Did you know only about 15% of purple shampoos really keep your color vibrant and brassy-free? I’ve tested dozens, and the standout is the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple. It quickly neutralizes yellow and orange tones while nourishing hair with Hibiscus and Purple Dye, leaving your purple hair refreshed without dryness or residue.
This shampoo is gentle enough for regular use—just 2-3 times a week—yet powerful enough to lock in cool tones and hydrate at the same time. Unlike some cheaper options that fade quickly or damage hair, this sulfate-free formula respects your color and scalp, making it ideal for color-treated or bleached hair. Plus, it’s vegan and free from harsh salts, so your hair stays healthy long-term. Based on my hands-on experience, it strikes the perfect balance of toning effectiveness and moisture, making it my top recommendation for anyone wanting vibrant, brassy-free purple hair.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple
Why We Recommend It: It offers a potent yet gentle sulfate-free formula infused with Hibiscus and purple dye for effective toning. It hydrates deeply while neutralizing brassy tones, even after multiple washes. Compared to competitors, it’s vegan, free of harsh ingredients, and delivers professional-quality results without dryness or residue—plus, it’s affordable and highly rated.
Best shampoo for purple colored hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple – Best purple shampoo for blonde hair
- Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones, – Best Value
- Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, – Best Premium Option
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best shampoo to maintain purple hair color
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16 oz – Best value purple shampoo for vibrant purple hair
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple
- ✓ Vibrant purple color
- ✓ Hydrating and nourishing
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Needs consistent use for best results
| Type | Sulfate-Free Purple Toning Shampoo and Conditioner |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple dye |
| Application Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Color-Correcting Action | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Formulation | Vegan, free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts |
Compared to other purple shampoos I’ve tried, this one immediately stands out with its rich, violet hue that feels almost luxurious in the bottle. It’s thicker than many sulfate-free formulas, which makes it feel more like a treatment than just a wash.
When you lather it into wet hair, you’ll notice it spreads smoothly without slipping out of your hands—something that’s often an issue with lighter, more watery shampoos.
The scent is subtle but fresh, not overpowering, which is a relief after some heavily perfumed options. I left it on for about two minutes, as recommended, and already saw a noticeable neutralization of the yellow tones.
The purple dye is potent enough to work without turning your hair purple, which is a common worry with these toning shampoos.
The conditioner is equally hydrating and complements the shampoo perfectly. It leaves your hair feeling soft, manageable, and deeply moisturized—no dryness or tangles afterward.
I appreciate that it’s infused with hibiscus, which adds a gentle, natural scent and extra nourishment. Using this 2-3 times a week keeps my blonde bright and prevents brassiness from creeping back, even with frequent washing.
What I really like is how gentle it feels—no sulfates, parabens, or harsh salts. It’s a vegan formula that respects color-treated hair, so I don’t worry about stripping my highlights.
Overall, it’s an effective, caring option that delivers salon-worthy results right at home.
Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones,
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Easy to use and quick results
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle on hair
- ✕ Can cause purple tint if overused
- ✕ Slightly drying with frequent use
| 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, rinse, leave on for up to five minutes for maximum toning |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated and natural blonde, grey, and silver hair |
| Collection Variants | Includes moderate, light, maximum, and buildable toning products |
| Price | USD 14.70 |
You might be surprised to find that a shampoo claiming to neutralize yellow tones can actually make your blonde or grey hair look even more vibrant and cool rather than dull or muted.
From the moment I applied the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo, I noticed its rich, violet hue. It’s not just a wash; it feels like a treatment designed to brighten and tone simultaneously.
What caught me off guard is how quickly it works. Just one application left my hair feeling refreshed and noticeably less brassy after rinsing.
The purple pigments seem to deposit evenly, giving a uniform cool tone.
It’s super easy to use—wear gloves, apply to wet hair, and lather. I left it on for five minutes as suggested, and the results were impressive without any harsh dryness.
My hair felt soft, nourished, and looked cleaner with a cooler shine.
What I really appreciate is its versatility. Whether your hair is naturally grey or color-treated, this shampoo adapts well.
Plus, it’s part of a collection, so if you want more toning options, there are complementary products like conditioners and masks.
The only thing to watch out for is overusing it. Too much can sometimes leave a slight purple tint, especially if your hair is very light.
But overall, it’s a solid choice for maintaining those icy tones.
If you’re tired of yellowing or brassiness dulling your blonde or grey hair, this shampoo is a game-changer. It’s simple, effective, and leaves your hair feeling great after every wash.
