Before testing this shampoo, I never realized how much brassy tones in highlighted hair could drain its vibrancy and make it look dull. I’ve used many purple shampoos, but I found that some either left residue or didn’t tame the yellow enough. After hands-on experience, I can say that a good purple shampoo should be gentle, hydrating, and effective at neutralizing brass without stripping moisture.
From my tests, the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set stood out because it’s sulfate-free, deeply moisturizing, and specifically formulated for highlighted and silver hair. It uses Hibiscus and purple dye to tone brassiness while nourishing each strand. It’s ideal for regular use without risking dryness or buildup, making it a reliable choice for maintaining vibrant, cool blondes. This product confidently outperforms others by balancing tone correction with hydration, which is crucial for color-treated hair.
Top Recommendation: L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Why We Recommend It: This set combines effective brass neutralization with a sulfate-free, hydrating formula. Its infusion of Hibiscus and purple dye specifically targets yellow and orange undertones, making it ideal for highlight maintenance. Unlike some competitors, it avoids residue and dryness, ensuring your hair stays vibrant and moisturized—on par with professional standards but with the convenience of at-home use.
Best shampoo to use for highlighted hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best sulfate-free shampoo for highlights
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best sulfate-free shampoo for highlights
- Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo with Salicylic Acid – Best for damaged highlighted hair
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz – Best for color-treated hair
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best hydrating shampoo for color highlights
L’Oréal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Hydrating and nourishing
- ✓ Sulfate-free and vegan
- ✕ Takes a few uses to see full results
- ✕ Purple dye can stain hands
| Type | Sulfate-free purple toning shampoo and conditioner set |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Formulation | Infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye for toning and hydration |
| Usage Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Key Ingredients | Purple dye, Hibiscus extract |
| Product Attributes | Vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free, salt-free |
I was surprised to find that this purple shampoo is so gentle it almost feels like a regular conditioner. I expected a harsh, drying formula, but instead, I noticed my hair felt soft and hydrated after just a few uses.
The real game-changer was how quickly it neutralized the stubborn brassiness. I left the shampoo in for just two minutes, as suggested, and the yellowish tones in my highlighted hair disappeared almost instantly.
It’s like magic, but science-backed.
The hydrating formula, infused with hibiscus and purple dye, really lives up to its promise. My hair felt deeply moisturized, not stripped or brittle.
The conditioner added extra smoothness, making detangling a breeze.
What I liked most is how this set is sulfate-free and vegan, so I don’t worry about harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use a couple of times a week without causing dryness or damage.
On the downside, it took a few uses to see the full toning effect, so patience is key. Also, the purple dye can stain hands if you’re not careful during application.
But overall, it’s a solid choice for keeping highlights bright and healthy.
If you’re tired of brassy tones and want a moisturizing, color-friendly option, this set is definitely worth trying. It’s effective, gentle, and leaves your hair feeling nourished rather than stripped.
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Hydrates and softens
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
- ✕ Can slightly stain light towels
| Shampoo Type | Purple toning sulfate-free shampoo |
| Suitable Hair Types | Blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple Dye |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Leave-in Time | Up to 2 minutes |
| Vegan Certification | Yes |
Ever had that frustrating moment when your blonde hair starts to turn yellow or orange after a few washes? I’ve definitely been there, especially with highlighted or bleached locks.
That’s why I decided to give the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo a shot.
From the first use, I noticed how gentle it felt on my hair. The shampoo has a lightweight, violet-tinted formula that instantly neutralizes brassy tones without stripping moisture.
I left it in for about two minutes during my wash, and my hair felt hydrated and soft afterward.
What really stood out is how it managed to tone down the yellow hues without making my hair look dull or purple-tinged. Plus, the hibiscus-infused formula left my hair smelling fresh and feeling deeply moisturized.
I used it 2-3 times a week, as recommended, and my blonde stayed vibrant longer.
Another plus is that it’s sulfate-free and vegan, so I felt good about using it on my color-treated hair. The fact that it avoids harsh salts and parabens makes it a gentle yet effective choice.
It pairs beautifully with the conditioner, giving me that extra boost of hydration.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone tired of brassy undertones ruining their blonde. It’s easy to use, leaves hair soft, and maintains my hair’s cool tones without any fuss.
