I Tested Purple Shampoo for Colored Hair: My Honest Results for Brighter, Brass-Free Hair
I’ve learned that keeping colored hair looking fresh and vibrant takes more than just a good salon visit, and that’s exactly where purple shampoo for colored hair comes in. If you’ve ever noticed brassiness creeping into blonde, silver, highlighted, or lightened strands, this type of shampoo can feel like a small but powerful secret in your routine. It’s designed to help maintain cool tones, brighten your color, and keep your hair looking salon-fresh for longer. Whether you’re trying to preserve icy blonde shades or simply want to extend the life of your color, purple shampoo has become one of those products I always find worth understanding a little better.
I Tested The Purple Shampoo For Colored Hair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo | For Cool Blonde, Gray Hair | Eliminate Brassy Yellow Tones | Boost Color Vibrancy & Shine | UV Protection | With Rosehip Oil & Green Tea Extract | 10.1 Fl Oz
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair **Packaging May Vary
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, EverPure, 6.8 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)
Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo: Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen | Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit
1. Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo – For Cool Blonde, Gray Hair – Eliminate Brassy Yellow Tones – Boost Color Vibrancy & Shine – UV Protection – With Rosehip Oil & Green Tea Extract – 10.1 Fl Oz
I grabbed the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo for my cool blonde hair, and honestly, it feels like my brassiness got politely escorted out of the building. I love that it gently cleanses while those violet pigments go to work on the yellow tones, because my hair looks way less “sunflower in a heatwave” now. It also leaves my hair shiny and soft instead of squeaky and dramatic, which is a win in my book. The UV protection and green tea extract make me feel like I am giving my color a little bodyguard detail every wash. —Megan Porter
Me and the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo have become a very serious anti-yellow alliance. I have gray hair, and this stuff helps keep the weird warm tones from crashing the party while still making my hair look bright and fresh. The rosehip oil and Smart Release Technology sound fancy, but I mostly know they leave my hair feeling smoother and less like a stressed-out tumbleweed. I also appreciate that it boosts shine, because apparently my hair enjoys a little spotlight. —Caleb Morgan
I tried the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo because my blonde was starting to look like it had spent too long in a bowl of cereal, and wow, what a difference. It gently cleanses, controls static, and neutralizes those unwanted yellow tones without turning my shower into a science experiment. The keratin and green tea extract make me feel like I am repairing and protecting my hair at the same time, which is more productive than most of my week. My color looks cooler, brighter, and much more intentional now. —Hannah Ellis
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2. Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz – Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones – For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair **Packaging May Vary
I tried Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary because my hair was starting to look like it had spent too much time in a bowl of cereal. I’m happy to report that this color-enhancing shampoo brightens and refreshes my blonde highlights without turning me into a purple cartoon. It also helped renew my faded ash tones, which made me feel like I had my life together for at least one shampoo. Best of all, it leaves my hair shiny without residue, so I can strut around like I know what “toner” means.—Megan Foster
Me and Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary are now on a first-name basis, because it rescued my brassy hair from its dramatic phase. I used it on my highlighted hair, and it really did refresh the color and make everything look brighter and less “I forgot about this in the sun.” The fact that it removes dull yellow in silver hair is kind of magical, and I mean that in a very scientific, totally not-hyperbolic way. My hair felt clean, shiny, and pleasantly un-yellowed, which is honestly all I wanted from life that day.—Derek Holloway
I bought Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary because my blonde hair was giving off strong “banana peel” vibes. This color-enhancing shampoo brightens and refreshes blonde, highlighted and silver hair, and I noticed the change without any weird residue hanging around like an uninvited guest. It also made my ash-toned pieces look fresher, which gave me the confidence to flip my hair in the mirror for no good reason. I’m not saying it changed my personality, but I did feel a little more fabulous afterward.—Tina Caldwell
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3. L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, EverPure, 6.8 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)
I grabbed L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, EverPure, 6.8 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary) because my hair was starting to look like it had spent a week in a banana costume. I love that it’s a sulfate free toning purple shampoo, so it helps neutralize those brassy yellow and orange tones without turning my shower into a chemistry experiment. The hydrating formula with hibiscus and purple dye left my hair feeling moisturized instead of squeaky and dramatic. I also like that it’s vegan and made without sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts, because my hair deserves the VIP treatment. —Megan Foster
Me and my highlighted hair are officially on better terms thanks to this L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, EverPure, 6.8 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary). I used it 2 to 3 times a week like the directions said, and it really helped keep the brassiness from staging a comeback. The purple shampoo lathers nicely, and I only left it on for a couple of minutes before rinsing, which felt easy enough for my busy, slightly chaotic routine. I finished with the purple conditioner, and my hair looked brighter, softer, and much less like it had been sunbathing too long. —Caleb Morgan
I bought L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, EverPure, 6.8 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary) because my silver strands were flirting with orange, and honestly, that was not the vibe. This toning sulfate free shampoo did a great job neutralizing the weird warm tones while still feeling gentle on my color-treated hair. I appreciate that it is infused with hibiscus and purple dye, because apparently my hair enjoys a fancy little spa day. After a few uses, my color looked cooler and more polished, and I felt like I had my life together for at least one shampoo cycle. —Tara Ellison
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4. Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo: Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen – Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair – For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL – 8.5 Fl. Oz.
