The landscape for white and gray hair care shifted dramatically when violet toning shampoos hit the scene, and I’ve spent months testing them all. From ultra-hydrating formulas to residue-free finishes, I’ve found what really works for maintaining brightness without dullness or brassiness. My favorite is the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo 10.1 Fl. Oz.. It neutralizes yellow tones in a single wash while nourishing your hair, leaving it cool-toned and shiny. What impressed me most is how fast and effective it is, especially when used with its accompanying collection for maximum results.
Compared to others like Clairol’s Shimmer Lights, which leaves a slight residue, or Pantene’s lighter scent, the Matrix offers professional-level toning combined with nourishing properties. Unlike the sulfate-free L’Oreal option—which works well but slightly less impactful—the Matrix’s buildable pigments and leave-in options make it stand out. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo—it’s the best mix of toning power, nourishing ingredients, and value for maintaining white or silver hair effortlessly.
Top Recommendation: Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo 10.1 Fl. Oz.
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo delivers maximum toning in just one wash with its pigmented formula, unlike Clairol or Pantene, which either require multiple uses or lack depth. It’s suitable for both natural and treated hair, plus its nourishing ingredients help restore moisture. The ability to leave hair cool-toned, shiny, and healthy makes it the top choice after extensive testing.
Best purple shampoo for white hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best Value
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz – Best purple shampoo for gray hair
- Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo 10.1 Fl. Oz. – Best purple shampoo for silver hair
- Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner 17.9 Fl Oz – Best purple shampoo for damaged hair
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Hydrates while toning
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Easy to use and effective
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Type | Purple toning sulfate-free shampoo |
| Hair Types Suitable | Blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple dye |
| Color Neutralization | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Usage Instructions | Lather into wet hair, leave in for up to 2 minutes, then rinse |
| Frequency of Use | 2-3 times per week |
You know that frustrating moment when your white or silver hair starts developing unwanted yellow or orange hues just a few washes in? I’ve been there, and I finally found a solution that really works without stripping my hair of moisture.
The L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo is a game changer.
Right from the first use, I noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp. The purple tint is visibly vibrant, yet it doesn’t turn your hair purple—just neutralizes those brassy tones.
I left it in for about two minutes, as recommended, and was amazed how quickly the yellows faded. It’s like a magic eraser for brassiness, but it also leaves my hair feeling deeply hydrated.
The formula feels nourishing thanks to hibiscus and purple dye, which are great for color-treated hair. Plus, I love that it’s sulfate-free and vegan—no harsh chemicals that can dry out my strands.
Since I typically wash my hair 2-3 times a week, I’ve been using this with the matching conditioner, and the results are consistent and reliable.
My hair looks brighter and more vibrant, with a cool-toned finish that lasts until the next wash. It’s easy to incorporate into my routine, and I appreciate that it doesn’t weigh my hair down or make it feel dry.
Overall, this purple shampoo has made my blonde look fresher and more polished, without the damage I’ve experienced with other products.
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 16oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes yellow
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ No residue or staining
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Slight purple tint if left on too long
| Color Correcting Effect | Removes dull yellow tones in gray and white hair |
| Shine Enhancement | Leaves hair shiny without residue |
| Suitable Hair Types | Gray, white, and faded highlighted hair |
| Volume | 16 ounces (473 ml) |
| Formulation | Purple shampoo with color depositing properties |
| Usage Purpose | Color correction and refreshment of gray/white hair highlights |
Right after lathering up with Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, I noticed how quickly the purple tint transformed my dull, yellow-tinged gray hair into a cooler, more vibrant shade. It’s like a quick refresh for your hair’s color, almost instantaneously brightening without any harsh chemical smell.
The shampoo has a rich, violet hue that instantly tingles my senses, hinting at its strong anti-yellow power. I appreciate how smoothly it spreads through my hair, giving it a nice lather without any residue or stickiness.
It leaves my hair feeling clean, shiny, and surprisingly soft, not stripped or overly dry.
What really stands out is how effective it is at neutralizing brassiness, especially after multiple washes. My highlights look more refreshed and defined, with cool tones that last several days.
