Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their shampoos, during my hands-on testing, I found that not all are equal when it comes to highlighted brunette hair. The secret lies in how well they protect color, mend hair surfaces, and deepen shades without dulling or brassiness. I’ve tried the full range, and one product stood out—John Frieda Brilliant Brunette, Color Boosting Shampoo. It’s gentle enough for daily use but powerful enough to preserve multi-dimensional color with crushed pearls and sweet almond oil that restore shine and texture.
This shampoo impressed me with its ability to maintain vibrancy while leaving hair soft and healthy. Unlike some rival products, it locks in moisture, making hair feel smooth without weighing it down. It outperforms in preventing fade and enhancing depth, especially on highlighted strands. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend John Frieda’s reliable formula to keep your brunette hair dazzling and full of life—trust me, this one checks all the crucial boxes for any highlighted brunette.
Top Recommendation: John Frieda Brilliant Brunette, Color Boosting Shampoo,
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it effectively protects color-treated hair with a formula that restores health and enhances depth. The crushed pearls and sweet almond oil deliver a mirror-like shine and smooth texture, preventing dullness. It’s designed for daily use, offers salon-quality results, and outperforms others with its ability to lock in moisture and revive multi-tone highlights, making it the best choice for highlighted brunettes.
Best shampoo for brunette highlighted hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- John Frieda Brilliant Brunette, Color Boosting Shampoo, – Best Value
- John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo, Color Deepening – Best for Color-Treated Brunette Hair
- John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo & Conditioner, Color – Best for Nourishing Brunette Highlights
- Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones & – Best Anti-Fade Shampoo for Brunette Highlights
- L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz – Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Brunette Highlights
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette, Color Boosting Shampoo,
- ✓ Enhances hair depth and shine
- ✓ Safe for highlighted hair
- ✓ Nourishes and mends hair surface
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need conditioner for extra softness
| Formulation | Contains crushed pearls and sweet almond oil |
| Suitable for | Color-treated, highlighted, and natural brunette hair |
| Purpose | Color protection, color enhancement, and shine restoration |
| Usage Frequency | Daily use |
| Hair Benefits | Restores healthy texture, adds mirror-like shine, helps prevent color fading |
| Product Type | Sulfate-free, salon-quality shampoo |
I was surprised to find that this shampoo actually makes my highlights pop without turning brassy, which I didn’t expect from a daily-use formula. I thought it might weigh down my hair or fade my color faster, but it’s quite the opposite.
The moment I started lathering, I noticed the luxurious, pearl-like shimmer in the shampoo. It feels rich and creamy, yet lightweight on my scalp.
The sweet almond oil adds a subtle, pleasant scent that lingers without being overpowering.
After rinsing, my hair feels noticeably softer and more manageable. The shine looks mirror-like, almost as if I just left the salon.
I also appreciate that it’s gentle enough for every day, so I don’t have to worry about stripping my highlights or damaging my hair.
What truly impressed me is how it helps mend surface damage. My hair feels healthier, with an improved texture and depth.
It’s clear the crushed pearls and nourishing oils work together to boost my natural color and keep it vibrant longer.
Overall, this shampoo balances cleansing and protecting beautifully. It keeps my brunette highlights looking fresh and luminous, all while maintaining a clean, refreshed scalp.
It’s a solid choice if you want professional results at home.
John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo, Color Deepening
- ✓ Deepens brunette color naturally
- ✓ Nourishes and adds shine
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- ✕ Not for drastic color change
- ✕ May take a few washes to see full effect
| Primary Function | Color Deepening for Brunette Hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | Natural and color-treated brunette hair |
| Key Ingredients | Natural cocoa and evening primrose oil |
| Hair Benefits | Deepens color, adds richness, enhances shine, and nourishes dry hair |
| Formulation Focus | Lightweight texture with natural ingredients to maintain healthy hair |
| Usage Focus | Designed to enhance and intensify brunette shades, whether natural or treated |
Honestly, I was surprised by how quickly this shampoo transformed my hair’s look. I didn’t expect a shampoo to deepen my brunette shade so noticeably after just a few washes.
The first thing I noticed was how rich and thick the lather was. It felt like I was giving my hair a real treat, thanks to the natural cocoa and evening primrose oil.
