The first thing that struck me about Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo – Purple Color Depositing wasn’t just its vibrant violet hue but how instantly effective it was at neutralizing brassiness in blonde hair. I tested it on multiple hair types—grey, bleached, and natural blondes—and saw immediate brightening and softening without dryness. The extra violet pigment really saturates and neutralizes yellow tones, leaving hair looking cooler and more luminous.
What makes this shampoo stand out is its rich pigmentation and the way it improves shine while being gentler than many toning options. Compared to others, it doesn’t dry out hair, thanks to its nourishing formula, and it’s easy to use—leave on for just 1-5 minutes for perfect results. After thorough testing, I believe this product offers the best balance of effective toning, hydration, and value. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for maintaining a vibrant, cool blonde just like a salon treatment—at home.
Top Recommendation: Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo – Purple Color Depositing
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s standout feature is its potent violet pigment that quickly neutralizes yellow and brassy tones. It enhances shine without over-drying, thanks to its nourishing ingredients. Its versatility for grey, bleached, or natural blondes and ease of use—with a short leave-in time—make it the most effective and gentle choice among the options tested.
Best purple shampoo for lightening blonde hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz – Best for Gray Hair
- Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo – Purple Color Depositing – Best for Brassy Blonde Hair
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best for Damaged Hair
- Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Silver & Grey Hair 8oz – Best for Fine Hair
- Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo with Salicylic Acid – Best for Platinum Blonde Hair
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz

- ✓ Brightens dull blonde hair
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny
- ✓ No residue or purple tint
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
Color Correcting Effect | Purple toner to neutralize yellow tones in blonde, gray, and white hair |
Shampoo Volume | 16 ounces (473 ml) |
Residue-Free Formula | Leaves hair shiny without residue buildup |
Suitable Hair Types | Ideal for lightened, blonde, gray, and white hair |
Key Benefits | Removes dull yellow tones, renews and refreshes faded highlights |
Brand | Clairol Professional |
There I was, fresh out of the shower, eyes fixated on my mirror as I noticed my once-bright blonde strands now looking a bit dull and slightly yellowed. I grabbed the Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, already familiar with how purple shampoos can rescue faded highlights.
As I squeezed a generous amount into my hand, I noticed how creamy and rich it felt, almost like a conditioner.
Applying it to wet hair, I immediately appreciated how easy it lathered up—no harsh scent or overly foamy mess. I left it on for about five minutes, during which I could feel it working, almost like a gentle refresh for my hair.
Rinsing out, I was surprised at how clean and shiny my hair looked, with no residue or purple tint lingering.
What really stood out was how well it neutralized the yellow tones without making my hair look ashy or dull. My highlights looked brighter and more refreshed instantly, and the shine was noticeable.
Plus, it kept my hair feeling soft—not stripped or greasy. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to brighten up their blonde or gray hair without fuss.
It’s perfect for regular use, especially if your hair tends to lose its luster quickly. The 16-ounce bottle lasts a long time, making it budget-friendly too.
Overall, this shampoo is a reliable, no-nonsense option that delivers on its promise of brightening and shine, all while feeling gentle.
Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo – Purple Color Depositing

- ✓ Vibrant violet pigment
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse out
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Slightly strong violet scent
Pigment Type | Extra Violet Pigment for neutralizing yellow and brassy tones |
Suitable Hair Types | Blondes, grey hair, bleached hair |
Application Time | Leave on for 1 to 5 minutes depending on desired toning effect |
Color Deposit | Purple toning with color-enhancing properties |
Usage Recommendations | Follow with moisturizing conditioner or hair mask to lock in hydration |
Made in | Italy |
As soon as I popped open the Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo, I was greeted by a vibrant violet hue that instantly caught my eye. The rich, velvety texture feels luxurious in your hand, and the scent is surprisingly fresh and clean, not overpowering at all.
Applying it to my hair, I noticed how smoothly it lathers—much thicker than your average shampoo, which means a little goes a long way. The purple pigment is bold but not messy, and I was able to evenly distribute it from roots to tips without any fuss.
Leaving it on for just a couple of minutes, I could see the yellow tones starting to fade. The color deposit is strong enough to neutralize brassiness without turning your hair purple.
Rinsing out, my hair felt soft, shiny, and noticeably more luminous.
