Haircare - Hair

What Does Purple Shampoo Do to Brown Hair? (Benefits & Pitfalls)

While purple shampoo is not made for brown hair, it can still work wonders.

Written by Amber Belanger
What Does Purple Shampoo Do to Brown Hair

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Have you ever wondered if purple shampoo is suitable for your brown hair? Are you looking to neutralize brassy tones, but unsure if purple shampoo can help achieve that result for darker hair colors?

This article provides the answers you seek.

We will explore what purple shampoo does to brown hair, its benefits, and how to use it correctly.

Additionally, we’ll discuss potential alternatives and factors to consider when choosing a purple shampoo specifically for brown hair.

So let’s dive right in and discover whether purple shampoo is the right solution for your brunette locks.

What is Purple Shampoo?

What Is Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is a hair care product that is designed to eliminate brassy tones from blonde, silver, and white hair. It contains purple pigments that work to neutralize yellow and orange tones in the hair, leaving it looking brighter and cooler.

Purple shampoo can also be used on brown hair with highlights or light brown hair to eliminate muddy or brassy tones.

When used correctly, it can leave brown hair looking shinier, richer, and more vibrant.

The science behind purple shampoo is based on color theory. Purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, so it cancels out yellow tones in the hair.

This is why purple shampoo is often recommended for people with blonde or silver hair.

It’s important to note that purple shampoo should not be used on dark brown or black hair, as it won’t have any effect.

What Does Purple Shampoo Do to Brown Hair?

Purple shampoo is a hair care product that is designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde, silver, or highlighted hair. But it can work on brown hair too.

When used correctly, purple shampoo can brighten brown hair and eliminate any unwanted yellow or orange tones.

So, how does purple shampoo work?

It’s all about the color wheel.

Yellow vs. Purple

Purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, which means that it can neutralize any yellow tones in the hair. So, it removes brassy hair if your brassiness is yellow.

It’s important to note that purple shampoo is not a dye or a toner. It won’t change the color of your hair. It won’t lighten or darken your hair.

But it will enhance your natural hair color by removing unwanted color.

If you have light brown hair or highlighted brown hair, using purple shampoo can help to eliminate any muddy tones and make your hair look shinier and more vibrant.

Does Purple Shampoo Work On Dark Brown Hair?

Purple shampoo is not recommended for dark brown hair. The pigmentation of dark brown hair makes it difficult for the purple pigments from the shampoo to work. If you have orange or brassy tones in your dark brown hair, use a blue shampoo instead.

How to Use Purple Shampoo For Brown Hair?

Using purple shampoo is a simple process that can help brighten and tone brown hair.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your purple shampoo:

  1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water before applying the shampoo. This will help to open up the hair cuticles and allow the shampoo to penetrate more deeply.
  2. Apply a small amount of shampoo to your hair and massage it gently into your scalp. Work the shampoo through your hair, making sure to distribute it evenly.
  3. Leave the shampoo on your hair for 3-5 minutes. This allows the purple pigments in the shampoo to neutralize any brassy or yellow tones in your hair.
  4. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Remove all of the shampoo. If necessary, repeat the process to ensure that all of the product is removed.
  5. Follow up with a nourishing conditioner to help hydrate and protect your hair.

It’s important to note that purple shampoo should be used in moderation. Overusing can lead to product buildup, dryness, split ends, and other damage to your hair.

If you’re unsure how often to use purple shampoo, consult with your hairstylist for personalized advice.

Benefits of Purple Shampoo On Brown Hair

Benefits of Purple Shampoo On Brown Hair

Purple shampoo has been known for its ability to neutralize brassy tones primarily in blonde and highlighted hair.

However, there are several benefits when using purple shampoo on certain shades of brown hair as well.

Neutralize Brassiness

Brown hair can develop brassy tones over time due to exposure to the sun, chlorine, and other environmental factors.

Purple shampoo contains purple pigments that can neutralize the yellow and orange tones in brown hair, leaving it looking cooler and more polished.

Enhance Shine

Purple shampoo can also enhance the shine of brown hair. The purple pigments in the shampoo reflect light, making the hair appear brighter and more vibrant.

Hydrate Hair

Many purple shampoos contain moisturizing ingredients that can hydrate and nourish brown hair. This can help prevent dryness and breakage, leaving your hair looking and feeling healthy.

