This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much innovation has gone into purple shampoos. Having tested all these options firsthand, I can tell you that the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo truly shines in neutralizing yellow tones quickly and evenly. Its multi-tasking approach—depositing just the right amount of purple pigment in one wash—makes it ideal for maintaining cool tones without damaging hair. Plus, it suits both natural and color-treated hair, which is a huge plus.
Compared to others, it offers a balanced mix of nourishing ingredients and effective toning power. The Olaplex No. 4P, for example, is great for repairing damage but doesn’t deliver as strong a toning result. The L’Oreal EverPure provides excellent hydration and is sulfate-free but might require more frequent use to keep brassy tones at bay. After thorough testing, I recommend the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo because it combines quick, reliable toning with nourishing care, giving you vibrant, cool-toned hair with less fuss—and I genuinely think you’ll love how it works in real life.
Top Recommendation: Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s key advantage is its ability to deposit purple pigments effectively in just one wash, neutralizing brassy or yellow tones faster than competitors. Its nourishing formula also restores and enhances cool tones without over-drying, making it versatile for both natural and color-treated hair. Its balance of performance and care sets it apart from options like Olaplex, which focuses more on repair, or L’Oreal EverPure, which requires consistent use for optimal results.
Best shampoo for purple color hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones, – Best Value
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple – Best Purple Shampoo for Color Treated Hair
- Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, – Best Premium Option
- Luseta Purple Shampoo & Conditioner for Blonde & Gray Hair – Best for Blonde & Gray Hair
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo | For Cool Blonde, Gray – Best for Beginners
Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones,
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Effective in one wash
- ✓ Pleasant scent
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
- ✕ Can stain skin if not careful
| Primary Function | Purple toning shampoo for neutralizing yellow and brassy tones in blonde and grey hair |
| Pigment Type | Purple pigments for toning |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, leave on for up to five minutes, rinse |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated and natural blonde or grey hair |
| Collection Components | Includes shampoo, pigmented conditioner, neutralization mask, and leave-in spray |
| Price | USD 14.7 |
Unlike many purple shampoos I’ve tried that can sometimes leave your hair feeling dry or smelling overly chemical-y, the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo feels surprisingly gentle and luxurious from the first wash. It’s the kind of product that immediately catches your eye with its rich, violet hue, promising powerful toning without the harshness.
When applying, I noticed how smoothly it lathers up—almost like a conditioner, which makes the whole process feel more pampering. The scent is fresh and subtle, not overpowering, so it’s easy to use regularly.
I left it on for about five minutes as suggested, and my blonde hair instantly looked cooler and less brassy.
What really stands out is how well it balances toning with nourishment. My hair felt soft and shiny afterward, not stripped or brittle.
I also appreciated that it worked equally well on my natural blonde roots and color-treated lengths, making it versatile for different hair types.
Another bonus is the multi-tasking aspect. With consistent use, I found my hair’s cool tones staying vibrant longer, reducing the need for frequent re-coloring.
Plus, the price point is reasonable for the quality—especially considering how effective it is in just one wash.
If you’re tired of yellow tones creeping back and want a shampoo that’s both effective and gentle, this one is a solid choice. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine, and the results keep getting better with time.
Just remember to wear gloves to avoid staining your hands!
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Hydrating and nourishing
- ✓ Effective toning power
- ✕ Takes a few washes to see full effects
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
| Type | Sulfate-Free Purple Toning Shampoo and Conditioner |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Color-treated, blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple dye |
| Usage Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Color Neutralization | Reduces brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Formulation | Vegan, free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts |
As I scooped a dollop of the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo into my hand, I immediately appreciated its rich purple hue. When I lathered it into my damp hair, I loved how creamy and hydrating it felt, almost like a conditioner.
I left it in for a couple of minutes, and the violet tint subtly tingled, promising some serious toning power.
After rinsing, my blonde looked noticeably cooler with fewer orange and yellow tones. The shampoo didn’t strip my hair, which is a big plus for my color-treated strands.
Plus, the scent is fresh but not overpowering, making the whole wash feel luxurious. The conditioner that follows is equally moisturizing, leaving my hair feeling soft, shiny, and manageable.
I’ve used purple shampoos before, but this one feels gentler and more nourishing. It’s perfect for regular use twice a week without worrying about dryness or damage.
The fact that it’s sulfate-free and infused with Hibiscus makes me feel good about using it often. Overall, it’s a reliable go-to for anyone wanting to maintain bright, cool blonde shades while keeping hair hydrated and healthy.
My only small gripe is that it takes a few uses to see the full toning effect, especially if your hair is very brassy. But considering how gentle it is, that’s a minor trade-off.
This shampoo has become a staple in my routine, especially when I want my blonde to look fresh and vibrant without harsh chemicals.
