💜Purple Shampoo 101: How to Use It Without Overdoing It💜
How Often Should You Use Purple Shampoo?
If you’re blonde, silver, highlighted, or embracing natural grey, chances are you’ve heard of purple shampoo. It’s a staple for maintaining bright, cool-toned hair—but using it too often (or not enough) can actually work against you.
So how often should you be using purple shampoo? Let’s break it down.
What Does Purple Shampoo Do?
Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that help neutralize yellow and brassy tones in light hair. Since purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel, it cancels out unwanted warmth and keeps blondes looking brighter and cooler.
It’s important to remember: purple shampoo is a toning product, not an everyday cleanser.
The General Rule
For most people, using purple shampoo once or twice per week is ideal.
This is enough to maintain tone without over-depositing pigment or drying out the hair.
On the days you’re not using purple shampoo, stick to a hydrating or colour-safe shampoo to keep your hair balanced and healthy.
Signs You’re Using Purple Shampoo Too Often
Hair looks dull or slightly grey
Hair feels dry or brittle
Tone appears muddy or flat
If you notice these signs, cut back and focus on moisture.
Signs You May Need It More Often
Hair turns yellow quickly
You spend lots of time in the sun or chlorine
You heat style frequently
In these cases, you might benefit from using purple shampoo 2–3 times per week, depending on your hair’s condition.
Hair Type Matters
Fine or porous hair:
Absorbs pigment quickly. Stick to once a week.
Thick or coarse hair:
Can usually tolerate twice a week.
Very light blondes or grey hair:
May need slightly more frequent use, but always monitor tone.
How to Use Purple Shampoo Properly
Wet hair thoroughly
Apply purple shampoo evenly
Let sit for 1–3 minutes (or follow product instructions)
Rinse well
Always follow with conditioner or a mask
Stylist tip: If your hair feels dry, alternate purple shampoo with a moisturizing shampoo and try a purple conditioner instead.
Purple Shampoo Is Not a Replacement for Toner
Purple shampoo helps maintain your tone between appointments, but it does not replace professional toner. If your blonde is looking off, a quick in-salon gloss or toner will refresh your colour far more effectively.
Our favourite?
We recommend Kevin Murphy’s purple shampoo because it neutralizes brassiness while keeping hair soft, hydrated, and bright—never dry or dull 💜✨
With a gentle, sulfate-free formula it corrects tone and boosts shine without stripping—one of our go-to purple shampoos at Cabello Salon.
Final Thoughts
Purple shampoo is a powerful tool when used correctly. Think of it as a maintenance product, not a daily essential. Finding the right balance will keep your blonde bright, healthy, and beautiful.
Not sure how often you should be using it? Ask your stylist at Cabello Salon—we’re happy to personalize your routine.