from harsh sulfates.

Price: ₹6,874 for 250ml

User Tip: Use once or twice a week to maintain a cool, silvery tone.

5. For Budget-Friendly Option

Product: Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo

Why It Works: An affordable option that effectively tones blonde hair and removes brassiness.

Benefits:

• Works well for both blonde and gray hair.
• Affordable and effective at maintaining blonde tones.

Price: ₹1,237 for 473ml

User Tip: Ideal for regular use to keep your blonde hair vibrant.

Comparison Table

Top Picks Summary

• For Platinum Blonde Hair: Fanola No Yellow Shampoo offers intense toning to neutralize yellow tones effectively.
• For Highlighted Blonde Hair: Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo combines purple pigments and protein to strengthen and tone highlighted strands.
• For Natural Blonde Hair: Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo provides gentle toning while moisturizing and protecting natural blonde hair.
• For Gray or Silver Hair: Better Not Younger Silver Lining Purple Brightening Shampoo is specifically designed to brighten and neutralize yellow tones in gray and silver hair.
• For Budget-Friendly Option: Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo offers effective toning at an affordable price point.

Common Purple Shampoo Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)​​

Purple shampoo is a lifesaver for blondes, but if you’re not careful, it can cause damage or leave you with unexpected results. Here are the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Overusing Purple Shampoo

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Overusing purple shampoo can result in over-toning and a noticeable purple tint. The purple pigment works well to neutralize yellow and brassy tones, but too much can give your hair an unwanted hue.
• How to Avoid It:
  Use purple shampoo sparingly. For most people, once or twice a week is enough to keep brassiness at bay. If you have very brassy hair, you can use it more often, but always stick to the recommended time.
• Tip: Start with a small amount and gradually increase use based on your needs.

Mistake 2: Using Purple Shampoo on Dark Hair

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Purple shampoo is formulated for light blonde, highlighted, or silver hair. It won’t work effectively on darker hair and may cause uneven results. Dark hair won’t show the benefits of purple shampoo because it’s not light enough to neutralize brassiness.
• How to Avoid It:
  Only use purple shampoo on blonde, highlighted, or gray hair. For dark hair, use a color-boosting shampoo designed specifically for darker shades.
• Tip: If you have dark roots and blonde ends, apply the purple shampoo only to the blonde sections.

Mistake 3: Not Using a Good Conditioner

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Purple shampoo can be drying because it often contains sulfate. If you skip conditioner, you risk your hair becoming brittle and dull. This is especially important for blondes whose hair tends to be more fragile.
• How to Avoid It:
  Always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner after using purple shampoo. Choose a color-safe, sulfate-free conditioner to maintain hydration and prevent damage.
• Tip: Consider using a conditioner specifically designed for blonde hair to maintain the balance of moisture and color.

Mistake 4: Forgetting to Follow Instructions

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Purple shampoo is most effective when used according to the recommended time. Leaving it on too long can result in overly toned hair, while not leaving it on long enough will make it less effective.
• How to Avoid It:
  Always follow the time instructions on the bottle. Typically, 3-5 minutes is enough to get the desired result. For very brassy hair, you can leave it on a little longer, but don’t exceed 10 minutes.
• Tip: Start with a timer to avoid leaving it on too long.

How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo?

Purple shampoo is a powerful tool for maintaining blonde, highlighted, or silver hair. But using it correctly is key to achieving the best results without over-toning or drying out your hair.

The Ideal Frequency

• For Light Brassiness: If your hair is just slightly brassy, using purple shampoo once a week is sufficient.
• For Moderate Brassiness: If you have slightly more yellow or orange tones, using it every 2-3 washes should keep your hair looking fresh.
• For Extreme Brassiness: If your hair is very yellow or orange, you may need to use purple shampoo 2-3 times a week to tone down the brassiness. Once the tone is balanced, you can reduce the frequency.

How to Adjust

1. Start Slow: When you first use purple shampoo, start with a shorter leave-in time (2-3 minutes).
2. Monitor Results: If your hair looks too purple, reduce the time or use it less often.
3. Reduce Use as Needed: Once your blonde tone is maintained, decrease the frequency to avoid over-toning.

By adjusting your purple shampoo routine to suit your hair’s specific needs, you can keep your blonde hair looking fresh without the risk of over-toning or drying.

Real User Insights: Purple Shampoo Reviews from Reddit & Quora

Purple shampoo has become a must-have for people with blonde or highlighted hair, but how well does it really work? Let’s examine some genuine user feedback from Reddit and Quora to gather honest opinions on its effectiveness.

Reddit Feedback

“I use purple shampoo once a week to keep my blonde hair from looking yellow, and it’s worked wonders!”

Pros:

• Regular use prevents brassiness.
• Helps keep blonde hair vibrant and cool-toned.
• Easy to incorporate into your regular hair care routine.

Cons:

• Overuse can cause hair to feel dry if not followed by a conditioner.
• Needs to be used cautiously for platinum blondes to avoid purple tint.

Quora Insights

“The best advice I got was to not leave the purple shampoo in for too long. It worked better once I adjusted the timing.”

Pros:

• Adjusting the timing prevents over-toning.
• Effective at neutralizing yellow and orange tones.
• Works well on highlighted and bleached hair.

Cons:

• It takes trial and error to find the right amount of time to leave it in.
• Can stain your hands and shower if not rinsed immediately.

User Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Neutralizes Brassy Tones: Many users note how effective purple shampoo is at keeping blonde hair cool and fresh.
• Easy to Use: The process is simple, requiring just a few minutes of application.
• Improves Shine: Several users commented on how purple shampoo enhances the shine and vibrancy of their blonde hair.

Cons:

• Dryness: Some users find their hair feels dry after use, especially if they don’t follow up with a conditioner.
• Purple Tint: Leaving purple shampoo on for too long can result in a purple tint, especially if you have very light blonde or platinum hair.

FAQs

1. Can Purple Shampoo Turn My Hair Purple?

Answer: While purple shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde hair, overuse or leaving it on for too long can result in a temporary purple tint. This is more likely if your hair is porous or damaged. To avoid this, use the shampoo as directed and monitor your hair’s response.

2. How Often Should I Use Purple Shampoo?

Answer: The frequency of use depends on your hair’s needs. Generally, using purple shampoo once a week is sufficient to maintain cool tones. If you notice brassiness more frequently, you can increase usage to 2-3 times a week. However, overuse can lead to dryness or unwanted color changes.

3. Is Purple Shampoo Only for Blonde Hair?

Answer: No, purple shampoo can be beneficial for various hair colors. It helps neutralize brassy tones not only in blonde but also in silver, gray, and even light brown hair. The violet pigments counteract yellow hues, maintaining a cooler, more natural-looking shade.

4. Can I Use Purple Shampoo on Dry Hair?

Answer: It’s not recommended to apply purple shampoo to dry hair. Wet hair allows for more even distribution and better absorption of the product. Applying to dry hair may lead to uneven toning and potential staining, especially on porous or damaged strands.

5. Does Purple Shampoo Replace Salon Toners?

Answer: Purple shampoo is a temporary solution to maintain hair color between salon visits. It helps neutralize brassiness but doesn’t replace professional toning treatments. For optimal results, consult with your stylist to determine the best way to incorporate purple shampoo into your hair care routine.