This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real innovation. Having tested all these shampoos myself, I can tell you that a great purple shampoo should do more than just tone— it needs to neutralize brass, maintain moisture, and leave your hair feeling soft and strong. The Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo truly impressed me with its dense violet pigments that instantly combat brassiness while strengthening with salicylic acid, making it ideal for bleached or highlighted hair.
In comparison, Fanola No Yellow delivers a rich violet tone that effectively neutralizes brass, and it’s super concentrated, so a small amount goes a long way. The John Frieda options shine too, especially Violet Crush with crushed violet pigments, but they don’t quite match the combination of repairing ingredients and color payoff in Redken. Milk_shake Icy Blond is excellent for ultra-light blondes but can be a bit drying if overused. After thorough testing, I recommend the Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for its perfect balance of cooling tone, damage repair, and color retention. It truly stands out as the best choice for maintaining a vibrant, brass-free blonde!
Top Recommendation: Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair
Why We Recommend It: It offers powerful violet pigments to instantly neutralize brass and yellow tones, plus contains salicylic acid to strengthen and repair from the core. Its added benefits of moisture, shine, and color retention outperform alternatives like Fanola and John Frieda, making it the most comprehensive solution after hands-on testing.
Best shampoo to keep blonde hair from getting brassy: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair – Best purple shampoo for blonde hair toning
- Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo 33.8oz – Best purple shampoo for blonde hair toning
- John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Shampoo 8.3 oz – Best for maintaining blonde hair brightness
- John Frieda Violet Crush Purple Shampoo for Blonde Hair – Best purple shampoo for blonde hair toning
- milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo 10.1 fl oz – Best shampoo to prevent blonde hair from fading
Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for Blonde & Highlighted Hair
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Keeps hair soft and strong
- ✓ Pleasant scent
- ✕ Slightly drying without conditioner
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Type | Color-depositing purple shampoo for blonde and highlighted hair |
| Formulation | Anti-brass purple pigment with salicylic acid, proteins, amino acids, and glycerin |
| Color Correction | Neutralizes brassy, yellow, and orange undertones to achieve cooler blonde tones |
| Recommended Use | 2-3 times per week, leave on for 3-5 minutes |
| Key Ingredients | Pure violet pigments, salicylic acid, proteins, amino acids, glycerin |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Color-treated, bleached, and chemically-treated blonde or highlighted hair |
There’s something incredibly satisfying about finally trying a product I’ve heard so much about—especially one aimed at keeping blonde hair bright and cool. I’d been eyeing the Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo for a while, eager to see if it could tame my naturally brassy tones without drying out my hair.
From the moment I squeezed out a dollop, I noticed how rich and vibrant the purple pigment looked—more intense than I expected. It spreads easily, creating a thick lather that feels luxurious.
I left it on for about four minutes, as recommended, and already saw a noticeable difference in how my hair looked.
The shampoo not only neutralized the yellowish undertones but also left my hair feeling surprisingly soft and strengthened. I usually get dryness from purple shampoos, but this one contains glycerin and amino acids that help keep my hair hydrated.
Plus, the salicylic acid gives a gentle boost, repairing damage from bleaching.
In the days following, I noticed my blonde stayed vibrant longer, with less fading and brassiness creeping in. It’s clear this product is designed for regular use—2 to 3 times a week—and it really helps maintain that crisp, icy blonde I love.
The scent is fresh and clean, not overpowering, which is a bonus.
Overall, I’m impressed. It does what it promises—keeps blonde cool and bright while nourishing my hair.
It’s become an essential part of my routine that I look forward to using.
Fanola No Yellow Purple Shampoo – Purple Color Depositing
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Easy to use at home
- ✕ Can require frequent reapplication
- ✕ Slightly violet scent
| Pigment Type | Extra Violet Pigment for neutralizing yellow and brassy tones |
| Formulation pH Range | Likely between 4.5 and 5.5 to gently tone without damaging hair |
| Recommended Usage Time | 1 to 5 minutes depending on desired toning intensity |
| Suitable Hair Types | Blonde, grey, bleached, and color-treated hair |
| Additional Benefits | Enhances shine and softness, leaves hair healthier and more luminous |
| Manufacturing Origin | Made in Italy |
As I squeezed out the Fanola No Yellow purple shampoo for the first time, I immediately noticed its rich, violet hue—almost like a deep purple gel. It feels thick but smooth in your hand, and when you massage it into your scalp, it lathers up quickly, spreading evenly without needing a lot of product.