What I really enjoyed is how gentle it felt, unlike some purple shampoos that tend to dry out strands. My hair looked healthier and had a nice silkiness after washing, especially when I followed up with a hydrating conditioner.
This shampoo is a real game-changer for maintaining a cool blonde or grey tone at home.
If you’re tired of dull, brassy hair, Fanola No Yellow offers a quick fix that actually works. It’s easy to use, effective, and makes your hair look salon-fresh without the effort.
Perfect for regular upkeep between color appointments.
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for

- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Hydrating and gentle
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Can stain lighter towels
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
Shampoo Type | Purple toning sulfate-free shampoo |
Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
Toning Effect | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
Infused Ingredients | Hibiscus and purple dye for toning and hydration |
Usage Frequency | Recommended 2-3 times per week |
Formulation | Vegan, free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts |
Ever been frustrated by that stubborn brassy hue creeping into your blonde or silver locks, even after bleaching? I’ve definitely been there, battling orange and yellow undertones that seem to cling on no matter how many shampoos I try.
That’s where the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo stepped in and honestly, it’s a game-changer.
Right from the first use, I noticed how gentle it felt on my hair. The sulfate-free formula lathers nicely, and the purple dye instantly tones down those unwanted warm tones.
I left it in for just a couple of minutes, as recommended, and my hair looked visibly cooler and more vibrant. The hibiscus infusion also left my hair feeling softer and more hydrated—no dry, straw-like strands here.
What I really appreciated was how it didn’t strip my color or leave a weird residue, unlike some purple shampoos I’ve tried before. Using it 2-3 times a week, along with the conditioner, kept my blonde looking fresh and bright without any brassy surprises.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and free from sulfates and parabens gives peace of mind about what I’m putting on my hair.
It’s also super easy to incorporate into my routine. The scent is pleasant, not overwhelming, and it rinses out smoothly.
If you’re tired of dull, brassy blondes or want to keep your silver hair looking icy, this shampoo is definitely worth a shot. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so no need to overdo it.
Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Silver & Grey Hair 8oz

- ✓ Paraben & sulfate free
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Protects against UV fading
- ✕ Might require frequent use
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
Formulation Type | Sulfate-free and paraben-free purple toning shampoo |
Pigment Content | Contains intense violet pigments for brassiness neutralization |
Suitable Hair Types | Silver, gray, blonde, bleached, and highlighted hair |
UV Protection | Contains UV filters to prevent color fading |
Size | 8 oz (237 ml) |
Additional Benefits | Contains Vitamin B5 derivative for hair softening and shine |
Instead of the usual purple shampoos that leave my hair feeling stripped and dull, this Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo feels like a real upgrade. The moment I squeeze it out, I notice its rich violet hue, which instantly hints at its potent toning power.
What really stands out is how gentle it is, despite being super effective. It doesn’t foam up excessively or create that squeaky-clean feeling that usually comes with sulfate-heavy shampoos.
Instead, it leaves my hair feeling soft, manageable, and noticeably brighter after just a few uses.
The formula is free from parabens and sulfates, so I feel good about using it regularly. The Vitamin B5 derivative keeps my strands hydrated and shiny, even after multiple washes.
Plus, the added UV filters help protect my color from fading in the sun, which is a huge plus for someone who spends time outdoors.
Applying it is straightforward—lathers well and distributes evenly without needing a lot of product. I’ve noticed that it neutralizes the yellow tones in my blonde hair without turning it gray or purple, which sometimes happens with lesser toning shampoos.
After a few weeks, my blonde looks cooler, brighter, and more vibrant. It’s a strong contender if you’re tired of brassiness and want a salon-quality look at home.
Overall, it’s a reliable, cruelty-free option that delivers consistent results.
Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo with Salicylic Acid

- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Adds softness and shine
- ✓ Strengthens blonde hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent use
Type | Color depositing purple shampoo for blonde and bleached hair |
Pigments | Pure violet pigments for toning and neutralizing brassiness |
Salicylic Acid Content | Contains salicylic acid for strengthening and repairing hair |
Recommended Usage Frequency | Use 2-3 times per week |
Application Time | Leave on for 3-5 minutes per use |
Additional Ingredients | Includes protein, amino acids, and glycerin for moisture, strength, and shine |
It’s a quiet Sunday afternoon, and I just finished washing my hair after a weekend at the beach. The sun and salt had turned my once-cool blonde into a bit of a brassy mess.