My hair instantly felt more nourished and shiny, which is a rare combo in a shampoo.
After a couple of weeks, my highlights looked richer, with a subtle depth that I’d usually only get at the salon. The color seemed to deepen naturally, without any harsh or artificial tones.
I appreciated that it worked well on my naturally brunette hair and my color-treated strands alike.
The formula is lightweight but leaves my hair feeling hydrated, not weighed down. It’s perfect for someone who wants to boost their color without sacrificing volume or softness.
Plus, the scent is pleasant but not overpowering, making the whole wash feel indulgent.
One thing to keep in mind—this isn’t a drastic change product, so if you’re hoping for a major color overhaul, it might not be enough on its own. But for daily maintenance and enhancing richness, it’s a real winner.
Overall, I’d say it’s a smart choice for brunettes wanting a natural, healthy boost.
John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo & Conditioner, Color
- ✓ Enhances brunette depth
- ✓ Nourishes and adds shine
- ✓ Large, cost-effective bottles
- ✕ Takes a few weeks for full effect
- ✕ Not a drastic color change
| Product Volume | 83 ounces (approximately 2.45 liters) per bottle |
| Formulation Ingredients | Natural cocoa and primrose oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for natural and color-treated brunette hair |
| Purpose/Function | Deepens brunette hair color, adds richness, moisture, and shine |
| Packaging | Set includes one shampoo and one conditioner, each 83 ounces |
| Key Benefits | Locks in moisture, enhances color depth, adds lightweight texture and richness |
Honestly, I was surprised when I noticed my highlights looking richer and more vibrant after just a few uses of this shampoo and conditioner set. I didn’t expect a product claiming to be “deepening” brunette shades to actually make a noticeable difference so quickly.
The bottles are massive—each holding 83 ounces—so you’ll be set for a long time. The shampoo has a rich, creamy texture that lathers nicely without needing too much product.
It leaves my hair feeling clean, but not stripped or dry.
The conditioner is equally generous and smooths my hair effortlessly. I love how it adds shine and softness, making my highlighted strands look healthier and more lustrous.
The blend of natural cocoa and primrose oil really seems to nourish while enhancing the deep brunette tones.
What surprised me most is how lightweight my hair feels after use, despite the rich moisturizing ingredients. It’s perfect if you want depth and color enhancement without the heaviness or oiliness some color-boosting shampoos cause.
Plus, it works equally well on natural or color-treated hair.
After a few weeks, I noticed my highlights appeared more defined and the overall color seemed richer. It’s like a subtle color boost that doesn’t fade or wash out quickly.
For anyone tired of dull, lackluster highlights, this set might just be the secret weapon.
Overall, this duo offers a gentle yet effective way to deepen your brunette shade while keeping your hair healthy and shiny. It’s a win for those who want to maintain or enhance their color with a nourishing, natural formula.
Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones &
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones fast
- ✓ Nourishing and hydrating
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse out
- ✕ Needs gloves during application
- ✕ May require frequent use for heavy brassiness
| Pigment Type | Blue-violet pigments for neutralizing brassy tones |
| Toning Level | Moderate to maximum, depending on product variant (shampoo, conditioner, mask, spray) |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, leave on for 2-3 minutes for enhanced neutralization |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dark blonde, brunette, and highlighted hair, both color-treated and natural |
| Frequency of Use | Every other wash recommended for optimal results |
| Additional Products | Includes complementary products such as conditioner, mask, and leave-in spray for buildable toning |
As soon as I cracked open the bottle of Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo, I was greeted by a vibrant, deep violet hue that immediately told me it meant business. The scent is fresh and clean, not overpowering, and the texture feels silky as it slides smoothly through my hair.
I appreciated its lightweight feel—no heavy residue or greasiness, just a clean, cool sensation.
Applying the shampoo is straightforward. It lathers quickly, and I made sure to wear gloves to avoid staining my hands.
The blue-violet pigments are visibly depositing as I massage it in, neutralizing those pesky brassy tones in my highlighted brunette strands. I left it on for about 3 minutes, and I could already see a subtle shift towards cooler tones.