Plus, it doesn’t leave any purple tint or staining, which can be a problem with lesser formulas.
Using it regularly, I found that it maintains my white hair’s brightness without overdoing it—just the right balance. The 16oz bottle feels like good value for the price, especially considering how little you need per wash.
It’s a dependable choice for anyone tired of dull, yellowed hair that needs a quick pick-me-up.
Overall, this shampoo is straightforward, effective, and gentle enough for frequent use. It’s a real game-changer for making my white hair look fresh, vibrant, and healthy every time I wash.
Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo 10.1 Fl. Oz.
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle formula
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse out
- ✕ Can stain skin if not careful
- ✕ Might require frequent use
| Product Type | Purple Toner Shampoo |
| Size | 10.1 Fl. Oz. (298 ml) |
| Toning Level | Moderate to maximum toning (with additional products in collection) |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, leave on for up to five minutes, rinse |
| Pigment Content | Purple pigments for neutralizing brassy and yellow tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | Blonde, grey, and color-treated hair |
You’re standing in your bathroom, towel wrapped around your shoulders, ready to tame those pesky yellow hues on your white hair. As you squeeze out a generous dollop of the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo, you notice its vibrant violet color immediately catching your eye.
It’s thick enough to feel rich but not gloopy, and the scent is surprisingly pleasant—fresh with a hint of floral.
As you lather it into your wet hair, you’ll feel the purple pigments start to deposit evenly across your strands. The lather is smooth and easy to work through, covering every inch of your hair without needing to use too much product.
Leave it on for about five minutes, and you’ll notice the color cooling down those brassy tones perfectly.
Rinsing out, your hair feels surprisingly soft and nourished, thanks to the nourishing formula. The color is visibly cooler, and the brassiness is noticeably reduced after just one wash.
It works well on both your natural white hair and color-treated strands, giving you that fresh-from-the-salon look. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use regularly without stripping moisture.
If you’re after a quick, effective solution to keep your white hair crisp and vibrant, this shampoo fits the bill. It’s simple to use, leaves your hair feeling great, and keeps those yellow tones at bay.
Just remember to wear gloves to avoid staining your skin, and you’ll love how easy and efficient it is to maintain your cool tones.
Pantene Silver Expressions, Purple Shampoo and Hair Toner,
- ✓ Brightens and reduces dullness
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Can stain if left too long
| Color Maintenance | Neutralizes yellow tones to maintain silver and white hair brightness |
| Purple Pigment Content | Contains purple pigment to counteract brassy and yellow hues |
| Formulation | Paraben-free and silicone-free formula |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use |
| Application Time | Recommended 3-5 minutes sit time before rinsing |
| Scent Profile | Infused with lotus flower fragrance |
The first time I squeezed a dollop of Pantene Silver Expressions into my hand, I immediately noticed how smoothly it glided over my hair. As I massaged it into my scalp, I could feel the purple pigment starting to work, neutralizing the yellow tones I’ve been battling.
Sitting for just a few minutes, the scent of fresh lotus flowers filled the bathroom—surprisingly luxurious for a drugstore shampoo.
The formula is lightweight but feels nourishing, which is a big plus for my dry, white strands. I love how easy it is to incorporate into my daily routine—just focus on the brassy spots, let it sit, then rinse.
Afterward, my hair looked brighter and more vibrant, with a noticeable reduction in dullness. The purple tint doesn’t leave a weird hue, just a clean, silvery shine.
What really caught me off guard is how gentle it felt. It’s free from parabens and silicones, so I don’t worry about buildup or damage.
The scent lingers lightly but pleasantly, making my hair smell fresh and clean all day.
Of course, I did notice that if I leave it on too long, a slight purple tint can appear. So I stick to the 3-5 minutes recommended.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for maintaining bright, healthy-looking white hair without any harsh chemicals.
What is Purple Shampoo and How Does It Help Enhance White Hair?
Purple shampoo is a hair care product designed to neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, or white hair. It contains purple pigments that counteract the warm tones, resulting in a cooler, more vibrant color.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines purple shampoo as a cleansing product that can enhance the appearance of blonde and gray hair by reducing unwanted yellowness.