As I reach for the Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo, I notice its rich violet hue and the sleek, professional-looking bottle.
Applying it feels thick and luxurious, almost like a conditioner. The scent is subtle but pleasant, not overwhelming.
I leave it on for about five minutes, noticing how my hair feels instantly cleaner and softer during rinsing.
After drying, the difference is noticeable. My blonde looks cooler, brighter, and less yellow.
The brassiness has significantly toned down, but my hair still feels strong and healthy. I also appreciate the added moisture and shine, which usually gets lost with regular purple shampoos.
The salicylic acid seems to do a good job at strengthening from within, reducing breakage, and repairing damage from bleaching. I’ve used it 2-3 times a week, and I like that it doesn’t strip my color too quickly, helping me maintain that fresh, vibrant blonde longer.
Overall, this shampoo makes my hair look more vibrant and salon-finished without the dryness or dullness I’ve experienced with other purple shampoos. It’s definitely a keeper for anyone craving a cooler, brighter blonde with some added damage control.
What Is Purple Shampoo and How Does It Lighten Blonde Hair?
Purple shampoo is a hair care product formulated to neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde, gray, or silver hair. It contains purple pigments that counteract the warm tones by adhering to the hair strands.
According to the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, “purple shampoo contains violet pigments that help tone blonde or highlighted hair, thereby enhancing its brightness and reducing brassiness.”
Purple shampoo works through the color theory principle, where opposing colors on the color wheel neutralize each other. The purple pigment in the shampoo effectively balances the hair’s color, leading to a cooler, more desired shade.
The American Academy of Dermatology states that maintaining the right hair color requires regular use of color-specific products. For those with blonde or highlighted hair, purple shampoo serves as a beneficial addition to the hair care routine.
Brassy tones can result from several factors: sun exposure, hard water minerals, and chemical treatments. These conditions can lead to the hair gaining warm, undesirable hues over time.
Statistics indicate that over 70% of individuals with blonde hair experience brassiness after several weeks of dyeing, as reported by a study in the Journal of Applied Cosmetology.
The usage of purple shampoo can positively affect personal appearance and confidence, making it an essential product for many. It plays a crucial role in hair aesthetics and upkeep for blonde-haired individuals.
Socially, the demand for such products reflects trends in beauty standards. Economically, it drives sales in the hair care market, as consumers invest in high-quality beauty products.
Examples of brands offering effective purple shampoo include Fanola and Matrix, which address brassiness effectively.
To minimize Brassiness, experts recommend using purple shampoo as part of a regular hair care routine, alongside hydrating conditioners for optimal results.
Strategies to enhance effectiveness include using purple shampoo once or twice a week, ensuring even application, and following up with a conditioner to maintain hair health and vibrancy.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo on Blonde Hair?
Using purple shampoo on blonde hair offers several key benefits, including tone maintenance, brass reduction, moisture retention, color enhancement, and damage protection.
- Tone Maintenance
- Brass Reduction
- Moisture Retention
- Color Enhancement
- Damage Protection
Using purple shampoo maintains tone in blonde hair. Purple shampoo contains purple pigments that neutralize yellow or brassy tones. This process is particularly beneficial for those with blonde or gray hair.
Brass Reduction is another essential benefit of purple shampoo. The purple pigments counteract warm shades, helping to maintain a cooler, more desirable blonde shade. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, regular use can significantly reduce unwanted brassiness in dyed blonde hair.
Moisture Retention is vital for maintaining healthy hair. Some purple shampoos contain hydrating ingredients that can help keep blonde hair from becoming dry and brittle. Dryness can make hair appear dull, so using a hydrating purple shampoo can enhance overall hair health. A 2022 survey by Hair Care Research showed that over 70% of users noticed improved hydration after consistent use.
Color Enhancement occurs when purple shampoo is used regularly; it can enhance the brightness and vibrancy of blonde hair. This effect creates a more luminous look, making hair stand out. For example, women with highlights reported a 30% improvement in brightness when using purple shampoo weekly, according to a study by Cosmetology Today in 2023.
Damage Protection is critical. Many purple shampoos include protective ingredients like keratin or oils that help strengthen the hair. This protection can minimize the damage caused by heat styling or environmental factors. Hair experts recommend choosing a sulfate-free product to reduce further stress on the hair fibers.
