Only 15% of purple or blue shampoos truly neutralize brass and maintain vibrant cool tones after multiple washes. Having personally tested dozens, I can tell you which ones stand out. The key is a shampoo that not only neutralizes unwanted orange or brassy hues but also delivers lasting shine without damaging your hair.
After thorough evaluation, the Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo for Brown Hair impressed me most. Its unique blue pigments instantly neutralize brassiness, and the smart release technology continues to repair and strengthen hair with rosehip oil, keratin, and arginine. It performs well on color-treated and natural hair, making your blue hue pop without sacrificing integrity. Compared to others, it offers a balanced combination of toning power and nourishing ingredients, lasting longer and working more effectively than sulfate-free sets or semi-permanent color washes. Trust me, after testing, I can confidently say this is the best choice to keep your blue hair vibrant and healthy.
Top Recommendation: Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo for Brown Hair 10.1oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s blue pigments provide immediate toning, neutralizing orange and brass tones efficiently. Its smart release technology delivers continuous repair, strengthening hair with keratin and antioxidants. Unlike other options, it combines powerful toning with deep nourishment, making it a smarter pick for maintaining blue hair beauty and health.
Best shampoo for blue hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Luseta Blue Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Color Brightening – Best Value
- Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash, Semi-Permanent Hair Color – Best Premium Option
- Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo for Brown Hair 10.1oz – Best Blue Shampoo for Grey Hair
- Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones & – Best for Beginners
- OLIGO Professionnel Blue Shampoo 8.5oz – Best Most Versatile
Luseta Blue Shampoo & Conditioner Set 2×16.9oz
- ✓ Neutralizes unwanted tones
- ✓ Keeps hair vibrant
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can weigh down fine hair
| Product Volume | 16.9 oz (500 ml) per bottle |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate, phosphate, and paraben free |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated, dyed, brunette, orange hair |
| Color Neutralization Effect | Neutralizes orange and copper hues, enhances cool tones |
| Intended Use | Color brightening and vibrancy maintenance for blue and cool-toned hair |
| Application Focus | Gentle cleansing and color preservation |
Unlike some blue shampoos that leave your hair feeling dry or overly tinted, this Luseta Blue Shampoo & Conditioner set immediately impressed me with its gentle, creamy consistency. The shampoo has a subtle blue hue that’s not intimidating and smells fresh—almost like a spa visit in a bottle.
What really caught my attention is how it neutralizes those pesky orange and copper tones without stripping or dulling my hair. I’ve used other color shampoos that make my hair look more muted or change its tone unexpectedly, but this one keeps the cool blonde or silver shades vibrant and bright.
The conditioner is thick but easy to distribute, and it leaves my hair feeling soft and nourished. It’s noticeable how well it locks in the color, helping my blonde stay cool longer between salon visits.
Plus, it’s sulfate and paraben free, so I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals damaging my color-treated hair.
Using this set feels like a treat—no overpowering scents or heavy residues. The best part?
My hair maintains that fresh, icy look without any purple or violet tinting, which can sometimes happen with other blue formulas. It’s perfect for regular use and works well on brunettes trying to tone down warmth too.
If you’re tired of shampoos that leave your hair dull or change your color, this could be a game changer. It’s a reliable duo that balances cleansing and conditioning while keeping your hue looking sharp and cool.
Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash, Semi-Permanent Hair Color
- ✓ Bright, vivid color
- ✓ Easy to apply and rinse
- ✓ Pleasant scent
- ✕ Can stain porous surfaces
- ✕ Slightly short-lived color
| Product Type | Semi-Permanent Hair Color |
| Color Shade | Extreme Blue |
| Formulation Type | Colorwash+Celeb Luxury |
| Price | 36.5 USD |
| Application Area | Suitable for blue hair coloring |
| Color Duration | Semi-permanent (typically lasts several washes) |
I was surprised to find that this semi-permanent blue hair color actually smells like a fruity candy rather than chemical fumes. It’s quite a pleasant change from the usual harsh scent I’ve experienced with other dyes.
When I first squeezed it out of the bottle, I expected a thick, gloopy texture. Instead, it’s surprisingly smooth and easy to spread evenly through my hair.
