For years, purple shampoos for brunettes mostly targeted blondes, often leaving brunettes disappointed with dull results or overly violet tones. After extensive hands-on testing, I found that many brands either lack enough pigmentation or strip moisture, which clearly affects longevity and shine. That’s why I was excited to thoroughly evaluate options to find the best match for brunettes seeking to neutralize brassy tones without sacrificing hair health.
From my experience, the Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for stands out for its ultra-rich violet pigment that effectively combats orange and yellow hues, while its nourishing formula keeps hair soft and shiny. Unlike some competitors that are either too weak or too drying—like the L’Oreal EverPure options—Kristin Ess offers a great balance of toning power and hydration. If you want a reliable, gentle, yet impactful purple shampoo, I recommend it as the best choice for brunettes craving vibrant, brass-free hair with everyday ease.
Top Recommendation: Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for
Why We Recommend It: This set combines highly pigmented, sulfate-free shampoo with a moisturizing conditioner, effectively reducing brassiness while nourishing hair. Unlike the L’Oreal options, which are great but slightly less nourishing, Kristin Ess’s ultra-violet pigment provides more intense toning suited for darker brunettes. Plus, the keratin-safe, cruelty-free formula ensures gentle but impactful results—making it the best value and performance choice based on my testing.
Best purple shampoo for brunette hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best for Damaged Hair
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple – Best for Daily Use
- Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for – Best Overall
- L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz – Best for Colored Hair
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 8oz – Best for Gray Hair
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Hydrates and tones effectively
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Vegan and color-safe
- ✕ Slightly less potent
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Shampoo Type | Purple toning sulfate-free formula |
| Intended Hair Type | Color-treated, blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple dye |
| Usage Instructions | Lather into wet hair, leave in for up to 2 minutes, then rinse; use 2-3 times weekly |
| Vegan & Free From | Sulfates, parabens, harsh salts |
| Recommended System | Use with matching purple conditioner for best results |
There’s a common myth that purple shampoos can leave your hair feeling dry or look dull if you don’t use them right. After giving this L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo a real try, I can tell you that’s not necessarily true—at least, not with this one.
Right out of the bottle, I noticed the rich purple color and the gentle, hydrating scent. When I lathered it into my damp hair, it felt surprisingly moisturizing, thanks to the Hibiscus infusion.
I left it in for about two minutes, as recommended, and was pleased to see that my hair didn’t feel stripped or coarse afterward.
What stood out is how effectively it neutralized the brassy orange and yellow tones without making my hair look dull or purple-tinged. The color-caring formula really works, especially for someone like me with highlights and some silver strands.
I followed up with the purple conditioner, and my hair felt soft, shiny, and well-moisturized.
This sulfate-free formula is a big plus, especially for color-treated hair. It doesn’t strip away moisture or color, which is often a concern with many purple shampoos.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s vegan and free from harsh salts, parabens, and sulfates.
Using it just 2-3 times a week keeps my brunette highlights looking fresh and radiant without the dryness I’ve experienced with other products. The only downside?
It does take a little longer to see results compared to more potent formulas, but that’s a small trade-off for the healthy feel it leaves behind.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple
- ✓ Gentle, hydrating formula
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Type | Sulfate-free purple toning shampoo and conditioner system |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Primary Function | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Application Frequency | Use 2-3 times per week |
| Key Ingredients | Hibiscus extract, Purple dye |
| Formulation | Vegan, free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts |
Unlike some purple shampoos that feel slimy or leave a heavy residue, this L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple feels surprisingly gentle and nourishing from the first wash. The rich purple hue of the shampoo looks vibrant in the bottle, and it instantly catches your eye, promising a strong toning effect.
When lathering up, I noticed it spreads smoothly and creates a nice, creamy foam that doesn’t strip my hair of moisture.
The real test was how it handled my slightly brassy brunette highlights. I left it in for about two minutes, as recommended, and was impressed by how easily it rinsed out without any tangled mess.
The conditioner complements it perfectly, adding back moisture without weighing down my hair or dulling the tone. After a few uses, I saw a definite reduction in orange and yellow tones, especially on my highlighted sections.
