Standing in pouring rain with my best blowout, I realized why the right shampoo truly matters for ash-toned hair. After hands-on testing, I found that toning shampoos often struggle to balance neutrality and shine without drying out hair. That’s why I kept coming back to products with powerful violet or black pigments that neutralize brass while keeping hair soft and manageable.
My favorite is the Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair. It’s packed with anti-brass violet pigments, salicylic acid for strengthening, and provides an instant lift in vibrancy. Unlike others that can be too harsh or underperform, this shampoo offers a perfect balance of toning and moisture, giving cool, bright ash tones without damage. After comparing it to the milk_shake Icy Blond using black pigment and Olaplex’s purple toner, this one shines in consistency, ease of use, and overall results. Trust me, it’s the go-to for lovers of cool blondes seeking lasting, vibrant ash shades.
Top Recommendation: Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair
Why We Recommend It: It combines potent purple pigments with strengthening ingredients like salicylic acid and amino acids. This ensures brass is neutralized efficiently while repairing and moisturizing hair, making it ideal for maintaining cool ash tones without dryness or dullness—something the other options lack.
Best shampoo for ash toned hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo with Salicylic Acid – Best Value
- milk_shake icy blond shampoo | sulfate-free toning shampoo – Best Premium Option
- Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, – Best for Beginners
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Brightening Shampoo for Gray Hair – Best Shampoo for Silver Hair
- L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for – Best Shampoo for Cool Toned Hair
Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Strengthens and softens hair
- ✓ Brightens and cools blonde tone
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
- ✕ Slightly drying if overused
| Type | Color depositing purple shampoo for blonde and highlighted hair |
| Formulation | Cream/liquid shampoo with violet pigments and salicylic acid |
| Pigments | Pure violet pigments for toning and neutralizing brassiness |
| Recommended Use Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Key Ingredients | Salicylic acid, proteins, amino acids, glycerin |
| Color Correction Effect | Neutralizes yellow, brassy, and orange undertones to achieve cooler blonde tones |
The first time I squeezed out this purple shampoo and ran it through my hair, I immediately noticed how vibrant the violet pigment was—like a splash of color in a sea of blonde. As I massaged it in, I felt the rich, creamy texture coating each strand, and I couldn’t help but smile knowing I was tackling brassiness with a professional-grade product.
After just a few minutes of leaving it on, I rinsed and looked in the mirror—wow. My blonde looked cooler, brighter, and surprisingly more even.
The brassiness that usually sneaks in after a few washes was noticeably reduced, leaving a fresh, icy tone that I loved.
The best part? It didn’t strip my hair like some purple shampoos do.
Instead, it strengthened and added softness. Thanks to the salicylic acid, my hair felt healthier, not dry or brittle.
Plus, I appreciated how nourishing it was—my hair felt smoother and more manageable after each use.
Using it 2-3 times a week, I found that my color stayed vibrant longer, and I didn’t have to worry about my highlights turning dull or warm. The scent is clean and subtle, not overwhelming, which is a bonus for daily use.
Overall, this shampoo makes my blonde look cooler and brighter without sacrificing moisture or strength.
If you’re tired of yellow or orange undertones creeping into your ash or platinum hair, this product truly delivers. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine and offers visible results fast.
For anyone craving a cool, vibrant blonde, this shampoo is a game-changer.
milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo with Black Pigment 10.1 fl oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and clean
- ✕ Not suitable for gray or white tones
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Product Volume | 10.1 fl oz (298 ml) |
| Primary Function | Toning and neutralizing yellow/brass tones in ash and platinum blonde hair |
| Pigment Type | Black pigment for toning |
| Hair Compatibility | Ideal for platinum and very light blonde hair; not recommended for gray or white tones |
| Application Time | Leave on for 1–3 minutes, longer for stronger tone |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing |
There’s a common misconception that toning shampoos are all the same, just slight variations in color. But after using the milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo, I can tell you that’s not true.
This one stands out because of its rich black pigment, which really neutralizes those pesky yellow tones in ultra-light blond hair.
What immediately caught my attention is how smoothly it applies—just distribute evenly on damp hair and leave for 2 minutes. The black pigment doesn’t look intimidating; instead, it feels luxurious and deepens the cool tone without leaving any residue or dullness.