Purple shampoo works by depositing purple color onto the hair. This color wheel principle explains how opposite colors can cancel each other out. When applied, purple pigments absorb the yellow tones, enhancing the brightness of white hair.
According to the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, the use of color-depositing shampoos has historically increased due to their efficacy in color maintenance and toning.
Common causes of brassy tones include sun exposure, hard water deposits, and chemical treatments, such as bleaching. These factors can alter hair’s natural pigment, leading to unwanted hues.
A 2021 survey by Statista found that 66% of women who dye their hair reported using purple shampoo at least once a month to maintain color vibrancy.
The implications of using purple shampoo include improved self-esteem and confidence among users. Additionally, it can boost the cosmetic industry by promoting advanced hair care products.
In health, overuse of chemical treatments can damage hair, creating an increased demand for protective products like purple shampoo. Economically, it contributes to the growth of the cosmetic industry through high sales.
For example, companies like Matrix and Joico offer purple shampoos that promise protection for color-treated hair.
To address concerns about hair damage, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using purple shampoo in moderation, alongside regular deep conditioning treatments.
Specific strategies might include using sulfate-free formulas and incorporating leave-in conditioners to maintain hair health while achieving desired color vibrancy.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Purple Shampoo for White Hair?
The best purple shampoo for white hair should contain specific key ingredients that neutralize brassiness and enhance brightness.
- Purple pigments
- Nourishing oils (such as coconut or argan oil)
- Hydrolyzed proteins (like silk or keratin)
- Botanical extracts (such as chamomile or lavender)
- Sulfate-free formulation
- pH-balanced formula
Incorporating these ingredients can significantly improve the effects of purple shampoo on white hair.
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Purple Pigments: Purple pigments are essential in purple shampoo. These pigments counteract yellow tones in white hair. The science behind this lies in color theory, where purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel. Therefore, when applied, these pigments neutralize unwanted brassy hues. Many products use varying concentrations of purple pigments to achieve different levels of toning.
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Nourishing Oils: Nourishing oils, such as coconut and argan oil, provide hydration and shine to dry, color-treated hair. These oils help maintain hair health by preventing moisture loss. For example, a study by M. A. Rahman et al. (2020) highlights how coconut oil reduces protein loss in hair. This makes the hair softer and more vibrant after using purple shampoo.
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Hydrolyzed Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins like silk or keratin strengthen and repair damaged hair. They penetrate the hair shaft and improve elasticity. Research by B. L. Govil et al. (2019) shows that keratin treatments enhance the tensile strength of hair. Using hydrolyzed proteins in conjunction with purple shampoo can combat the damage that often comes with bleaching or coloring.
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Botanical Extracts: Botanical extracts, such as chamomile and lavender, are added for their soothing and fragrant properties. Chamomile is known for its brightening effects and can enhance golden undertones, which complements white hair. Lavender, noted for its calming properties, is also beneficial for sensitive scalps. A 2017 study by C. T. Browning et al. shows that several botanical extracts help reduce oxidative stress in hair.
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Sulfate-Free Formulation: A sulfate-free formulation is vital for maintaining hair health. Sulfates can strip natural oils from the hair and scalp. This can lead to dryness and irritation, especially in already compromised hair types. Products marketed as sulfate-free are usually gentler and help retain moisture.
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pH-Balanced Formula: A pH-balanced formula helps maintain the natural acidity of hair. Most shampoos are slightly acidic, which helps close the hair cuticle and locks in moisture. Using a pH-balanced purple shampoo can improve the overall appearance and texture of white hair by preventing frizz and promoting shine.
Choosing a purple shampoo that includes these key ingredients will help achieve vibrant, healthy white hair.
Which Purple Shampoos Are Most Effective for Toning White Hair?
The most effective purple shampoos for toning white hair include products that neutralize yellow tones while providing nourishment.
- Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo
- Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Shampoo
- Schwarzkopf BlondMe Shampoo
- Pulp Riot Violette Shampoo
These products vary in formulation, effectiveness, fragrance, and added benefits. Some users prefer those with intense color correction, while others value hydration and UV protection. Additionally, opinions differ on the frequency of use and impact on hair health.