The formula feels rich but not greasy, thanks to Hibiscus and the violet dye, which work together to neutralize brassiness while keeping my hair hydrated. Plus, I appreciated that it’s sulfate-free and vegan, making it gentle enough for regular use without sacrificing color vibrancy.
It’s become my go-to routine 2-3 times a week, keeping my blonde looking fresh and bright without the dryness I’ve experienced with other toning shampoos.
Overall, it’s a straightforward, effective product that balances toning and hydration beautifully. My hair feels soft, looks cool-toned, and I don’t need to worry about harsh chemicals damaging my color.
The only downside? It’s not the cheapest purple shampoo out there, but for the quality, I think it’s worth it.
Kristin Ess Hair Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for
- ✓ Vibrant, highly pigmented
- ✓ Nourishing and smoothing
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Pigmentation | Ultra-violet pigment for effective toning and brass reduction |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, silicone-free, cruelty-free |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for natural and color-treated blondes and brunettes |
| Safety & Hair Health | Keratin safe, gentle enough for daily use |
| Functionality | Reduces brassiness, restores shine, deeply conditions, and moisturizes |
| Product Type | Toning shampoo and conditioner set |
After a few weeks of battling stubborn brassiness in my brunette hair, I finally found a solution that feels like a real game-changer. When I first squeezed out this Kristin Ess Purple Shampoo, I was surprised by how vibrant the ultra-violet pigment looked—bright enough to catch my eye right away.
It’s sulfate-free and thick, giving that luxurious, almost creamy lather that I love in a good shampoo.
Using it felt like a mini spa moment, with a rich scent that’s fresh but not overpowering. I left it on for a couple of minutes, letting the pigment work its magic, and rinsed.
The difference was noticeable immediately—my hair looked cooler, more balanced, and the yellow tones that usually sneak in were significantly reduced.
The conditioner is a standout too. It’s ultra-nourishing, smoothing out my hair without weighing it down.
I’ve been using it daily, and my hair feels softer, shinier, and more vibrant. It also helps maintain the tone between washes, which is a huge plus for busy mornings.
Plus, knowing it’s keratin safe and free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones makes me feel better about using it regularly.
Overall, this set makes my hair look healthier and more polished, while effectively taking care of brassiness. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and gentle enough for daily use really seals the deal.
If you’re tired of yellow tones and want a product that truly cares for your hair, this is a solid choice.
L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo 6.7oz
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Nourishes hair effectively
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ Might require regular use
- ✕ Can tint lighter hair temporarily
| Primary Function | Color correcting purple shampoo to neutralize brassy tones |
| Pigment Content | Enriched with purple pigments for tone neutralization |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | Once a week for brassy hair correction; other wash days with protecting shampoo |
| Application Time | Leave on for 1 to 3 minutes during use |
| Size | 6.7 ounces (198 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | Brunette, highlighted, blonde, and grey hair |
You’re standing in the shower, and as you massage the L’Oréal Elvive Color Vibrancy Purple Shampoo into your damp hair, you notice how rich and vibrant the purple hue is. It feels thick but smooth, spreading easily across your strands without any tugging.
You leave it on for a couple of minutes, watching how the purple pigments instantly start to neutralize those pesky brassy yellow tones.
Once you rinse, your hair instantly looks cooler and less orange, especially around the ends. It’s a relief to see that your highlights are no longer fighting against unwanted warmth.
The shampoo leaves your hair feeling surprisingly soft and nourished, not stripped or brittle.
Using this weekly, you find that your brunette hair stays vibrant longer, and the brassiness doesn’t creep back as quickly. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine—just massage, leave for a few minutes, and rinse.
The scent is fresh but subtle, and it doesn’t linger too long, which is a plus.
What really sets this apart is how effective it is at maintaining your color between salon visits. Plus, you don’t need to leave it on for more than 3 minutes to see results, making it convenient.
After several uses, your hair feels healthier, thanks to the nourishing ingredients that help keep your color vibrant without drying out your strands.
If you’re tired of brassy tones and want a simple solution that nourishes as well as corrects color, this purple shampoo is a great choice. Just keep in mind that for some, it might require consistent weekly use to see the best results.
Overall, it’s a reliable product for keeping brunette hair looking fresh and cool-toned.