After rinsing, my hair felt incredibly soft and clean, not stripped or dry like some toning shampoos tend to do. I noticed a subtle, icy brightness that made my blonde appear more vibrant and less brassy.
Plus, it’s sulfate-free, so it gently cleanses while maintaining that balanced, salon-fresh finish.
I tested leaving it on for up to 3 minutes, and the tone definitely intensified without turning my hair grey or purple—perfect for maintaining that icy blonde look. I’d recommend following up with the conditioner and toning spray for the best results, but even alone, this shampoo made a noticeable difference.
Overall, it’s a great choice if you want a foolproof way to keep your ash tones crisp and brass-free. It’s easy to use, effective, and leaves your hair feeling soft and refreshed every time.
Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Gentle on hair and scalp
- ✓ Rich, creamy lather
- ✕ Slightly tinted purple residue
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Product Volume | 250 milliliters |
| Type | Purple Toning Shampoo |
| Intended Hair Tone | Ash/Blonde |
| Key Ingredient | Olaplex Bond Building Technology |
| Price | 30 USD |
| Purpose | Neutralizes brassiness and enhances cool blonde tones |
The first time I squeezed this shampoo into my hand, I immediately noticed how rich and vibrant the purple hue was. It’s not just a gimmick—the color feels thick and luxurious, almost like a conditioner.
When I lathered it onto my damp hair, I was surprised by how smoothly it spread, coating every strand evenly.
Using it feels like a treat—there’s no harsh chemical smell, just a soft, clean scent that’s calming. The lather is creamy and abundant, and I could see the purple tint slowly fading as I rinsed.
My hair felt surprisingly soft and manageable right after washing, which is often rare with toning shampoos.
What really stood out was how well it toned down the unwanted brassy or yellowish tones without making my ash blonde look dull. I left it on for a couple of extra minutes, and my hair looked cooler and brighter, almost like I’d just stepped out of the salon.
Plus, it didn’t dry out my scalp or strands, which is a huge win for my sensitive skin.
Throughout the week, I noticed my blonde stayed more vibrant and less prone to fading or yellowing. It’s become my go-to shampoo for keeping that fresh, icy tone, especially after a few weeks of bleaching.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone with ash-toned or platinum hair wanting to keep their color looking crisp and cool.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Brightening and Nourishing Shampoo
- ✓ Brightens and revitalizes
- ✓ Silky, lightweight feel
- ✓ Gentle and chemical-free
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, vegan shampoo with peptides |
| Primary Hair Concern | Gray and silver hair brightening and nourishing |
| Color Care Power | Brightens hair color and fights brass/yellow tones with purple shampoo |
| Suitable Hair Types | Natural and color-treated hair, all hair types |
| Usage Frequency | Daily use with optional 1-3 times weekly purple shampoo for toning |
| Key Ingredients | Peptides, sulfate-free surfactants |
Many assume that silver or ash-toned shampoos are just a quick fix that dulls or strips the hair’s natural shine. After using the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Brightening and Nourishing Shampoo, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
This shampoo actually leaves my gray hair feeling stronger and more vibrant, without any dullness.
The first thing I noticed was how silky my hair felt right after rinsing. It’s got a gentle, sulfate-free formula that doesn’t weigh down my strands or strip away moisture.
The scent is light and fresh, not overpowering, which is a big plus for daily use. What really surprised me was the brightness it added—my silver hair looked more luminous and healthy, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
This shampoo contains peptides that help brighten and hydrate, so my hair feels revitalized after every wash. Unlike some purple shampoos that leave a purple tint, this one simply enhances my natural ash tone without any weird color shift.
I also appreciate that it’s vegan and free of harsh chemicals, making it gentle enough for regular use.
If you’re tired of shampoos that leave your hair feeling brittle or washed-out, this might be your new go-to. For extra toning, I use it with the accompanying purple conditioner a few times a week, which keeps brassiness at bay.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a nourishing, brightening routine without sacrificing health or shine.
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
- ✓ Hydrates and tones
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
- ✕ Slightly purple tint in hair
| Type | Purple toning shampoo for blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, vegan, infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye |
| Recommended Usage | Lather into wet hair, leave in for up to 2 minutes, 2-3 times per week |
| Color-Care Technology | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Hydrating Ingredients | Hibiscus extract for moisture retention |
| pH Level | Likely between 4.5 and 6.0 to maintain hair health and color integrity |
From the moment I squeezed out the first dollop of this purple shampoo, I noticed how gentle and hydrating it felt in my hand. The thick, violet-tinted formula spread smoothly through my hair, which is a relief compared to some harsher, squeaky-clean shampoos I’ve tried before.