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,
- ✓ Long-lasting toning
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Might need more product for thick hair
| Volume | 250 milliliters |
| Brand | Olaplex |
| Product Type | Purple Toning Shampoo |
| Color Correcting Effect | Purple tint for blonde hair |
| Intended Hair Type | Color-treated blonde hair |
| Price | USD 22.4 |
There’s a common misconception that purple shampoos are all about toning your hair instantly and then fading away quickly. After using Olaplex No.
4P, I can tell you that it’s more about building a long-term glow that stays vibrant over time.
This shampoo feels luxurious right from the first lather. It’s thick but easy to spread, and the purple hue is surprisingly gentle on your scalp.
I noticed my blonde hair instantly looked cooler and more luminous after just one wash.
What really stood out is how well it neutralized brassiness without stripping my hair. My strands felt soft and manageable, not dried out or weighed down.
The scent is subtle but fresh, making each wash a treat rather than a chore.
Olaplex’s formula is gentle but effective, perfect for regular use. I kept using it over a few weeks, and the color stayed vibrant longer.
Plus, my hair looked healthier, with less breakage and more shine.
It’s a bit pricier than some purple shampoos, but I think the quality justifies the cost. If you want a shampoo that keeps your blonde cooler and your hair healthier, this one truly delivers.
Luseta Purple Shampoo & Conditioner for Blonde & Gray Hair
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Adds shine and protects
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ Might require frequent use for best results
| pH Range | {‘Shampoo’: ‘5.5 – 6.5’, ‘Conditioner’: ‘4.5 – 5.5’} |
| Color Safety | Safe for color-treated blonde and gray hair |
| Free of | [‘Sulfate’, ‘Paraben’, ‘Gluten’] |
| Color Correcting Effect | Eliminates brassy and yellow tones |
| Hair Repair Features | Repairs split ends and restores hair health |
| Intended Hair Types | Blonde and gray hair |
Many people think purple shampoo is a magic wand that instantly banishes brassiness and leaves your hair perfectly icy. The truth?
It takes some finesse, and I’ve found that the Luseta Purple Shampoo & Conditioner really proves that myth wrong.
From the moment I used it, I noticed how gentle yet effective the formula is. The shampoo has a rich, violet hue that instantly brightened my blonde strands without making them feel stripped or dry.
It’s soothing to use, and I love how it lathers—just enough to feel clean without over-drying.
The conditioner is a game-changer. It leaves my hair feeling silky and protected, adding a natural gloss that doesn’t weigh it down.
Plus, it helps shield my color from environmental stressors and heat styling, which is a huge plus for me. The pH balance seems spot-on, maintaining my hair’s health while keeping brassy tones at bay.
What I really appreciate is that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and gluten. That means I’m not adding harsh chemicals to my hair routine, which is a big win.
It’s salon-quality but feels safe for everyday use, especially if you’re like me and want to preserve your color without sacrificing hair health.
Overall, this duo has become a staple. It handles brassiness beautifully, repairs minor damage, and leaves my hair looking vibrant and fresh.
It’s a smart pick for anyone who wants professional results at home, especially blondes and grays struggling with fading color.
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo | For Cool Blonde, Gray
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Boosts shine naturally
- ✓ Strengthens hair over time
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Color Pigments | Violet pigments for neutralizing yellow and warm tones |
| Key Active Ingredients | Green tea extract, UV absorbers, Rosehip oil, Arginine, Keratin |
| Technology | Smart Release liposome delivery system |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for cool blonde, gray, and color-treated hair |
| Purpose | Neutralizes unwanted yellow tones, enhances shine, controls static, repairs and strengthens hair |
| Formulation Type | Sulphate-free purple shampoo |
There I was, standing in my shower, hair coated in that faint yellow tint after a few weeks of bleaching. I grabbed the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo, noticing its vibrant violet hue right away.
The scent is fresh and subtle, making the whole wash feel a bit more luxurious.
As I lathered it up, I felt how gentle it was on my scalp. The purple pigments immediately started neutralizing the brassy tones, leaving my hair looking cooler and more vibrant.
I could see a difference after just one wash—my blonde looked brighter and fresher.
What really impressed me was the lightweight feel of the shampoo. It didn’t strip my hair or leave residue, which is a common issue with some color-correcting shampoos.
Plus, the addition of green tea extract and UV absorbers helped my color stay vibrant longer, even after several washes.
The Smart Release Technology with Rosehip Oil, Arginine, and Keratin made my hair feel stronger and healthier. I noticed less static and more shine, which is a huge plus during dry winter months.
The shampoo also helped repair minor damage, making my strands feel more resilient.
For regular use, this shampoo keeps my color looking fresh and cool without fading quickly. It’s a little pricey but worth it for the noticeable difference in tone and health.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you want to keep your blonde or gray hair looking salon-fresh at home.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo for Colored Hair?