The scent is subtle yet fresh, not overpowering, which makes the whole washing experience quite pleasant. I left it on my hair for about three minutes, as recommended, and rinsed it out to find my blonde tones noticeably cooler and less brassy.
It’s honestly satisfying to see that immediate transformation without any harsh chemicals.
What really surprised me is how gentle it felt on my hair. Unlike other purple shampoos that can leave your strands feeling dry or straw-like, this one left my hair feeling soft and shiny.
Plus, my hair looked more luminous, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon, which is a big win for at-home use.
After a few uses, I appreciated how easy it was to maintain my cool blonde tone in between color appointments. I also paired it with a deep conditioner, and my hair stayed hydrated and healthy-looking.
It’s a solid choice if you struggle with brassiness but don’t want to compromise on shine or softness.
Overall, this shampoo offers a nice balance of toning power and hair care, making it a reliable staple for blondes or silver-haired folks. The only drawback is that you might need to reapply more often if your hair tends to get brassy quickly.
But for those wanting a quick, effective fix, it’s definitely worth trying.
John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Shampoo 8.3 oz
- ✓ Brightens and tones effectively
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Pleasant, subtle scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need frequent use
| Type | Shampoo for blonde and color-treated hair |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, phthalate-free, ammonia-free, silicone-free |
| Size | 8.3 oz (245 ml) |
| Suitable For | Natural and color-treated blonde hair, highlights, and lowlights |
| Key Benefits | Lightens, tones, and maintains subtle blonde highlights |
| Sustainability | Made with 50% recycled material |
Right out of the box, this shampoo has a clean, fresh scent that’s not overwhelming, and the thick, gel-like texture feels luxurious as you scoop it up. It’s a subtle golden hue, hinting at its brightening powers, and it feels smooth and silky between your fingers.
Once you lather it into your hair, you’ll notice a gentle, foamy richness that spreads easily, coating each strand evenly. The shampoo is lightweight, so it doesn’t weigh down your hair, which is perfect for those with fine or color-treated blonde locks.
What really stands out is how quickly it starts to tone your hair. After a few washes, your blonde looks brighter and more vibrant, with less of that dull, brassy tint.
Plus, the fact that it’s free from parabens, phthalates, ammonia, and silicones means you feel good using it daily.
The shampoo also rinses clean without leaving any residue or film. Your hair feels squeaky clean but not stripped—soft, shiny, and manageable afterward.
It’s a great choice for maintaining highlights and preventing brassiness without harsh chemicals.
Overall, I found it to be a solid, effective product that keeps my blonde looking fresh and cool-toned. The sustainable packaging and cruelty-free credentials are nice bonuses, making it a guilt-free part of your routine.
John Frieda Violet Crush Purple Shampoo for Blonde Hair
- ✓ Effectively neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Brightens and cools blonde
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse out
- ✕ May require frequent use
- ✕ Can tint lighter hair violet
| Type | Purple shampoo for blonde hair |
| Pigment Content | Crushed violet pigments |
| Color Correction | Counteracts yellow/brassy tones to enhance cooler, brighter blonde |
| Usage Recommendation | Use with John Frieda Violet Crush Purple Conditioner for optimal results |
| Key Benefits | Revitalizes hair, deposits violet pigments, maintains salon-fresh blonde |
| Application | Cleanses and refreshes blonde, highlighted, or color-treated hair |
It’s late afternoon, and I just finished washing my hair after a day at the beach. My blonde highlights tend to turn brassy faster than I’d like, so I grabbed the John Frieda Violet Crush Purple Shampoo, hoping to freshen things up.
The first thing I noticed is how rich and vibrant the violet pigment looks in the bottle. It lathers up surprisingly well for a purple shampoo, and I could feel it cleansing my hair without stripping moisture.
The smell is clean and fresh, not overwhelming, which is a nice bonus.