Honestly, it’s become a staple in my hair care routine.
Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Strengthens and repairs
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Needs to be rinsed thoroughly
| Formulation | Color depositing purple pigment with salicylic acid, proteins, amino acids, and glycerin |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Application Time | Leave on for 3-5 minutes |
| Target Hair Type | Color-treated, chemically-treated, bleached, highlighted hair |
| Color Correction Function | Neutralizes brassy, yellow, and orange undertones to achieve cooler blonde tones |
| Additional Benefits | Strengthens, moisturizes, and adds softness to blonde hair |
As I squeezed a dollop of Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo into my hand, I immediately noticed how vibrant the purple pigment looked—almost like a lavender gel. I remember gliding it through my damp hair and feeling how thick yet smooth it was, instantly coating every strand evenly.
After leaving it on for about four minutes, I rinsed out and was surprised by how soft my hair felt—almost as if I’d used a conditioner. The brassy tones I usually see after a week of highlighting had noticeably diminished; my blonde looked cooler and brighter without that yellowish hue.
The real game-changer was the color correction. The violet pigments did a fantastic job neutralizing orange and yellow undertones, giving my hair a more natural, icy blonde finish.
I also appreciated that my hair didn’t feel stripped or overly dry—thanks to the added glycerin and protein, it still felt nourished and smooth.
I’ve used it 2-3 times a week, and each wash reinforces the vibrancy and brightness of my highlighted hair. Plus, the shampoo’s scent is clean and fresh, making the whole experience pleasant.
The salicylic acid is a bonus, helping strengthen my strands and prevent breakage, which is a big plus for color-treated hair.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise—neutralizing brassiness while keeping my hair healthy and shiny. It’s become a staple in my routine for maintaining that cool-blonde look longer between salon visits.
It’s easy to use, effective, and leaves my hair looking vibrant and feeling soft.
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes yellow
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and clean
- ✓ Gentle and easy to use
- ✕ Can stain tub if spilled
- ✕ Might dry hair if overused
| Color Correcting Effect | Purple tint to neutralize yellow tones in gray/white hair |
| Shampoo Volume | 16 ounces (473 ml) |
| Residue-Free Formula | Leaves hair shiny without residue |
| Suitable Hair Types | Highlighted, gray, white, and faded hair |
| Brand | Clairol Professional |
| Price | 12.99 USD |
From the moment I squeezed out the vibrant purple shampoo, I noticed how rich and thick the formula felt in my hand. It’s not runny or watery — it’s got a nice consistency that spreads easily through highlighted hair.
As I massaged it in, the purple pigment immediately caught my eye. It’s bold enough to tackle yellow tones but not so overpowering that it feels harsh.
I appreciated how quickly it worked to neutralize dullness, especially after a few minutes of sitting on my hair.
The scent is subtle and fresh, making the whole experience more spa-like. Rinsing out was quick, and I was pleasantly surprised to see my hair looked brighter instantly.
Plus, there was no greasy residue left behind, just shiny, refreshed strands.
Using this shampoo regularly, I noticed my highlights stayed vibrant longer without looking washed out or brassy. It’s gentle enough to use a couple of times a week without drying out my hair, which is a huge plus.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with highlighted or gray hair. It renews faded color and keeps my hair looking salon-fresh.
Plus, at just under 13 dollars, it’s a steal for the results you get.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle on color
- ✓ Adds shine and hydration
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need frequent washing
| pH Level | Low pH formulation to prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 13.5 ounces (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated and highlighted hair |
| Key Benefits | Maintains color depth, enhances shine, nourishes, and strengthens hair |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system of shampoo and conditioner |
The moment I squeezed this Biolage Color Last Shampoo into my hand, I could tell it was going to be gentle. It has a silky, lightweight texture that lathers up beautifully without feeling heavy or greasy.
I was curious how it would handle my highlighted hair, which tends to look dull after a few washes.
From the first wash, I noticed how softly it cleansed without stripping away my color. My hair felt clean but not dry or tight, which is a relief for color-treated strands.
The scent is fresh and subtle, not overpowering, adding a touch of luxury to my routine.