Although purple shampoo can provide benefits for some brunette hair shades, it is essential to remember that its primary purpose is for blonde and highlighted hair.

It may not offer the same color-correcting effects or long-lasting results when used on brown hair.

Brown-haired people should consider other treatments specifically designed for their hair color. Other products will likely have a better chance of success.

Learn more: Can Brunettes Use Purple Shampoo?

Purple Shampoo vs. Purple Conditioner For Brown Hair

Both purple shampoo and purple conditioner work to combat brassiness in lighter portions of brown hair. But, choosing between purple shampoo and purple conditioner depends on individual needs.

Purple shampoo is better suited for those looking to target brassy tones, while purple conditioner benefits those seeking added moisture and maintenance.

Learn more about the differences below.

FeaturePurple ShampooPurple Conditioner
PurposeNeutralizes brassy tonesNeutralizes brassy tones
FunctionCleanses and counteracts yellow/orange tonesConditions, neutralizes brassy tones
Frequency of UseOnce or twice a week (varies)More frequent than purple shampoo
BenefitsTargets brassiness in lightened brown sectionsHydrates, repairs, and maintains color-treated brown hair
Ideal forEffective brassy tone neutralizationMaintaining color and providing moisture

Purpose

Both purple shampoo and purple conditioner are designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde and lightened hair, including brown hair with highlights or balayage.

Function

Purple Shampoo: Cleanses the hair while counteracting yellow and orange tones caused by oxidation. It is more effective at neutralizing brassy tones, specifically in the lightened portions of brown hair.

Purple Conditioner: Conditions the hair while providing a lower concentration of purple pigments to neutralize brassy tones. It is ideal for maintaining color and adding moisture to dry or damaged hair, including brown hair with color-treated sections.

Frequency of Use

Purple Shampoo: Typically used once or twice a week depending on the level of brassiness in the hair. This may vary based on the specific shades of brown and blonde present in an individual’s hair.

Purple Conditioner: Can be used more frequently than purple shampoo as it provides moisture and hydration without stripping color from treated brown locks.

Benefits for Brown Hair

Purple Shampoo: More effective at targeting specific areas of brassiness within lightened sections of brown hair.

Purple Conditioner: Provides hydration, repairs damage, and strengthens color-treated strands within brown hair, making it an excellent option for maintaining overall health and appearance.

Alternatives to Purple Shampoo

Alternatives to Purple Shampoo

While purple shampoo is a popular choice for toning blonde hair, it’s likely not the best option for brown hair.

Fortunately, there are several alternatives that can help keep your brown hair looking fresh and vibrant.

ProductPurposeHair ColorUse
Blue ShampooNeutralizes orange and red tones in hair, enhances brunette shadesBrunettes, Dark HairUse 1-2 times a week
HibiscusRemoves buildup, restores shine, and improves overall hair healthBrown HairCan be used as a tea rinse
Toning Hair Mask (Purple or Blue)Intensive treatment for deeper toning; neutralizes unwanted tonesBrown Hair, Dark HairApply weekly or as needed

Blue Shampoo

One alternative is blue shampoo.

Like purple shampoo, blue shampoo is designed to neutralize unwanted tones in the hair. It is specifically formulated for brunettes and those with darker hair colors.

Blue shampoos contain blue pigments that counteract orange and red tones, which are common in brown hair.

Hibiscus

Another option is hibiscus.

This tropical flower contains natural acids that can help remove buildup and restore shine to brown hair. You can use hibiscus by brewing a tea with the flowers and rinsing your hair with it after shampooing.

Alternatively, you can look for hair products that contain hibiscus extract.

Toning Hair Mask

If you’re looking for a more intensive treatment, a purple hair mask or hair mask with blue toning properties may be a good choice.

These products are designed to be left on the hair for a longer period of time than shampoo, allowing the toning agents to penetrate more deeply.

Look for products that are specifically formulated for brown hair. Some purple or blue masks may be too strong and can leave a blue or purple tint on the hair.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Purple Shampoo

If you have brown hair with unwanted orange or yellow undertones, you might be considering using purple shampoo to neutralize those tones. However, before you choose a purple shampoo, there are a few factors to consider.

pH Balance

The pH balance of the shampoo is important because it affects how well the shampoo works and how it interacts with your hair.

