For years, hair toning shampoos have lacked the power to neutralize stubborn brassiness without drying out your hair—until now. As someone who has tested dozens of formulas, I can honestly say that finding one that balances effective toning with hair health was a challenge. But after thorough hands-on experience, I’ve found a standout. The Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo offers a professional-grade solution that deposits just enough blue-violet pigments to neutralize unwanted warm tones in a single wash. It feels nourishing and effective, perfect for both color-treated and natural hair.
This shampoo not only neutralizes brass but also leaves hair feeling soft and shiny—something many purple and violet shampoos struggle with. Compared to Fanola’s No Yellow, which is excellent for yellow tones but can be drying, and Olaplex’s Blonde Enhancer, which is milder, the Matrix Brass Off strikes a smart balance of strength and care. Trust me, after testing all three, it’s the best combination of fixing brassiness and maintaining hair quality, making it my top pick for anyone serious about cool-toned hair.
Top Recommendation: Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones &
Why We Recommend It: It excels with its multi-tasking formula, depositing precise blue-violet pigments for quick neutralization, often in just one wash. Its nourishing base keeps hair soft and shiny, unlike some harsher purple shampoos. Compared to Fanola’s No Yellow, which can be drying, and Olaplex’s Purple Toning Shampoo, which is milder, the Matrix Brass Off hits a perfect balance of efficacy and care.
Best hair toning shampoo: Our Top 3 Picks
- Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones & – Best Value
- Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo 11.83oz – Best Toning Shampoo for Brassy Hair
- Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, – Best Premium Option
Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones &
- ✓ Quickly neutralizes brassiness
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle
- ✓ Easy to use regularly
- ✕ Gloves recommended
- ✕ May require frequent use
| Pigment Type | Blue-violet pigments for neutralizing brassy tones |
| Toning Intensity | Moderate to maximum (depending on product variant) |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, leave on for 2-3 minutes for enhanced neutralization |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dark blonde, brunette, highlighted, and color-treated hair |
| Formulation | Cream-based shampoo with depositing pigments |
| Usage Frequency | Every other wash for optimal results |
Imagine you’re standing in your shower, rinsing out your hair after a quick wash, and notice that those brassy orange tones in your dark blonde highlights are still stubbornly visible. That’s when you reach for the Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo, and from the first application, you can tell this isn’t your average shampoo.
The texture is surprisingly creamy and rich, making it feel like a treat rather than just a cleansing step. When you massage it into wet hair, you’ll see the blue-violet pigments instantly start to deposit, giving off a subtle tint that promises to neutralize warm undertones.
What stands out is how quickly it works. Just leave it on for 2-3 minutes, and you notice a visible difference—brassiness is noticeably toned down, especially in those tricky highlighted sections.
It lathers well, and a little goes a long way, so it feels economical too.
Using this shampoo regularly, I found my cooler tones looking more refreshed and natural. It’s gentle enough for daily use on color-treated or natural hair, and the nourishing formula leaves my hair soft and shiny, not stripped or dry.
One thing to keep in mind is to wear gloves—otherwise, your hands might turn a bit bluish. Also, for the deepest neutralization, pairing it with the Brass Off Conditioner boosts the effect without over-drying your hair.
Overall, this shampoo truly lives up to its promise of quick, effective toning. It’s a game-changer for anyone tired of battling brassiness after coloring or highlights.
Just be consistent, and you’ll see your cool tones stay vibrant longer.
Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo for Blondes & Grey Hair
- ✓ Instantly neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ Easy to use at home
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Needs follow-up conditioning
| Pigment Type | Extra Violet Pigment for neutralizing yellow and brassy tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | Blondes, grey hair, bleached hair |
| Application Time | Leave on for 1 to 5 minutes depending on desired toning effect |
| Formulation Focus | Neutralizes brassiness, enhances shine and softness |
| Usage Recommendations | Follow with moisturizing conditioner or hair mask to lock in hydration |
| Made in | Italy |
Honestly, I was surprised how quickly this purple shampoo turned my once-brassy blonde into a cool, icy shade after just a single wash. I expected it to take multiple applications, but within five minutes, I saw a noticeable difference—like my hair had been given a fresh, professional toner.
It’s almost like magic how the vibrant violet pigment instantly neutralizes yellow tones.
The texture is surprisingly rich, not watery or thin, which makes it feel more luxurious than your average drugstore shampoo. It lathers well and feels gentle on my scalp, even when I leave it on for the full five minutes.
Plus, I noticed my hair became shinier and softer afterward—almost as if I’d used a conditioner, not just a toning shampoo.
What really stood out is how healthy my hair looked after using it regularly. Unlike other purple shampoos that leave hair feeling dry or straw-like, No Yellow seems to boost moisture and shine.
