As a blonde, you’re probably no stranger to the world of purple shampoo. This color-correcting wonder product has been a staple in many a blonde’s hair care routine for years, helping to neutralize brassy tones and keep locks looking vibrant and healthy. But have you ever stopped to think about the best way to use purple shampoo? Should you use it as a replacement for your regular shampoo, or as a treatment to be used in between washes? And what about the order in which you use it – should you use purple shampoo first, or after your regular shampoo?
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of purple shampoo and explore the best ways to use it to achieve the perfect blonde color.
What is Purple Shampoo, and How Does it Work?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of using purple shampoo, let’s take a quick look at what it is and how it works. Purple shampoo is a type of color-correcting shampoo that is specifically designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde hair. It does this by depositing purple pigment onto the hair shaft, which helps to counteract the warm, yellow tones that can develop in blonde hair over time.
Purple shampoo typically contains a combination of ingredients, including purple pigments, color-correcting agents, and moisturizing ingredients. The purple pigments in the shampoo work to neutralize brassy tones, while the color-correcting agents help to adjust the pH of the hair and scalp. The moisturizing ingredients, meanwhile, help to keep the hair hydrated and healthy-looking.
How to Choose the Right Purple Shampoo for Your Hair
With so many different purple shampoos on the market, it can be tricky to know which one to choose. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a purple shampoo:
- Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for your hair type. If you have dry or damaged hair, look for a purple shampoo that is moisturizing and nourishing. If you have oily hair, look for a shampoo that is lightweight and oil-controlling.
- Consider the level of color correction you need. If you have very brassy hair, you may want to look for a shampoo that is highly pigmented and contains a high concentration of color-correcting agents. If you have only slightly brassy hair, a less pigmented shampoo may be sufficient.
- Read reviews and do your research. Check out online reviews from other users to get a sense of how well a particular shampoo works and whether it’s right for your hair type.
Should I Use Purple Shampoo First, or After My Regular Shampoo?
So, should you use purple shampoo first, or after your regular shampoo? The answer to this question depends on a few different factors, including your hair type, the level of color correction you need, and your personal preference.
- If you have very brassy hair, you may want to use purple shampoo first. This will allow the color-correcting agents in the shampoo to penetrate the hair shaft and start working to neutralize brassy tones right away.
- If you have only slightly brassy hair, you may want to use purple shampoo after your regular shampoo. This will help to maintain the color-correcting effects of the shampoo and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
- If you have dry or damaged hair, you may want to use purple shampoo as a treatment in between washes. This will allow you to reap the color-correcting benefits of the shampoo without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
How to Use Purple Shampoo as a Treatment
Using purple shampoo as a treatment can be a great way to reap its color-correcting benefits without stripping your hair of its natural oils. Here’s how to do it:
- Apply the purple shampoo to your hair, focusing on the ends and mid-lengths. Avoid applying the shampoo to your roots, as this can cause dryness and irritation.
- Leave the shampoo on for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the color-correcting agents to penetrate the hair shaft and start working to neutralize brassy tones.
- Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly with warm water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color-correcting effects of the shampoo.
Other Tips for Using Purple Shampoo
Here are a few other tips to keep in mind when using purple shampoo:
- Use purple shampoo no more than once or twice a week. Overusing purple shampoo can cause dryness and irritation, so it’s best to use it in moderation.
- Be careful not to over-tone your hair. Purple shampoo can be quite potent, so be careful not to over-tone your hair. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed.
- Use a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color-correcting effects of the shampoo. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and healthy-looking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Purple Shampoo
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using purple shampoo:
- Using too much purple shampoo. This can cause dryness and irritation, so be careful not to overdo it.
- Not leaving the shampoo on for long enough. Leaving the shampoo on for at least 5-10 minutes will allow the color-correcting agents to penetrate the hair shaft and start working to neutralize brassy tones.
- Not following up with a moisturizing conditioner. This can cause dryness and irritation, so be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner after using purple shampoo.
