Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Purple Shampoo, According to an Expert
Listen up, blondies!
If this is your first venture into purple shampoo or dyeing your hair, I, a fellow blonde, welcome you with open arms. The last thing we blondes ever want is for our hair to change to a color we absolutely didn't imagine. I've actually dealt with it first-hand. Basically, the toner wasn't left on long enough, leaving half my head a ghastly grey color. Luckily, I got it fixed the next day.
Depending on how bright, yellow, brassy or cool you want your locks to be, purple shampoo is something you need to know about. So, what is it? I spoke with celeb colorist Ian McCabe, who told me everything you need to know about purple shampoo.
What Is Purple Shampoo?
Most blondes are after a non-yellow hue, one that many find difficult to maintain. With purple shampoo, however, the violet color cancels out any hints of yellow, making it easy for even the most novice of blondes (and in some cases, brunettes.) Basically, all purple shampoo does is enhance and fix tones in blondes.
Who Should Use Purple Shampoo?
If you're a blonde whose hair tends to fade to a yellowish hue, you should definitely consider investing in purple shampoo. Ian said:
"Purple shampoo eliminates unwanted yellow tones and is designed for blondes that want a neutral to cool finish."
So, if you're wondering whether or not purple shampoo is for you, take a look at the below picture. The left side shows hair before purple shampoo (it's easy to detect the yellow tones.) The right side shows hair after purple shampoo, and it can be seen that the yellow tones were eradicated.
How Do You Use Purple Shampoo?
Once you've made the decision to use purple shampoo for your blonde locks, it's on to the application process. If your goal is to maintain the color you left the salon with, try applying purple shampoo (or conditioner) twice a week. Play around with how long you leave it in, since the results vary from person to person.
What's the Best Purple Shampoo?
Since everyone's hair could use some extra moisture every now and then, Ian suggests using a purple conditioner, even if dry locks aren't an issue for you. He recommends Davines Alchemic Silver (Purple) Conditioner ($31) because you can dilute the strength with a regular conditioner (if you leave it on too long.)
In the mood to learn more about hair? Look HERE for the biggest hair myths.