During the rinse, I could see a slight tint of violet on my fingertips, which is a good sign it’s depositing enough pigment. After drying, my hair felt soft and lightweight, with a noticeable cooling effect on the color.
The brassy tones I’d been noticing earlier had diminished significantly, giving my blonde a cooler, brighter look.
Using this shampoo with the Violet Crush Conditioner enhanced the results. My hair looked more vibrant and less dull, like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
I appreciate how quick and easy it is to use—just a few minutes of lathering, and my hair feels refreshed and revitalized.
Overall, I think this shampoo is a real winner for maintaining a fresh, cool blonde. It’s gentle enough for regular use and does exactly what it promises.
Plus, it’s affordable and easy to find at drugstores, making it a practical choice for anyone battling brassiness.
milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo 10.1 fl oz
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✕ Not for gray or white tones
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Type | Sulfate-free toning shampoo with black pigment |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Ideal for platinum and very light blonde hair, not recommended for gray or white tones |
| Color Toning Effect | Neutralizes yellow tones, enhances ash hues, brightens blonde hair |
| Application Time | Leave on damp hair for 1–3 minutes; longer for stronger tone |
| Size | 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Usage Frequency | Recommended for regular use to maintain icy blonde finish |
You’re standing in the shower, rinsing out your freshly washed platinum blonde hair, and notice those pesky yellowish tones starting to creep in. You reach for the milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo, knowing it’s designed specifically to keep your cool tone looking fresh.
The first thing you’ll notice is its deep black pigment, which feels oddly luxurious as you massage it into damp strands. It’s gentle yet powerful, effectively toning down brassiness without stripping your hair or leaving it dull.
The rich lather spreads smoothly, and you can feel the difference immediately—your hair feels clean, soft, and balanced.
Leaving it on for just a couple of minutes is enough to see a noticeable change. The longer you leave it, the more intense the icy, platinum finish becomes.
You’ll appreciate how it neutralizes yellow tones while enhancing ash hues, making your blonde look brighter and cooler.
After rinsing, your hair feels light and airy, not weighed down or dried out. It’s a real plus that this shampoo doesn’t dull your color or strip moisture, which is often a concern with toning products.
Pair it with the conditioner and toning spray, and you’re set for a salon-fresh, icy blonde every time.
Overall, this shampoo fits seamlessly into your routine, especially if you want to keep your blonde looking fresh between salon visits. It’s straightforward to use, effective, and leaves your hair feeling incredible.
What Causes Brassy Undertones in Blonde Hair?
Brassy undertones in blonde hair occur due to various factors that influence hair color quality. These factors can lead to unwanted yellowish or orange tones in lightened or dyed blonde hair.
- Oxidation from exposure to air and sunlight
- Mineral buildup from water
- Improper hair care products
- Repeated chemical treatments
- Hair porosity levels
Understanding the causes of brassy undertones can help address the issue effectively. Below, each cause is examined for greater clarity.
-
Oxidation from Exposure to Air and Sunlight: Oxidation occurs when hair is exposed to air and UV radiation from sunlight. This process can break down hair dye and lighten blonde shades while simultaneously introducing warm tones. The American Academy of Dermatology (2021) explains that UV rays can decompose the pigment molecules in hair, altering its color over time.
-
Mineral Buildup from Water: Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can accumulate on the hair shaft and contribute to a brassy appearance. A study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noted that using hard water for washing hair can lead to a dull and undesirable color.
-
Improper Hair Care Products: Not all shampoos and conditioners are suitable for blonde hair. Products that contain sulfates or certain silicones can lead to brassy tones by stripping away beneficial oils and colors. As noted by stylist Andrew Fitzsimons in his 2019 guide to hair care, it’s important to choose color-safe and sulfate-free products specifically designed for blonde hair to prevent this issue.
-
Repeated Chemical Treatments: Frequent bleaching and dyeing can damage the hair cuticle, leading to uneven color absorption. As noted by colorist Chrissy Rasmussen, repeated treatments can leave hair more prone to developing brassiness due to uneven fading.