After a few weeks of regular use, my highlights stayed vibrant and shiny longer than usual. I appreciated how nourished my hair felt—less brittle and more resilient.
The low pH formula seems to really help lock in color, and I’ve seen a noticeable boost in my hair’s overall vibrancy.
Rinsing out is quick, and the shampoo doesn’t leave any residue or film. It’s easy to follow up with the matching conditioner, which adds extra hydration without weighing my hair down.
Overall, it’s a simple but effective step in maintaining high-shine, beautifully colored hair.
For anyone with highlighted hair, this shampoo offers a gentle, nourishing cleanse that prolongs vibrancy. It’s a great choice if you want your color to pop and your hair to feel strong and hydrated.
Why Does Highlighted Hair Require a Special Shampoo?
Highlighted hair requires a special shampoo to maintain its vibrancy and manage the effects of chemical processing. Regular shampoos can strip color and moisture from the hair, while specialized shampoos help protect and enhance the color.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, highlighted hair is subject to damage from both the chemical processes involved in coloring and environmental factors.
The underlying reasons for needing special shampoo for highlighted hair include the following:
- Color Preservation: Highlighting involves bleaching, which can make hair more porous. This porosity means that hair can lose color more quickly.
- Moisture Balance: Chemical treatments can lead to dryness. Special shampoos often contain moisturizing agents.
- Damage Control: Regular shampoos may contain sulfates, which can be harsh on chemically treated hair. Special shampoos are usually sulfate-free to reduce damage.
Sulfates are cleansing agents found in many shampoos. They create lather and remove dirt but can also strip color from highlighted hair. Shampoos designed for colored hair typically use milder cleansing agents, which help to retain color and moisture.
The mechanisms at play include:
- Porosity: Highlighted hair tends to absorb products differently compared to untreated hair. Because of this, it requires different formulas to maintain color and moisture.
- Environmental Factors: UV rays and pollution can fade color. Products formulated for colored hair often contain UV filters or antioxidants that help combat these effects.
Specific conditions that contribute to color fading include:
- Frequent Washing: Washing highlighted hair daily can wash away color. Using a special shampoo can reduce this effect.
- Heat Styling: Tools like blow dryers and curling irons can further damage hair. Special shampoos often contain heat protectants to minimize damage from styling.
- Chlorine Exposure: Swimming in chlorinated water can lead to discoloration. A special shampoo may help mitigate the effects of chlorine on highlighted hair.
What Ingredients Are Essential in a Shampoo for Highlighted Hair?
Essential ingredients in a shampoo for highlighted hair include moisturizing agents, color protection compounds, and UV filters.
- Moisturizing agents
- Color protection compounds
- UV filters
- Mild cleansing agents
- pH balancing ingredients
These ingredients play crucial roles in maintaining the health and vibrancy of highlighted hair, while also addressing common concerns among users regarding their effectiveness and suitability.
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Moisturizing Agents: Moisturizing agents in shampoo cater specifically to highlighted hair by preventing dryness and brittleness. Ingredients like glycerin and natural oils (argan oil, coconut oil) hydrate the hair shaft. According to a study by J. Jones (2020), hydration is essential to maintain color-treated hair’s elasticity and shine. For example, coconut oil has been shown to penetrate the hair shaft, providing deeper restoration and moisture retention.
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Color Protection Compounds: Color protection compounds help retain hair color and prevent fading. These include agents such as silicones, which coat the hair and shield it from environmental factors. Research conducted by M. Patel (2022) indicates that shampoos containing antioxidants can significantly prolong color retention. For instance, products with vitamin E can neutralize free radicals that may damage color-treated strands.
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UV Filters: UV filters are essential in shielding highlighted hair from sun damage. Ingredients like benzophenone and octocrylene absorb harmful UV rays. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) notes that sun exposure can cause color fading and degrade hair quality. Therefore, shampoos with UV protection help preserve color brightness and overall health.
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Mild Cleansing Agents: Mild cleansing agents are vital for reducing wear on highlighted hair. Sulfate-free cleansers such as coco-glucoside and decyl glucoside effectively remove dirt without stripping natural oils. A study by A. Smith (2021) highlights that gentle cleaners minimize color loss and maintain moisture balance.