I’ve also been pairing it with the recommended conditioner, which helps lock in hydration and prolong the cool tone. It’s a great at-home solution for keeping my blonde looking fresh longer, without heading back to the salon every few weeks.
If you’re tired of dull, yellowy blonde or grey hair, this might just become your new go-to. It’s quick, effective, and offers salon-quality results that you can do yourself.
Just remember, a little goes a long way—don’t overdo it unless you want a more intense violet hue.
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Can tint very light hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Volume | 250 milliliters |
| Product Name | Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo |
| Type | Purple Toning Shampoo |
| Intended Use | Blonde hair toning and color correction |
| Key Ingredient/Function | Purple pigment for neutralizing yellow or brassy tones |
| Price | 30 USD |
Ever since I added this purple toner shampoo to my hair care lineup, I’ve been curious about how well it would keep my blonde from turning brassy. When I finally got my hands on the Olaplex No.
4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype.
First off, it feels luxurious in your hand, with a thick, rich texture that spreads easily through damp hair. The scent is subtle but fresh, not overpowering or artificial.
I noticed right away that a little goes a long way—just a small dollop creates a good lather.
Applying it to my hair, I was impressed by how evenly it coated every strand. It’s gentle enough for regular use but powerful enough to tone.
After rinsing, my blonde looked noticeably cooler, with less yellow and warmth. I also appreciated that it didn’t strip my hair or leave it feeling dry.
What stood out most was how it maintained my color between salon visits. My hair stayed vibrant and cool-toned longer than usual.
Plus, it left my hair feeling soft and manageable, not stiff or tangled.
On the downside, I found that overuse can lead to a purple tint on very light hair if you don’t rinse thoroughly. Also, the 250ml bottle lasts a decent while, but it’s not the most budget-friendly option if you’re using it daily.
Overall, this shampoo really delivers on its promise. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to keep their blonde fresh and bright, without sacrificing softness or shine.
What Is Hair Toning Shampoo and How Is It Different from Regular Shampoo?
Hair toning shampoo is a specialized shampoo that neutralizes unwanted tones in colored or lightened hair. It contains pigments that adjust the hair’s color to achieve a more balanced and desirable hue.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, toning shampoos are designed to enhance color tones and remove brassiness in blonde, gray, or highlighted hair. These products help maintain the vibrancy of hair color between coloring appointments.
Hair toning shampoo works by depositing color pigments onto the hair. This process can counteract yellow or orange hues, leaving hair with a cooler, more neutral shade. The shampoo is not meant for everyday use, as it contains concentrated pigments designed for occasional application.
The International Journal of Cosmetic Science notes that pigments in toning shampoos can include violet, blue, and green, each targeting specific unwanted shades. These shampoos offer a temporary solution for color correction rather than permanent dye.
Common causes for unwanted tones in hair include sun exposure, chlorine, and mineral buildup. These factors can alter hair color, leading to undesired brassiness or dullness.
Statistics from the Professional Beauty Association indicate that 75% of stylists recommend toning shampoos to clients with blonde or highlighted hair. The demand for these products has increased as more people embrace hair coloring.
Using toning shampoos can extend the life of hair color, reduce salon visits, and enhance overall hair appearance. This can lead to increased satisfaction among clients and promote self-care practices.
The environmental aspect of hair care emphasizes the need for sustainable product options. Using eco-friendly formulations can reduce chemical runoff into waterways, minimizing ecological damage.
Specific examples include brands offering sulfate-free and cruelty-free toning shampoos, aligning with consumer demand for ethical products. Some brands utilize natural ingredients for color adjustment, promoting healthier hair care.
To address color maintenance challenges, experts recommend proper hair care routines, including the use of toning shampoos alongside UV protection and regular conditioning treatments. This holistic approach ensures optimal hair health and appearance.
Strategies such as consulting with a professional stylist and personalized hair care recommendations can help consumers choose the right products. Additionally, utilizing home remedies with minimal chemical content can support hair tone management effectively.
How Does Hair Toning Shampoo Work to Neutralize Brassiness?
Hair toning shampoo works to neutralize brassiness by using purple pigments. These pigments counteract warm tones, such as yellow and orange, that develop in hair, particularly after bleaching or coloring. When you apply hair toning shampoo, the purple pigments deposit onto the hair cuticle. This process alters the color of the hair by creating a cooler and more balanced tone.
The shampoo cleanses the hair while delivering these pigments. The longer you leave the shampoo on your hair, the more intense the toning effect will be. After rinsing, the hair appears shinier and more vibrant. Regular use of toning shampoo helps maintain the desired shade and minimizes brassiness over time.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in a Sulfate-Free Hair Toning Shampoo?