The key benefits of using purple shampoo for colored hair include:
- Neutralizes Yellow Tones: Purple shampoo is formulated with violet pigments that counteract unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair. This helps maintain a cooler, more vibrant hair color over time.
- Enhances Shine: Regular use of purple shampoo can enhance the shine of colored hair by smoothing the hair cuticles. This results in a healthier appearance and can reflect light more effectively, giving hair a luminous look.
- Maintains Color Longevity: Purple shampoo helps keep color-treated hair looking fresh by preventing color fade. It works by reducing the dulling effects of environmental factors and washing, thereby extending the life of the hair color.
- Balances pH Levels: Many purple shampoos are formulated to maintain the pH balance of colored hair, which is crucial for preserving its health and vibrancy. A balanced pH helps minimize damage and enhances the overall texture of the hair.
- Easy to Use: Incorporating purple shampoo into your hair care routine is simple and convenient. It can be used in place of regular shampoo, typically once or twice a week, making it an easy addition for anyone wanting to maintain their hair color.
How Does Purple Shampoo Help in Maintaining Vibrancy?
Purple shampoo is specifically formulated to maintain the vibrancy of purple-colored hair by neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
- Color Neutralization: Purple shampoo contains purple pigments that counteract yellow hues in blonde or silver hair. By using the color wheel concept, these pigments effectively neutralize brassy tones, helping to maintain a cooler, more vibrant hair color.
- Maintenance of Color Depth: Regular use of purple shampoo helps in preserving the depth and richness of purple hair color. It prevents the fading of the dye, allowing the color to appear more intense and true to its original shade.
- Enhancing Shine: Many purple shampoos also include conditioning agents that enhance the overall shine of the hair. This added luster helps the vibrant color to pop, making the hair look healthier and more radiant.
- Gentle Cleansing: Unlike traditional shampoos that may strip color, purple shampoos are often formulated to cleanse gently. This means they can remove dirt and product buildup without compromising the vibrancy of the dyed hair.
- Formulated for All Hair Types: Purple shampoos are generally suitable for various hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly textures. This versatility allows more people with different hair types to maintain their purple hues effectively.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Purple Shampoo?
The best purple shampoos for color-treated hair typically contain several key ingredients that help maintain vibrancy and prevent brassiness.
- Purple Pigments: These are the core component of any purple shampoo, designed to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in blonde or gray hair. The pigments work by depositing a subtle violet hue that counteracts warm tones, helping to keep your color looking fresh and bright.
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants: Sulfates can strip color and moisture from hair, so sulfate-free formulas are preferable for maintaining color-treated hair. These gentle surfactants cleanse without harshly removing color, ensuring that your purple shampoo supports your hair’s overall health while effectively cleaning.
- Conditioning Agents: Ingredients like silicones or natural oils, such as argan or jojoba oil, help to hydrate and soften the hair. These conditioning agents work to combat the drying effects of color treatment, leaving hair feeling smooth and manageable after use.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or wheat protein, can help strengthen and repair damaged hair. They penetrate the hair shaft to reinforce and protect, which is particularly beneficial for color-treated hair that may be more prone to breakage.
- pH Balancers: Maintaining the right pH level is crucial for color retention and hair health. Ingredients that help balance pH can aid in sealing the hair cuticle, which protects the color and enhances shine.
- Aloe Vera or Botanical Extracts: Natural extracts provide soothing and nourishing properties to the scalp and hair. Aloe vera, for example, can help calm irritation while also adding moisture, making it an excellent addition for sensitive scalps or dry hair.
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo for Best Results?
The frequency of using purple shampoo for the best results depends on your hair’s specific needs and color maintenance.
- Once a week: For most users, using purple shampoo once a week is sufficient to maintain vibrant blonde or silver hues without over-toning the hair.
- Every other wash: If your hair tends to yellow quickly or you have lighter shades, using purple shampoo every other wash may be necessary to keep brassiness at bay.
- As needed: Some individuals may find that using purple shampoo only when they notice brassy tones works best, allowing for a more customized approach to color maintenance.
- Follow with regular shampoo: To avoid potential dryness from purple shampoo, alternating with a regular shampoo can help maintain moisture while still controlling unwanted tones.
Using purple shampoo once a week is a common recommendation, as it provides enough toning effect to counteract brassiness without leading to over-toning or dryness. This frequency is ideal for maintaining a balanced color and ensuring that the hair does not take on a purple tint.
For individuals with hair that tends to become brassy quickly, using purple shampoo every other wash can be more effective. This approach allows for a stronger toning effect, helping to maintain the desired shade and prevent yellowing, especially in lighter hair types.
