Does Purple Shampoo Work on Black Dyed Hair?

Purple shampoo is primarily utilized to neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde and light-colored hair. However, its effectiveness on black dyed hair varies significantly based on several factors. In this article, we will explore when and how purple shampoo can influence black hair, along with its limitations and potential outcomes.

Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Purple Shampoo on Black Hair

Underlying Tones: If the black dye contains warm tones such as red or orange, purple shampoo might help in toning these colors down slightly. However, its impact on dark hair overall is minimal. This is due to the nature of black dye, which is designed to mask any underlying tones.

Type of Black Dye: Shampoos designed for neutralizing brassiness are more effective on cool blue-black shades. If the black dye is of a cool tone, purple shampoo may not be necessary as the color is already balanced. This suggests that the primary objective of purple shampoo is not relevant for hair that is already dark and cool tones.

Hair Health: Lightened sections or highlighted hair beneath black dye may benefit from using purple shampoo. This is particularly important for maintaining highlights by preventing brassiness from developing. Purple shampoo can serve as a counteraction to unwanted yellow or brassy tones that can appear in these lighter sections.

Frequency of Use and Potential Risks

Frequency of Use: Overuse of purple shampoo on dark hair can lead to a dull appearance. This is because purple pigments can deposit and alter the overall color of the hair, making it appear too dark or even purplish. Therefore, it is important to use it sparingly and only when necessary.

Alternatives to Purple Shampoo: For those looking to maintain a healthy balance of colors, consider using a conditioner with more color pigment. Colored conditioners often have a higher concentration of pigmentation than shampoos, making them a more effective alternative for maintaining and enhancing hair color.

Conclusion

While purple shampoo can have some effect on black dyed hair, particularly in cases where there are lighter sections or warm undertones, its overall effectiveness is limited and may not achieve the desired results as on blonde or light-colored hair. If the goal is to add a purplish tint, consider using a purple color depositing conditioner or even a permanent purple hair dye. These would provide a more visible and lasting effect.

Key Takeaways:

Purple shampoo can help with brassiness in black hair, particularly if there are lighter or warm undertones. Its effectiveness is less pronounced on cool, dark hair. Using too much purple shampoo can lead to a dull or purplish appearance. Colored conditioners may offer a more effective alternative for maintaining hair color.