Have you ever wondered what would happen if you use purple shampoo on brown hair? I have, and I was curious to find out if it would make a difference on my locks. After trying it out and doing some research, I found out some shocking results that I think everyone with brown hair should know. Purple shampoo can actually tone down brassiness and enhance the cool tones in brown hair, leaving it looking fresh and vibrant. However, if not used properly, it can also leave you with a purple tint that is not so flattering. So, before you decide to use purple shampoo on your brown hair, it’s important to know the potential risks and how to use it safely.
Key Takeaways:
- Subtle Toning: Using purple shampoo on brown hair can help to subtly tone down brassiness and warm tones in your hair.
- Minimal Change: Since purple shampoo is designed for blonde or gray hair, using it on brown hair may not result in a significant color change.
- Less Effective: Brown hair typically has more red and orange undertones, so purple shampoo may not be as effective as on blonde hair.
- Potential Ashy Undertones: Overuse of purple shampoo on brown hair may lead to ashy or gray undertones, especially for lighter shades of brown.
- Test it Out: If you are considering using purple shampoo on brown hair, start with a small amount and see how your hair reacts before fully incorporating it into your hair care routine.
Effects of Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
While purple shampoo is typically associated with blonde or gray hair, it can also have a surprising impact on brown hair. When used correctly, purple shampoo can help to enhance the natural tones of brown hair and minimize any unwanted brassiness. However, it’s important to use it with caution to avoid any potential color mishaps.
Brightening and Toning
When used on brown hair, purple shampoo can help to brighten and add dimension to your locks. The purple pigments in the shampoo work to neutralize any unwanted yellow or orange tones, revealing a cooler, more ashy shade of brown. This can be particularly beneficial for those with dyed brown hair, as it can help to maintain the desired tone and prevent any color fading. Just be sure to use it sparingly, as overuse can lead to an overly cool or even slightly purple tint. I recommend using it once a week and adjusting the frequency based on your hair’s individual response.
Minimizing Brassiness
If you’ve noticed your brown hair starting to take on a brassy or warm tone, purple shampoo can be a game-changer. The purple pigments in the shampoo work to counteract the warm tones, helping to restore a cooler, more natural-looking shade of brown. I’ve found it particularly effective for those with balayage or ombre styles, as the shampoo can help to maintain a seamless transition between the different shades. However, it’s important to note that purple shampoo should not be used as a substitute for professional toning or color correction. If you’re dealing with significant brassiness, I recommend seeking the advice of a professional colorist to achieve the best results.
Factors to Consider when Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
Obviously, using purple shampoo on brown hair requires some thought and consideration. It’s not as simple as just reaching for the purple shampoo and lathering up. Here are a few factors to consider before using purple shampoo on brown hair:
- Hair Porosity: This refers to how well your hair is able to absorb and hold moisture. High porosity hair may absorb purple shampoo more quickly, while low porosity hair may require a longer application time to see results.
- Frequency of Use: How often you use purple shampoo will depend on your hair’s natural color, the desired shade of brown, and your individual hair care routine.
- Shade of Brown: The specific shade of brown in your hair will also play a role in how purple shampoo affects your hair. Lighter brown hair may see more noticeable toning effects compared to darker shades.
Though, it’s important to consider all of these factors before incorporating purple shampoo into your hair care routine.
Hair Porosity
When it comes to using purple shampoo on brown hair, hair porosity is an important factor to consider. If you have high porosity hair, your hair may absorb the purple pigment more easily, potentially resulting in a more intense toning effect. On the other hand, if you have low porosity hair, it may take longer for the purple shampoo to have a noticeable impact on your hair color. Understanding your hair’s porosity can help you adjust the frequency and duration of using purple shampoo to achieve your desired results.
Frequency of Use
The frequency of use of purple shampoo on brown hair will vary depending on your individual hair type and the shade of brown you want to achieve. If you have lighter brown hair and are aiming for a cooler, ashier tone, you may use purple shampoo more often to maintain the desired color. If you have darker brown hair and want just a subtle toning effect, you may use purple shampoo less frequently to avoid over-toning. It’s important to listen to your hair and adjust the frequency of purple shampoo use based on how your hair reacts to it.
Tips for Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
After finding the right purple shampoo for your brown hair, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure the best results. Here are some helpful tips for using purple shampoo on brown hair:
- Start with a patch test to ensure the shampoo works well with your hair
- Use the shampoo properly and sparingly to avoid over-toning or drying out your hair
- Adjust the frequency of use based on the desired tone and your hair’s sensitivity
Perceiving the best approach to using purple shampoo on brown hair can help you achieve the desired results without causing any damage.
Patch Test
Before fully incorporating purple shampoo into your hair care routine, it’s essential to conduct a patch test to ensure it’s suitable for your hair. Apply a small amount of shampoo to a discreet section of your hair and monitor the results. This will help you determine if the shampoo causes any undesired effects such as over-toning or hair damage.
Proper Application Techniques
When using purple shampoo on brown hair, it’s essential to apply it properly to achieve the desired results. Use the shampoo sparingly and focus on the areas that need toning, rather than applying it all over. This strategic application will help prevent your hair from becoming overly toned or dried out.
Conclusion: What happens if you use purple shampoo on brown hair
From above, I’ve learned that using purple shampoo on brown hair can help to neutralize any brassiness or unwanted warm tones. However, it’s important to remember that it may not have the same dramatic effect as it would on blonde or gray hair. If you do decide to use purple shampoo on your brown hair, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and not leave the shampoo on for too long as it may result in a slight purple tint. Overall, it’s worth a try if you’re looking to cool down any warm tones in your brunette locks, but always proceed with caution and do a patch test first.
FAQ About Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
Q: What happens if you use purple shampoo on brown hair?
A: Using purple shampoo on brown hair can help neutralize any brassy or yellow tones, leaving your hair looking cooler and more ash-toned. It can also help maintain the color of brown hair with highlights or balayage.
Q: Will purple shampoo lighten my brown hair?
A: Purple shampoo is not meant to lighten hair. It simply helps to tone and neutralize any unwanted warmth in the hair, so it won’t make your brown hair lighter.
Q: How often should I use purple shampoo on my brown hair?
A: It depends on your hair and the level of brassiness you’re dealing with. Generally, using purple shampoo once a week is enough to maintain a cool tone in brown hair, but you can adjust the frequency based on your own needs.
Q: Can I leave purple shampoo on my brown hair for too long?
A: It’s possible to over-tone your hair if you leave purple shampoo on for too long, especially if your hair is more porous. It’s best to follow the instructions on the product and rinse the shampoo out after the recommended time to avoid over-toning.
Q: Will using purple shampoo on my brown hair cause any damage?
A: When used as directed, purple shampoo should not cause any damage to your brown hair. It’s simply a toning product and does not contain any harsh chemicals that would harm the hair. Just be sure to follow the instructions and not overuse the shampoo to maintain the health of your hair.