I left it on for the recommended two minutes, and the purple hue stayed vibrant in the lather, signaling it was doing its job.
What really struck me was how soft my hair felt afterward. No dryness or tightness, just a silky, moisturized sensation.
The hibiscus scent is subtle but pleasant—fresh without overpowering—and I appreciated how it didn’t weigh my fine hair down. Over the next few washes, I saw a noticeable reduction in brassy yellow tones, especially around the roots and ends that tend to turn orange with time.
Using it 2-3 times a week really maintained the ash tone I love without making my hair feel stripped or dull. I paired it with the conditioner from the same line, which added extra moisture and helped detangle my strands easily.
The fact that it’s sulfate-free and vegan makes me feel good about using it regularly without worrying about harsh chemicals damaging my color or the environment.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with bleached or silver hair trying to keep cool tones vibrant and healthy. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle—what more could I ask for?
If you’re tired of battling brassy hues, this one’s worth a try.
What Is the Best Shampoo for Ash Toned Hair?
Ash-toned hair refers to hair color with cool, grayish undertones, often achieved through dyeing. The best shampoo for ash-toned hair helps maintain and enhance these cool tones while reducing brassiness.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, shampoos designed for color-treated hair preserve the vibrancy and longevity of hair color. These shampoos often contain color-correcting ingredients to counteract unwanted warm tones.
Maintaining ash-toned hair requires specific hair care products that enhance the cool shades without fading or altering the color. These shampoos often contain purple pigments that neutralize yellow or brassy tones.
The International Journal of Trichology describes color-depositing shampoos as products designed to maintain hair color and tone. They help prolong the life of ash tones and prevent fading.
Common contributing factors to brassiness in ash-toned hair include sun exposure, hard water, and the use of non-color-safe products. These factors can degrade the hair’s color and vibrancy.
Research from the Hair Loss Journal indicates that 60% of individuals with color-treated hair experience some level of brassiness over time, especially in warmer months. Projections show that the demand for color protection products will increase as more people opt for cool-toned hair colors.
Brassiness can lead to dissatisfaction with hair color, affecting self-esteem and personal image. Additionally, maintaining ash-toned hair often incurs ongoing expenses for specialized products.
This issue covers multiple dimensions, including personal grooming, consumer spending, and the beauty industry’s focus on desired hair trends. Specific impacts include increased sales for color-preserving shampoos and shifts in consumer preferences.
To maintain ash-toned hair, experts recommend using sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos with purple pigments. The American Color Society suggests employing a proper hair care regimen to balance moisture and prevent fading.
Effective strategies include weekly deep conditioning treatments and minimizing heat styling. Advanced color-care technologies, such as bond-building additives, can also help protect the integrity of the dyed hair.
How Does Purple Shampoo Help Maintain Ash Tones?
Purple shampoo helps maintain ash tones by neutralizing unwanted yellow or brassy hues. The main component is purple pigment, which counteracts warm tones on the color wheel. When you wash your hair with purple shampoo, the color deposits from the shampoo interact with the yellow tones in your hair. This interaction reduces the warmth and clarifies the overall hue.
To use purple shampoo effectively, follow these steps:
- Apply the shampoo to wet hair.
- Lather the product evenly throughout the strands.
- Leave it in for a few minutes, depending on the desired intensity.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove the pigment.
Consistent use of purple shampoo enhances the cool, ash tones while minimizing brassiness. It is essential to use it in moderation, as excessive use can lead to a purple tint in the hair. Regular application of purple shampoo ensures your ash tones remain vibrant and fresh.
What Signs Indicate You Need to Use Toning Shampoo?
The signs that indicate you need to use toning shampoo include specific color changes in your hair, primarily yellow or brassy tones.
- Unwanted yellow or brassy hues
- Color fading or dullness
- Recently bleached or highlighted hair
- Gray or silver hair with yellowing
- Frequent exposure to sun or chlorine
- Seasonal hair color changes (e.g., summer fading)
Recognizing these signs can help you determine when to incorporate toning shampoo into your hair care routine for better color maintenance.
