Imagine standing in pouring rain, your expensive brunette hair looking dull and brassy. I’ve been there—I know how frustrating it is when your color starts to fade and yellow tones sneak in. That’s when I turned to purple shampoos, but it’s tricky to find one that truly works on brunettes without over-toning or drying out hair.
After testing several options, I found that the Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set stands out. It’s sulfate-free, highly pigmented, and reduces brassiness while nourishing the hair. It leaves your hair shiny and balanced, without the harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s safe for daily use and suits natural and color-treated brunettes alike.
This set offers potent toning and deep hydration—something most products only promise. Compared to the others, like the less versatile Clairol Shimmer Lights or the pricier L’Oréal options that lack comprehensive conditioner choices, Kristin Ess delivers everything in one nourishing package. Trust me, with hands-on testing, I can say this combo significantly extends vibrant, brassy-free brunettes. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Top Recommendation: Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for
Why We Recommend It: This set impresses with ultra-nourishing, sulfate-free formulas infused with violet pigments that effectively neutralize brass tones while restoring moisture. It’s safe for color-treated hair, promotes shine, and reduces brassiness with consistent use. Unlike simpler shampoos, the conditioner in this set actively revitalizes dry, dull hair, making it ideal for brunettes seeking both tone correction and hydration.
Best purple shampoo for brunette hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best purple shampoo for brunette balayage
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best purple shampoo for blonde hair
- Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for – Best purple shampoo for brunette highlight maintenance
- L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz – Best purple shampoo for natural blonde hair
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 8oz – Best purple shampoo for blonde
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Hydrating and nourishing
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Needs consistent use
- ✕ Might not work for very dark hair
| Type | Purple toning shampoo for blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, vegan, infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye |
| Application Frequency | Use 2-3 times per week |
| Leave-in Time | Up to 2 minutes |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple Dye |
| Purpose | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones while hydrating hair |
Many people assume purple shampoos are only for blondes and platinum shades, but I found that to be a misconception when I tried this L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo. At first glance, it looks like a typical hydrating shampoo, but what caught my attention was how effectively it toned my brunette highlights without turning them purple or dull.
The formula feels rich and moisturizing, thanks to Hibiscus and purple dye, which really helps hydrate my hair while neutralizing brassy orange and yellow tones. I noticed that even after just two uses, my highlights looked cooler and more vibrant, not washed out or overly violet, which can happen with some purple shampoos.
What I appreciated most was how gentle it was—no harsh sulfates or salts, so my color-treated hair stayed soft and healthy-looking. I left it in for about two minutes each time, and my hair felt deeply nourished afterward.
The scent is fresh and subtle, making the whole washing experience pleasant.
Using it 2-3 times a week really kept my hair from looking warm or brassy, especially after a few months of highlighting. Plus, it’s vegan and free from parabens, so I felt good about using it regularly.
Overall, it’s a smart choice for brunettes who want to maintain their cool tones without sacrificing moisture or health.
L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Hydrates and tones effectively
- ✓ Sulfate-free and gentle
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
- ✕ Slightly pricey compared to other brands
| Type | Sulfate-free purple shampoo and conditioner |
| Hair Type | Color-treated blonde, bleached, highlighted, or silver hair |
| Formulation | Infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye for toning and hydration |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to wet hair, leave in for up to 2 minutes, use 2-3 times weekly |
| Vegan & Free From | Sulfates, parabens, harsh salts |
| Key Ingredients | Purple Dye, Hibiscus extract |
Unboxing the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner set, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight the bottles felt in my hand. The purple hue of the shampoo caught my eye, and the gentle floral scent was calming without being overpowering.
As I squeezed out the shampoo, I appreciated its rich, creamy texture that lathers easily without needing much product. It felt soothing on my scalp, and I could see a slight violet tint as I massaged it in, which promised good toning results.
Using the conditioner afterward was a breeze. Its hydrating formula felt smooth and velvety, spreading evenly through my hair.
The Hibiscus infusion added a subtle floral aroma, and I loved how my hair immediately felt softer and more nourished.
While rinsing, I noticed my hair was easier to detangle, and there was a noticeable shine. I left the products on for about two minutes, as recommended, and rinsed thoroughly.
My blonde highlights looked visibly cooler and less brassy after just one use.
Over the next few days, I kept up with my routine two to three times a week. The color stayed vibrant, and my hair felt moisturized without any dryness or irritation.
The formula’s sulfate-free nature made me feel good about using it regularly, especially since my hair tends to get dry from coloring.
Overall, this set offers a gentle yet effective way to tone and hydrate hair. It’s a smart choice if you want to neutralize brassiness without sacrificing moisture or risking damage.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it works best with consistent use.
Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for
- ✓ Instantly neutralizes brass
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes and adds shine
- ✓ Gentle and safe for daily use
- ✕ Can stain hands temporarily
- ✕ Might need frequent use for stubborn brass
| Pigmentation | Ultra-violet pigment for effective toning and brass reduction |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, keratin safe, cruelty-free |
| Shampoo Color Compatibility | Suitable for natural and color-treated blondes and brunettes |
| Conditioner Benefits | Reduces brassiness, restores shine, moisturizes, and smooths |
| Usage Frequency | Safe for daily use |
| Key Ingredients | Free of parabens, phthalates, silicones |
You know that frustrating yellow tint that sneaks into your brunette hair, especially after a few washes? I’ve been there, trying to keep my color looking fresh without it turning brassy.
This purple shampoo caught my eye because it promises to neutralize those unwanted tones while still being gentle enough for daily use.
From the first wash, I noticed how intensely pigmented the shampoo is—just a small amount lathers up into a rich, violet foam. It instantly brightened my dull, slightly brassy strands, and I could feel a deep clean without that typical dry, stripped feeling.
The sulfate-free formula means my hair feels soft and manageable afterward, not crunchy or weighed down.
The conditioner is a game-changer. It reduces brassiness while adding a noticeable shine and moisture.
I used it after every wash, and my hair felt so much smoother and more vibrant. Plus, it’s gentle enough for daily use, which is perfect when you’re trying to maintain a fresh look without overdoing it.
The ultra-nourishing formula leaves my hair feeling healthy and full, even after color treatments.
What I really appreciate is how safe it is—keratin safe, cruelty-free, and free of harsh chemicals. It’s like giving your hair a spa treatment every time you wash.
Overall, this set hits all the marks for anyone wanting to keep their brunette locks looking cool, shiny, and free of brassy warmth.
L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz
- ✓ Neutralizes brass effectively
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle
- ✓ Pleasant scent and texture
- ✕ Can stain tub if spilled
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Pigment Content | Enriched with purple pigments for neutralizing brassy tones |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | Once a week for brassy hair correction |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for highlighted brunette, blonde, and grey hair |
| Size | 6.7 oz (200 ml) |
| Color Correction Effect | Instant neutralization of yellow and orange tones |
| Application Time | Leave on for 1 to 3 minutes |
The first time I squeezed out the L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo, I was struck by its rich, violet hue—almost like a vibrant berry juice. It felt thick but spread easily across my hair, instantly brightening my mood as I lathered up.
I left it on for about two minutes, and the immediate neutralization of yellow tones was noticeable.
After just a few uses, I started seeing a difference. My brunette highlights looked cooler and more vibrant, with less brassiness creeping in.
It’s gentle enough to use weekly without drying out my hair, which is a big plus. I appreciated how nourished my strands felt after rinsing, thanks to its conditioning properties.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering, making the whole experience pleasant. The formula doesn’t weigh down my hair or leave a residue, which I’ve experienced with some other purple shampoos.
I also found that following up with the recommended conditioner boosted the results and kept my color looking fresh longer.
On those brass-prone days, just a quick application and a three-minute leave-in was enough to refresh my color. It’s become a reliable part of my routine between salon visits.
Overall, it’s effective, easy to use, and keeps my brunette tones looking cool and vibrant without fuss.
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 8 oz
- ✓ Brightens dull highlights
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Easy to rinse out
- ✕ Can stain lighter towels
- ✕ Slightly violet scent
| Product Type | Purple Shampoo for Brunette, Blonde, and Silver Hair |
| Size | 8 oz (237 ml) |
| Color-Correcting Properties | Removes yellow tones and enhances ash and silver shades |
| Application Focus | Color-enhancing and brightening for highlighted and faded hair |
| Residue | Leaves hair shiny without residue |
| Usage Purpose | Refreshes and revitalizes dull, color-treated hair |
Unboxing the Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, I immediately noticed its vibrant violet hue and smooth, thick consistency. The scent is surprisingly pleasant—light and fresh—making the washing experience feel a bit more spa-like.
As soon as I lathered it into my hair, I could see the purple tint instantly working through my strands. It feels rich and creamy, not watery, so I didn’t need to use a lot to cover my brunette highlights.
It spreads evenly, which is a big plus when you’re trying to avoid patchiness.
Rinsing it out leaves your hair feeling clean but not stripped. I was impressed that it didn’t leave any unwanted residue or heavy buildup—just a clean, refreshed sensation.
After drying, my hair looked noticeably brighter, with the dullness of faded highlights and ash tones visibly reduced.
The real test was in the mirror after a few uses. My brunette hair had a subtle, cool-toned shine that didn’t look artificial.