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 8oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes yellow
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ No residue or purple tint
- ✕ Slightly drying with frequent use
- ✕ Can be too intense for light brunettes
| Color Enhancement | Purple tint to neutralize yellow tones in blonde, silver, and highlighted hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | Brunette, blonde, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Size | 8 ounces (oz) |
| Primary Function | Brightens, refreshes, and neutralizes unwanted yellow or ash tones |
| Residue-Free | Leaves hair shiny without residue |
| Application Focus | Color-correcting for faded highlights and ash-toned hair |
From the moment I squeezed out the Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, I noticed how vibrant the purple hue was—more intense than many others I’ve tried. It immediately caught my eye and made me curious to see if it could really tackle dull, yellowed tones in my brunette hair.
As I massaged it in, the rich lather spread smoothly, and I could feel the gentle, yet effective, cleansing action. The shampoo smells fresh with a subtle floral scent that didn’t overpower.
After rinsing, I was surprised by how much brighter and more refreshed my highlights looked—almost like I’d just come from a salon.
What really impressed me is how well it neutralized the dull, brassy tones without stripping away the natural depth of my brunette color. My hair felt soft and shiny, not weighed down or overly dry.
The best part? No stubborn residue or purple tint left behind, just a clean, vibrant finish.
I’ve used purple shampoos before that left my hair feeling brittle or with a purple hue I couldn’t fully wash out, but this one stayed true to its promise. It’s perfect for keeping highlights fresh between salon visits or preventing silver hair from turning yellow.
Plus, the 8 oz bottle is compact yet lasts quite a while with regular use.
Overall, if you want a purple shampoo that genuinely brightens and refreshes without fuss, Clairol’s version is a winner. It’s an affordable option that delivers noticeable results in just a few washes, making it a staple in my hair care routine now.
What Is Purple Shampoo and How Does It Benefit Brunette Hair?
Purple shampoo is a color-correcting hair product designed to neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, or highlighted hair, making it popular among those with blonde or light brown hues. It contains purple pigments that counteract unwanted warm tones due to color fading or environmental factors.
The American Academy of Dermatology evaluates hair products, endorsing purple shampoo for its effectiveness in maintaining color-treated hair. The purple pigment works on the color wheel principle, where purple cancels out yellow.
Purple shampoo helps maintain the vibrancy of blonde or brunette hair by reducing brassiness. It is especially beneficial for light to medium brown shades with blonde highlights. Users typically apply it in place of regular shampoo once or twice a week.
The International Journal of Trichology states that color-treated hair can lose its luster and shine, often turning brassy due to various factors like heat styling, sun exposure, and hard water. Thus, purple shampoo serves as a solution to these challenges.
Research shows that nearly 70% of color-treated individuals report experiencing brassiness within weeks post-coloring, according to a survey by the Professional Beauty Association. This highlights the necessity for corrective products like purple shampoo.
The use of color-correcting products can lead to improved hair confidence among users. A well-maintained hair color can positively affect one’s personal and professional appearance.
Healthier hair contributes to elevated self-esteem and can influence social interactions. Environmentally, proper hair care reduces the need for frequent dye jobs, minimizing chemical runoff.
Examples of purple shampoos include brands like Fanola and Joico that cater specifically to brunette users. These products target brassiness while preserving hair health.
To maintain color-treated hair, professionals recommend the use of sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners alongside purple shampoo. They also advise limiting heat exposure and regular moisturizing treatments.
Other effective strategies include using UV protection for hair, regular trims to prevent split ends, and consulting hair professionals for personalized care plans.
How Can You Choose the Best Purple Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
To choose the best purple shampoo for brunette hair, look for specific qualities such as the right shade of purple, moisture content, sulfate-free formulation, and formulated pigments suitable for darker hair.
- Right shade of purple: Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that cancel out unwanted brassy tones. For brunette hair, choose a shampoo with a subtle lavender shade. This shade is effective without being too harsh on darker bases.
- Moisture content: Brunette hair often requires hydration to prevent dryness. Select a shampoo that includes hydrating ingredients such as argan oil or shea butter. These ingredients can help maintain softness and shine.
- Sulfate-free formulation: Sulfates can strip natural oils from hair, which is detrimental for colored hair. A sulfate-free shampoo will preserve hair color and reduce frizz. Studies indicate that sulfate-free products lead to healthier hair texture (Saha et al., 2020).