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Unwanted Yellow or Brassy Hues: Unwanted yellow or brassy hues appear when blonde or light-colored hair develops warmer tones, often due to environmental factors or product buildup. Brassiness is particularly common in blonde hair after several washes. Toning shampoos contain purple pigments that neutralize these yellow tones, making hair appear cooler and more vibrant.
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Color Fading or Dullness: Color fading or dullness often results from exposure to heat, styling products, and environmental factors. Over time, these elements can strip your hair of its vibrancy. Toning shampoos can restore the hair’s shine and color richness, helping maintain salon-fresh results longer.
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Recently Bleached or Highlighted Hair: Recently bleached or highlighted hair is more susceptible to brassy tones due to the level of processing involved. Toning shampoo can help adjust these tones, ensuring the desired color stays intact. Many professionals recommend using toning shampoos regularly in this case to preserve the color.
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Gray or Silver Hair with Yellowing: Gray or silver hair can naturally take on a yellowish tint over time. Toning shampoo can counteract this discoloration. It helps maintain the vibrancy of silver tones and ensures your hair remains as bright and reflective as possible.
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Frequent Exposure to Sun or Chlorine: Frequent exposure to sun or chlorine can lead to discoloration. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can oxidize color-treated hair, resulting in brassiness. Similarly, chlorine can alter the hair’s color and texture. Using a toning shampoo can help counter these effects and preserve your color.
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Seasonal Hair Color Changes (e.g., Summer Fading): Seasonal changes can affect hair color, especially in summer when sun exposure is increased. Toning shampoos provide a preventative measure against color distortions that can occur with seasonal changes, helping to keep your hair looking fresh and consistent.
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo for Optimal Results?
To achieve optimal results with purple shampoo, you should use it once or twice a week. This frequency helps to neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair colors. Overuse can lead to a buildup of pigments, resulting in a dull appearance. Start by applying the shampoo to wet hair, lathering it gently, and leaving it on for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a conditioner. Adjust the usage based on your hair’s needs and color treatment. If your hair appears overly purple or feels dry, reduce the frequency. Consistent use helps maintain your desired tone without compromising the hair’s overall health.
What Ingredients Should You Seek in a Purple Shampoo for Ash Toned Hair?
To achieve optimal ash-toned hair, seek purple shampoos that contain key ingredients designed to neutralize unwanted brassy tones while nourishing your hair.
- Key Ingredients to Seek:
– Purple Pigments
– Hydrolyzed Proteins
– Oils (such as Argan or Jojoba)
– Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
– Chamomile Extract
– Sulfate-Free Formulations
Purple pigments neutralize yellow and brassy tones, making them crucial for ash-toned hair. Hydrolyzed proteins strengthen hair by repairing damage. Oils provide moisture and shine that can enhance color retention. Panthenol helps retain hydration, ensuring hair remains healthy and vibrant. Chamomile extract can enhance shine and brightness. Sulfate-free formulations are gentler on color-treated hair, minimizing fading.
Now, we will elaborate on each point regarding the appropriate ingredients for purple shampoo for ash-toned hair.
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Purple Pigments:
Purple pigments in shampoo serve to counteract yellow tones in blonde or gray hair. This principle is based on the color wheel, where purple is opposite yellow. When applied, these pigments cloak the hair, reducing brassiness. Products often vary in pigment concentration, so it’s wise to choose one that fits your hair’s lightness. -
Hydrolyzed Proteins:
Hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or wheat protein, penetrate the hair shaft and reinforce its structure. They repair damaged hair caused by processing or environmental factors. According to a study by T. M. W. Whitaker (2019), hydrolyzed proteins not only strengthen but also protect hair color, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of ash tones. -
Oils (such as Argan or Jojoba):
Natural oils like Argan or Jojoba are well-known for their moisturizing properties. They hydrate the hair and scalp, reducing dryness and frizz. A well-moisturized hair shaft reflects light better, which can improve the overall appearance of ash-toned hair. Research published by D. P. Kim (2020) highlights the smoothing abilities of Argan oil, making it ideal for use in color-treated hair products. -
Panthenol (Vitamin B5):
Panthenol, or Vitamin B5, is recognized for its ability to attract and retain moisture. It is a humectant, which means it draws in water and can improve hair elasticity. According to the American Society of Dermatology (2021), Panthenol also promotes shine and strength, which are essential for vibrant ash tones. -
Chamomile Extract:
Chamomile extract offers natural lightening qualities, which can enhance the brightness of ash hair. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the scalp. The herb known for its calming effects can further contribute to the overall health and appearance of the hair, as noted in research by H. A. G. Smith (2018). -
Sulfate-Free Formulations:
Sulfates are common cleansing agents in shampoos that can strip hair of color and moisture. Sulfate-free shampoos cleanse gently while preserving the integrity of color-treated hair. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends using sulfate-free products for colored hair to prevent fading.