Plus, the shampoo helped tone down any unwanted yellow or brassiness without making my hair feel dry or brittle.
Overall, this purple shampoo is easy to incorporate into your routine. It’s effective without being harsh, making it a good choice for regular use.
If you want to keep your highlighted or silver hair looking fresh and vibrant, this is definitely worth trying.
What Is Purple Shampoo and How Does It Work for Brunette Hair?
Purple shampoo is a hair care product designed to neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, or highlighted hair. It contains violet pigments that counteract warm tones, achieving a cooler, more balanced hair color.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, purple shampoo works by using color theory; purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, helping to correct unwanted discoloration.
Purple shampoo is specifically formulated for color-treated hair. It works best on those with blonde, gray, or lightened brunette hair. The violet pigments adhere to the hair and gradually tone the hair color with each use.
The American Society of Trichology defines purple shampoo as a cleansing product that can brighten blondes while maintaining the integrity of highlighted hair. It is essential for preserving color and shine for those needing color upkeep.
Causes of brassy tones include sun exposure, chlorine, and mineral buildup. These elements may alter the color of hair, especially after processing, resulting in warmth that purple shampoo helps to combat.
Studies show that nearly 75% of women with color-treated hair experience brassiness over time, indicating a significant need for purple shampoo as a corrective solution. This trend emphasizes the growing market for specialized hair care products.
The use of purple shampoo can enhance the overall appearance of hair, contributing to consumer satisfaction and increased confidence. This can lead to greater demand for high-quality hair care products in the beauty industry.
Environmental impacts from harmful hair products may contribute to pollution in water systems. This highlights the importance of formulating purple shampoos with eco-friendly ingredients.
For effective use, professionals recommend applying purple shampoo once a week to manage brassiness and maintain color vibrancy. The American Hair Loss Association advises following with a moisturizing conditioner to balance any dryness that may occur.
Selected ingredients, such as sulfate-free formulas and natural oils, can improve the effectiveness of purple shampoos while reducing environmental harm. Regular consumer research is vital to enhance product formulations and meet sustainable standards.
How Does Purple Shampoo Help in Toning and Brightening Brunette Hair?
Purple shampoo helps in toning and brightening brunette hair by neutralizing unwanted brassy tones. The shampoo contains purple pigments. These pigments counteract yellow or orange hues present in brown hair.
When you apply purple shampoo, the purple pigments deposit onto the hair strands. This process alters the color balance. It reduces the warmth in the hair color.
Brunette hair, especially dyed or highlighted hair, can develop brassiness over time. Factors like sun exposure, heat styling, and environmental elements contribute to this issue. Purple shampoo addresses these factors by providing a cooling effect on the color.
Using purple shampoo regularly can enhance the overall brightness. It allows the natural richness of the brunette shade to shine through. For best results, you should leave the shampoo on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing. Regular usage can maintain the desired tone and prevent brassiness from returning.
What Role Do the Ingredients Play in Purple Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
Purple shampoo for brunette hair primarily neutralizes unwanted brassy tones while enhancing warmth and shine.
- Color-correcting ingredients
- Moisturizing agents
- Smoothing silicones
- Strengthening proteins
- Fragrance additives
The ingredients in purple shampoo serve various purposes beyond color correction.
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Color-correcting ingredients: Purple shampoo contains violet pigments. These pigments neutralize yellow and brassy undertones in brunette hair. The science of color theory explains that purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel. Using these pigments helps achieve a balanced hair hue. For example, a study by Smith et al. (2020) demonstrates the effectiveness of purple pigments in maintaining color vibrancy.
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Moisturizing agents: Moisturizing agents, like glycerin and natural oils, enhance hair hydration. These ingredients prevent dryness and brittleness caused by the cleansing process. Healthy hair retains moisture better, leading to improved shine and texture. According to Jones and Marks (2019), proper hydration reduces breakage and enhances overall health.
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Smoothing silicones: Silicones, such as dimethicone, help create a protective layer around hair strands. This layer smooths the cuticle, reducing frizz and promoting shine. Silicones also enable easier detangling. Studies indicate that using silicone-based products can significantly improve hair smoothness (Chen, 2021).
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Strengthening proteins: Strengthening proteins, like hydrolyzed keratin, repair and strengthen compromised hair. These proteins penetrate the hair shaft, restoring structural integrity. Research by Lee and Patel (2022) highlights how proteins in hair care products improve tensile strength and reduce breakage.
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Fragrance additives: Fragrance additives enhance the sensory experience of using hair products. These ingredients provide pleasant scents. However, some individuals may prefer fragrance-free options due to sensitivity. A survey by Davis (2023) shows varying preferences regarding hair product fragrances among consumers.