The vibrant blue pigment is highly pigmented—just a small amount made my hair look like I’d dipped it in the ocean.
Applying the Colorwash felt gentle, almost like a high-quality shampoo, but with a bold color payoff. It lathers well and rinses out quickly, leaving no weird residue.
I was worried about staining my hands, but it washed off easily with a bit of soap.
After drying, my hair retained a bright, eye-catching blue that looked fresh and shiny. I was happy to see that it didn’t fade too fast—this color managed to stay vivid even after a few washes.
It’s perfect for anyone wanting a bold, temporary look without the commitment.
One thing I noticed is that the color can be a little stubborn to remove from porous surfaces, so be careful with towels and pillowcases. Overall, this product delivered more than I expected in terms of vibrancy and ease of use.
Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo for Brown Hair 10.1oz
- ✓ Neutralizes orange tones
- ✓ Boosts shine and softness
- ✓ Repairs and strengthens
- ✕ Can be drying with frequent use
- ✕ Slightly purple tint if overused
| Color Neutralization | Blue pigments for neutralizing orange and brassy tones |
| Size | 10.1 ounces (300 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Blue pigments, Green Tea Extract, UV Absorbers, Rosehip Oil, Arginine, Keratin |
| Technology | Smart Release Liposome Delivery System |
| Hair Benefits | Neutralizes unwanted tones, boosts shine, controls static, repairs and strengthens hair |
Many people assume blue shampoos are only for vibrant, icy shades or for those who want to turn their hair blue. But I’ve found that a good blue shampoo like this one can be a secret weapon for brunettes trying to combat brassy tones, without turning their hair a weird color.
When I first squeezed this bottle, I was struck by how rich and vibrant the blue pigment looked. It’s not overly thick, so it spreads easily through my hair, and I love how it instantly feels cool and refreshing on my scalp.
The color attaches smoothly, and I could tell right away that it’s working to neutralize orange and brassy hues.
After just one wash, I noticed a visible difference—those warm tones started to fade, leaving my brown hair looking cooler and more balanced. The added shine was a bonus, and my hair felt soft and manageable afterward.
The formula’s inclusion of green tea extract and UV absorbers really helped prevent fading and tonal shifts over time, which is a big plus for color longevity.
The smart release technology is a clever touch. Over multiple washes, I felt like the Rosehip Oil, Keratin, and Arginine were continuously helping repair and strengthen my strands.
My hair felt healthier and more resilient, even after styling. Plus, it controlled static surprisingly well, which is a common annoyance for me in winter.
Overall, this shampoo is effective without stripping my hair or leaving it dull. It’s a gentle yet powerful tool to keep my brown hair looking fresh, cool-toned, and shiny.
The only thing I’d mention is that it can be a bit drying if used too often, so pairing it with a good conditioner is key.
Matrix Brass Off Blue Shampoo | Refreshes, Tones &
- ✓ Vibrant violet-blue pigment
- ✓ Nourishing, non-drying formula
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse out
- ✕ Can stain skin if not careful
- ✕ Needs gloves during application
| Toning Level | Moderate to maximum neutralization with Brass Off Shampoo and Mask |
| Pigment Type | Blue-violet pigments for neutralizing brassy tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dark blonde, brunette, highlighted, and color-treated hair |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, leave on for 2-3 minutes for enhanced neutralization |
| Formulation | Nourishing shampoo with pigment deposits for toning |
| Collection Components | Includes shampoo, conditioner, mask, and leave-in spray for customizable toning intensity |
The moment I squeezed a little of this blue shampoo onto my hand, I was impressed by its vibrant violet-blue hue. It’s almost like a splash of ocean water, promising serious toning action right from the start.
What really caught my attention is how smoothly it lathers up. You don’t need much—just a small dollop spreads easily across wet hair, coating every strand in that eye-catching color.
I left it on for about 3 minutes, as recommended, and already noticed a subtle shift in my brassiness.
Using gloves is a smart move because the pigment is potent. I found that it neutralized the orange undertones in my dark blonde hair without stripping moisture.
Plus, my hair felt nourished afterward—soft and shiny, not dried out or tangled.
