If you have ever dyed your hair purple or other shades like blue, lavender or pink, you might have heard about using purple shampoo to maintain your color. But have you ever wondered what purple shampoo actually does to purple hair? In this article, we will give you a comprehensive understanding of purple shampoo and how it works on colored hair.
Purple shampoo is a specialized hair care product designed to neutralize brassy tones in blonde, silver, and even purple hair. It contains violet pigments that cancel out yellow and orange hues, leaving your hair looking cooler and more vibrant. However, using purple shampoo on purple hair may seem confusing and counterintuitive, but it is just as essential as using it on any other color-treated hair. The reasoning behind it will be discussed in the following section.
Understanding the Science Behind Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is a hair care product that is generally used by people with blonde or silver hair. It is a popular toning shampoo that has a deep violet hue. But what is the science behind purple shampoo? Why is it purple? The answer to this lies in color theory.
The color wheel has complementary colors, which are directly opposite to each other. Purple is opposite to yellow in the color wheel, so if you apply purple shampoo on hair that has yellow undertones, the purple pigment in the shampoo neutralizes the yellow tone in hair, leaving behind a cool, ashy shade. This is why purple shampoo is best for people who have blonde or silver hair because these hair colors tend to have yellow undertones as a result of sun exposure, harsh water, and chemical treatments.
The Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo on Colored Hair
Purple shampoo is a must-have product for anyone who has recently dyed their hair purple or any other cool-toned color. Colored hair, especially those with cool tones, can easily become dull or brassy over time due to various factors, such as UV exposure, hard water, or heat styling. This is where purple shampoo comes in as a savior!
The primary benefit of using purple shampoo on colored hair is that it helps counteract any unwanted brassy or yellow tones. Purple color cancels out yellow as they are opposite shades on the color wheel. Hence, when you use purple shampoo on purple hair or any other cool-toned hair color, it neutralizes any brassiness, enhances the color, and gives it a fresh-out-of-the-salon look. Moreover, using purple shampoo can also prevent your hair from fading too quickly and keep your strands looking vibrant and shiny for longer.
How to Choose the Best Purple Shampoo for Your Hair Type
Choosing the best purple shampoo for your hair type is crucial to achieve the desired results. When selecting a purple shampoo, look for one that caters to your hair’s specific needs, whether it’s color-treated, oily, dry, or damaged. For colored hair, opt for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and protects your hair color from fading. Sulfates can strip the color from your hair, leading to a brassy or orange tone.
Determine your hair type and choose the shampoo accordingly. For oily hair, go for a clarifying formula that removes excess oil without stripping away moisture. Those with dry and damaged hair should look for a hydrating purple shampoo to avoid further damage. It is advisable to choose a purple shampoo that contains natural ingredients like argan oil, jojoba oil, or shea butter as they help nourish and replenish hair while maintaining the purple hue.
Tips for Using Purple Shampoo to Achieve the Perfect Hue
Using purple shampoo on purple hair can help maintain and enhance the vibrancy and depth of the color. However, it’s important to use it correctly to achieve the perfect hue. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your purple shampoo:
1. Start with lightly damp hair and apply the shampoo evenly across your hair, massaging it into your scalp and along the length of your hair.
2. Allow the shampoo to sit for at least 3-5 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Be sure not to leave it on for too long to avoid over-toning your hair.
3. To achieve the perfect hue, use purple shampoo only once or twice a week, depending on the vibrancy of your hair color. Overuse of the product can lead to an unnatural or ashy shade.
4. Finish off with a nourishing conditioner or hair mask to give your locks the extra hydration it needs after using the toning shampoo. Following these tips will help you maintain healthy, vibrant, and perfectly toned purple hair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Purple Shampoo
When it comes to using purple shampoo on purple hair, there are several common mistakes you should avoid to ensure you get the best results possible. One common misstep is leaving the shampoo on for too long, as this can lead to an ashy or dull appearance in your locks. Instead, be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and only leave the shampoo in for the recommended amount of time.
Another common mistake is using too much purple shampoo. This can make your hair look flat or lifeless, so it’s important to use only a small amount of product and work it through your hair carefully. Additionally, be sure not to use purple shampoo too frequently, as this can lead to dryness or damage over time. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve beautiful, vibrant purple hair with the help of purple shampoo.
The Dangers of Overusing Purple Shampoo on Colored Hair
While purple shampoo can work wonders for neutralizing yellow tones on colored hair, overusing it can be harmful. Consistent use of purple shampoo on colored hair can lead to dryness, brittleness, and even breakage. This is because purple shampoo can strip the hair of its natural oils, making it prone to damage and breakage.
Moreover, overusing purple shampoo can cause the hair color to fade quickly. This is because purple shampoo contains strong pigments that, over time, can mix with the hair color and cause it to become dull and lifeless. Therefore, it’s important to use purple shampoo sparingly and not more than once a week to prevent any damage to the hair and ensure that the color remains vibrant for longer.
Alternative Methods for Maintaining Purple Hair.
Maintaining purple hair can take some effort, especially if you want to keep it vibrant and eye-catching. While using a purple shampoo is a common method for maintaining the color, there are some alternative approaches worth considering. One such method is to use a color depositing conditioner, which will help to replenish the purple tone on your hair.
Another approach is to use a hair mask specifically designed for colored hair. These masks can help to enhance and maintain the color while also providing nourishment to your hair. It’s also important to avoid harsh chemicals and heat styling that can damage your hair and make the color fade faster. By taking a few extra steps to care for your purple hair, you can enjoy the vibrant color for longer.
The Conclusion
After delving into what purple shampoo does on purple hair, it is clear that its purpose is to neutralize unwanted brassy and yellow tones. By using the opposite color of yellow on the color wheel, purple shampoo can effectively balance out these warm tones, resulting in a cooler and brighter purple hair color.
While purple shampoo can be a useful tool for maintaining purple hair color, it is important to use it properly and apply it sparingly. Overusing purple shampoo can lead to a dull and ashy hair color, so it is essential to find the right balance for your hair. Ultimately, incorporating purple shampoo into your hair care routine can help prolong the vibrancy of your purple color and keep your hair looking fresh and well-maintained.