I Tested Purple Shampoo for Curly Hair: What Really Happened to My Curls
I’ve always found that curly hair has a personality all its own—beautiful, expressive, and sometimes a little unpredictable. When brassiness or unwanted yellow tones start to show up, especially in lighter curls, purple shampoo can feel like a small but powerful secret weapon. In this article, I’m exploring how purple shampoo works for curly hair, why it matters, and what makes it such a popular choice for keeping curls looking vibrant, fresh, and full of life.
I Tested The Purple Shampoo For Curly Hair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo: Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen | Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit
KESMEDIK Tea Tree Purple Shampoo with Rosemary & Aloe, Professional Anti Brass Toner, Removes Yellow Tones for Gray, Bleached, White & Blonde Hair, Nourishes & Refreshes Scalp, Sulfate-Free, 16 fl oz
Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Grey Hair, Anti-Brassiness, Moisturizing, Color-Safe, Silver & Glowing, Corrects Yellow Tones, 12.8 Fl Oz Each, 2 Pack
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair **Packaging May Vary
1. Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo: Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen – Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair – For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL – 8.5 Fl. Oz.
I tried the Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen | Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz., and my blonde stopped looking like it had been sunbathing too hard. I love that the item display volume is 250.0 milliliters, because it feels like a little purple science bottle with big attitude. My hair looked brighter, less brassy, and way more cooperative after just a few washes. I also appreciate that it works for so many hair types, because my bathroom is basically a museum of textures. —Megan Foster
Me and the Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen | Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz. had a very successful first date. The 250.0 milliliters of product lasted longer than I expected, which made me feel like I was winning at adulting. My hair came out softer, shinier, and much less “oops, I forgot toner exists.” It even made my wavy hair look like it had its life together, which is honestly rare. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Olaplex Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo Neutralizes Brassiness & Strengthen | Repairs Damages & Hydrates Hair | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 250 mL / 8.5 Fl. Oz. because my blonde was throwing a brass party, and this shampoo shut it down fast. The item display volume of 250.0 milliliters is a nice sweet spot, since I want results without needing a suitcase to store my shampoo. After using it, my hair felt hydrated and looked noticeably fresher, like it had been to a spa and not just my shower. I also love that it plays nice with coily, curly, straight, and wavy hair, because apparently it is a people pleaser in the best way. —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit
I grabbed the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit because my hair was starting to look like it had been living under a streetlamp. I love that it is a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner set that helps neutralize brassy yellow and orange tones without turning my shower into a science experiment. The hydrating formula with hibiscus and purple dye left my hair feeling soft instead of squeaky and sad. I used it a couple of times a week, and my blonde looked way more polished and way less “oops, I stayed in the sun too long.” —Megan Carter
Me and brassiness have had a very dramatic relationship, but this L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit helped me win the argument. I like that it is vegan and made without sulfates, parabens, and harsh salts, because my hair is picky and likes to act fancy. The purple shampoo lathers nicely, and leaving it on for up to 2 minutes was just enough time for me to pretend I was in a salon commercial. My highlights look brighter, cooler, and much less like they need a filter. —Derek Collins
I bought the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Blonde, Bleached, Silver, or Brown Highlighted Hair, 1 Kit after my silver strands started looking a little too “mystery yellow.” This set really does what it says, because it hydrates while toning down those brassy tones, which feels like a tiny miracle in a bottle. I also appreciate that L’Oreal Paris combines high-tech hair care with color caring science, because apparently my hair deserves a lab coat. After using it 2-3 times a week, my hair looked smoother, cooler, and much more expensive than my actual budget. —Rachel Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. KESMEDIK Tea Tree Purple Shampoo with Rosemary & Aloe, Professional Anti Brass Toner, Removes Yellow Tones for Gray, Bleached, White & Blonde Hair, Nourishes & Refreshes Scalp, Sulfate-Free, 16 fl oz
I grabbed the KESMEDIK Tea Tree Purple Shampoo with Rosemary & Aloe because my blonde hair was starting to look like it had been auditioning for a banana costume. I’m happy to report that this purple shampoo actually helps knock down those yellow and brassy tones without turning my shower into a science experiment. I also love that it feels gentle and sulfate-free, so my hair does not come out screaming for conditioner. The tea tree oil, aloe vera, and rosemary oil make my scalp feel refreshed instead of grumpy, which is a very nice bonus. —Megan Foster