Conclusion
Using purple shampoo can be a great way to keep your blonde hair looking healthy and vibrant. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can get the most out of your purple shampoo and achieve the perfect blonde color. Remember to use purple shampoo in moderation, be careful not to over-tone your hair, and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color-correcting effects of the shampoo. With a little practice and patience, you can achieve the perfect blonde color and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant for weeks to come.
| Purple Shampoo Benefits | Purple Shampoo Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Neutralizes brassy tones in blonde hair | Can be drying and irritating if overused |
| Helps to maintain healthy and vibrant-looking hair | Can be expensive, especially if used frequently |
| Can be used as a treatment to achieve a more intense color-correcting effect | May not be suitable for all hair types, especially dry or damaged hair |
By considering the benefits and drawbacks of purple shampoo, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for your hair. Remember to always follow the instructions carefully and start with a small amount to avoid any adverse effects.
What is purple shampoo and how does it work?
Purple shampoo is a type of color-correcting shampoo that is designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde hair. It works by depositing purple pigment onto the hair shaft, which counteracts the warm, yellow tones that can develop in blonde hair over time. This helps to maintain a cool, ashy blonde color and prevent the hair from looking dull and brassy.
The purple pigment in purple shampoo is usually in the form of a dye or a toner, which is deposited onto the hair shaft as you wash your hair. The amount of pigment deposited can vary depending on the specific product and how long you leave it on your hair. Some purple shampoos are designed to be used as a maintenance product, to be used once or twice a week to keep brassy tones at bay, while others are more intense and can be used to make a bigger color correction.
Should I use purple shampoo first or after regular shampoo?
It’s generally recommended to use purple shampoo after your regular shampoo, rather than as a replacement for it. This is because purple shampoo is usually more concentrated and can be quite drying to the hair, so using it as a replacement for your regular shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils. By using it after your regular shampoo, you can help to lock in moisture and keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
Using purple shampoo after your regular shampoo also helps to ensure that your hair is clean and free of product buildup, which can affect how well the purple pigment is deposited onto the hair shaft. This can help to ensure that the color correction is even and effective, and that your hair looks its best.
How often should I use purple shampoo?
The frequency with which you should use purple shampoo depends on your hair type and the level of color correction you need. If you have very light blonde hair, you may need to use purple shampoo more frequently to maintain the color and prevent brassy tones from developing. On the other hand, if you have darker blonde hair, you may only need to use it once or twice a week.
It’s also worth noting that overusing purple shampoo can lead to a buildup of pigment on the hair shaft, which can cause the hair to look dull and purple. To avoid this, it’s best to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. You can also try using a purple conditioner or mask to help maintain the color and moisture of your hair.
Can I use purple shampoo on non-blonde hair?
While purple shampoo is usually associated with blonde hair, it can also be used on other hair colors to achieve a specific effect. For example, some people with brown or red hair use purple shampoo to add a cool, ashy tone to their hair and help to neutralize warm tones. However, it’s worth noting that the results may vary depending on your hair type and the level of color correction you need.
If you’re considering using purple shampoo on non-blonde hair, it’s a good idea to do a strand test first to see how the product affects your hair. This can help you to determine the right amount to use and how often to use it, and can also help you to avoid any unexpected color changes.
Will purple shampoo damage my hair?
Like any hair product, purple shampoo can potentially damage your hair if used incorrectly or in excess. The main risk is dryness and brittleness, as the purple pigment can strip the hair of its natural oils. However, this can be minimized by using a moisturizing conditioner and avoiding overuse of the product.
It’s also worth noting that some purple shampoos are more gentle than others, so it’s a good idea to read the ingredient label and look for products that are sulfate-free and moisturizing. You can also try using a purple conditioner or mask to help maintain the moisture and health of your hair.
Can I use purple shampoo on virgin hair?
It’s generally not recommended to use purple shampoo on virgin hair, as it can cause the hair to become dry and brittle. Virgin hair is hair that has not been colored or chemically treated, and it can be more prone to dryness and damage than hair that has been colored or treated.
If you have virgin hair and want to use purple shampoo, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. You can also try using a moisturizing conditioner and avoiding overuse of the product to minimize the risk of dryness and damage.
How long do I leave purple shampoo on my hair?
The amount of time you leave purple shampoo on your hair will depend on the level of color correction you need and the type of product you’re using. Some purple shampoos are designed to be left on for just a few minutes, while others can be left on for up to 30 minutes or more.
As a general rule, it’s best to start with a small amount of time and gradually increase as needed. This can help you to achieve the desired level of color correction without over-processing your hair. You can also try using a timer to ensure that you don’t leave the product on for too long.