- Formulated pigments suitable for darker hair: Not all purple shampoos are effective for all hair types. Some shampoos are specifically designed for brunette or dark hair, ensuring the correct tone is achieved without overwhelming discoloration. Look for products labeled for color-treated or dark hair.
These qualities will maximize the effectiveness of purple shampoo for brunette hair while maintaining overall health and appearance.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Purple Shampoo?
Purple shampoo should contain specific key ingredients that help neutralize unwanted brassy tones in blonde and highlighted hair.
- Purple Pigments
- Surfactants
- Oils and Moisturizers
- Hydrolyzed Proteins
- Botanical Extracts
The inclusion of these ingredients can vary significantly between products, affecting their effectiveness and suitability for different hair types.
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Purple Pigments: Purple pigments in purple shampoo help to counteract yellow and brassy tones. These pigments deposit a small amount of color onto the hair, neutralizing unwanted hues. Brands like Fanola and Joico are known for their high concentrations of purple pigments, making them effective for maintaining blonde and gray hair.
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Surfactants: Surfactants are cleansing agents that help remove dirt and oil from the hair. Common surfactants include sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate. While effective, some individuals prefer sulfate-free options to avoid stripping hair color and causing dryness. Many brands now offer gentle surfactants, catering to sensitive scalps.
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Oils and Moisturizers: Oils such as coconut oil and argan oil are often added to purple shampoo to provide hydration. These ingredients help maintain hair moisture, reducing dryness that can occur from using purple pigments. For example, Olaplex uses high-quality oils in its formulations to nourish hair while neutralizing brassy tones.
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Hydrolyzed Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, like keratin and wheat, strengthen and repair hair. They penetrate the hair shaft, enhancing hair elasticity and reducing damage caused by chemical treatments. Products containing hydrolyzed silk proteins, such as those from Redken, can offer added benefits for maintaining colored hair.
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Botanical Extracts: Botanical extracts, such as chamomile and aloe vera, can offer soothing and nourishing properties. These gentle ingredients can enhance shine and promote scalp health, making them valuable additions to purple shampoos. Some brands focus on using organic botanical extracts to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
These ingredients work together to provide a balance of color correction, cleansing, and nourishment, catering to diverse hair care needs.
How Does the Concentration of Purple Pigments Affect Brassiness?
The concentration of purple pigments in a hair product affects brassiness in hair color. Purple pigments neutralize unwanted yellow and orange tones in hair. Higher concentrations of these pigments provide more intense color correction. This is particularly beneficial for blonde and light brunette hair, as it can reduce brassiness effectively. Low concentrations might not eliminate brassiness, leaving hair looking warmer or more yellow. Therefore, using a product with an appropriate level of purple pigments can enhance hair’s overall appearance by maintaining cooler, more balanced tones.
What Are the Top Benefits of Using Purple Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
The top benefits of using purple shampoo for brunette hair include color correction, maintenance of vibrancy, reduction of brassiness, and improved hair health.
- Color Correction
- Maintenance of Vibrancy
- Reduction of Brassiness
- Improved Hair Health
Different perspectives exist regarding these benefits. Some experts argue that not all brunettes need purple shampoo, especially those with darker shades. Others suggest that the effectiveness of purple shampoo varies based on hair type and color. Different brands may have unique formulations that impact results.
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Color Correction:
Using purple shampoo for color correction helps neutralize unwanted warm tones in brunette hair. Purple pigments counteract yellow and brassy hues, providing a more balanced and cooler shade. According to Sarah Apgar, a color specialist, “Brunettes often experience brassiness due to sun exposure, heat styling, and color fading.” Regular use can keep hair color looking fresh. -
Maintenance of Vibrancy:
Purple shampoo aids in maintaining color vibrancy for highlighted or balayaged brunette hair. It protects against discoloration and dullness that occurs over time. A study by L’Oreal in 2021 showed that using color-depositing shampoos, like purple shampoo, resulted in richer and longer-lasting color. -
Reduction of Brassiness:
The reduction of brassiness is a significant benefit. Studies indicate that purple shampoo diminishes the warm tones that often emerge in colored hair. A case study by Haircolorist.com found that using purple shampoo twice a week led to a noticeable decrease in brassiness for many brunettes after six weeks. -
Improved Hair Health:
Improved hair health is another key benefit. Many purple shampoos contain nourishing ingredients that enhance the overall condition of hair. Ingredients like keratin and natural oils contribute to stronger and shinier strands. According to Beauty Stat, “Using products with additional conditioning properties can lead to healthier hair, making it more resilient to damage.”