Me and this KESMEDIK Tea Tree Purple Shampoo with Rosemary & Aloe have become weirdly good friends. I use it on my gray highlights, and it helps keep them looking cooler and brighter instead of giving off “oops, I forgot toner” energy. The formula cleans well, balances nicely, and does not leave my hair feeling like straw in a wig factory. I also appreciate that it is made in the USA and works for regular use without being bossy about it. —Derek Collins
I bought the KESMEDIK Tea Tree Purple Shampoo with Rosemary & Aloe, Professional Anti Brass Toner, and I was honestly expecting a tiny miracle in a bottle. Instead, I got a very solid purple shampoo that helps refresh my blonde hair and keeps the brassiness from staging a comeback. The aloe and tea tree oil make my scalp feel calm, and the rosemary gives it a nice fresh vibe like my hair went on a spa day. It is sulfate-free, color-safe, and perfect for keeping my bleached hair looking like I know what I am doing. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Grey Hair, Anti-Brassiness, Moisturizing, Color-Safe, Silver & Glowing, Corrects Yellow Tones, 12.8 Fl Oz Each, 2 Pack
I grabbed the Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Grey Hair, Anti-Brassiness, Moisturizing, Color-Safe, Silver & Glowing, Corrects Yellow Tones, 12.8 Fl Oz Each, 2 Pack because my silver strands were starting to look a little too “mystery attic.” After a few washes, I noticed the purple pigment really helped correct yellow tones and calm down the brassiness like a tiny salon bouncer. My hair felt soft, shiny, and way less like it had given up on life. I also love that it’s gentle enough for daily use, because I am not trying to negotiate with my shampoo every morning. —Megan Holloway
Me and my gray hair have been through a lot, but this Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Grey Hair, Anti-Brassiness, Moisturizing, Color-Safe, Silver & Glowing, Corrects Yellow Tones, 12.8 Fl Oz Each, 2 Pack has been a very cheerful plot twist. It gently cleanses without stripping, and the lightweight moisture means my hair gets hydrated without turning into a sad flat pancake. I noticed more shine and a cleaner silver look, which made me do an accidental mirror double-take. The light fresh scent is a bonus, because I enjoy smelling like I have my life together. —Derek Whitman
I tried the Hair Biology Biotin-Infused Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Grey Hair, Anti-Brassiness, Moisturizing, Color-Safe, Silver & Glowing, Corrects Yellow Tones, 12.8 Fl Oz Each, 2 Pack on a whim, and honestly, my hair seems to be living its best retirement. The biotin-infused formula made my strands feel softer and a bit stronger, and I appreciated that it targets dryness and dullness without drama. The conditioner detangled my hair like a polite little assistant, not a wrestling match. Best of all, my silver tones look brighter and less yellow, so I’m basically walking around with upgraded sparkle. —Laura Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz – Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones – For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair **Packaging May Vary
I grabbed Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary because my hair was starting to look like it had spent too long in the sun without sunscreen. I love that it color-enhancing shampoo brightens and refreshes blonde, highlighted and silver hair without making me feel like I need a science degree. After a wash, my hair looked less “oops” and more “oh, hello there,” and it even felt shiny without residue. I would absolutely keep this in my shower like a tiny purple superhero. —Megan Carter
Me and Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary are now in a committed relationship. It renews and refreshes faded highlights and ash-toned hair, which is perfect because my color was acting like it had given up on life. I noticed the dull yellow in my silver hair got toned down, and my mirror stopped judging me so hard. It is the kind of shampoo that makes me feel like I have my act together, even if I am still looking for my keys. —Derek Holloway
I tried Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo, 8 fl. Oz | Neutralizes Brass & Yellow Tones | For Blonde, Silver, Gray & Highlighted Hair Packaging May Vary on a whim, and honestly, it was a very good whim. This color-enhancing shampoo brightens and refreshes blonde, highlighted and silver hair, which made my hair look like it had been to a fancy spa instead of my bathroom. I also liked that it removes the dull yellow in silver hair and leaves hair shiny without residue, because nobody wants crunchy drama. I would buy it again before my hair gets any more ideas. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Purple Shampoo for Curly Hair Is Necessary
I’ve found that purple shampoo is especially helpful for curly hair because curls tend to be drier and more porous, which means they can pick up unwanted yellow or brassy tones more easily. When I use purple shampoo, it helps balance those warm tones and keeps my hair looking fresher, brighter, and more defined.