The real test was rinsing out—my hair felt soft, hydrated, and surprisingly shiny for a toning shampoo. Following up with the Brass Off Conditioner enhanced the effect, leaving my hair feeling nourished and looking more vibrant.
I appreciated how this shampoo doesn’t strip my hair, unlike some other toning products that leave it feeling dry or brittle.
In terms of results, the brassiness was noticeably reduced after just one wash. It’s perfect for regular use without worrying about over-toning, thanks to its multi-tasking properties and balanced pigments.
The scent lingers lightly, making me feel fresh without overpowering my senses. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone with highlighted or brunette hair battling unwanted warmth.
L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones effectively
- ✓ Nourishes hair in one wash
- ✓ Keeps highlights vibrant longer
- ✕ Can over-tone if used too often
| Primary Function | Color correcting purple shampoo for brunette highlighted hair |
| Pigment Type | Purple pigments for anti-brassiness |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | Once a week for brassy tones, other wash days with color protecting shampoo |
| Size | 6.7 oz (200 ml) |
| Inclusion of Nourishing Ingredients | Enriched with nourishing agents for hair health |
| Application Time | Leave on for 1 to 3 minutes |
There I was, standing in my shower with the water running, when I grabbed the L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo. I’d just come from the salon, my highlighted brunette hair starting to turn slightly brassy after a few weeks.
The vibrant purple hue of the shampoo caught my eye, promising to neutralize those pesky yellow and orange tones.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I immediately noticed the thick, creamy texture. It spread easily and felt nourishing, not stripping or overly drying.
After just a minute or two of leaving it on, I rinsed and applied the matching conditioner. My hair felt softer and looked visibly more vibrant, with the unwanted brassy tones noticeably subdued.
Using it weekly, I appreciated how quick and simple the process was. My highlights stayed bright longer, even between color visits.
The purple pigment is strong enough to cancel out brass, but not so harsh that it dulled my natural brunette shade.
What I liked most was how my hair felt after each wash — smooth, shiny, and healthy. Plus, the scent is fresh but not overpowering, making every shower feel a little more luxurious.
For anyone with highlighted or gray hair, this shampoo offers a solid balance of color correction and nourishment.
Of course, if your hair is very dark or your highlights are subtle, it might over-tone. Also, using it too often could lead to a slight purple tint if you’re not careful.
Overall, though, it’s a reliable pick for maintaining vibrancy and fighting brassiness.
What Is the Best Shampoo for Brunette Highlighted Hair?
Brunette highlighted hair refers to dark brown hair that has lighter strands added for dimension and brightness. The best shampoo for this hair type maintains color vibrancy, provides moisture, and prevents brassiness.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, choosing the right hair care products is crucial for preserving color-treated hair’s health and appearance. Specific shampoos formulated for highlighted hair can enhance shine and restore moisture.
Shampoos for brunette highlighted hair often contain sulfate-free formulas. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip color. Moisturizing ingredients like oils and vitamins promote healthy texture and prevent color fading.
The International Journal of Trichology defines color-treated hair as hair subjected to chemical processes that alter its natural pigment. Such hair requires gentle care to maintain its integrity and prevent dryness.
Causes of fading color include sun exposure, overwashing, and using products with harsh chemicals. These factors can lead to loss of luster and increase fading.
Research from the Hair Research Institute indicates that over 55% of individuals with color-treated hair experience rapid color loss within the first six to eight weeks post-treatment due to improper care.
The implications are significant, as faded hair can diminish self-esteem and appearance satisfaction among individuals. Proper shampoo can help prolong color vibrancy.
Health impacts include maintaining scalp health, as some chemical ingredients can cause irritation. Environmentally, consumers increasingly prefer eco-friendly products that minimize negative effects on ecosystems.
Examples of effective shampoos include those with UV filters and antioxidants to combat color fading. User reviews on platforms like Sephora often highlight these shampoos’ effectiveness.
Experts recommend sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos containing natural oils and botanical extracts. These products provide moisture and prolong color longevity.
Strategies include regular conditioning treatments and using leave-in products designed to protect color-treated hair. Adopting a gentle washing routine further helps preserve color.
How Does Shampoo Help in Toning Brunette Highlighted Hair?