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Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo:
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo effectively neutralizes yellow and brassy tones in white hair. This shampoo contains patented technology that helps repair and protect hair. Olaplex products are known for their ability to strengthen hair bonds. Over 90% of users report noticeable improvements in tone with consistent use. -
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo:
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo is famous for its deep violet pigment. This product is particularly effective for very light blonde and grey hair. Users appreciate its strong toning ability even with infrequent use. However, it may dry out the hair if used excessively, necessitating a good conditioner alongside it. -
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo:
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo tones hair while also adding moisture. This shampoo is suitable for all hair types and helps protect color and shine. Many users enjoy its pleasant scent and find it gentle enough for regular use. There are mixed reviews regarding its toning effectiveness on extremely pale blondes. -
Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo:
Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo combines toning benefits with nourishing ingredients. Its sulfate-free formula is designed to maintain hair health while neutralizing brassiness. This product is well-received for its eco-friendly packaging as well. Users appreciate its ability to enhance brightness without compromising hair integrity. -
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo:
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo is effective for both toning and maintaining the vibrancy of white or grey hair. This shampoo also adds shine and moisture. Many users report significant yellow tone reduction after one use. However, some find that it requires careful application to avoid over-toning. -
Redken Color Extend Shampoo:
Redken Color Extend Shampoo is renowned for maintaining color while toning out brassiness. It is rich in protective ingredients that keep hair vibrant between salon visits. Users typically notice enhanced softness and manageability. Some have mentioned it may not be as effective on extremely porous hair. -
Schwarzkopf BlondMe Shampoo:
Schwarzkopf BlondMe Shampoo offers a toning solution along with bond-building properties. This brand is professional-oriented and works best when used consistently alongside BlondMe conditioning products. Many professionals recommend this for optimum results. However, it may not be ideal for those with very dry or damaged hair. -
Pulp Riot Violette Shampoo:
Pulp Riot Violette Shampoo features high-performance violet pigments for intense purple toning. It offers color protection and restores shine while reducing brassiness. Users love its cruelty-free stance and vibrant fragrance. However, its high pigment content can be overwhelming for those with softer color hair textures.
How Do Expert Reviews Evaluate the Best Purple Shampoos for White Hair?
Expert reviews evaluate the best purple shampoos for white hair by analyzing formulation effectiveness, user feedback, ingredient quality, and specific hair care results.
Formulation effectiveness: Expert reviewers assess how well a shampoo neutralizes yellow tones in white or gray hair. Purple shampoos contain purple pigments that counteract brassiness through color theory. The degree of this effectiveness is tested over repeated washes, with experts noting visible changes.
User feedback: Reviews often include consumer testimonials and ratings. Experts analyze large amounts of user data to determine satisfaction levels. This analysis also considers the overall user experience, including texture, scent, and ease of use. For instance, a survey by HairCareResearch (2022) indicated that 85% of users reported noticeable results within the first few washes.
Ingredient quality: Experts scrutinize the ingredient lists to identify beneficial compounds. Common ingredients include violet dyes, hydrating agents, and antioxidants. High-quality shampoos often contain sulfate-free formulas to prevent damage. Studies by Dermatology Times (2021) emphasize that sulfate-free and nourishing ingredients contribute to healthier hair structure.
Specific hair care results: Expert reviews focus on how well products deliver on various promises, such as hydration, shine, and color retention. They might look at before-and-after photos or conduct hair tests to measure improvements in texture and vibrancy. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2023) found that shampoos with a blend of keratin and natural oils provided better moisture retention for white hair compared to standard products.
Overall, expert evaluations merge technical data, user experiences, and scientific studies to recommend the best purple shampoos specifically tailored for white hair.
What Before and After Results Can Be Expected from Using Purple Shampoo on White Hair?
Using purple shampoo on white hair can help reduce unwanted yellow tones and enhance brightness. Users can expect a more radiant, cooler-toned white or silver appearance after regular use.
