Are you torn between purple shampoo and purple conditioner? Are you not sure which one is better – at least for your hair?
Both products are designed to help you combat brassiness and keep your hair color vibrant, but they serve different purposes.
They both have a place on the shelf, depending on your hair type and color.
We’ll dive into the differences, similarities, and use cases of each of these purple products. Then, you’ll be able to decide which one is right for you.
Purple Shampoo vs. Purple Conditioner
Both purple shampoo and purple conditioner eliminate yellow tones in bright hair. But they also have some key differences, such as the cleansing properties of shampoo and nourishing properties of conditioner.
What Is Purple Shampoo?
Purple shampoo is a specially formulated shampoo product designed for those with blonde, gray, or silver hair. It contains purple pigments that work to neutralize unwanted brassy or yellow tones that can develop over time.
Use purple shampoo to maintain your hair color and keep it looking cool, bright, and vibrant.
What Is Purple Conditioner?
Purple conditioner is a conditioner specifically designed for blonde, gray, or silver hair. Like purple shampoo, it contains purple pigments that neutralize unwanted tones in the hair.
However, the primary function of a purple conditioner is to provide moisture, nourishment, and protection from further damage, while also helping to maintain your desired hair color.
After using purple shampoo, it’s a good idea to follow up with a purple conditioner. This can help hydrate and repair your hair, keeping it smooth, shiny, and manageable.
Some people only need to use one purple product though. Too much purple pigment can leave your hair stained.
In summary, both purple shampoo and purple conditioner play essential roles in hair care for those with lighter hair colors. With their unique purple pigments, they work together to help neutralize unwanted tones and maintain the bright appearance of your hair.
Main Differences Between Purple Shampoo & Conditioner
The main difference between purple shampoo and conditioner is the type of product: purple shampoo is a shampoo, while purple conditioner is a conditioner.
Here’s what that means for your hair.
| Property | Purple Shampoo | Purple Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Shampoo | Conditioner |
| Purpose | Neutralize brassiness in blonde hair, toning down unwanted yellow hues | Nourish and condition hair, removes yellow tones |
| Usage | Use 1-3 times a week. Replace or mix with regular shampoo. | Can be used daily, depending on brassiness. Replace or mix with regular conditioner |
| Effect on Hair | Cleanses your hair. | Adds moisture and nourishment, making hair smooth and manageable |
| Potency | More potent, higher concentration of pigments | Less potent, lower concentration of pigments |
| Potential Risk | Can over-tone hair if left on for too long | Can over-tone if left for a long time |
Shampoo vs. Conditioner
Purple shampoo is designed to neutralize brassiness in blonde hair, meaning it tones down those unwanted yellow hues. It works as a cleansing agent and is meant to be used in place of your regular shampoo.
On the other hand, purple conditioner nourishes and conditions your hair after you have toned it with purple shampoo. Unlike purple shampoo, purple conditioner is not meant to replace your regular conditioner.
Cleansing vs. Moisture
Since purple shampoo works as a cleanser, it can sometimes be drying to your hair. This is where purple conditioner steps in.
Purple conditioner adds moisture and nourishment to your hair after using the shampoo, ensuring that it stays healthy and hydrated.
You’ll notice that after incorporating purple conditioner into your routine, your hair will feel more smooth and manageable.
Potency
When it comes to potency, purple shampoo is typically more potent than purple conditioner. The primary goal of using purple shampoo is to tone and neutralize brassiness, while the purpose of purple conditioner is to provide additional nourishment and moisture to your hair.
For this reason, purple shampoo tends to contain a higher concentration of pigments than purple conditioner.
This is also why it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using purple shampoo and not leave it on for too long.
It can over-tone your hair and result in a purple hue.
Benefits of Using Purple Products
Purple products have the greatest benefits for those with lighter hair. These hair colors are more prone to develop yellow tones, hence the increased effects.
Here are the main benefits you can experience:
- Neutralize yellow tones.
- Keep your bright highlights fresh.
- Enhance your hair color.
- Cleansing & added moisture.
For Blonde Hair
Purple shampoo and conditioner are essential products for maintaining a beautiful blonde color. They neutralize yellow tones that can make your hair look brassy, keeping your bright highlights looking fresh and fabulous.
When used one to three times a week, they can work wonders for your blonde hair.
The key to success with purple products lies in finding the right balance.
Too much use can make your hair look ashy, while too little won’t effectively control brassiness.
Remember that it is always important to follow up your purple shampoo with a conditioner to maximize the benefits and maintain hair moisture.
For Silver and Gray Hair
Silver and gray hair can also benefit from the use of purple shampoo and conditioner. Just like blonde hair, silver and gray strands can develop unwanted yellow tones that make them appear dull.
The purple pigment in these products effectively eliminates brassy tones, leaving you with a brighter and cooler color.
Don’t forget – consistency is crucial.
As with blonde hair, you should use these products one to three times a week for optimal results. Be careful not to leave the products in your hair for too long; usually, 3-5 minutes is enough to provide the toning effect you’re looking for.
How to Use Purple Shampoo & Conditioner
It can be daunting to start using purpe products, especially if you’ve heard that they can stain your hair.