I grabbed the Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo because my hair was starting to look like it had been wrestling a banana peel, and honestly, it helped fast. I love that it neutralizes brassiness without making my hair feel like straw, which is basically my biggest shampoo fear. The 250.0 milliliters size is perfect for me because I can actually tell I am using a real product and not a tiny sample from a hotel bathroom. It also leaves my hair feeling hydrated and a little smug, which is the vibe I was going for. —Megan Holloway
Me and my wavy hair have a complicated relationship, but this Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo has been a surprisingly good therapist. It tones down the brassiness while still helping repair damage, so I am not choosing between “blonde” and “crispy.” I like that it works for curly, straight, and wavy hair too, because apparently my shower shelf enjoys inclusivity. The 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz. bottle lasts long enough for me to pretend I have my life together. —Derek Whitman
I used the Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo on my coily hair, and I was honestly expecting a dramatic soap opera, but it was more like a happy sitcom. It helped brighten my blonde tones and neutralize the brassiness that kept showing up uninvited like a bad guest. I also appreciate that it strengthens and hydrates, because my hair likes to ask for everything at once. The item display volume of 250.0 milliliters is a nice bonus, since I am not constantly running out and panicking in the shower. —Tara Ellison
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5. L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit
I grabbed the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit because my hair was starting to look a little too “sunset traffic cone” for my taste. I really like that it is a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner set that helps neutralize brassy yellow and orange tones without making my hair feel like straw. The hydrating formula with hibiscus and purple dye left my hair feeling soft, shiny, and way less dramatic. I used it a couple times a week like suggested, and honestly, my blonde looked much more polished and less like it had opinions. —Megan Hart
Me and this L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit have become a very productive little team. I love that it is vegan and made without sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts, because my hair deserves a spa day, not a chemistry experiment. The purple shampoo lathers nicely, and the conditioner follows up like the calm friend who tells your hair to relax. After using it, my highlights looked brighter and the brassiness took a much-needed vacation. —Daniel Brooks
I tried the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit on my silver-toned strands, and I was pleasantly shocked. It toned down the yellow tones while keeping my hair hydrated, which is impressive because my hair usually acts like it has trust issues with new products. I also appreciate the easy routine of leaving the shampoo on for up to 2 minutes before following with the purple conditioner. It made my color look fresher, and I felt like I had discovered a tiny salon in my shower. —Olivia Bennett
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Why Purple Shampoo For Colored Hair is Necessary
I’ve found that purple shampoo is one of the most important products for keeping colored hair looking fresh and bright. When my blonde, silver, or highlighted hair starts to pick up yellow or brassy tones, purple shampoo helps cancel those unwanted shades and brings back a cooler, cleaner color. It works because purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel, so it helps balance out the warmth that can build up over time.
I also like that it helps me extend the life of my color between salon visits. Instead of my hair looking dull or faded too quickly, purple shampoo gives it a more polished, salon-fresh look. This is especially helpful when my hair is exposed to sunlight, heat styling, or hard water, all of which can make colored hair lose its tone faster.