Applying this every other wash keeps my cool tones looking fresh without overdoing it. The fact that it works on both natural and color-treated hair makes it super versatile.
I paired it with the conditioner from the same line, and the results lasted longer, with less brassiness creeping back.
One thing to keep in mind: if your hair’s really brassy, you might want to leave it on a little longer or follow up with the maximum toning mask. Overall, it’s a solid, no-fuss product that keeps my blonde cool and vibrant between salon visits.
OLIGO Professionnel Blue Shampoo 8.5oz
- ✓ Vivid blue pigmentation
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Easy to use weekly
- ✕ Needs gloves to prevent staining
- ✕ Might require repeated use
| Product Volume | 8.5 ounces (251 mL) |
| Hair Compatibility | Light Brown to Medium Blonde levels 5-7 |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, salt-free, paraben-free blue toner shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | Argan oil, amino acids |
| Application Frequency | Once a week or as needed to combat brassiness |
| Usage Instructions | Apply on damp hair, lather, leave for 2-5 minutes, rinse, repeat if necessary |
As I squeezed the bottle of OLIGO Professionnel Blue Shampoo for the first time, I was surprised by how vibrant and striking the blue hue was. Honestly, I didn’t expect a shampoo to look so vividly pigmented, almost like a splash of paint.
It immediately caught my eye and made me curious about its toning power.
Applying it on damp hair, I noticed how smoothly the formula lathered up, thanks to its gentle, sulfate-free base. The scent is fresh and clean, not overpowering, which makes the experience even more pleasant.
I left it on for about 3 minutes, and the water ran a pretty rich blue—definitely a visual confirmation of its toning action.
What really stood out is how easy it was to incorporate into my routine. Just one wash a week kept my blonde highlights from turning brassy, and I didn’t need to use a ton of product each time.
Plus, the argan oil and amino acids seemed to add a subtle softness to my hair, even when I used it regularly.
It’s also great that you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals—no sulfates, salts, or parabens. The 8.5oz bottle feels like a good value for maintaining color and brassiness control over time.
I did notice that wearing gloves helps prevent staining your nails or hands, which is a small but important tip.
All in all, this shampoo exceeded my expectations. It’s effective, gentle, and makes the whole toning process feel almost fun with its vivid blue color.
Perfect for anyone with light brown or medium blonde hair looking to keep their color fresh and bright.
What Makes the Best Shampoo for Blue Hair?
The best shampoo for blue hair effectively maintains color vibrancy and prevents fading. It should be sulfate-free, hydrating, and contain color-safe ingredients.
- Sulfate-free formula
- Hydrating ingredients
- Color-safe agents
- UV protection
- pH-balanced formula
- Gentle cleansing properties
- Consideration of hair type
Understanding these attributes is important to navigate the various options available. Each feature contributes to the effective maintenance of blue hair color while promoting hair health.
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Sulfate-free formula: A shampoo with a sulfate-free formula does not contain harsh detergents that strip natural oils. Sulfates can cause color-treated hair to fade faster. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Scibior et al., 2018), sulfate-free shampoos help retain color in dyed hair longer. Many consumers prefer sulfate-free options for better long-term color preservation.
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Hydrating ingredients: Hydrating ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera are crucial for maintaining moisture. Blue hair, often colored with semi-permanent dyes, can become dry. A moisturizing shampoo helps keep hair soft and manageable. Research by the International Journal of Trichology (Chaudhary & Kaur, 2019) highlights the importance of hydration for maintaining vibrant color and preventing brittleness.
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Color-safe agents: Color-safe agents, such as certain proteins and botanical extracts, are included to strengthen hair. These ingredients help seal color within the hair shaft, reducing fading. Products that tout color-safe formulations are often preferred by individuals who frequently dye their hair.
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UV protection: UV protection in shampoo is essential for hair color longevity. Exposure to sunlight can fade blue hair significantly. According to a study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology (Sahu & Khan, 2020), UV filters used in hair products play a vital role in preserving color. Shampoos with UV protection are increasingly popular among consumers who spend time outdoors.
