Introduction to using purple shampoo
In recent years, purple shampoo has become a must-have for those who want to maintain their blond, gray or white hair color. Used correctly, this product is able to neutralize unwanted yellow highlights, restoring shine and luminosity to the hair. But how do you best use purple shampoo? This article gives you a step-by-step guide.
What is purple shampoo?
Composition of violet shampoo
Violet shampoo contains violet pigments that act as neutralizers on yellow and golden highlights that can occur in blond, gray or white hair. These pigments help maintain radiant color while protecting the hair fiber, thanks to ingredients often enriched with moisturizing and protective agents.
Why do we use purple shampoo?
Violet shampoo is mainly used for its neutralizing properties. Over time, under the effect of various factors such as pollution, the sun, or unsuitable hair products, hair can lose its shine and turn to yellowish or golden hues. Violet shampoo helps to correct these undesirable highlights and maintain a much purer, more luminous color.
Who can use purple shampoo?
Purple shampoo for blond hair
People with blond hair, whether natural or color-treated, can enjoy the benefits of purple shampoo. By neutralizing yellow highlights, this shampoo helps maintain the cool, luminous blond often sought after in coloring and bleaching treatments.
Violet shampoo for gray or white hair
Gray or white hair is just as susceptible to yellowing due to external aggression. By using a violet shampoo, such hair can be given a more natural, radiant hue. The violet pigments in this type of shampoo help to eliminate dulling highlights, keeping gray or white hair clean and shiny.
How to use purple shampoo to optimize results
Preparing hair for purple shampoo application
Hair condition assessment
Before applying purple shampoo, it's crucial to assess the condition of your hair. Dry or damaged hair may require special attention to avoid aggravating the damage. It is therefore advisable to apply a moisturizing mask the week before using violet shampoo to ensure that your hair is well nourished and able to withstand the treatment.
Initial wash with normal shampoo
Before using Violet Shampoo, start by washing with your usual shampoo. This initial wash removes dirt, product residues and excess sebum from the scalp and hair. This step ensures that the shampoo's violet pigments can work effectively on a clean hair base, ensuring better penetration and optimal results.
Applying purple shampoo
Quantity to be applied
The amount of violet shampoo to use depends on the length and density of your hair. In general, an amount equivalent to a coin for short hair and a slightly larger quantity for long hair is sufficient. It's essential not to overuse the product, as overuse can result in unnatural purple hues.
Application techniques
To apply purple shampoo, start by distributing the product evenly in your hands. Then apply to wet hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Be sure to massage the product into the scalp to stimulate blood circulation and enable better pigment absorption. Even distribution is crucial to avoid uneven areas of color.
Rinse and pause times for violet shampoo
Ideal duration for a break
The length of time you need to leave your purple shampoo on depends mainly on the instructions provided by the brand, as well as the intensity of the yellow highlights you wish to neutralize. As a general rule, 2 to 5 minutes is sufficient for slightly yellow hair. If your hair has more pronounced highlights, you can extend the application time to a maximum of 10 minutes. However, it's advisable to perform a strand test to avoid excessive coloring.
Effective rinsing methods
Rinse hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Be sure to remove all shampoo residue to avoid any build-up of violet pigments. Rinsing must be thorough to prevent violet highlights that may appear if the product is not completely removed. After rinsing, you can apply a moisturizing conditioner to offset any drying effects of the violet shampoo.
Precautions to take when using violet shampoo
Risks associated with incorrect use
Excessive use
Using purple shampoo too frequently can lead to pigment overload and unwanted purple highlights. It's recommended not to use this type of shampoo more than once a week, or even every two weeks, depending on your hair's needs. Excessive use can also dry out your hair, so a good balance must be found to avoid this problem.
Use on unsuitable hair
Violet shampoo is specially formulated for blond, gray or white hair. Using this product on hair of any other color can lead to unpredictable and often undesirable results. Violet pigments can set unevenly, causing uneven areas of color. So always make sure you know your hair type before using a violet shampoo.
See also: How can I treat my sensitive scalp with natural products?
Precautions to take when using violet shampoo
Risks associated with incorrect use
Excessive use
Using purple shampoo too frequently can lead to pigment overload and unwanted purple highlights. It's recommended not to use this type of shampoo more than once a week, or even every two weeks, depending on your hair's needs. Excessive use can also dry out your hair, so a good balance must be found to avoid this problem.