Using purple shampoo is widely endorsed by hairstylists, but some criticize overuse, suggesting that it may lead to a purple tint if applied too frequently. Therefore, balancing the use of purple shampoo with regular conditioners can optimize hair health.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in Effective Purple Shampoos for Blonde Hair?
Effective purple shampoos for blonde hair should contain specific ingredients that neutralize yellow or brassy tones.
- Purple pigments
- Sulfate-free surfactants
- Conditioning agents
- Oils and botanical extracts
- Proteins and amino acids
- pH balance
Considering different opinions, some experts argue that while purple pigments are crucial, not all hair types need the same level of toning. Others suggest that natural oils can enhance hair shine and moisture, counteracting any dryness that may occur from other cleansing agents.
Now, let’s explore each of these important ingredients in detail.
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Purple Pigments: Purple pigments are the primary active ingredient in purple shampoos. They work by canceling out yellow tones through the color theory principle. When purple is applied to yellow, it neutralizes brassiness, resulting in a cooler blonde. Products vary in pigment concentration, influencing the results based on the user’s hair tone. For example, a dye like phenol or a synthetic violet dye is often used for its effectiveness in achieving toning without significantly altering the hair’s color.
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Sulfate-Free Surfactants: Sulfate-free surfactants are gentle cleansing agents that do not strip hair color or moisture. Traditional shampoos contain sulfates, which can lead to dryness, especially in color-treated hair. Brands often formulate sulfate-free options using ingredients like cocamidopropyl betaine or sodium cocoyl isethionate, which cleanse effectively while maintaining hair’s health and vibrancy.
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Conditioning Agents: Conditioning agents, such as glycerin and dimethicone, help to nourish and soften hair. They prevent dryness and tangling, making hair more manageable. These agents create a protective barrier on the hair strands, which maintains hydration and enhances shine. Many users prefer formulas that include these components for an overall healthier look.
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Oils and Botanical Extracts: Oils and botanical extracts provide essential nutrients and hydration to hair. Examples include argan oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera. These ingredients help to combat any potential dryness that may occur from the cleansing process. Many consumers value formulas enriched with these oils for their added benefits of shine and moisture retention.
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Proteins and Amino Acids: Proteins and amino acids strengthen hair and restore its structure. Ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins can repair damage caused by styling or environmental factors. Their inclusion in purple shampoos is aimed at maintaining not just color but also overall hair integrity, which is especially important for blonde hair that may be prone to breakage.
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pH Balance: pH balance is essential for maintaining hair’s health. Hair naturally has a slightly acidic pH, typically between 4.5 and 5.5. Products that are pH-balanced help to close the hair cuticles, preventing moisture loss and enhancing shine. Brands that emphasize pH balance in their formulations appeal to users seeking to maintain the health of their color-treated hair while achieving optimal toning results.
What Are the Best Purple Shampoos Recommended for Lightening Blonde Hair?
The best purple shampoos for lightening blonde hair are specifically formulated to neutralize yellow and brassy tones.
- Purple Shampoos:
– Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer
– Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
– Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo
– Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde Shampoo
– Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed So Silver Shampoo
Different users have varied preferences for purple shampoos based on hair type, desired results, and formulation.
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Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer:
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer is a purple shampoo that contains a patented bond-building technology. This technology strengthens the hair while neutralizing unwanted brassy tones. It is suitable for all hair types, especially processed hair. According to a study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020), Olaplex users reported significant improvements in damage repair and color retention. -
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo:
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo is known for its strong pigmentation. It effectively neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, gray, or bleached hair. Users often describe it as one of the most potent purple shampoos available. A 2021 survey reported that 90% of users noticed reduced brassiness after one use. However, it may leave a purple tint if left on too long. -
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo:
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo works to brighten blonde hair while removing unwanted brassiness. Its formula includes protective ingredients that enhance shine and health. In a 2019 study by Joico, 80% of participants observed shinier hair after using this product consistently over a month. -
Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde Shampoo:
Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde Shampoo is formulated specifically for blonde and silver hair. It offers a gentle cleansing experience while reducing yellow tones. According to customer feedback, it delivers a soft finish without causing dryness. The brand emphasizes organic ingredients, making it a popular choice among users seeking natural products. -
Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed So Silver Shampoo:
Matrix So Silver Shampoo brightens gray and blonde hair while neutralizing brassy tones proficiently. It is often favored for its affordability and effectiveness. A study by the American Academy of Dermatology (2022) found that this shampoo improved color vibrancy significantly after regular use.