- Main results from using purple shampoo:
– Reduction of yellow tones
– Enhanced brightness and shine
– Improved color balance
– Moisture retention and hair health
– Possible drying effects on hair
Different experiences exist with purple shampoo. Some users appreciate the brighter results, while others may find it drying. Additionally, some may prefer natural alternatives to commercial products.
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Reduction of Yellow Tones:
Reduction of yellow tones occurs when purple shampoo neutralizes the yellow pigments that may develop in white or silver hair. This type of shampoo contains purple pigments that counteract brassiness by adhering to the hair cuticle. Studies, including one from the International Journal of Trichology (Sivakumar & Krishnan, 2021), show that a 15-30 minute application can significantly diminish yellow tones, making hair appear more vibrant. -
Enhanced Brightness and Shine:
Enhanced brightness and shine result from the light-reflecting properties of purple shampoo. The shampoo smooths the hair cuticle, allowing light to better refract and create a shinier appearance. Case studies indicate that regular use can lead to noticeably improved luster, especially in hair that has been colored multiple times. -
Improved Color Balance:
Improved color balance refers to the overall evenness in tone achieved by using purple shampoo. Consistent use can lead to a more uniform appearance, especially beneficial for multi-tonal white hair. Reports from users noted that their hair looked fresher and more harmonious. -
Moisture Retention and Hair Health:
Moisture retention and hair health can be affected positively when using quality purple shampoos. Many products contain moisturizing agents like oils and proteins that help maintain hair’s hydration while cleansing. A study published by the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry (Zhang et al., 2020) highlighted the importance of retaining moisture to prevent breakage and dryness. -
Possible Drying Effects on Hair:
Possible drying effects on hair are a downside to some purple shampoos; they can strip natural oils if used too frequently. Users may experience increased dryness if they do not follow up with a conditioner or if they use cheaper formulations. Research suggests that the pH level of some purple shampoos can contribute to these drying effects, as noted in a survey conducted by Beauty Science (Hernandez, 2022).
What User Experiences Highlight the Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo for White Hair?
Using purple shampoo can significantly enhance the appearance of white hair by neutralizing unwanted yellow tones, adding vibrancy to the hair color, and improving manageability.
- Neutralizes yellow tones
- Enhances brightness
- Improves hair texture
- Adds shine
- Offers UV protection
- Provides color longevity
- Can dry out hair
- Varies in concentration
The following points delve deeper into the various user experiences and benefits of purple shampoo for white hair.
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Neutralizes Yellow Tones: Using purple shampoo effectively neutralizes yellow tones in white hair. This occurs because purple and yellow are opposite colors on the color wheel. According to a study by Clairol, users reported an immediate reduction of yellow hues after just one wash, making hair appear brighter.
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Enhances Brightness: Many users find that purple shampoo enhances the overall brightness of their white hair. For instance, a 2021 survey by Pantene found that 85% of users noted a significant increase in brightness after consistent use over four weeks.
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Improves Hair Texture: Users often report an improvement in hair texture when using purple shampoo. This improvement includes reduced frizz and smoother hair. A case study from Hair Journal illustrated that participants experienced increased softness and manageability after regular use.
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Adds Shine: Purple shampoo can add shine to white hair. Users have noted that their hair appears healthier and more luminous after using these products. A survey by L’Oréal indicated that 78% of users observed a noticeable increase in shine.
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Offers UV Protection: Some purple shampoos contain ingredients that offer UV protection, safeguarding color from sun damage. This benefit is particularly appreciated by those living in sunny environments. According to Sunscreen International, UV filters can help maintain hair color vibrancy, and many purple shampoos are formulated with such filters.
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Provides Color Longevity: Users report that purple shampoo helps in maintaining their hair color for a longer period. This occurs because it can prevent the fading of white tones. A study highlighted by the American Academy of Dermatology found that frequent usage helps sustain color for more than three weeks longer than without it.
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Can Dry Out Hair: Some users experience dryness when using purple shampoo, particularly when used too frequently. This is due to high concentrations of pigments that can strip moisture from the hair.
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Varies in Concentration: Purple shampoos vary widely in pigment concentration. Some products are designed for intensive color correction, while others are milder and suitable for everyday use. Users with sensitive hair may need to choose a low-concentration option to avoid damage.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.