What does purple shampoo do for gray hair?

If you’re growing out your grays, consider purple shampoo

Purple shampoo is a popular product for people with blonde hair (especially those with dyed blonde hair) as it neutralizes brassy and yellow tones. However, a lesser-known fact is that the shampoo similarly affects gray hair. If you have gray hair, incorporating a purple shampoo into your hair-washing routine can keep your strands looking fresh and polished and neutralize any yellow or brassy tones that may develop.  

In this article: Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo, Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set and Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo

How to use purple shampoo on gray hair

Before using a purple shampoo, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This will help remove any existing product buildup, which could prevent the purple shampoo from properly absorbing. If you’re new to purple shampoo, ease your way in by mixing some purple shampoo with your regular shampoo to ensure you don’t overload your hair the first time.

You don’t have to apply purple shampoo all over your hair — concentrate it where you find brassiness. For more effective results, you can opt to follow up with a purple conditioner. Allow the product to sit on your hair for a couple of minutes or up to five minutes to combat serious yellow or brassiness. If you find the purple shampoo drying on your strands, consider adding a hydrating deep-conditioning mask to your hair care routine.

The best purple shampoos for strengthening and toning gray hair

Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo

This highly concentrated shampoo from a salon-quality brand cleanses, tones and repairs your hair by keeping it hydrated. 

Kristin Ess Hair The One Purple Shampoo

This sulfate-free product cuts brass in lighter shades and brings out beautiful, deep tones in darker hair.

Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo

Specifically designed for gray hair, this purple shampoo neutralizes brassiness and warmth without stripping color. 

Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo

Less is more with this purple shampoo that has effects lasting through 12 washes. 

Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Embrace beautiful silver tones with this product duo that’s a full hair care routine in one set.

Bumble and bumble Bb.Illuminated Blonde Purple Leave In Spray

Using a leave-in spray on damp hair after using purple shampoo can help amplify the effects.

L’Oreal Paris Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo

This budget-friendly buy from a drugstore-favorite brand stands up to pricier brands in its effectiveness. 

Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo

This protein-enriched shampoo tones down brassiness while enhancing silver hues. 

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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