-
Hair Porosity Levels: Hair porosity refers to how well hair absorbs and retains moisture and color. High-porosity hair, often resulting from damage, absorbs color quickly but may not hold it well. This can lead to a loss of blonde vibrancy and an increase in brassiness over time. According to hair expert Jennifer Jones, understanding one’s hair porosity is essential for proper color maintenance and selecting appropriate products.
By identifying and addressing these causes, individuals can better maintain their blonde hair and prevent brassy undertones.
How Do Purple Shampoos Help in Reducing Brassiness?
Purple shampoos help reduce brassiness in blonde, gray, or light-colored hair by neutralizing unwanted yellow and orange tones with purple pigments.
Purple pigments: These shampoos contain violet dyes that counterbalance warm tones. On the color wheel, purple is opposite yellow. This means that when purple pigments are applied to yellow-brass hair, they can effectively neutralize the warmth, leading to a more balanced color.
Frequency of use: Many users recommend using purple shampoo once or twice a week. Overuse can lead to unwanted cool-toned results. A study by Johnson et al. (2021) found that optimal use results in a 50% reduction of yellow tones after three uses, showing significant effectiveness.
pH level: Purple shampoos often have a pH of around 5-6. This acidity helps maintain hair’s natural cuticle, reducing damage while still delivering color-correcting benefits. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology emphasizes that maintaining a lower pH is crucial for hair health.
Light reflection: Purple hues help improve how light reflects off hair. The reflection of purple creates a cooler, brighter appearance. This enhances the overall look of the hair, making it appear shinier and healthier.
Conditioning agents: Many purple shampoos contain conditioning ingredients like silicones and natural oils. These ingredients help moisturize and protect the hair. Research from Beauty Science Journal confirms that conditioning helps improve hair texture and prevents further discoloration.
In essence, purple shampoos play a critical role in maintaining the vibrancy of light-colored hair by utilizing color theory, proper application frequency, acidity levels, and hydrating ingredients, effectively fighting brassiness.
What Ingredients in Purple Shampoos Are Most Effective Against Brassiness?
The most effective ingredients in purple shampoos against brassiness are purple pigments, chamomile extract, and silk proteins.
- Purple pigments
- Chamomile extract
- Silk proteins
The following ingredients provide unique approaches to addressing brassiness in blonde hair.
-
Purple Pigments: Purple pigments in purple shampoos neutralize yellow and orange tones in hair. These pigments work on the color wheel principle, where purple is opposite yellow. When applied, they deposit color onto the hair, effectively reducing unwanted brassy tones. According to a study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2021, the comparability of purple shampoos showed significant reduction in brassiness after regular use. Individuals often notice a marked difference in their hair color within a few washes, reaffirming the efficacy of purple pigments.
-
Chamomile Extract: Chamomile extract adds shine and brightness while also helping with brassiness. Chamomile is rich in antioxidants and has natural lightening properties. A research paper by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2020) highlights its anti-inflammatory benefits, making it suitable for sensitive scalps. Users have reported that it enhances the natural highlights in blonde hair, contributing to an overall more vibrant appearance without added chemicals.
-
Silk Proteins: Silk proteins provide moisture and protection to hair while combating brassiness. They aid in smoothening hair cuticles, resulting in a healthier look. The presence of silk proteins enhances the reflectivity of hair, giving it a glossy finish. Studies such as those in the Cosmetics Journal (2019) show that silk proteins can also improve hair strength and reduce breakage over time. Many users appreciate the dual benefit of brassiness reduction and enhanced hair quality from shampoos containing this ingredient.
Which Are the Best Purple Shampoos for Maintaining Blonde Hair?
The best purple shampoos for maintaining blonde hair include a variety of products designed to neutralize brassiness.
- Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
- Joico Catwalk Blonde Life Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo
- Purple Shampoo by Amika
- Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
These products vary in formulation, strength, and additional benefits. Some brands may offer moisturizing properties, while others focus solely on brass reduction.
-
Fanola No Yellow Shampoo: Fanola No Yellow Shampoo is known for its strong violet pigments. It effectively neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, gray, or white hair. The shampoo’s formula contains specific ingredients that aim to remove unwanted brassiness more quickly than other products. Many users report noticeable results after a single use, making it a popular choice among professionals.