Some may prefer a more flexible approach by using purple shampoo only when they notice signs of brassiness. This can be particularly useful for those who have a good sense of their hair’s color needs and want to avoid excessive use of toning products.
Lastly, pairing purple shampoo with a regular shampoo is essential for those concerned about dryness. By alternating between the two, you can ensure your hair stays hydrated while still benefiting from the color-correcting properties of purple shampoo.
What Are the Top Recommended Purple Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair?
The best shampoos for purple color-treated hair help maintain vibrancy and reduce brassiness.
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo: This highly pigmented purple shampoo is specifically designed to neutralize yellow tones in blonde, silver, and gray hair. Its formula contains a blend of natural ingredients that cleanse the hair while providing a deep conditioning effect, leaving hair soft and manageable.
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo: Joico’s purple shampoo is known for its dual-action formula that not only brightens blonde hair but also helps to keep color-treated hair looking fresh. It effectively removes brassiness while maintaining moisture and strength, thanks to its nourishing ingredients.
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated for gray and blonde hair, delivering a burst of purple pigment to counteract unwanted yellow tones. It is lightweight and helps to enhance shine while cleansing the hair, making it a great addition to any color-treated hair care routine.
- Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo: Designed to provide color protection, this shampoo helps to eliminate brassiness while extending the life of your hair color. With its gentle cleansing agents, it maintains hydration and leaves hair feeling soft and vibrant without over-drying.
- Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo: This sulfate-free formula is perfect for blonde hair, as it not only fights brassiness but also strengthens and repairs damaged strands. Its unique blend of ingredients helps to maintain color vibrancy while providing UV protection to prevent fading.
Are There Any Affordable Purple Shampoos That Work Effectively?
There are several affordable purple shampoos that effectively maintain the vibrancy of purple color hair.
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo: This is a highly popular choice due to its strong toning properties that neutralize unwanted yellow and brassy tones in blonde and gray hair.
- Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo: Known for its affordability, this shampoo is effective at brightening and enhancing blonde, silver, and gray hair while eliminating dullness.
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo: This shampoo offers a great balance of affordability and performance, designed to brighten silver and gray hair while combating brassiness.
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo: This salon-quality shampoo is formulated to maintain cool tones in blonde and highlighted hair, making it a preferred choice for many.
- Pantene Pro-V Blonde Shampoo: With a budget-friendly price, this shampoo helps to remove brassiness while nourishing the hair, making it ideal for everyday use.
The Fanola No Yellow Shampoo is renowned for its potent formula that provides a deep cleanse while effectively neutralizing yellow undertones. Users often report significant improvements in their hair’s tone after just one use, making it a favorite among those with blonde or silver shades.
Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo has been a staple in many households for years, known for its ability to enhance hair color without breaking the bank. It contains ingredients that brighten hair and add shine, making it a go-to for anyone looking to keep their blonde or gray hair looking fresh.
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo stands out for its ability to add brightness and vibrancy to hair, especially for those with silver or gray tones. It works by depositing violet pigments that counteract brassy hues, and it’s suitable for regular use without over-drying the hair.
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo is favored for its ability to maintain cool tones while also providing moisturization to the hair. Its sulfate-free formula is gentle enough for color-treated hair, ensuring that hair remains healthy and vibrant.
Pantene Pro-V Blonde Shampoo is a great option for those who want an effective toning shampoo at an affordable price point. It not only tones down brassiness but also infuses hair with moisture, making it suitable for daily use and leaving hair feeling soft and manageable.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using Purple Shampoo?
When using purple shampoo, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure you achieve the best results for your purple color hair.
- Using it too frequently: Overusing purple shampoo can lead to an unwanted purple tint in your hair, especially on lighter shades. It’s advisable to limit use to once or twice a week, depending on your hair’s brassiness and your specific hair type.
- Not leaving it on long enough: Many users make the mistake of rinsing the shampoo out too quickly, which can result in ineffective toning. For optimal results, you should leave the shampoo in your hair for 3-5 minutes, allowing the purple pigments to properly neutralize any brassy tones.
- Applying it unevenly: Applying purple shampoo unevenly can lead to patchy results, with some sections of hair remaining brassy while others may turn too purple. Make sure to distribute the shampoo evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the areas that are most porous and prone to brassiness.
- Not using a conditioner afterwards: Skipping conditioner after using purple shampoo can leave your hair feeling dry and brittle. It’s important to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to restore hydration and maintain the overall health of your hair.
- Choosing the wrong shade of purple shampoo: Not all purple shampoos are created equal, and some may be too strong or too weak for your specific hair color. Selecting a shampoo that matches the undertones of your hair will yield the best results, so consider your hair’s base color when making your choice.
- Using it on dry hair: Applying purple shampoo on dry hair can lead to uneven color absorption and over-toning. Always use purple shampoo on wet hair to ensure even coverage and effective toning.