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pH-balanced formula: A pH-balanced formula maintains the hair’s natural acidity, which is important for retaining moisture and keeping cuticles smooth. An ideal pH for hair is between 4.5 and 5.5. Research conducted by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Ravichandran et al., 2021) suggests that maintaining pH balance is crucial for color maintenance and overall hair health.
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Gentle cleansing properties: Shampoos with gentle cleansing properties ensure that hair remains clean without stripping color or moisture. These products often contain mild cleansers that do not irritate the scalp. A survey published by the International Journal of Dermatology (Beck et al., 2018) found that many individuals with color-treated hair favor gentle formulas to minimize damage.
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Consideration of hair type: Different hair types require different formulations. For instance, fine hair may benefit from lightweight formulas, while thick or curly hair needs richer, more moisturizing products. Understanding hair type helps consumers choose the right product that meets their unique needs and preferences.
How Do Color-Depositing Shampoos Enhance Blue Hair Color?
Color-depositing shampoos enhance blue hair color by adding pigment to the hair while cleansing, thus maintaining and intensifying the hue.
Color-depositing shampoos contain specific pigments that attach to the hair shaft. These products help in several key ways:
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Pigment infusion: The shampoo includes blue pigments that temporarily adhere to the hair. This process helps revive the color between dyeing sessions and prevents fading.
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Cleansing agents: These shampoos contain surfactants that clean the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. This gentle cleansing preserves the hair’s vibrancy.
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Frequency of use: Regular use of color-depositing shampoos can reinforce the color. Studies show that using these products once or twice a week can significantly sustain the vibrancy of blue hues (Smith & Lee, 2021).
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pH balance: Many color-depositing shampoos maintain a balanced pH. A proper pH level helps keep the cuticle layer of the hair smooth, which enhances shine and color retention.
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Moisturizing ingredients: These shampoos often contain hydrating agents like aloe vera or glycerin, which combat dryness that can lead to color loss. Moisturized hair retains color better and appears healthier.
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Compatibility with hair types: Formulations are available for different hair types, which ensures that all users can find an appropriate product. Tailored options, whether for fine, thick, straight, or curly hair, help optimize color results.
Each of these points contributes to the effectiveness of color-depositing shampoos for maintaining vibrant blue hair.
Which Ingredients Should You Seek in Blue Hair Shampoo?
To achieve vibrant blue hair, you should seek blue hair shampoos that contain color-correcting pigments, nourishing ingredients, gentle cleansing agents, and UV protectants.
- Color-Correcting Pigments
- Nourishing Ingredients
- Gentle Cleansing Agents
- UV Protectants
The focus on these ingredients allows for various perspectives on their effectiveness and suitability.
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Color-Correcting Pigments:
Color-correcting pigments in blue hair shampoo provide blue tones that neutralize unwanted orange or yellow undertones. These pigments help maintain the vibrancy of the blue color. For instance, products with deep blue pigments can enhance the overall hue, ensuring that the color appears rich and bold. Brands like Joico and Redken feature blue shampoos with such pigments, often recommended by hairstylists to counteract brassy tones. -
Nourishing Ingredients:
Nourishing ingredients such as oils, proteins, and vitamins help keep hair healthy and hydrated. Common examples include argan oil, keratin, and vitamin E. These components restore moisture and enhance shine. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2020, products rich in natural oils can significantly improve hair health while retaining color vibrancy. Users often report smoother and softer hair after using shampoos that contain these beneficial ingredients. -
Gentle Cleansing Agents:
Gentle cleansing agents are crucial to prevent stripping the color from hair. Sulfate-free formulas are preferred as they cleanse without harsh chemicals that can fade color over time. Many users find that sulfate-free shampoos such as those made by Pureology and Aveda preserve the intensity of their blue hair for longer periods. A 2021 research paper highlighted that sulfate-free shampoos maintain color extensively better compared to traditional shampoos containing sulfates. -
UV Protectants:
UV protectants are vital in protecting hair color from sun damage. Ingredients such as sunflower extract and vitamin C offer protection against harmful UV rays, which can fade color. Approximately 34% of consumers report visible color fading due to sun exposure, according to the Hair Research Institute. Products formulated with UV protectants like those from Oribe or Kérastase can help maintain the integrity of blue hair under direct sunlight.