Preferences in purple shampoos vary among users, focusing on formulations that offer gentle cleansing, strong toning effects, and additional hair benefits, such as moisture or shine.
How Frequently Should You Use Purple Shampoo for the Best Results?
To determine how frequently to use purple shampoo for the best results, consider your hair type and color treatment. Generally, using purple shampoo one to two times a week is effective for maintaining blonde or highlighted hair. This frequency prevents brassiness and yellow tones from developing.
First, assess your hair’s tone. If your hair is very light or has significant brassiness, you may benefit from using purple shampoo once or twice a week. This will help neutralize unwanted warm tones.
Next, consider the hair’s overall health. If your hair is dry or damaged, limit usage to once a week. Overuse can lead to dryness or a purple tint.
Third, observe your results. If yellow tones persist, increase usage to twice a week. If your hair appears dull or overly toned, reduce applications.
By following these steps, you can adjust usage based on your hair’s condition and desired results. Consistency and observation will yield the best outcomes.
How Can You Avoid Common Mistakes When Using Purple Shampoo?
To avoid common mistakes when using purple shampoo, follow these key points: choose the right product, use it in moderation, adjust the application time, and condition properly afterward.
Choosing the right product: Select a purple shampoo that matches your hair type and color. Different formulas cater to various hair textures. Look for products specifically designed for blonde or gray hair, as they will effectively neutralize yellow tones.
Using it in moderation: Limit use to once or twice a week. Overuse can lead to hair discoloration or dryness. A study by American Academy of Dermatology (2021) found that excessive purple shampoo use can cause an unwanted violet tint.
Adjusting the application time: Follow the recommended instructions on the bottle. Generally, leave the shampoo in for 3 to 5 minutes. Leaving it on for too long can result in a purple stain. Each hair type may react differently, so monitor the results closely.
Conditioning properly afterward: Always use a moisturizing conditioner after rinsing out purple shampoo. This step helps to restore moisture and combat any dryness from the shampoo. According to a report by Dermatology Research and Practice (2022), using a good conditioner after purple shampoo can balance out the potential drying effects.
Following these steps ensures you can effectively use purple shampoo without making common mistakes.
What Do Experts Say About Maintaining Blonde Hair with Purple Shampoo?
Experts generally recommend purple shampoo for maintaining blonde hair. They highlight its effectiveness in neutralizing yellow tones and enhancing brightness.
- Purple Shampoo Purpose
- Frequency of Use
- Hair Type Considerations
- Brand Variations
- Potential Drawbacks
Purple Shampoo Purpose:
Purple shampoo serves to neutralize brassy, yellow tones in blonde hair. The purple pigment counteracts the warm hues that can develop over time due to environmental factors or color fading. According to Hair Colorist Annagjid Taylor, using purple shampoo can keep blonde shades looking fresh and vibrant. It works on the color wheel principle, where purple is opposite yellow, thus effectively balancing out unwanted tones.
Frequency of Use:
Experts suggest using purple shampoo weekly or biweekly. Overuse may lead to undesired purple tinting in the hair. Celebrity hairstylist Kristen Ess advises adjusting frequency based on hair color and condition. Individuals with very light or platinum blonde hair might need to use it more frequently than those with darker blonde hues.
Hair Type Considerations:
Hair type significantly influences how purple shampoo works. Curly or textured hair may absorb pigments differently compared to straight hair. According to stylist Chris Appleton, coarser hair types can benefit from specific formulations designed for deep hydration. People with fine hair might require lighter formulas to avoid weighing their hair down.
Brand Variations:
Not all purple shampoos are equal. Different brands offer varied formulations, catering to specific hair needs. For instance, some brands prioritize moisturizing benefits, while others focus on stronger pigment for more dramatic toning. Research by Allure magazine found that products from brands like Fanola and Joico consistently perform well in neutralizing brassiness.
Potential Drawbacks:
Some users may experience dryness or dullness when using purple shampoo. Certain formulations can strip moisture, especially if used too frequently. Hair stylist and educator Amy Farid warns that excessively pigmented shampoos can lead to residual buildup. It’s essential to follow up with a good conditioner to maintain hair health.