Brassy hair is a common issue for those with blonde silver or light brown hair. Over time unwanted yellow orange or red tones can appear due to sun exposure hard water or faded hair color. The best way to combat brassiness? Using the right shampoo!
In this guide we’ll cover the best shampoos for brassy hair how they work and how to maintain your hair color for a fresh salon-quality look.
1. What Causes Brassy Hair?
Before choosing the right shampoo it’s essential to understand what causes brassiness. Here are some common reasons:
✔ Oxidation – Exposure to oxygen and sunlight can break down hair color revealing warm undertones.
✔ Hard Water Minerals – Water with high mineral content (iron and chlorine) can leave an orange tint.
✔ Fading Hair Dye – Over time the cool tones in dyed hair fade leaving brassy shades.
✔ Heat Styling – Frequent use of hot tools can strip away hair color making brassiness more noticeable.
If you want to neutralize brassiness the solution is purple or blue shampoo. Let’s explore why these shampoos work and which ones are the best.
2. What Shampoo Should You Use for Brassy Hair?
✔ Purple Shampoo for Blonde Platinum and Gray Hair
Why it works: Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that neutralize yellow tones keeping blonde platinum and silver hair cool and bright.
Best for:
✔ Bleached or dyed blonde hair
✔ Platinum and silver/gray hair
✔ White or icy blonde highlights
✔ Blue Shampoo for Brunettes with Highlights or Balayage
Why it works: Blue shampoo has blue pigments that counteract orange and red tones making it ideal for light brown or brunette hair.
Best for:
✔ Light brown or caramel highlights
✔ Balayage or ombre hair
✔ Brunettes with brassiness
3. Best Shampoos for Brassy Hair
Here are the top-rated shampoos for keeping brassiness under control:
✔ 1. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
Best for: Platinum silver and very light blonde hair
This is one of the most powerful purple shampoos on the market.
✔ Deep purple formula neutralizes yellow instantly
✔ Ideal for very light hair
✔ Can be drying so use with conditioner
✔ 2. Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo
Best for: Maintaining salon-fresh blonde hair
This color-correcting shampoo is gentle enough for frequent use.
✔ Strengthens hair with proteins
✔ Neutralizes yellow tones
✔ Leaves hair soft and healthy
✔ 3. Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo
Best for: Silver white or gray hair
This shampoo is specially designed for gray and silver hair eliminating dull yellowish tones.
✔ Brightens silver and white hair
✔ Gentle on color-treated hair
✔ Helps keep a cool-toned look
✔ 4. Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo
Best for: Brunettes with highlights or balayage
If you have brown hair with orange or red undertones blue shampoo is your best friend.
✔ Eliminates warm brassiness in brown hair
✔ Protects against fading
✔ Safe for color-treated hair
✔ 5. Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo
Best for: Repairing and toning blonde hair
Olaplex is famous for its bond-repair technology. This purple shampoo not only tones brassiness but also strengthens damaged hair.
✔ Gently removes brassiness
✔ Repairs chemically treated hair
✔ Adds shine and moisture
4. How to Use Purple or Blue Shampoo for Best Results
Step 1: Wet Your Hair Thoroughly
Make sure your hair is completely soaked before applying the shampoo.
Step 2: Apply Shampoo Evenly
✔ Use purple shampoo for blonde or silver hair
✔ Use blue shampoo for light brown or highlighted brunettes
Massage it into your scalp and let it sit for 3-5 minutes. If your hair is very brassy leave it for up to 10 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle and enhance shine.
Step 4: Follow with Conditioner
Since toning shampoos can be drying always use a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask.
5. How Often Should You Use Purple or Blue Shampoo?
✔ For light brassiness: Use once a week
✔ For moderate brassiness: Use twice a week
✔ For strong brassiness: Use every other wash but don’t overuse it—too much can turn hair purple or blue
6. Tips to Prevent Brassy Hair
Keeping your hair toned isn’t just about using the right shampoo. Here are other ways to prevent brassiness:
✔ Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Regular shampoos can strip away color faster.
✔ Avoid Hard Water – Minerals in tap water cause brassiness; use a water filter if needed.
✔ Protect Hair from Sun Exposure – UV rays can cause oxidation so use a UV-protectant spray.
✔ Limit Heat Styling – Too much heat damages color-treated hair so use a heat protectant spray.
✔ Deep Condition Regularly – Keep hair hydrated and healthy with a nourishing hair mask.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use purple shampoo on brown hair?
If you have light brown hair with highlights or balayage purple shampoo may help but blue shampoo is more effective for neutralizing orange tones in brunettes.
2. Why is my hair turning purple from purple shampoo?
If you leave purple shampoo on for too long or use it too often it can stain your hair purple. To fix this wash with regular shampoo a few times to fade the color.
3. Can I use blue shampoo every day?
No. Overusing blue shampoo can leave a blue tint on your hair. Stick to once or twice a week for the best results.
4. What is the difference between silver shampoo and purple shampoo?
Silver shampoo is similar to purple shampoo but is specifically designed for gray silver or white hair to enhance brightness and remove dullness.
5. Can I mix purple shampoo with regular shampoo?
Yes! If you want a less intense toning effect you can mix purple shampoo with a regular shampoo to dilute the pigment.
8. Which Shampoo is Best for You?
Choosing the best shampoo for brassy hair depends on your hair type and color:
✔ For blonde platinum or silver hair → Use purple shampoo
✔ For brunettes with highlights or balayage → Use blue shampoo
✔ For extra hydration and repair → Try Olaplex No.4P or Redken Blondage
By using the right toning shampoo and following proper hair care tips you can keep your hair cool-toned vibrant and brass-free!