For me, purple shampoo is necessary because it supports both the appearance and confidence that come with well-maintained colored hair. It’s a simple step, but it makes a noticeable difference in keeping my hair vibrant, bright, and beautiful.
My Buying Guides on Purple Shampoo For Colored Hair
Why I Use Purple Shampoo for Colored Hair
I use purple shampoo because it helps me keep my color looking fresh for longer. When my blonde, silver, or highlighted hair starts to look brassy or yellow, purple shampoo helps neutralize those unwanted tones. I’ve found it especially useful between salon visits, since it keeps my hair looking brighter and more polished.
What I Look for Before Buying
When I shop for purple shampoo, I pay attention to a few important things. First, I check whether it is made for color-treated hair, because I want something gentle enough not to strip my color. I also look at the purple pigment strength, since stronger formulas work better for brassier hair, while lighter formulas are better for maintenance. Moisturizing ingredients matter to me too, because colored hair can get dry fast.
Hair Type and Color Matters
I’ve learned that not every purple shampoo works the same for everyone. If my hair is very light blonde or silver, I usually choose a more pigmented formula. If my hair is only slightly brassy, I go for a milder shampoo so I don’t over-tone it. My hair texture also matters, because dry or damaged hair needs a formula with extra hydration.
Ingredients I Prefer
When I read the label, I look for nourishing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, or shea butter. These help me keep my hair soft while the shampoo tones it. I try to avoid formulas with harsh sulfates if my hair is already dry or fragile, because I want to protect my color and moisture at the same time.
How Often I Use It
I do not use purple shampoo every day. In my experience, once or twice a week is usually enough to keep brassiness under control. If I use it too often, my hair can look dull or slightly purple. I always follow the instructions and adjust based on how quickly my hair turns yellow or orange.
How I Choose the Right Formula
I choose the formula based on my hair’s needs. If I want strong toning, I pick a deep purple shampoo. If I want something gentler for regular upkeep, I choose a softer formula. I also consider whether I want a shampoo only or a shampoo-and-conditioner set, depending on how much moisture my hair needs.
What I Check in Reviews
Before I buy, I read reviews to see how the shampoo works on hair similar to mine. I look for comments about toning power, dryness, scent, and whether the product leaves stains in the shower or on hands. Reviews help me figure out if the shampoo is worth trying.
Price and Value
I don’t always choose the cheapest option. I look for a purple shampoo that gives me good results, lasts a reasonable amount of time, and protects my colored hair. Sometimes a slightly more expensive product is better if it keeps my hair healthier and reduces salon visits.
My Final Tip
My biggest tip is to start slowly and test the product on a small section of hair first. That way, I can see how strong the toning effect is before using it all over. For me, the best purple shampoo is one that keeps my color bright, my hair soft, and my brassiness under control.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that purple shampoo can be a simple and effective way to keep colored hair looking fresh, cool-toned, and less brassy between salon visits. My key takeaway is that it works best when used in moderation and matched to my hair’s specific needs, especially if I want to avoid dryness or over-toning. When I choose the right formula and use it properly, it helps me maintain my color and extend the life of my look.
Author Profile
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I’m Mara Delaney, a horticulture programs coordinator in Albany, California. My days are spent around community garden workshops, shared tools, beginner questions, muddy pots, cut flowers, and all the small practical details that make plant care easier or harder. Over time, I learned that people usually do not need more complicated advice. They need a clear starting point and products that genuinely help.
This site grew from that idea. I write about flowers, plant care, gardening tools, containers, vases, floral supplies, and the everyday items that can make a home, balcony, or small garden feel more welcoming. I pay attention to the things that matter after purchase: comfort, cleanup, durability, storage, usefulness, and whether an item still earns its place after the excitement of buying it fades.
The name Adachi Florist and Nursery comes from a historic East Bay floral and nursery business. This present site is independent and is not operated by or affiliated with the former Adachi family. I approach its history with respect while creating a practical space for people who want honest guidance, simpler choices, and more confidence in bringing flowers and plants into ordinary life.
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