You’ve probably seen it on the shelves of your local drugstore or salon: purple shampoo. But have you ever wondered why it’s purple in the first place? The answer lies in the science of color and how it interacts with our hair. Today, we’re diving into the captivating world of purple shampoo, uncovering why it’s purple, how it works, and why it’s become a must-have for blonde and silver hair.
The Science of Color: Understanding the Color Wheel
To understand why purple shampoo is purple, we need to understand the basics of the color wheel. The color wheel is a visual representation of how colors relate to each other. Opposite colors on the wheel are considered “complementary” colors. This means they neutralize each other when mixed.
For example, yellow and purple are complementary colors. When mixed together, they create a neutral brown or gray. This is the key to understanding how purple shampoo works.
The Yellow Villain: Brassiness and Unwanted Tones
Blonde and silver hair often have a tendency to develop unwanted yellow or brassy tones. This can happen due to various factors, including:
- Natural Pigmentation: Some people naturally have warmer undertones in their hair, making them more prone to brassiness.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to sunlight, pollution, and even hard water can contribute to yellowing.
- Hair Dye: Certain hair dyes, especially those with warm tones, can leave behind yellow or brassy residue.
Purple Power: Counteracting Brassiness
Purple shampoo is formulated with violet pigments, which are the complementary color to yellow. When applied to hair, the violet pigments neutralize the yellow tones, leaving behind cooler, more vibrant blonde or silver shades.
How Does Purple Shampoo Work?
Purple shampoo works by depositing a tiny amount of violet pigment onto the hair shaft. This pigment counteracts the yellow or brassy tones, leaving behind a cooler, more neutral shade. It’s important to note that purple shampoo doesn’t actually change the color of your hair; it simply masks the unwanted yellow tones.
The Importance of Using Purple Shampoo Correctly
While purple shampoo can be a powerful tool for achieving cooler hair tones, it’s important to use it correctly to avoid over-toning or damaging your hair.
- Start with a Small Amount: Begin with a small amount of purple shampoo and work it through your hair, focusing on the areas where brassiness is most noticeable.
- Don’t Overdo It: Using too much purple shampoo can lead to a purple tint in your hair, so it’s important to be cautious.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse all the purple shampoo out of your hair to avoid any unwanted color build-up.
- Frequency is Key: The frequency of use will depend on your hair type and the level of brassiness you’re trying to combat.
Who Should Use Purple Shampoo?
Purple shampoo is primarily designed for people with blonde or silver hair. However, it can also be used on other hair colors, such as:
- Light Brown Hair: Purple shampoo can help to neutralize any warm or brassy tones in light brown hair, creating a more cool and ashy shade.
- Gray Hair: Purple shampoo can help to eliminate yellowing in gray hair, maintaining a vibrant, silver color.
The Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo
- Neutralizes Brassiness: The primary benefit of purple shampoo is its ability to neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde and silver hair.
- Enhances Shine: The violet pigments in purple shampoo can also add shine and vibrancy to your hair.
- Prevents Color Fading: Purple shampoo can help to prevent color fading in dyed blonde or silver hair.
- Maintains Cool Tones: Regular use of purple shampoo can help to maintain cool tones in your hair, preventing it from becoming brassy or yellow.
The Bottom Line: Why Purple Shampoo is a Hair Care Essential
Purple shampoo is a valuable tool for anyone with blonde or silver hair who wants to maintain cool tones and prevent brassiness. By understanding the science behind purple shampoo and using it correctly, you can achieve the vibrant, healthy, and cool-toned hair of your dreams.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How often should I use purple shampoo?
A: The frequency of use depends on your hair type and the level of brassiness you’re trying to combat. For those with very brassy hair, using it once or twice a week might be necessary. For others, once every two weeks might be sufficient.
Q: Can I use purple shampoo on dark hair?
A: Purple shampoo is not recommended for dark hair, as it can create a purple tint.
Q: Can I use purple shampoo on colored hair?
A: Yes, purple shampoo can be used on colored hair, but it’s important to choose one specifically formulated for color-treated hair.
Q: Will purple shampoo damage my hair?
A: When used correctly, purple shampoo should not damage your hair. However, overusing it or leaving it on for too long can lead to dryness and breakage.
Q: What are some good purple shampoo brands?
A: There are many great purple shampoo brands available, including Clairol Shimmer Lights, Fanola No Yellow Shampoo, and Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Lumière.