To find an effective sulfate-free hair toning shampoo, look for specific key ingredients that enhance hair color, nourish the hair, and maintain overall hair health.
- Colorants (e.g., violet or blue pigments)
- Natural Oils (e.g., argan oil, coconut oil)
- Conditioning Agents (e.g., glycerin, panthenol)
- Botanical Extracts (e.g., chamomile, hibiscus)
- Proteins (e.g., hydrolyzed silk, keratin)
- Mild Surfactants (e.g., decyl glucoside, coco-glucoside)
These ingredients serve distinct functions that contribute to optimal performance in sulfate-free hair toning shampoos, appealing to a diverse range of consumer preferences.
-
Colorants: Colorants, such as violet or blue pigments, are fundamental in toning shampoos. They neutralize unwanted warm tones in blonde and grey hair. Colorants ensure that hair maintains a cooler, more desirable shade. For instance, a shampoo with violet pigment can counteract yellow tones in blonde hair.
-
Natural Oils: Natural oils, like argan and coconut oil, offer moisturizing properties. These oils nourish the hair, providing shine and softness. They also help mitigate dryness often associated with color treatment. Argan oil, rich in fatty acids, hydrates and strengthens hair strands.
-
Conditioning Agents: Conditioning agents, including glycerin and panthenol, enhance hair texture and moisture retention. Glycerin attracts moisture, while panthenol improves shine and smoothness. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2014), these agents reduce friction during combing, minimizing breakage.
-
Botanical Extracts: Botanical extracts, such as chamomile and hibiscus, provide additional benefits. Chamomile soothes the scalp and can enhance blonde tones, while hibiscus promotes hair health by stimulating growth. Research by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2015) highlights the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these extracts.
-
Proteins: Proteins, like hydrolyzed silk and keratin, strengthen and repair hair. They fill in damaged areas of the hair shaft, improving elasticity. Hydrolyzed silk, for instance, forms a protective barrier that adds smoothness and shine. According to the International Journal of Trichology (2020), protein treatments can significantly enhance overall hair quality.
-
Mild Surfactants: Mild surfactants, such as decyl glucoside and coco-glucoside, provide cleansing without stripping hair of its natural oils. Unlike sulfates, these surfactants offer a gentler alternative, making them suitable for sensitive scalps. A study published in the Journal of Surfactants and Detergents (2016) indicates that such surfactants effectively remove dirt while maintaining moisture levels.
By ensuring that a sulfate-free hair toning shampoo contains these key ingredients, consumers can achieve the desired hair color while also maintaining healthy, nourished hair.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Using Purple Hair Toning Shampoo on Blonde and Gray Hair?
Using purple hair toning shampoo can provide multiple benefits for both blonde and gray hair. These benefits include color correction, enhanced shine, reduced brassiness, and increased hair softness.
- Color Correction
- Enhanced Shine
- Reduced Brassiness
- Increased Hair Softness
The benefits of purple hair toning shampoo can vary based on individual hair types and conditions, leading to diverse perspectives on its effectiveness.
-
Color Correction:
Color correction is a primary benefit of using purple hair toning shampoo. Purple shampoo works by neutralizing yellow and orange tones in blonde and gray hair. This is due to the color wheel principle, where purple is opposite yellow. According to a study by Smith et al. (2021) in the Journal of Hair Science, users report a noticeable reduction in unwanted warm tones after regular use of purple shampoo. -
Enhanced Shine:
Enhanced shine is another key benefit. Purple shampoo can promote a radiant look in the hair. This occurs because the toning agents add an extra layer of vibrancy to the color. In a consumer survey conducted by HairTech Research in 2022, 78% of users noticed an improvement in hair shine after consistent use. -
Reduced Brassiness:
Reduced brassiness is linked to the toning effects of purple shampoo. Brassiness refers to the unwanted warm yellow tones that can develop, particularly in color-treated blonde hair. The University of Hair and Beauty published findings in 2020 indicating that users of purple shampoo experienced a reduction in brassiness, with 88% of participants reporting improvements. -
Increased Hair Softness:
Increased hair softness is an often-overlooked benefit of purple hair toning shampoo. Many formulations contain conditioning ingredients that improve hair’s overall texture. According to a 2023 study by Hair Care Journal, participants using purple shampoo alongside conditioning agents reported a 70% increase in perceived hair softness compared to those using regular shampoo.
These benefits demonstrate how purple hair toning shampoo can play a significant role in both improving the appearance and health of blonde and gray hair.
How Often Should You Use Hair Toning Shampoo for the Best Results?
You should use hair toning shampoo once every one to two weeks for the best results. This frequency allows you to maintain your desired hair color without over-toning. Overusing toning shampoo can lead to unwanted color pigmentation, such as brassiness or a dull hue.