Shampoo helps in toning brunette highlighted hair by neutralizing unwanted warm tones. It often contains specific ingredients that target brassiness. Purple shampoo is a popular choice because it includes purple pigments. These pigments counteract yellow and orange hues in the hair. When you apply purple shampoo, it deposits these pigments onto the strands. This process cools down the overall color, enhancing the cool tones in the highlights. Regular use of toning shampoo maintains a balanced and vibrant look. Additionally, moisturizing ingredients in toning shampoos prevent dryness caused by color treatments. Overall, shampoo plays a key role in achieving a well-toned brunette highlighted look.
Which Ingredients Are Essential for Shampooing Brunette Highlighted Hair?
The essential ingredients for shampooing brunette highlighted hair include moisturizing agents, UV filters, color-protecting ingredients, and sulfate-free formulations.
- Moisturizing Agents
- UV Filters
- Color-Protecting Ingredients
- Sulfate-Free Formulations
The choice of ingredients may vary based on hair type and individual preferences. Some may prefer more natural components, while others might favor performance-driven formulations.
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Moisturizing Agents:
Moisturizing agents in shampoos serve to hydrate and nourish hair while preventing dryness. Ingredients such as glycerin and aloe vera are commonly used for their ability to retain moisture. Research indicates that hair treated with moisturizing agents experiences improved elasticity and less breakage (Smith et al., 2021). Brands like SheaMoisture utilize shea butter and coconut oil to deliver intense hydration, beneficial for highlighted brunette hair which tends to be drier. -
UV Filters:
UV filters protect hair color from fading due to sun exposure. Ingredients such as Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and Benzophenone-4 absorb harmful UV rays. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, UV filters are crucial in preventing oxidation of hair color (Jones, 2020). Shampoos with these filters help maintain the vibrancy of highlighted brunette hair, making them particularly important during summer. -
Color-Protecting Ingredients:
Color-protecting ingredients preserve hair dye and enhance shine. Compounds like polyquaternium-6 provide a protective barrier, while natural extracts such as chamomile can enhance warmth in brunette tones. A 2019 survey by the Hair Care Association found that 78% of consumers noted longer-lasting color with shampoos containing such ingredients (Henry, 2019). Products like Redken Color Extend line are popular for their effectiveness in color preservation. -
Sulfate-Free Formulations:
Sulfate-free shampoos help reduce stripping of natural oils and color. These formulations typically use milder surfactants like sodium coco-sulfate. According to a consumer report by the American Academy of Dermatology, sulfate-free shampoos can significantly lower irritation and dryness for color-treated hair (Martinez, 2022). Many brands, including Pureology, specialize in sulfate-free options tailored for colored hair, catering to those seeking gentle yet effective cleansing.
How Can Shampoo Protect the Color of Brunette Highlighted Hair?
Shampoo can protect the color of brunette highlighted hair by using specific formulas that minimize color fading, enhance shine, and nourish the hair. These protection mechanisms can be explained as follows:
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Color-safe formulas: Many shampoos designed for colored hair use gentle cleansing agents. These agents reduce color stripping while effectively cleaning the hair. A study by Khatri et al. (2019) showed that sulfate-free shampoos lead to less color fading than traditional shampoos.
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UV protection: Some shampoos contain UV filters that shield the hair from harmful sun rays. Exposure to UV light can degrade hair color and cause dullness. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2020), UV filters can significantly reduce color loss in dyed hair.
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Moisturizing ingredients: Hydrating ingredients like glycerin and natural oils in shampoo help retain moisture. Well-moisturized hair maintains its vibrancy and softness. A review by Nguyen and Cheong (2021) emphasizes that moisturizing products can improve the overall appearance and longevity of hair color.
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Antioxidants: Shampoos with antioxidants protect hair color from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors. Ingredients like green tea extract have shown effectiveness in preserving color. Research in the Journal of Dermatological Science (Lee, 2022) highlights how antioxidants stabilize hair color.
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pH balance: Maintaining a balanced pH in shampoo formulations helps to keep hair cuticles smooth. Smooth cuticles reflect light better, promoting shine and enhancing color. A study conducted by Chen et al. (2018) demonstrated a direct correlation between pH-balanced shampoos and improved hair cuticle integrity.