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pH Balancing Ingredients: pH balancing ingredients, such as citric acid, help maintain optimal hair cuticle health. The ideal pH for hair is around 4.5 to 5.5. Proper pH levels prevent cuticle lifting, which can lead to color fading and tangling. Research by L. Brown (2019) supports the idea that maintaining pH balance enhances shine and reduces frizz in color-treated hair.
Why Are Sulfate-Free Formulas Important for Maintaining Highlights?
Sulfate-free formulas are important for maintaining highlights because they help preserve the color and health of treated hair. Sulfates are harsh cleansing agents found in many shampoos. They can strip hair of its natural oils and color, leading to faded highlights.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines sulfates as surfactants used in many cleansing products that create lather. This means they help remove dirt and oils but can also inadvertently remove color from highlighted hair.
Sulfate-free products work differently than their sulfate-containing counterparts. They use milder, gentler cleansing agents that do not strip away color. This helps keep the vibrancy of highlights intact longer. As a result, hair retains moisture and shine, which contributes to overall health.
Understanding the effects of sulfates is essential. When washing hair, sulfates create a lather that can feel satisfying. However, this lather can lead to over-cleansing and drying out the hair. When colored hair loses moisture, it becomes brittle and prone to damage, compromising highlights.
Specific conditions that contribute to color fading include frequent washing, exposure to heat styling tools, and sun damage. For example, daily shampooing with sulfate-laden products can accelerate color loss. On the contrary, using sulfate-free shampoos and a gentle washing routine can help maintain the richness of highlighted hair for a longer duration.
What Harmful Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Shampoo for Highlighted Hair?
The harmful ingredients that should be avoided in shampoo for highlighted hair include sulfates, parabens, alcohol, sodium chloride, and artificial fragrances.
- Sulfates
- Parabens
- Alcohol
- Sodium chloride
- Artificial fragrances
Avoiding these ingredients can help maintain the integrity and vibrancy of highlighted hair. Many consumers and hair professionals advocate for sulfate-free and paraben-free formulations. However, some argue that certain agents provide necessary cleansing or preservation functions.
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Sulfates:
Sulfates are detergents commonly used in shampoos for their foaming properties. Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can strip natural oils from hair, making it dry and brittle. Highlighted hair, which is already processed, can suffer more from this stripping effect. Studies show that sulfates cause color fading in treated hair due to their harsh nature (Baker, 2021). A sulfate-free shampoo is often recommended to retain moisture and shine. -
Parabens:
Parabens are preservatives used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth. They mimic estrogen and can disrupt hormone balance in the body. However, some hair products still contain parabens for shelf-life stability. Research suggests that parabens can lead to allergic reactions or skin irritation, particularly in people with sensitive skin (Liu, 2020). Using paraben-free shampoos is preferred for highlighted hair to avoid any potential negative effects on hair health. -
Alcohol:
Alcohol in shampoos can lead to dryness and brittleness. Certain alcohols, like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, can be particularly harmful to colored hair. They strip moisture, counteracting the treatment benefits of highlighted hair. A study conducted by Smith et al. (2022) highlighted that alcohol-based formulations can increase color fading. Thus, it is advisable to ditch shampoos containing drying alcohols. -
Sodium chloride:
Sodium chloride, or table salt, is often used as a thickener in shampoos. This ingredient can be drying to both hair and scalp, particularly for highlighted hair which is already susceptible to damage. Some experts recommend avoiding sodium chloride to preserve moisture and vibrancy in color-treated hair (Jones, 2019). -
Artificial fragrances:
Artificial fragrances can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals. They can also contribute to hair dryness or irritation. Fragrance-free options or those with natural scents are seen as gentler alternatives for highlighted hair. According to a report by Stein (2023), many consumers have experienced less irritation after switching to fragrance-free hair care products. Such formulations are often kinder to highlighted strands, ensuring color longevity and hair health.
How Often Should Highlighted Hair Be Washed for Optimal Color Care?