So here’s how to use both of them.
You can also use both together to effectively neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in your hair.
Instructions for Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is all about timing. Don’t overdo it, and start out with a shorter duration.
Here’s how to use purple shampoo correctly:
- Wet your hair: Thoroughly wet your hair with lukewarm water before applying the shampoo.
- Apply purple shampoo: Squeeze a small amount of the toning shampoo into your palm and lather between your hands.
- Massage into hair: Gently massage it into your hair, focusing on the areas where your hair is most blonde or brassiest.
- Let it sit: Allow the purple shampoo to sit in your hair for a few minutes. The longer you leave it in, the more toning effect it will have. However, don’t leave it in too long, as it can lead to over-toning and purple-colored hair.
- Rinse your hair: Rinse out the shampoo with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
For best results, use purple shampoo when needed, as overusing it can lead to dry, dull, and lifeless hair.
Instructions for Purple Conditioner
Using purple conditioner is an excellent way to further enhance the benefits of using a purple shampoo.
Here’s how to use purple conditioner:
- Squeeze out excess water: After rinsing out the purple shampoo, gently squeeze out any excess water from your hair.
- Apply purple conditioner: Apply a generous amount of purple conditioner to your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This is where most of the brassiness often occurs.
- Comb through your hair: Use a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the conditioner through your hair, making sure to avoid the root area.
- Let it sit: Allow the conditioner to sit in your hair for a couple of minutes. This will give it time to work its magic on your blonde tresses.
- Rinse your hair: Rinse out the conditioner with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and lock in the toning effects.
Common Concerns and Troubleshooting
Purple shampoo and conditioner can cause issues if used incorrectly. Here are some tips to avoid that.
Overusing Purple Shampoo
If you notice your hair becoming too ashy or purple, you are overusing purple products. If you use it too often, you can experience dry, brittle hair or even unwanted color changes.
To counteract these effects, try reducing the frequency at which you use purple shampoo. Alternate it with a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain your color while treating your tresses gently.
Managing Dryness and Frizz
Purple shampoo can sometimes be drying, especially when used excessively. This can lead to frizz, flyaways, and in extreme cases, breakage.
To combat dryness and ensure proper hydration, follow up with a (purple) conditioner or a nourishing mask. These products seal the cuticle, lock in moisture, and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Tips for managing dryness and frizz:
- Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week
- Limit the use of heat styling tools
- Allow your hair to air dry when possible
Removing Build-Up
Over time, purple shampoo can contribute to product build-up, leaving your hair heavy, greasy, and dull.
To avoid this, try incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your hair care routine once every few weeks. This removes unwelcome residue and impurities and leaves your hair fresh and clean.
Remember not to overdo it with clarifying shampoos, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and color, leading to further dryness and damage.
Final Takeaway: Which Is Right For You?
So, is purple shampoo or purple conditioner right for you?
Selecting between a purple shampoo or purple conditioner ultimately depends on your hair color and its specific needs.
Always consider the product’s formulation, ingredients, and intended purpose to make the best choice for your hair.
For Different Hair Types
When deciding between purple shampoo and purple conditioner, consider your hair type and color.
If you have light blonde, bleached, or gray hair, purple shampoo can be a great option for you. The purple pigment in the shampoo helps neutralize any unwanted brassy or yellow tones, keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
Simply use this product as a part of your regular washing routine, and you’ll notice a difference in your hair color.
For those with darker blonde, brunette, or even darker hair colors, a purple conditioner might be the way to go.
It still contains the purple pigmentation, but it’s formulated to be more moisturizing and nourishing to your hair, making it more effective for brunettes.
As a bonus, using a purple conditioner will also help to hydrate and repair any damage that your hair may have sustained from bleaching or coloring treatments.
Remember that the market for purple hair care products is vast. Options cater to different hair types and needs. Pay attention to the product labels and choose the one that suits your specific hair type and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does purple conditioner work as effectively as purple shampoo?
Yes, purple conditioner can work as effectively as purple shampoo for certain hair types and conditions. While both are designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in blonde and gray hair, purple conditioner is typically more moisturizing and nourishing. If your hair is dry or damaged, using a purple conditioner might be a better option for you.
Can purple conditioner be used in place of shampoo?
Purple conditioner can’t entirely replace shampoo in your hair care routine. Shampoo is designed to cleanse your hair and scalp, while conditioner is meant to moisturize and nourish. Some people choose to use purple conditioner instead of or in addition to purple shampoo for better hydration and care of their blonde or gray hair.
Do I need both purple shampoo and conditioner?
Whether you need both purple shampoo and conditioner depends on your hair type, color, and specific needs. If your hair is prone to brassiness or yellow tones, you might benefit from using both purple shampoo and conditioner occasionally. Using both products can provide a stronger defense against unwanted color changes.
Can you use purple shampoo and conditioner together?
Yes, you can use purple shampoo and conditioner together, but it’s essential to follow the instructions for each product. Keep in mind that overusing these products can potentially lead to hair color becoming too cool-toned, so it’s best to monitor your hair’s condition and adjust the frequency of use accordingly.