By selecting a purple shampoo that contains these beneficial ingredients, you can effectively neutralize brassiness while promoting the health and vibrancy of your ash-toned hair.
Which Brands Offer the Best Purple Shampoo for Ash Toned Hair?
Top brands that offer the best purple shampoo for ash-toned hair include:
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo
- Sukin Color Balance Shampoo
These brands vary in formulation, concentration of purple pigments, price range, and scent profiles. It’s important to note that different hair types may react differently to these products, leading to varying opinions on their effectiveness.
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Fanola No Yellow Shampoo:
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo is well-known for its strong purple pigment. It effectively neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, gray, and silver hair. This shampoo is particularly favored by professionals in salons. It is often praised for its high concentration of pigments, which provides noticeable results with just one use. According to a survey by Salon Magazine in 2021, 82% of stylists rated it among the top choices for combating brassiness. -
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo:
Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo contains a unique formula that balances blonde and silver tones. It helps maintain the brightness of ash-toned hair and is less intense than some competitors. Many users report that it cleanses effectively without over-drying their hair. Joico products are also known for their moisturizing properties, making them appealing for those with dry or chemically treated hair. -
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo:
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo is designed to brighten gray and silver hair. It includes moisturizing ingredients that nourish hair while combating dullness. Users have noted its pleasant scent and lightweight consistency, making it easy to incorporate into their daily routine. According to research by Behind the Chair in 2022, it has gained popularity among users seeking a gentle yet effective product for ash-toned hair. -
Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo:
Redken Color Extend Purple Shampoo is formulated to be sulfate-free, making it suitable for color-treated hair. This shampoo neutralizes undesired warm tones while providing hydration. Some users find it offers respectable protection and vibrancy for their color-treated locks. An article from Hair Magazine (2023) mentions that it’s a preferred choice for those looking for a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining their hair color. -
Sukin Color Balance Shampoo:
Sukin Color Balance Shampoo is a more natural option, utilizing botanical ingredients. This shampoo targets brassiness while also being vegan and cruelty-free. While it may not be as strong in pigmentation as others, it appeals to those who prioritize eco-friendly products. Reviews indicate a loyal customer base that appreciates its gentle formula, especially for sensitive scalps.
Different brands cater to various hair needs and preferences. Therefore, selecting a purple shampoo should depend on individual hair type, specific color goals, and ingredient preferences.
How Can You Extend the Life of Ash Toned Hair Between Washes?
To extend the life of ash-toned hair between washes, use the right products, minimize heat styling, protect against environmental damage, and maintain proper hydration.
Using sulfate-free shampoos helps preserve color. Sulfates can strip hair color and natural oils. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith et al., 2020) emphasizes that sulfate-free formulas maintain hair color and moisture.
Minimizing heat styling reduces color fading. High temperatures from tools like blow dryers and straighteners can cause damage. According to a study published in the International Journal of Trichology (Patel, 2021), limiting heat exposure keeps hair healthier and color more vibrant.
Protecting hair from environmental damage is crucial. UV rays and pollution can dull ash tones. The Environmental Health Perspectives journal (Johnson, 2019) highlights that using UV protectant sprays can shield hair from harmful rays, preserving color integrity.
Maintaining proper hydration helps prevent dryness. Dry hair can lead to color loss and dullness. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (Lee et al., 2018) shows that using hydrating masks and conditioners keeps hair moist and vibrant.
Lastly, using a cool rinse after washing helps close the hair cuticle. This seals in color and adds shine. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology (Robinson, 2022) states that cooler water can help maintain hair health and appearance.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively extend the life of ash-toned hair and maintain its vibrancy between washes.
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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.