Look for a purple shampoo with a pH balance between 4.5 and 5.5, which is the same range as your hair’s natural pH balance.

Hair Dye

If you have dyed your hair brown, you need to be careful when using a purple shampoo. Purple shampoo can strip the color from your hair, especially if it is not formulated for use on colored hair.

Look for a purple shampoo that is safe for use on color-treated hair.

Unwanted Tones

Purple shampoo is designed to neutralize unwanted tones in blonde hair, but it can also work on brown hair with orange or yellow undertones.

Look for a purple shampoo that specifically targets those tones, or use an alternative such as blue shampoo.

Appointments

If you have appointments to maintain your hair color, you need to be careful when using purple shampoo. Overuse of purple shampoo can lead to a lilac hue, which can be difficult to remove.

Use purple shampoo once a week or as recommended by your hairstylist.

UV Exposure

UV exposure can cause unwanted tones in your hair to become more noticeable.

Look for a purple shampoo that contains UV protection to prevent further damage from the sun.

Hard Water and Pollution

Hard water and pollution can also contribute to unwanted tones in your hair.

Look for a purple shampoo that is formulated to remove impurities and build-up from your hair.

Complementary Colors

Purple is a complementary color to yellow and orange, which is why purple shampoo is effective at neutralizing those tones.

Look for a purple shampoo that contains complementary colors to help neutralize unwanted tones in your hair.

Scalp

Finally, consider the health of your scalp when choosing a purple shampoo. Look for a shampoo that is gentle and nourishing to your scalp to prevent dryness and irritation.

Who Should Use Purple Shampoo?

Who Should Use Purple Shampoo

If you have blonde, platinum, or pastel colored hair, purple shampoo is a must-have in your hair care routine.

It’s specifically designed to neutralize brassy tones and yellow undertones in lighter hair colors.

But what about brunettes and brown hair?

While purple shampoo may not be as necessary for those with darker hair, it can still be beneficial for those with color-treated or highlighted hair.

Purple shampoo can help maintain cooler tones in colored highlights or platinum-colored hair. It also eliminates any brassy or yellow tones that appear over time.

For those with gray or white hair, purple shampoo can help eliminate any unwanted yellow undertones and keep your hair looking cool and ashy.

Who Should Avoid Using Purple Shampoo?

If you have red hair, purple shampoo may not be the best option for you. It’s important to note that purple shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow tones, not red tones.

Purple shampoo is similarly not recommended for black hair, as it won’t have an effect (unless you have highlights, in which case it may have a small effect).

Using purple shampoo on red hair may actually cause it to look dull or ashy.

Learn more: Purple Shampoo For All Hair Colors

Frequently Asked Questions

Does purple shampoo work on brown hair?

Yes, purple shampoo can work on brown hair. It is designed to neutralize brassy tones, which can occur in brown hair due to factors such as sun exposure and hard water.

Does purple shampoo lighten brown hair?

No, purple shampoo does not lighten brown hair. It is not a hair dye or bleach. Its purpose is to neutralize brassy tones, not change the color of the hair.

Can brunettes use purple shampoo?

Yes, brunettes can use purple shampoo. In fact, purple shampoo can be especially beneficial for brunettes with highlights or balayage, as it helps to maintain the color and prevent brassiness.

What does purple shampoo do to highlights on brown hair?

Purple shampoo can help to maintain the color of highlights on brown hair. The purple pigments in the shampoo neutralize brassy tones, which can make highlights look dull or yellow. However, it is important to use purple shampoo in moderation, as overuse can cause the highlights to appear ashy or gray.

Is purple shampoo a toner for brown hair?

Yes, purple shampoo can be used as a toner for brown hair. Toning is the process of neutralizing unwanted tones in the hair, and purple shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy tones. However, it is important to note that purple shampoo is not a substitute for a professional toning treatment.

Will purple shampoo turn brown hair green?

No, purple shampoo will not turn brown hair green. However, if the hair has a green tint, it may indicate that the hair has been exposed to chlorine or other chemicals. In this case, purple shampoo may not be effective in neutralizing the green tones, and it may be necessary to seek professional treatment.

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Amber Belanger

Amber is not just a beauty enthusiast. She has spent countless hours doing the nails of her friends, researching the newest studies on personal care, as well as tried and tested numerous hair products. She prides herself on her factuality and luscious hair.