Use on unsuitable hair
Violet shampoo is specially formulated for blond, gray or white hair. Using this product on hair of any other color can lead to unpredictable and often undesirable results. Violet pigments can set unevenly, causing uneven areas of color. So always make sure you know your hair type before using a violet shampoo.
Compatibility with other hair care products
Moisturizing products
To maximize the benefits of purple shampoo while limiting the drying effects, we recommend using complementary moisturizing products such as nourishing masks or conditioners. Be sure to choose products specifically formulated for colored or sensitive hair, containing ingredients such as shea butter, argan oil or keratin. These components will help maintain your hair's moisture and health, counterbalancing the potentially drying effects of purple shampoo.
Styling and finishing products
When using styling products such as hairsprays, mousses or serums, make sure they don't contain ingredients that can dull your color. Choose products without sulfates, parabens or silicones. These ingredients can interact negatively with the pigments in violet shampoo, diminishing its effectiveness. In addition, styling products containing UV filters can be beneficial in protecting your color from the sun's rays, prolonging the life of the results obtained with violet shampoo.
Frequency and timing of use
Adapt to your hair routine
It's crucial to incorporate purple shampoo into your hair routine wisely. Depending on the color and condition of your hair, you may only need to use this shampoo once every two weeks. Too frequent use may not only damage your hair, but also result in unwanted purple tones. Pay attention to the condition of your hair after each use and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Strategic application times
To maximize the effects of purple shampoo, choose strategic moments for its use. For example, before special events or after prolonged exposure to the sun, which can accentuate yellow highlights. With careful planning, you can enjoy radiant hair when you need it most. During periods when hair is more prone to yellowing, such as summer or after recent coloring, purple shampoo can be used more frequently, but always in moderation.
Alternatives and complements to purple shampoo
Pigment care and masks
Hair care products and masks containing violet pigments are an excellent alternative or complement to violet shampoo. In addition to neutralizing yellow highlights, these products provide your hair with intense hydration and essential nutrients. Used once a week, alternating with purple shampoo, they can help maintain the overall health of your hair while preserving its vibrant color. What's more, these masks can often be left on longer than a violet shampoo, enabling a deeper, more nourishing action.
Hair serums and oils
Hair serums and oils specially formulated for blond, gray or white hair can provide protection and hydration.
Frequency and timing of use
Adapt to your hair routine
It's crucial to incorporate purple shampoo into your hair routine wisely. Depending on the color and condition of your hair, you may only need to use this shampoo once every two weeks. Too frequent use may not only damage your hair, but also result in unwanted purple tones. Pay attention to the condition of your hair after each use and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Strategic application times
To maximize the effects of purple shampoo, choose strategic moments for its use. For example, before special events or after prolonged exposure to the sun, which can accentuate yellow highlights. With careful planning, you can enjoy radiant hair when you need it most. During periods when hair is more prone to yellowing, such as summer or after recent coloring, purple shampoo can be used more frequently, but always in moderation.
Alternatives and complements to purple shampoo
Pigment care and masks
Hair care products and masks containing violet pigments are an excellent alternative or complement to violet shampoo. In addition to neutralizing yellow highlights, these products provide your hair with intense hydration and essential nutrients. Used once a week, alternating with purple shampoo, they can help maintain the overall health of your hair while preserving its vibrant color. What's more, these masks can often be left on longer than a violet shampoo, enabling a deeper, more nourishing action.
Hair serums and oils
Hair serums and oils specially formulated for blond, gray or white hair can offer extra protection and hydration. Enriched with beneficial ingredients such as argan oil, keratin or jojoba oil, these products help seal in moisture and protect hair from external aggressors. Use them alongside violet shampoo to maintain your hair's shine and health over the long term.
FAQ
Can purple shampoo be used on dark hair?
No, violet shampoo is specially formulated for blond, gray or white hair. Its use on brown hair could produce unpredictable and often undesirable results.
What's the difference between a purple shampoo and a purple toner?
A purple shampoo is used for regular, gentle maintenance, while a purple toner is a more intense treatment, often used in salons to neutralize yellow tones immediately after coloring.
Can I use purple shampoo every day?
It's not advisable to use purple shampoo every day, as this can dry out your hair and lead to unwanted purple highlights. We recommend using it once a week or once every two weeks.
Should I use a conditioner after the purple shampoo?
Yes, using a moisturizing conditioner after a purple shampoo is beneficial for restoring moisture and maintaining the health of your hair.
How long should I leave the purple shampoo on my hair?
The recommended application time is generally 2 to 5 minutes. For stronger highlights, you can leave the product on for up to 10 minutes, but it's always advisable to test a strand first.