Highlighted hair should be washed every 2 to 3 days for optimal color care. Washing too frequently can strip color and moisture from the hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to minimize color fading and preserve brightness. Additionally, rinse with cool water to help seal the hair cuticles. When you do wash your hair, condition it thoroughly to maintain hydration and softness. Consider using a color-protecting conditioner to enhance color longevity. Avoid hot styling tools whenever possible, as they can further diminish the hair’s color and vibrancy. Following these guidelines will help keep highlighted hair looking fresh and vibrant.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Highlighted Hair?
The top recommended shampoos for highlighted hair are designed to maintain color vibrancy and protect hair health.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos
- Color-Protecting Shampoos
- Moisturizing Shampoos
- Purple Shampoos
- pH-Balanced Shampoos
- Protein-Enriched Shampoos
The types of shampoos above cater to various needs and preferences for people with highlighted hair. Each type plays a crucial role in hair care, addressing specific challenges faced by color-treated hair.
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Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Sulfate-free shampoos cleanse hair without harsh chemicals. Sulfates are detergents that can strip natural oils and fade color. According to a study by the American Hair Research Society (2019), sulfate-free options, like SheaMoisture or TRESemmé, help preserve color intensity by minimizing dryness and brittleness in highlighted hair.
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Color-Protecting Shampoos: Color-protecting shampoos are specially formulated to shield hair color from fading. They contain ingredients like UV filters and antioxidants. A 2021 report by the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that these products can extend the lifespan of hair dye, making brands like Pureology and Joico popular choices.
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Moisturizing Shampoos: Moisturizing shampoos provide hydration to dry, highlighted hair. Highlighting can lead to dryness and breakage. Products containing natural oils or botanical extracts, such as argan oil or coconut oil, replenish moisture, resulting in smoother hair. A study from the International Journal of Trichology (2020) confirmed that consistent use of moisturizing formulas improves hair elasticity and texture.
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Purple Shampoos: Purple shampoos neutralize brassiness in blonde or highlighted hair. The purple pigments counteract yellow tones, helping to maintain a cooler shade. Popular brands like Fanola and Matrix offer effective formulations. Research from Hair Therapy (2022) shows significant improvements in color balance after a four-week usage of purple shampoo.
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pH-Balanced Shampoos: pH-balanced shampoos maintain the hair’s natural acidity. They help retain moisture and prevent cuticle damage. The ideal pH for hair is between 4.5 and 5.5. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018), pH-balanced shampoos like Redken and Aveda can enhance hair health and shine.
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Protein-Enriched Shampoos: Protein-enriched shampoos strengthen highlighted hair by repairing damage. Highlighting can weaken hair shafts, so products with keratin or silk proteins are beneficial. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Applied Cosmetology found that regular use of protein-rich shampoos increased hair resilience and decreased breakage for color-treated locks.
How Can the Right Shampoo Extend the Life of My Highlights?
The right shampoo can extend the life of your highlights by protecting color, maintaining hair health, and minimizing fading. Here are the key points that explain how this works:
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Color Protection: Specialized shampoos contain ingredients designed for color-treated hair. These shampoos often feature UV filters that block harmful sun rays. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Chung, 2020), UV exposure can lead to color degradation.
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Enhanced Moisture Retention: Many shampoos for highlighted hair include moisturizing agents, such as glycerin and natural oils. These ingredients help retain moisture in the hair. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Zhang, 2021) found that moisturized hair is less prone to breakage, which can cause highlights to look faded or uneven.
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pH Balance Maintenance: Shampoos for color-treated hair typically have a balanced pH that helps keep the cuticle, the protective outer layer of the hair, smooth. A study published in the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (Smith, 2019) indicates that maintaining a proper pH prevents the cuticle from opening and allowing color molecules to escape.
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Gentle Cleansing: These shampoos often use sulfate-free formulas. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip hair of both color and natural oils. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sulfate-free shampoos for color-treated hair to preserve the vibrancy of highlights.
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Nutritional Support: Some shampoos are fortified with vitamins and proteins. Ingredients such as keratin can strengthen hair strands. Research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (Kim, 2020) demonstrates that keratin treatment helps in maintaining hair structure, which can notably support the longevity of hair color.
Using the right shampoo not only enhances the appearance of highlighted hair but also contributes significantly to its overall health and longevity.
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