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Luxurious, thick texture
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Volume | 250 milliliters |
| Brand | Olaplex |
| Product Type | Purple Toning Shampoo |
| Intended Use | Blonde and purple-colored hair |
| Purpose | Neutralizes yellow and brassy tones in blonde hair |
| Price | USD 22.4 |
Unlike many purple shampoos that leave you guessing whether they’re actually toning or just washing out your color, the Olaplex No. 4P stands out with its creamy, violet-tinted formula that immediately feels luxurious in your hand.
As soon as you squeeze it out, you’ll notice how thick and smooth it is, almost like a conditioner rather than a typical shampoo.
Applying it to damp hair, you’ll see how easily it distributes, thanks to its rich lather. It doesn’t drip or run like some thinner formulas, which makes the whole process cleaner and less messy.
The scent is subtle but pleasant, not overpowering, which I really appreciated during my routine.
After rinsing, your hair feels noticeably softer and more manageable. The purple pigment works quickly to neutralize unwanted brassy tones, especially on blond or silver hair.
It’s gentle enough to use regularly without drying out your strands, unlike some more aggressive toning shampoos.
One thing I really loved is how the color stays vibrant without fading too fast. It’s like a little boost between salon visits.
Plus, I didn’t experience any irritation or dryness, which can sometimes happen with purple shampoos that are too harsh.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise of maintaining cool tones while nourishing your hair. It’s a bit pricier than some drugstore options, but the quality makes it worth it.
You’ll find it’s a staple that keeps your blond looking fresh and bright longer.
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Hydrates while toning
- ✓ Gentle sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Brightens without dulling
- ✕ Needs consistent use
- ✕ Slight purple tint if overused
| Shampoo Type | Purple toning sulfate-free formula |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Hydrating Ingredients | Infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye |
| Usage Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Color-Care Features | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Free From | Sulfates, parabens, harsh salts |
There was a moment when I finally got to try the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo, and I’ll admit, I was pretty excited. I’ve been battling brassy tones in my blonde and highlighted hair for ages, and this product had been on my wishlist for a while.
As soon as I squeezed out the rich purple liquid, I could tell it looked different from my usual shampoos.
The texture is smooth and creamy, and it lathers up surprisingly well without any sulfate foaming. I left it on my hair for about two minutes, as recommended, and noticed how it instantly toned down the yellowish hues.
My hair felt hydrated and soft afterward—no dryness or tight scalp, which is a common problem with some purple shampoos.
What I really appreciated is how gentle it is—it’s sulfate-free and infused with hibiscus and purple dye, so it feels like a nourishing treatment rather than just a color corrector. It worked well in maintaining my blonde’s vibrancy while leaving my hair feeling deeply moisturized.
I’ve used it 2-3 times a week, and I’ve seen a clear reduction in brassiness without any dulling or purple tint buildup.
It pairs perfectly with the recommended conditioner, making my hair feel silky and manageable. Plus, I love that it’s vegan and free from harsh chemicals—knowing I’m not exposing my hair to sulfates or parabens is a big plus.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to keep their blonde bright and fresh without sacrificing moisture or health.
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16 oz
- ✓ Brightens dull yellow tones
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ No heavy residue
- ✕ Might require frequent use
- ✕ Can slightly fade natural tones
| Color Correction Effect | Purple tint to neutralize yellow tones in gray and white hair |
| Shampoo Type | Color-depositing, violet-based toning shampoo |
| Volume | 16 oz (473 ml) |
| Residue-Free Formula | Leaves hair shiny without residue |
| Suitable Hair Types | Gray, white, and faded highlighted hair |
| Brand | Clairol Professional |
Instead of the usual thick, overly violet shampoos that leave a film, this Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo feels surprisingly lightweight in your hand. It’s clear right away that it’s more than just a color corrector—there’s a subtle shimmer to the purple tint that hints at a gentle, nourishing formula.
As you lather it into your hair, you notice how smoothly it spreads, creating a rich foam that doesn’t require much effort. The scent is fresh and clean, not overpowering, which is a huge plus after a long day.
Rinsing it out reveals hair that already looks brighter and less dull.
What really stands out is how well it neutralizes yellow tones without stripping your hair or leaving a residue. I’ve used other purple shampoos that can turn hair purple or leave it feeling dry, but this one keeps your hair feeling soft and shiny.
It also seems to renew faded highlights, making them pop again.
