Purple shampoo. It’s a staple in the haircare routine of many blondes, used to banish brassiness and keep their locks looking vibrant and cool-toned. But what about those with brunette hair? Can purple shampoo work its magic on darker shades, or is it strictly a blonde’s best friend? The answer is more nuanced than you might think. While the effects won’t be as dramatic as they are on blonde hair, purple shampoo can still play a role in maintaining the health and color of brown hair, particularly if it has highlights, balayage, or any kind of lightening. Let’s dive into the science behind purple shampoo and explore exactly what it does to brown hair, and how to use it effectively.
Understanding the Science of Purple Shampoo
To understand what purple shampoo does to brown hair, we first need to grasp the fundamentals of color theory. At its core, purple shampoo is designed to neutralize unwanted yellow and orange tones in hair. These warm tones often appear in lightened hair due to oxidation and the natural underlying pigments that are revealed when hair is bleached or colored.
The Color Wheel Connection
The color wheel is our key to understanding this process. Purple sits directly opposite yellow on the color wheel. This means that purple and yellow are complementary colors, and when combined, they neutralize each other. Similarly, blue shampoo is designed to counteract orange tones, as blue is complementary to orange.
How Pigments Work
Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that are deposited onto the hair shaft. These pigments counteract the yellow tones, making the hair appear cooler and brighter. The intensity of the purple pigment and the dwell time (how long you leave the shampoo on your hair) will influence the degree of neutralization.
The Impact of Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
So, what does all this mean for brunettes? Brown hair, especially when lightened, is also prone to brassiness, though the tones tend to be more orange and red than yellow. This is where purple shampoo can come into play, even for those without blonde hair.
Neutralizing Brassiness in Lightened Brown Hair
If you have brown hair with highlights, balayage, or ombre, purple shampoo can help tone down the brassiness that can appear in the lightened sections. Over time, these sections can turn yellow or orange, especially if exposed to sunlight, hard water, or heat styling. Purple shampoo can deposit subtle purple pigments, counteracting these warm tones and restoring a cooler, more balanced color.
Subtle Toning for Dark Brown Hair
For those with very dark brown or black hair that hasn’t been lightened, the effects of purple shampoo will be minimal. The dark pigments in the hair will largely mask the subtle violet tones of the shampoo. However, some people with naturally warmer brown tones may notice a very slight reduction in overall warmth, but the change will be far less dramatic than it is on blonde or light brown hair.
Adding Shine and Depth
Even if purple shampoo doesn’t dramatically alter the color of dark brown hair, it can still offer some benefits. Many purple shampoos are formulated with ingredients that add shine and depth to the hair. These ingredients can help to enhance the natural richness and vibrancy of brown hair, leaving it looking healthier and more lustrous.
Preventing Color Fade
Purple shampoo can also help to prevent color fade in brown hair that has been dyed. By neutralizing brassy tones as they appear, it can help to maintain the integrity of the hair color and prevent it from becoming dull or muddy over time. This is especially important for those who have invested time and money in professional hair coloring services.
Choosing the Right Purple Shampoo for Brown Hair
Not all purple shampoos are created equal. The intensity of the purple pigment, the formulation of the shampoo, and the specific needs of your hair will all influence which product is the best choice for you.
Considering Pigment Intensity
For brown hair, you generally don’t need a purple shampoo with the same level of intensity as you would for blonde hair. A shampoo with a more moderate pigment level is usually sufficient to neutralize brassiness without leaving a purple tint. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for brown or dark hair, or that are described as having a “mild” or “low” pigment concentration.
Checking the Ingredients
Always read the ingredient list before purchasing a purple shampoo. Look for products that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness. Also, consider shampoos that contain moisturizing ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter to help keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Considering Your Hair Type
Your hair type will also influence which purple shampoo is best for you. If you have dry or damaged hair, look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated to hydrate and repair. If you have oily hair, choose a lighter formula that won’t weigh your hair down. And if you have color-treated hair, make sure the shampoo is safe for color-treated hair to prevent fading.
How to Use Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair Effectively
Using purple shampoo correctly is essential to achieving the desired results without causing any unwanted side effects. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using purple shampoo on brown hair:
Wet Your Hair Thoroughly
Start by wetting your hair thoroughly with warm water. This will help to open up the hair cuticle and allow the purple pigments to penetrate more effectively.