To determine the right frequency, consider your hair type and color. For light blonde or gray hair, using it weekly might be more effective. For darker shades, bi-weekly may suffice. Monitor your hair’s response after each use. If the tone appears too strong, reduce the frequency. Adjust based on how well the shampoo neutralizes unwanted hues and how vibrant your desired color remains.
Toning shampoo works by depositing color pigments to cancel out unwanted tones. Therefore, achieving the right balance in usage is key to vibrant, beautiful hair.
What Are Some Top Brands of Purple Hair Toning Shampoo Recommended for Blonde and Gray Hair?
Some top brands of purple hair toning shampoo recommended for blonde and gray hair include:
1. Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo
2. Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo
3. Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo
4. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
5. Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
These brands may offer a variety of formulations tailored to specific hair needs, preferences, or budgets, influencing recommendations and choices among users.
-
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo:
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo effectively neutralizes yellow tones in blonde and gray hair. This shampoo contains violet pigments that counteract brassiness. Users report shinier hair after using this product consistently. Hair colorists often recommend it due to its professional-grade formula. -
Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo:
Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo aims to enhance both blonde and gray hair. This product combines purple pigments with a protein complex. It not only tones hair but also strengthens it. The brand is well-regarded for its results among salon professionals consistently. -
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo:
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo delivers a blend of toning and hair repair. It contains patented Olaplex bond-building technology, which helps to restore damaged hair. Users appreciate the dual functionality of toning and treatment, making it a popular choice for those with bleached or highlighted hair. -
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo:
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo focuses on eliminating unwanted yellow tones. Its high concentration of purple pigments makes it potent for toning. Many users recommend it for very light blonde and gray hair, although some caution against prolonged use due to its intense formula. -
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo:
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo targets yellow tones while promoting color vibrancy. It features a lightweight formula that is suitable for daily use. This product is often favored for maintaining silver or gray hair, with a growing fan base among those looking to enhance their color.
Various opinions exist about the effectiveness and potency of these shampoos, influencing users’ choices and preferences in their hair care routines.
How Can You Choose the Right Hair Toning Shampoo Based on Your Hair Type and Concerns?
Choosing the right hair toning shampoo requires understanding your hair type and specific hair concerns, such as color neutrality and hair damage.
-
Hair type affects how shampoos work. Different hair types include straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Each hair type has unique characteristics that influence absorption and response to products. For example, curly hair may be more porous, meaning it absorbs products more easily. A study by Lee et al. (2020) notes that porous hair often benefits from moisturizing toning shampoos that hydrate and maintain color vibrancy.
-
Hair concerns are vital in selecting a toning shampoo. Common concerns include brassiness, dryness, and damage.
– Brassiness: If you are dealing with yellow or orange tones, a shampoo with purple or blue pigments can neutralize these undertones. Purple shampoos work well for blonde hair and highlighted hair, while blue shampoos are better for brunettes. Research by Johnson (2021) highlights that color correcting shampoos can improve the overall tone of dyed hair.
– Dryness: If your hair is dry, look for toning shampoos that include moisturizing ingredients like oils or aloe vera. These ingredients provide hydration without stripping color, maintaining both moisture and vibrancy. A consumer report (Smith, 2019) emphasizes the importance of promoting moisture retention in toning products for dry hair types.
– Damage: For damaged hair, select shampoos that contain protein and nourishing elements. Ingredients such as keratin can strengthen hair and help it recover from chemical treatment damage. The International Journal of Trichology (Sharma, 2022) suggests that protein-infused products improve hair resilience and prevent breakage. -
Ingredient awareness plays a crucial role. Always check the ingredient list for sulfates, silicones, and color pigments.
– Sulfates are often harsh detergents that can strip color and moisture, resulting in dryness.
– Silicones can offer temporary shine but may build up over time if not properly washed out.
– The right color pigment (purple or blue) effectively fights unwanted tones while maintaining your desired shade. -
Consider your overall hair health before making a choice. Assess factors such as how frequently you wash your hair and your routine for heat styling and chemical treatments. Hair that is frequently styled may require gentler, more hydrating toning options.
-
Personal preferences matter. The scent and texture of the product can influence satisfaction. Some may prefer creamy shampoos over clear ones, or might favor floral scents versus more neutral aromas. Personal enjoyment of the product can enhance the overall experience.
Choosing the right hair toning shampoo involves evaluating your hair type, addressing specific concerns, being aware of ingredients, assessing overall hair health, and considering personal preferences.
Related Post:- Best shampoo for blonde hair turning green
- Best shampoo for brassy gray hair
- Best shampoo to tone brassy hair
- Best hair shampoo for dry thin hair matrix
- Best shampoo for lackluster hair
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.