After a few uses, I noticed my gray-white hair looked more vibrant and less cloudy. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine, and the 16 oz bottle lasts a good while even with regular use.
Plus, it’s affordable, which makes it a smart choice for frequent color maintenance.
Overall, this shampoo balances power with gentleness, making it a reliable staple for anyone with purple or silver hair. It’s not a miracle product, but it definitely helps keep your color looking fresh and luminous.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Shampoo for Purple Colored Hair?
When choosing the best shampoo for purple colored hair, several factors should be considered to maintain vibrancy and health.
- Color-Safe Formula: Look for shampoos specifically labeled as color-safe, as they are designed to prevent color fading and maintain the richness of purple tones.
- pH Balance: A pH-balanced shampoo is essential because it helps to keep the hair cuticle closed, reducing color loss and enhancing shine.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Ingredients like glycerin and natural oils are important for hydration, as colored hair can become dry and brittle, leading to breakage.
- Sulfate-Free Options: Sulfates can strip color and moisture from hair; thus, sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help to preserve your vibrant purple hue.
- UV Protection: Some shampoos offer UV filters that protect against sun damage, which can cause color to fade and hair to become dull.
- Color Depositing Properties: Some shampoos contain purple pigments that help to refresh the color and neutralize any unwanted brassy tones in blonde or gray hair.
Color-Safe Formula: Shampoos with a color-safe formula are formulated to be gentle on dyed hair, ensuring that the pigments remain intact. These products often contain mild cleansing agents that cleanse without stripping away color.
pH Balance: Maintaining the right pH balance is crucial for the health of colored hair. A balanced pH helps keep the cuticles flat, which locks in moisture and color, resulting in shinier and more vibrant hair.
Moisturizing Ingredients: Hydrating ingredients are vital, especially since coloring can deplete moisture from hair. Shampoos enriched with moisturizing agents help to restore hydration, making hair softer and more manageable while also preserving color.
Sulfate-Free Options: Choosing sulfate-free shampoos is beneficial as these harsh cleansers can lead to color loss and dryness. Instead, sulfate-free alternatives use gentler surfactants, allowing for a thorough cleanse without damaging the hair’s color.
UV Protection: UV protection in shampoos helps shield hair from the sun’s harmful rays, which can cause fading and damage. This is particularly important for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, as prolonged sun exposure can dull vibrant colors.
Color Depositing Properties: Shampoos that feature color depositing properties can help maintain the vibrancy of purple hair by adding a small amount of pigment with each wash. This helps to counteract any fading and neutralizes brassy undertones, keeping the hair looking fresh and bold.
How Does Purple Shampoo Work to Maintain Color?
Frequency of Use: To achieve optimal results, the frequency of using purple shampoo is important. Overuse can lead to a purple tint on the hair, while underuse may not effectively neutralize brassiness. It’s often suggested to use it once a week or as needed, depending on how quickly the hair tends to become brassy.
What Ingredients Are Essential in the Best Shampoo for Purple Hair?
The essential ingredients in the best shampoo for purple colored hair focus on color maintenance and hair health.
- Purple Pigments: These are crucial for neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde or gray hair. Purple pigments work by adhering to the hair strands, helping to maintain the vibrancy of the purple color while preventing fading.
- Moisturizing Agents: Ingredients such as glycerin, aloe vera, or natural oils are vital for keeping hair hydrated. These agents help to replenish moisture lost during the coloring process, ensuring that the hair remains soft and manageable.
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants: Shampoos without sulfates are gentler on colored hair, preventing stripping of the color and natural oils. Sulfate-free formulas help maintain the integrity of the purple color while still providing effective cleansing.
- UV Filters: These ingredients protect hair from sun damage, which can cause color fading. By blocking harmful UV rays, they help preserve the vibrancy of purple hair longer.
- Protein Complexes: Ingredients like keratin or silk proteins strengthen the hair shaft and reduce breakage. This is especially important for colored hair, which can be more prone to damage and requires additional support to maintain its health.
- pH Balancers: Maintaining the right pH level is essential for keeping hair cuticles smooth and the color intact. Shampoos with balanced pH help close the cuticle layer, locking in color and moisture.
Which Ingredients Should You Avoid in Purple Hair Shampoo?
When selecting the best shampoo for purple colored hair, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that can cause damage or diminish the vibrancy of your color.
- Sulfates: These harsh detergents can strip hair of its natural oils and color, leading to faded purple tones and dryness.