Apply the Shampoo Evenly
Apply a generous amount of purple shampoo to your hair, focusing on the areas that are most prone to brassiness. This is typically the lightened sections or the areas that have been exposed to the most sunlight.
Massage Gently
Massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp gently, using your fingertips. Avoid using your fingernails, as this can damage the scalp.
Let It Sit
Leave the shampoo on your hair for the recommended amount of time, usually between 2 and 5 minutes. For brown hair, it’s generally best to start with a shorter dwell time to avoid over-toning and gradually increase the time if needed.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the shampoo out of your hair thoroughly with cool water. Make sure all of the purple pigment is removed, as any residue can leave your hair looking dull or tinted.
Follow with Conditioner
Always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to replenish any moisture that may have been lost during the shampooing process. Choose a conditioner that is specifically formulated for color-treated hair to help prolong the life of your color.
Frequency of Use
How often you use purple shampoo will depend on your hair type and the degree of brassiness you’re trying to neutralize. Generally, using it once or twice a week is sufficient for brown hair. If you notice your hair starting to look too ashy or dull, reduce the frequency of use.
Potential Side Effects of Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
While purple shampoo is generally safe to use on brown hair, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of.
Dryness
Purple shampoos can sometimes be drying, especially if they contain sulfates. To combat this, always use a moisturizing conditioner after shampooing and consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
Purple Tint
If you leave purple shampoo on your hair for too long or use a shampoo with a very high pigment concentration, you may end up with a slight purple tint. This is more likely to happen on lightened hair, but it can also occur on dark brown hair if the shampoo is overused. If this happens, simply wash your hair with a regular shampoo to remove the tint.
Dullness
Overusing purple shampoo can also make your hair look dull or ashy. This is because the purple pigments can build up on the hair shaft over time, creating a dull, matte finish. To prevent this, use purple shampoo sparingly and alternate with a regular shampoo.
Alternatives to Purple Shampoo for Brown Hair
If you’re not a fan of purple shampoo, or if you’re looking for alternative ways to combat brassiness in your brown hair, there are several other options to consider.
Blue Shampoo
Blue shampoo is specifically designed to neutralize orange tones, which are often more prevalent in brown hair than yellow tones. If you’re struggling with orange brassiness, blue shampoo may be a better option than purple shampoo.
Hair Glosses and Toners
Hair glosses and toners are semi-permanent hair color treatments that can be used to neutralize brassiness and add shine to the hair. These treatments are typically applied by a professional stylist and can last for several weeks.
Color-Depositing Conditioners
Color-depositing conditioners are a gentler alternative to purple shampoo. These conditioners contain subtle pigments that gradually deposit color onto the hair, helping to neutralize brassiness and enhance your natural hair color.
DIY Hair Masks
There are also several DIY hair masks that can help to combat brassiness. For example, a mask made with apple cider vinegar can help to brighten the hair and remove buildup, while a mask made with blueberries can help to deposit subtle blue pigments.
In conclusion, while purple shampoo is primarily designed for blonde hair, it can also be beneficial for brown hair, especially if it has highlights, balayage, or any other kind of lightening. By understanding the science behind purple shampoo and choosing the right product for your hair type, you can effectively neutralize brassiness, add shine, and maintain the health and vibrancy of your brown hair. Remember to use it sparingly, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner, and be aware of the potential side effects. With the right approach, purple shampoo can be a valuable addition to your brown hair care routine.
What exactly does purple shampoo do to hair?
Purple shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy, yellow, or orange tones that can appear in blonde, silver, or lightened hair. It works based on the principle of color theory: purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, so when purple pigment is deposited onto yellowish hair, it counteracts the warm tones, resulting in a cooler, brighter appearance. The shampoo contains violet pigments that temporarily adhere to the hair shaft, visually canceling out the unwanted warmth.
This temporary color correction doesn’t permanently alter your hair’s base color. The purple pigment washes out over time, requiring repeated applications to maintain the desired tone. The strength and frequency of use will determine how effective the shampoo is at toning the hair, and overusing it can sometimes lead to a purple or ashy cast, especially on very light blonde hair.