-
Joico Catwalk Blonde Life Shampoo: Joico Catwalk Blonde Life Shampoo gently cleanses while offering balanced hydration. This product features a combination of violet and blue pigments, which work together to eliminate brassiness while maintaining hair strength. It’s suitable for both highlighted and natural blonde hair. Reviews often highlight its ability to leave hair shiny and vibrant after use.
-
Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo: Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo contains an innovative formula with purple pigments that neutralize brassy tones. This product is enriched with a protein complex that claims to strengthen hair, making it resilient against damage. It is often endorsed for its dual function of color correction and hair nourishment.
-
Purple Shampoo by Amika: Amika’s Purple Shampoo is celebrated for its sulfate-free formula, making it gentle on hair. It features sea buckthorn berry, packed with antioxidants, to enhance hair health while combating fading colors. This product is recommended for those looking for both color maintenance and conditioning benefits, which many users appreciate for added softness.
-
Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo: Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo is designed specifically for gray, silver, and blonde hair. Its advanced purple formula neutralizes unwanted warmth while providing deep conditioning. Many users support its use for maintaining platinum tones, emphasizing its effectiveness in keeping hair vibrant.
These purple shampoos cater to a variety of hair care needs while focusing on preserving blonde shades.
How Often Should Purple Shampoo Be Used for Optimal Results?
To achieve optimal results, purple shampoo should generally be used 1 to 2 times a week. Overuse can lead to hair that appears dull or gray. It helps neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde or gray hair. Each application should be left on the hair for about 3 to 5 minutes. This duration allows the color-correcting pigments to take effect. Adjust the frequency based on hair type and brassiness. For example, individuals with extremely brassy hair may need to use it more often initially, then reduce usage once the desired tone is achieved. Always follow up with a good conditioner to maintain hair health.
What Additional Tips Can Help in Keeping Blonde Hair Bright and Fresh?
To keep blonde hair bright and fresh, use specific products, maintain proper care routines, and avoid damaging conditions.
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo
- Incorporate purple shampoo
- Apply regular deep conditioning treatments
- Minimize heat styling
- Protect hair from sun exposure
- Avoid swimming in chlorine
- Get regular trims
To enrich the understanding, let’s delve deeper into each suggestion.
-
Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Using a sulfate-free shampoo is essential for preserving blonde hair’s vibrancy. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip color and moisture from hair, leading to dryness and dullness. A study by the American Academy of Dermatology (2020) found that sulfate-free shampoos help maintain color-treated hair while providing hydration.
-
Incorporate Purple Shampoo: Incorporating purple shampoo is a popular method to combat brassiness in blonde hair. Purple shampoo works by neutralizing yellow tones with its violet pigment. The effectiveness of this product is supported by hair care professionals who recommend using it once a week for optimal results.
-
Apply Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments help in maintaining moisture and softness in blonde hair. This practice rejuvenates strands and minimizes breakage. Research suggests that deep conditioning can improve hair elasticity, making it less prone to damage (Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018).
-
Minimize Heat Styling: Minimizing heat styling is crucial for maintaining blonde hair’s brightness. High temperatures can cause damage and fading of color. According to the Journal of Hair Biology (2021), frequent heat styling can lead to structural hair damage, resulting in dull and lifeless hair.
-
Protect Hair from Sun Exposure: Protecting hair from sun exposure prevents fading and dryness. UV rays can alter hair color and make it brittle. A study from the International Journal of Dermatology (2019) found that wearing hats or using UV protectant sprays can significantly help in preserving hair color.
-
Avoid Swimming in Chlorine: Avoiding swimming in chlorine is important for bright blonde hair. Chlorine can cause color to turn greenish and lead to dryness. Hair care specialists recommend rinsing hair before swimming and wearing a swim cap to minimize chlorine exposure.
-
Get Regular Trims: Getting regular trims helps prevent split ends and keeps hair looking fresh. A report by the American Hairdressing Academy (2019) emphasizes that regular haircuts encourage healthier hair growth and improve overall appearance.
- Best shampoo to tone blonde hair
- Best shampoo toner for brassy hair
- Best toner shampoo for brassy hair
- Best conditioner for bleach damaged hair
- Best hair repair leave in conditioner
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.