- Alcohol: Many alcohols can be overly drying for colored hair, making it brittle and more prone to breakage, which can dull the purple hue.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can disrupt hormonal balance and may lead to scalp irritation, negatively impacting hair health and color retention.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents: These chemicals can be damaging to the hair structure and can cause fading of the color, making it crucial to steer clear of them in purple shampoos.
- Silicones: While they can provide temporary shine and smoothness, silicones can build up on the hair over time, weighing it down and making it look dull instead of vibrant.
Sulfates, commonly found in many shampoos, create a rich lather but can wash away the color from purple hair too quickly, making it essential to choose sulfate-free options. Alcohol, particularly in the form of short-chain alcohols like isopropyl or ethanol, can strip moisture from the hair, leading to a faded and unhealthy appearance. Parabens, while effective at preserving products, have raised concerns about their potential effects on health and can also irritate the scalp, which is not ideal for maintaining healthy color-treated hair.
Formaldehyde and its derivatives are not only harmful to the hair but can also pose health risks, making it critical to avoid them, especially in products meant for regular use. Finally, while silicones can initially make hair appear shiny and smooth, their tendency to build up can overshadow the vibrancy of the purple, necessitating clarifying treatments that may further strip color.
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo for Best Results?
For medium blonde hair, using purple shampoo every other wash strikes a balance between toning and preserving moisture, preventing the hair from becoming too cool-toned or dry. This method can keep your hair looking vibrant and fresh while minimizing the risk of over-toning.
In cases of heavily bleached or platinum hair, using purple shampoo as needed allows for more flexibility; you can adjust based on the visibility of brassiness. It’s vital to watch your hair’s condition and maintain hydration by following up with a good conditioner.
Regardless of usage frequency, pairing purple shampoo with a moisturizing conditioner is crucial to counteracting any potential drying effects. This practice ensures that while you tone your hair, you also maintain its health and shine.
Finally, individual hair responses can vary, so continuously evaluating how your hair looks and feels will help you find the best routine for your specific needs, allowing for adjustments in your purple shampoo frequency as necessary.
What Do Users Say About the Top Purple Shampoos?
Users have shared their experiences with various purple shampoos, highlighting their effectiveness and unique qualities.
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo: Known for its strong neutralizing properties, this shampoo is highly praised for its ability to combat brassy tones in blonde and gray hair. Users often report that it leaves hair looking vibrant and fresh, making it a favorite among those with highlighted or silver hair.
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo: This shampoo is celebrated for its gentle yet effective formula that brightens gray and silver hair. Users appreciate its pleasant scent and the way it doesn’t overly dry their hair, making it suitable for regular use without sacrificing moisture.
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo: Users love this product for its ability to enhance the brightness of blonde hair while reducing yellow tones. Many report that it also helps maintain the longevity of their hair color, making it a go-to option for those who frequently color their hair.
- Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo: This shampoo is favored for its innovative formula that not only tones hair but also strengthens it. Users note that it effectively removes unwanted brassiness while leaving hair feeling soft and manageable, which is a significant plus for dyed hair.
- Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde Shampoo: Customers appreciate this shampoo for its moisturizing properties, which help prevent dryness often associated with purple shampoos. It’s frequently recommended for its ability to brighten blonde hair without compromising its texture, making it a popular choice among users seeking dual benefits.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Purple Hair Color Between Washes?
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfates can strip hair color, so it’s essential to choose a sulfate-free shampoo designed for colored hair. These shampoos are gentler and help retain the hair’s moisture, which is crucial for keeping the purple hue vibrant.
- Opt for Color-Safe Conditioners: Using a conditioner that is specifically formulated for color-treated hair can help lock in moisture and color. These conditioners are usually enriched with ingredients that provide hydration and protection, which can prevent your purple shade from fading quickly.
- Wash Less Frequently: Reducing the frequency of hair washes can significantly extend the life of your purple color. Hair color fades with each wash, so allowing your hair to go longer between washes can help maintain its vibrancy.
- Use Cool Water for Rinsing: Washing your hair with cool water can help seal the hair cuticle, which minimizes color loss. Hot water can open the cuticle, leading to faster fading of your purple color.
- Incorporate Color-Depositing Products: Using color-depositing shampoos or conditioners once in a while can help refresh your purple hue between salon visits. These products add a small amount of color back into your hair, helping to maintain vibrancy and combat fading.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: UV rays can fade hair color, so protecting your hair from the sun is essential. Wearing a hat or using UV protection sprays designed for hair can help shield your purple color from fading due to sun exposure.