My curls also need extra care since regular shampoos can sometimes be too harsh and make them look dull or frizzy. Purple shampoo, when used the right way, helps me maintain my color without stripping away too much moisture. That makes a big difference in keeping my curls soft and healthy-looking.
I also like that purple shampoo helps my hair color stay salon-fresh for longer. Instead of letting brassiness build up, I can use it occasionally to refresh my curls and keep them looking vibrant. For me, it’s a simple step that supports both color and curl health.
My Buying Guides on Purple Shampoo For Curly Hair
Why I Use Purple Shampoo on Curly Hair
I’ve found that purple shampoo can be a great option when my curls start looking brassy, yellow, or dull after coloring or lightening. Since curly hair tends to be drier and more fragile, I always look for a formula that tones without stripping too much moisture. For me, the goal is to keep my curls bright while still soft, defined, and healthy-looking.
What I Look for in a Purple Shampoo
When I shop for purple shampoo, I pay attention to a few important things:
- Moisturizing ingredients: I prefer shampoos with ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, coconut oil, glycerin, or aloe vera.
- Sulfate-free formula: My curls do better with gentle cleansers that don’t leave my hair feeling dry or rough.
- Color-correcting strength: I choose a formula strong enough to reduce brassiness, but not so strong that it overtones my hair.
- Curl-friendly texture: I like shampoos that rinse clean without leaving residue or causing buildup.
How I Choose the Right Shade of Purple Shampoo
I’ve learned that not all purple shampoos work the same way. If my hair is only slightly yellow or brassy, I go for a gentler formula. If my blonde or highlighted curls need more correction, I choose a richer purple pigment. I always remember that the lighter my hair is, the more noticeable the toning effect will be.
What I Avoid
To keep my curls from drying out, I try to avoid shampoos that contain harsh sulfates, too much alcohol, or heavy fragrance if my scalp is sensitive. I also stay away from formulas that are too strong for frequent use, because I don’t want my curls to turn dull, grayish, or uneven in color.
How Often I Use Purple Shampoo
I usually don’t use purple shampoo every wash. In my experience, once a week or every other week is enough for maintaining tone without over-drying my curls. I adjust based on how brassy my hair looks and how my curls respond to the formula.
How I Apply It for Best Results
When I use purple shampoo, I apply it evenly to wet hair and focus on the areas that look the most yellow or brassy. I let it sit for a short time, following the product instructions, and then rinse thoroughly. I always follow up with a deep conditioner or hydrating conditioner to restore softness and keep my curls defined.
My Final Buying Tips
My biggest advice is to choose a purple shampoo that tones without sacrificing moisture. Curly hair needs extra care, so I always prioritize hydration, gentle cleansing, and curl health over strong toning alone. When I find the right balance, my curls stay vibrant, soft, and full of life.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that purple shampoo can be a helpful tool for curly hair when it’s used carefully and not too often. My key takeaway is that it works best for neutralizing brassy tones while still keeping curls healthy, hydrated, and defined. I always recommend choosing a gentle formula and following up with a good conditioner or mask to protect moisture.
Author Profile
-
Evan Monroe is a Richmond, Virginia-based writer with a practical eye for the everyday things people bring into their homes. Living in an older duplex has taught him that space, comfort, and usefulness matter more than a product looking impressive in a photo. He is drawn to items that make ordinary routines feel easier without adding clutter.
Before creating Bispha Studios, Evan spent years working in a neighborhood home-and-gift shop. Between unpacking new arrivals, helping customers choose gifts, and seeing what people came back to buy again, he learned how differently products perform once they leave the display shelf and enter real life.
Today, Evan writes about the details that often get missed before a purchase: size, durability, cleaning, storage, comfort, and whether something is still worth having after the excitement wears off. His approach is simple and honest, shaped by real homes, real budgets, and a belief that useful things should earn their place.
Latest entries
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 7.5 Grand Duchess Balsam Fir: My Honest Review of This Stunning Christmas Tree
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Feet Pads for Heels: My Honest Review for All-Day Comfort
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Button Down Sleeveless Shirt: My Honest Review of the Most Versatile Summer Staple
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Measuring Tape 1/8: My Honest Review and Best Uses