If you’ve recently dyed your hair blonde, brunette with highlights, or opted for a cool-toned balayage, you’ve probably heard of purple and blue shampoos.
These pigmented formulas are essential for keeping brassiness at bay, but which one does your hair actually need?
Let’s break it down. Brassiness refers to the unwanted warm tones that show up in color-treated hair over time, especially due to sun exposure, heat styling, or hard water. The right toning shampoo can help neutralize those tones and restore your color’s intended finish.
Purple shampoo is designed for blonde, silver, or platinum hair. It uses violet pigments to cancel out yellow tones, thanks to color theory, purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel. If your blonde is starting to look more golden or banana-toned than ashy or icy, purple shampoo is your go-to.
Blue shampoo, on the other hand, is best suited for brunettes, especially those with balayage, highlights, or lighter brown shades. It targets orange and red tones, which are common in brunette hair that’s been lightened. Blue is opposite orange on the color wheel, making it perfect for cooling down brassy hues in darker hair.
So, how do you choose? Start with your base color and the brassiness you’re seeing. If your light blonde locks are leaning yellow, go purple. If your brown hair has gone a bit too warm or orangey, blue is your best friend.
Frequency matters too. Toning shampoos should be used once or twice a week, depending on how often you wash your hair and how much brass you’re dealing with. Overuse can lead to a dull or tinted look, especially on porous hair, so monitor results and adjust as needed.
And don’t skip the conditioner, both blue and purple shampoos can be drying. Pair your toning shampoo with a deep conditioner or hydrating mask to keep your hair soft and healthy.
In the end, whether you reach for the purple or blue bottle, what matters most is understanding your hair’s needs and responding with the right care. It’s a small step that can make a major difference in keeping your color salon-fresh between appointments.
