If you’ve ever looked at your brown hair and wished it appeared brighter or less brassy, you might have wondered — does purple shampoo actually lighten it? This Hair Folli guide explains how it works, who benefits most, and expert-tested ways to keep brunette shades glossy and cool while protecting scalp health.
How Purple Shampoo Really Works
Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that balance unwanted warmth. When applied, those pigments coat the hair surface, cancelling yellow tones and adding visual brightness. The result is the illusion of lighter hair — not because the colour has lifted, but because warm hues are visually reduced.
When Purple Shampoo Helps Brown Hair
Not every brunette needs it. Purple shampoo works best for:
- Colour-treated or highlighted brunettes — especially with balayage or bronde ends.
- Sun-exposed hair — where UV light causes yellowing.
- Hard-water exposure — which leaves mineral buildup that warms the tone.
How to Use Purple Shampoo Safely
Technique matters more than frequency. Follow these simple steps:
- Use once a week or every second wash.
- Apply to damp hair, leaving it on for 3–5 minutes maximum.
- Focus on lighter or brassier areas.
- Rinse thoroughly, then follow with a hydrating conditioner or mask.
Purple vs Blue Shampoo for Brunette Hair
Both options target warmth but act on different undertones:
- Purple neutralises yellow tones — ideal for lighter brunettes or bronde shades.
- Blue neutralises orange/red tones — suited for darker brown hair.
Many stylists recommend alternating both to maintain balanced tones between salon appointments.
What Our Testing Showed
At Hair Folli, we wanted to see what really happens when brunettes use purple shampoo. Over eight weeks, our in-house team and stylists tested several formulas across light, medium, and dark brown shades.
| Hair Shade | Result |
|---|---|
| Light Brown & Bronde | Brassiness softened after 2–3 washes; brightness improved naturally. |
| Medium Brown | Subtle enhancement in shine and even tone; cooler glow after one month. |
| Dark Brown | No visible lightening but improved smoothness and light reflection. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving it on too long — may cause a purple tint.
- Using too often — can lead to dryness and dullness.
- Skipping conditioner — leaves hair vulnerable to breakage.
Hair Folli’s Clean Alternative for Brunette Care
For brunettes seeking balanced tone, scalp comfort, and colour longevity, Hair Folli’s vegan range provides a cleaner solution:
- Hair Folli Natural Hair Growth Shampoo – vegan, sulfate-free, and pH-balanced with caffeine, rosemary, and aloe vera to clarify without stripping colour.
- Hair Folli Conditioner & Growth Serum Set – botanical blend that hydrates and strengthens follicles, ideal for sensitive scalps and Australian climates.
Explore Hair Folli Vegan Hair Care Collection
FAQs About Purple Shampoo for Brown Hair
Does purple shampoo lighten brown hair?
No. It tones yellow and orange hues for a cooler finish but doesn’t lift pigment.
Can I use it on highlights or balayage?
Yes — it helps keep lighter sections bright and brass-free.
How often should I use it?
Once a week is ideal. Overuse may cause dryness.
What if my hair turns purple?
Rinse with a clarifying shampoo; it will fade after a couple of washes.
Should I use blue or purple shampoo?
Blue works for orange undertones; purple is best for yellow tones.
Conclusion
Purple shampoo doesn’t lighten brown hair — it refines it. By neutralising unwanted warmth, it enhances depth, shine, and tone. For healthy brunette care, trust Hair Folli’s vegan hair-care system, crafted to keep your colour radiant and strong naturally.
About Hair Folli: Hair Folli is Australia’s trusted vegan hair-care brand combining botanical science and clean innovation to support natural growth, hydration, and colour vitality — helping you feel confident in your natural hair every day.