Will purple shampoo lighten brown hair?
Purple shampoo is not designed to lighten brown hair and will not do so in any significant way. While it might slightly alter the tone, making it appear less warm or reddish, the change will be very subtle and likely only noticeable in certain lighting conditions. The concentration of purple pigment in most purple shampoos is not high enough to lift or lighten darker hair shades.
The primary function of purple shampoo is to counteract yellow tones, which are typically only prevalent in blonde or bleached hair. Brown hair naturally contains a wider range of pigments, including red, orange, and brown. While purple shampoo might theoretically help to neutralize some of the reddish undertones, the effect will be minimal compared to its impact on blonde hair. For noticeable lightening of brown hair, you’ll need to use a product specifically formulated for that purpose, such as hair bleach or a lightening dye.
Can purple shampoo damage brown hair?
Purple shampoo is generally safe for use on brown hair and is unlikely to cause significant damage. However, like any shampoo, frequent use can potentially lead to dryness, especially if the shampoo contains harsh sulfates or other drying ingredients. This can be further exacerbated if your brown hair is already dry or damaged from other chemical treatments or heat styling.
To minimize the risk of dryness, choose a sulfate-free purple shampoo and use it sparingly, perhaps once or twice a week. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask to replenish lost moisture. If you notice your hair becoming dry or brittle after using purple shampoo, reduce the frequency of use or discontinue use altogether. Consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to further combat dryness.
What results can I realistically expect from using purple shampoo on brown hair?
Realistic expectations are key when using purple shampoo on brown hair. Don’t anticipate a drastic change in color or significant lightening. The most likely result is a slight reduction in warm, reddish, or brassy undertones, potentially making your brown hair appear a bit cooler or more neutral in tone. This effect will be subtle and might only be visible in certain lighting.
If your brown hair has highlights or balayage that are lighter and more yellow, the purple shampoo might have a more noticeable effect on those areas, helping to neutralize any brassiness. However, the overall impact on the darker portions of your hair will be limited. If you’re seeking a more significant change in color, you’ll need to explore other options, such as a toner or dye specifically formulated for brown hair.
How often should I use purple shampoo on brown hair?
Due to the minimal effect purple shampoo has on brown hair, the frequency of use should be limited. Overusing it won’t enhance the toning effect and could lead to unnecessary dryness. Start with using it once a week and observe the results. If you notice a slight reduction in warmth or brassiness, you can continue using it at that frequency.
If you don’t see any noticeable change or if your hair starts to feel dry, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks or discontinue use altogether. Always prioritize the health of your hair over trying to achieve a subtle color change that might not even be visible. Remember to follow with a moisturizing conditioner to combat any potential dryness caused by the shampoo.
Are there purple shampoo alternatives for toning brown hair?
Yes, there are several alternatives to purple shampoo that are better suited for toning brown hair. Blue shampoo is designed to neutralize orange tones, which are common in brown hair, especially after sun exposure or coloring. Green shampoo can help to counteract red tones, which can also be prevalent in brown hair.
Toners specifically formulated for brown hair are another effective option. These toners contain pigments that can neutralize unwanted warm tones and add cool tones, resulting in a more balanced and ashier brown color. Hair glosses are another great choice as they deposit a sheer layer of color and shine while helping to correct tone. Finally, consider a professional color correction service at a salon for a more tailored and effective solution to address specific brassiness or redness in your brown hair.
What if my brown hair has blonde highlights; will purple shampoo work then?
Yes, if your brown hair has blonde highlights, purple shampoo can be effective in toning those specific highlighted areas. The blonde sections of your hair are more susceptible to developing brassy or yellow tones, and the purple pigment in the shampoo will help to neutralize these unwanted hues, keeping your highlights bright and vibrant.
When using purple shampoo on brown hair with highlights, focus the product primarily on the blonde sections to avoid over-toning the darker brown areas. You can also dilute the purple shampoo with regular shampoo to lessen the intensity and prevent any unwanted purple cast on your brown hair. Monitor the results closely and adjust the frequency of use based on how well your highlights are responding to the treatment. Remember to follow with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated.