The 6 Best Purple Shampoos We Tested: Amika, Kristen Ess, and More
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Blondes, whether natural or salon-crafted, know the struggle of maintaining the perfect shade of blonde amidst brassiness and dullness. Purple shampoos have long been the secret weapon for combating these issues at home. After testing 25 popular purple shampoos in the market, we have found the top 6 that truly beat the brass and deliver salon-worthy results.
As a senior shopping writer for PEOPLE, I have personally tried at least five purple shampoos on my own bleached and dyed hair. My family heritage rooted in haircare traditions, with my nana owning a beauty salon and my mum passing down her blonde-enhancing habits, has made hair maintenance a key part of my life for the past 13 years.
The quest for the best purple shampoo led us to dpHue Cool Blonde Shampoo, which stood out as the Best Overall pick in our testing. This violet formula not only cleanses effectively but also corrects brassiness without leaving any stains behind. Testers praised its ability to leave hair soft, smooth, and shiny, akin to a fresh salon finish, making it worth the $28 investment.
For those on a budget, Kristen Ess The One Purple Shampoo emerged as the Best Drugstore option, providing an ashy tone even for those with medium brown hair. The affordable price point of $12 and the impressive colour-correcting results made it a standout choice, despite some testers finding it slightly drying and the instructions unclear.
If you are embracing your natural grays, Better Not Younger Silver Lining Purple Shampoo was deemed the Best for Gray Hair. Testers noticed a significant improvement in the shade of gray, along with reduced frizziness and a clean, flowery scent. Though a bit pricier than other options, the benefits for gray hair made it a worthwhile choice at $29.
Amika Bust Your Brass Shampoo shone as the Best for Bleached Hair, effectively hydrating and softening hair while toning down brassiness. Pricier at $28, testers with bleached hair found this formula to deliver visible cooling effects, surpassing their expectations compared to other purple shampoos tried in the past.
For highlighted hair, IGK Blonde POP Purple Toning Shampoo was a top choice, subtly reducing warm tones and brightening hair colour. Testers noted enhanced hydration and less frizz with regular use, although some staining issues were reported. At $32, this shampoo offered visible results and a clean feel to the hair.
Nexxus Blonde Assure Color Toning Purple Shampoo was identified as the Best for Natural Blondes, with its keratin protein-infused formula transforming yellow tones and extending time between salon appointments. Easy to use and confidence-boosting, this shampoo retails for $17, providing a cost-effective solution for maintaining blonde hues.
Alongside our top picks, six others received honourable mentions for their performance in toning and nourishing hair. Pureology, Kérastase, Moroccanoil, Olaplex, Verb, and Oribe all offered unique benefits for different hair types and concerns, showcasing the diversity in the purple shampoo market.
In conclusion, the quest for the perfect purple shampoo can now be made easier with our curated list of the top performers. Whether you’re dealing with brassiness, maintaining natural blondes, or seeking hydration for bleached hair, there is a purple shampoo out there to meet your needs and elevate your haircare routine. Let your blonde shine bright, free from brass, with these tried and tested purple shampoos.