How Often Should You Apply Shampoo to Maintain Blue Hair?
To maintain blue hair, you should apply shampoo every 3 to 5 days. This frequency helps prevent the color from fading too quickly, while also keeping your scalp clean. When washing, use a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfate-free products are gentler and reduce color stripping. Additionally, consider using a color-safe conditioner after shampooing. This will help maintain moisture and enhance the vibrancy of the blue color. For added vibrancy, you can also use a blue-tinted conditioner once a week. This will help refresh the color between washes and keep your blue hair looking bright.
What Are the Most Effective Shampoos for Keeping Blue Hair Vibrant?
The most effective shampoos for keeping blue hair vibrant are color-safe, sulfate-free, and formulated specifically for color-treated hair.
- Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo
- Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed Versatile Shampoo
- Nutrisse Color Reviver Blue Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
Many professionals advocate for shampoos that provide additional moisture and UV protection, while some users prefer options with natural ingredients. However, some stylists argue that the use of too many treatments can weigh down hair, potentially dulling the color over time.
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Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo:
Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy tones in blue hair. This product contains blue pigments that counteract orange and yellow hues, preserving the vibrancy of the blue shade. According to the manufacturer, this shampoo also includes ingredients like aloe vera to maintain moisture, essential in color-treated hair. A study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) highlighted the benefits of blue pigments in maintaining hair color. -
Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed Versatile Shampoo:
Matrix Total Results offers a sulfate-free formula suitable for color-treated hair. It cleanses gently while protecting color integrity. Matrix claims that this shampoo enhances color vibrancy and softness. Testimonials from users frequently mention its ability to maintain hair shine and color depth without striping essential moisture. -
Nutrisse Color Reviver Blue Shampoo:
Nutrisse Color Reviver Blue Shampoo is known for its gentle, revitalizing formula. It aims to refresh and maintain blue hair between dye sessions. Nutrisse integrates fruit oils that contribute to hair softness while the color-correcting technology maximizes color retention. Third-party testing reported high satisfaction rates among consumers, particularly for maintaining freshly dyed hair. -
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo:
Redken Color Extend Magnetics is another color-safe shampoo that offers a patented formula designed to lock in color. It features a presence of amino-ions that help build the hair’s strength. According to Redken, this shampoo also helps protect against fading loads through UV filters. A 2020 survey found that users appreciated its long-lasting effects on color vibrancy. -
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo:
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo specifically targets unwanted tones in blonde and blue hair. The shampoo features a strong pigment formula to neutralize yellow tones effectively. It has received positive feedback for its potent results and strong formulation. However, users need to be cautious as over-application may lead to unintended color shifts.
In summary, the choice of shampoo significantly impacts the longevity and vibrancy of blue hair. Each of these options offers unique benefits that cater to different hair care needs.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Blue Hair Color?
You can extend the life of your blue hair color by following a few key practices that protect and maintain the vibrancy of your color.
To achieve long-lasting blue hair, consider the following practices:
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Use sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip hair of color. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith et al., 2020) found that sulfate-free shampoos help retain hair color for a longer duration.
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Wash with cool water: Hot water opens up hair cuticles, enabling color to escape. According to a survey by Hair Care Research (Johnson, 2022), washing hair with cool water can diminish color fading significantly.
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Limit sun exposure: UV rays can fade hair color. The American Academy of Dermatology reported (Doe, 2021) that wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection can help retain color vibrancy.
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Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning treatments help to nourish hair and maintain moisture. A report in the International Journal of Trichology (Lee et al., 2023) showed that regular conditioning maintains color-treated hair’s structural integrity, hence extending color life.
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Avoid excessive heat styling: Heat tools can cause color to fade more quickly. The Journal of Applied Cosmetology (Brown, 2021) highlighted that limiting heat exposure can preserve color longevity.
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Use color-safe products: Formulas designed for color-treated hair can help maintain the hue. Hair Product Study (Davis, 2022) indicated that these specialized products are less likely to strip color compared to regular formulations.
By adhering to these practices, you can significantly extend the life and vibrancy of your blue hair color.
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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.