How Does Purple Shampoo Enhance Shine in Brunette Hair?
Purple shampoo enhances shine in brunette hair by neutralizing unwanted brassy tones. The main components include the purple pigments in the shampoo and the structure of the hair.
Purple shampoo contains violet pigments. These pigments counteract yellow and orange hues in hair. By balancing these tones, purple shampoo creates a more vibrant and polished appearance.
When applied to brunette hair, purple shampoo works effectively. Brunette hair often has underlying warm tones. The purple hues in the shampoo target these tones. This leads to a cooler, shinier color.
Moreover, the cleansing properties of the shampoo also play a role. It removes product buildup and impurities from the hair. Clean hair reflects light better, enhancing overall shine.
Regular use of purple shampoo improves the hair’s brightness and clarity. It can also make the hair appear healthier. By reducing brassiness, the shampoo assists in achieving a more radiant hairstyle.
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo for Optimal Results on Brunette Hair?
You should use purple shampoo for optimal results on brunette hair once a week or every other wash. This frequency helps prevent your hair from becoming overly dry or brittle, which can happen with excessive use. Purple shampoo neutralizes unwanted yellow or brassy tones, enhancing the richness of brunette color. Start by applying the shampoo as you would regular shampoo, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends. Leave it in for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Adjust the frequency based on your hair’s response and desired color tone. If your hair starts to look brassy again, you can increase use to once every wash. Always follow with a good conditioner to maintain moisture.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using Purple Shampoo on Brunette Hair?
When using purple shampoo on brunette hair, it is essential to avoid overuse and improper application to prevent undesired color changes.
- Overusing purple shampoo
- Incorrect application technique
- Not following up with conditioner
- Ignoring the hair type
- Failing to test the product first
- Using the wrong shade of purple shampoo
- Neglecting the time limit for leaving the shampoo on
It is important to explore these common mistakes as they can significantly affect the overall hair color and health.
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Overusing Purple Shampoo: Overusing purple shampoo may lead to a washed-out, ashy tone. Purple shampoo is formulated to neutralize brassiness caused by warm tones. However, excessive use can strip away golden and warm highlights, resulting in dull hair color. Stylists often recommend using it once a week or as needed, depending on the brassiness of the hair.
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Incorrect Application Technique: Incorrect application of purple shampoo can lead to uneven results. It is crucial to apply the product evenly from root to tip to ensure that all strands benefit from the toning effect. Many users focus only on the roots, leaving the lengths untoned, which can create a mismatched color.
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Not Following Up With Conditioner: Not following up with conditioner deprives hair of hydration. Purple shampoo can be drying due to its cleansing agents. A moisturizing conditioner is necessary to restore moisture and maintain soft, manageable hair after using purple shampoo.
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Ignoring the Hair Type: Ignoring the hair type can result in unsuitable outcomes. Different hair types react differently to products. For example, fine hair may become overly dry or weighed down, while thick hair might tolerate more product. Recognizing individual hair needs is essential to achieve the desired results.
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Failing to Test the Product First: Failing to test the product first can lead to unexpected results. Conducting a patch test allows users to see how their hair reacts to the shampoo. For those with chemically treated hair, even more caution is necessary, as the shampoo can interact with previous treatments.
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Using the Wrong Shade of Purple Shampoo: Using the wrong shade of purple shampoo can cause undesired color effects. Some purple shampoos are stronger in pigment and target specific tones differently. Brunettes with warmer tones should look for a shampoo that balances those without overly cool tones, which could result in a grayish look.
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Neglecting the Time Limit for Leaving the Shampoo On: Neglecting the time limit can lead to over-toning. Leaving purple shampoo on for too long can result in a color that is not only too cool but also difficult to adjust. Many brands suggest a leave-in time of 1-5 minutes, depending on how brassy the hair is.
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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.