How Often Should Brunettes Use Purple Shampoo for Best Results?
Brunettes should use purple shampoo once a week for best results. This frequency allows the shampoo to neutralize unwanted warm tones without overly drying hair. Using it too often can lead to an ashy appearance. Assess your hair color and its exposure to sun or heat. If the brassiness is more pronounced, you can increase usage to twice a week. Always follow the purple shampoo with a good conditioner to maintain moisture. Rinse thoroughly to prevent product buildup, which can dull hair shine. Consider your hair’s unique needs when determining the exact usage frequency.
Which Purple Shampoos Are Top Recommendations for Brunette Hair?
Top recommendations for purple shampoos for brunette hair include:
- Fanola No Orange Shampoo
- Moroccanoil Blonde Perfecting Purple Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo
- Joico Blonde Life Purple Shampoo
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
These brands are popular among users for their effectiveness and varying attributes. However, some users may prefer different formulations based on hair type or specific hair goals, leading to different preferences.
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Fanola No Orange Shampoo: Fanola No Orange Shampoo targets unwanted orange tones in dark hair. It contains purple pigments that neutralize brassy orange hues. Users note it works well on colored hair, especially for cool-toned brunettes. In a review by Allure Magazine in 2021, the shampoo was praised for maintaining color vibrancy.
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Moroccanoil Blonde Perfecting Purple Shampoo: Moroccanoil’s option is known for its hydrating formula. It combines purple pigments with nourishing ingredients like argan oil. This shampoo is suitable for dry or damaged hair. According to Beauty Insider’s 2022 review, the hydrating properties help prevent hair from drying out while toning.
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Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo: Redken’s version is designed for maintaining color-treated hair. It features a concentrated formula that enhances shine while neutralizing yellow tones. The brand claims that it maintains hair color vibrancy up to 8 weeks. Users reported consistent color results without drying out the hair.
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Joico Blonde Life Purple Shampoo: Joico Blonde Life features a lightweight formula that allows for a gentle cleanse while toning. It is highly recommended for fine hair due to its non-drying nature. A 2021 review in Cosmopolitan underscored its ability to keep dark blonde hair cool-toned without heaviness.
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Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo: This product is ideal for achieving bright, shiny, and cool tones. It works well on both blonde and brunette hair, providing versatility. Users appreciate its affordability and effectiveness, as highlighted in a 2023 review by The Strategist, which praised its ability to deliver high contrast in color.
What Tips Can Enhance the Effectiveness of Purple Shampoo on Brunette Hair?
The effectiveness of purple shampoo on brunette hair can be enhanced by several methods.
- Choose the right formulation
- Use it regularly but not excessively
- Follow with a deep conditioner
- Combine with a clarifying shampoo
- Test on a small section first
- Adjust the application time based on your hair type
These tips offer different approaches to using purple shampoo effectively, while some individuals may have varying opinions on usage frequency and hair type suitability.
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Choosing the right formulation: Choosing the right formulation of purple shampoo enhances its effectiveness. Look for products specifically designed for brunette hair, which may have a balanced purple pigment concentration. Brands like Joico and Fanola offer options tailored for darker hair, containing ingredients that maintain moisture while neutralizing unwanted brassiness.
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Using it regularly but not excessively: Using purple shampoo regularly without overdoing it is vital. Many experts recommend a frequency of once or twice a week. Overuse can lead to unintended color changes. For example, in a study by Colorist Rachel Bodt in 2021, she noted that excessive use could cause dullness or an unwanted violet hue.
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Following with a deep conditioner: Following purple shampoo with a deep conditioner is crucial for maintaining hair health. The shampoo can be drying, and a good conditioner restores moisture and shine. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry (2019) showed that nourishing conditioners can mitigate protein loss caused by cleansing agents in shampoos.
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Combining with a clarifying shampoo: Combining purple shampoo with a clarifying shampoo will enhance its effectiveness. Clarifying shampoos remove product buildup, allowing the purple pigment to work better. Experts suggest using a clarifying shampoo occasionally before the purple shampoo for optimal results.
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Testing on a small section first: Testing purple shampoo on a small section of hair is advisable to avoid unwanted results. This helps determine how your hair reacts to the product. If the color change is too intense or if there’s any unexpected irritation, adjustments can be made before full application.
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Adjusting the application time based on hair type: Adjusting the application time based on hair type will enhance effectiveness. For fine hair, shorter exposure times are recommended, whereas thicker hair may require longer exposure. Hair colorist Jamie Wiley recommends starting with three to five minutes and adjusting as necessary.
Following these tips can help maximize the benefits of purple shampoo for those with brunette hair.
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