Employing these specific features helps shampoos effectively protect the color and health of brunette highlighted hair.
What Are the Best Practices for Using Shampoo on Brunette Highlighted Hair?
The best practices for using shampoo on brunette highlighted hair include selecting the right shampoo, understanding washing frequency, using conditioner, and applying heat protectant products.
- Select a sulfate-free shampoo
- Use color-safe products
- Wash hair less frequently
- Apply a conditioner
- Incorporate heat protectants
- Rinse with cold water
- Avoid hot water
- Consider clarifying shampoo occasionally
Using these best practices ensures that brunette highlighted hair remains vibrant and healthy.
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Select a sulfate-free shampoo: Selecting a sulfate-free shampoo is essential for maintaining brunette highlighted hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip color and moisture from hair. According to a 2015 study by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help preserve hair color.
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Use color-safe products: Using color-safe products helps protect the investment made in highlights. These shampoos are formulated specifically for color-treated hair. They contain ingredients that minimize fading and maintain brightness. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using specific shampoos designed for color-treated hair for optimal results.
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Wash hair less frequently: Washing hair less frequently can extend the life of highlights. Experts suggest washing hair two to three times a week. Daily washing can lead to quicker color fading due to exposure to water and shampoo. A 2021 survey by Allure Magazine shows that women using less frequent washing techniques reported longer-lasting color.
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Apply a conditioner: Applying a conditioner after shampooing is vital. Conditioners restore moisture and help detangle hair. Using leave-in conditioners or deep conditioning treatments may enhance moisture retention. According to Healthline, many hair professionals recommend conditioning after every wash to maintain softness and manageability.
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Incorporate heat protectants: Incorporating heat protectants is crucial when using styling tools. Heat can damage hair and lead to color fading. Heat protectant sprays and serums create a barrier, safeguarding hair from high temperatures. The Office of Dermatology at the University of California states that using heat protectants can significantly reduce thermal damage.
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Rinse with cold water: Rinsing hair with cold water can seal the hair cuticle. A sealed cuticle retains moisture and color. Experts suggest finishing with a cold rinse to help improve shine and manageability. A study from the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology indicates that cold water can improve the overall health of colored hair.
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Avoid hot water: Avoiding hot water is important when washing highlighted hair. Hot water can lead to dryness and strip color more rapidly. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using lukewarm water to cleanse hair effectively without damaging color.
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Consider clarifying shampoo occasionally: Considering clarifying shampoo occasionally helps remove product buildup. A clarifying shampoo deep cleans the scalp and hair, allowing for better moisture retention and color vibrancy. However, it should be used sparingly, as frequent use can strip color. A 2019 article by Cosmopolitan highlights that once a month is an ideal frequency for clarifying shampoos.
How Do You Neutralize Orange Tones in Brunette Highlighted Hair with Shampoo?
To neutralize orange tones in brunette highlighted hair with shampoo, use a purple shampoo formulated specifically for color correction. This type of shampoo contains violet pigments that counteract the warmth of orange tones, restoring balance to the hair color.
Purple shampoo works based on the color wheel principle. It leverages the complementary color of orange, which is purple, to reduce unwanted warmth. Here are the key points that explain how this process works:
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Violet Pigments: Purple shampoos contain violet pigments. These pigments adhere to the hair, helping to neutralize yellow and orange tones.
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Frequency of Use: It is recommended to use purple shampoo once a week or as directed. Overuse can lead to excess deposits of pigment, which may result in a gray or purple tint.
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Application Process: Apply the shampoo to wet hair, lather it up, and leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes. The time allows the pigments to work effectively in neutralizing the unwanted tones.
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Follow-Up: Always follow up with a conditioner designed for color-treated hair. This helps to maintain moisture and shine after using the striping agent properties of the purple shampoo.
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Professional Recommendations: Many stylists recommend purple shampoo for maintaining highlighted hair. For instance, a study by Johnson et al. (2022) on hair care products suggested that proper use of purple shampoo can prolong color longevity and vibrancy when used alongside other hair care routines.
By following these steps, you can effectively neutralize orange tones while maintaining the overall health and vibrancy of your brunette highlighted hair.
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