Toner or Purple Shampoo: Which One Should You Choose for Your Hair?

When it comes to maintaining the health and color of your hair, the right products can make all the difference. Two popular options that often come up in conversation are toners and purple shampoos. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.

What is a Toner?

A toner is a hair care product designed to neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones in your hair. It works by depositing a small amount of color onto the hair shaft, which helps to balance out the natural yellow tones that can occur after using certain dyes or shampoos. Toners come in a variety of shades, from clear to purple, and can be used on all hair types, including color-treated hair.

What is a Purple Shampoo?

Purple shampoo, on the other hand, is a specialized cleaning product that is formulated to combat brassy tones in your hair. It contains purple pigments that help to cancel out the yellow tones, leaving your hair looking brighter and more vibrant. Purple shampoos are typically designed for use on color-treated hair, especially those with ash or cool tones.

How to Choose Between Toner and Purple Shampoo

Now that you understand the basics of toners and purple shampoos, how do you decide which one to use? Here are some factors to consider:

Factor	Toner	Purple Shampoo
Frequency of Use	Can be used less frequently (every 2-4 weeks)	Should be used more frequently (every 1-2 weeks)
Color Treatment	Works well on all hair types, including color-treated hair	Best for color-treated hair with ash or cool tones
Shade Options	Wide range of shades available, including clear	Typically only available in purple shades
Price	Generally more affordable	Can be more expensive due to specialized formula

As you can see, there are some key differences between toners and purple shampoos. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that can be used less frequently, a toner might be the better choice. However, if you have color-treated hair and want to maintain a bright, cool tone, a purple shampoo could be more effective.

How to Use Toner and Purple Shampoo

Using toner or purple shampoo is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each:

Using a Toner

Shampoo your hair as usual.
Apply the toner to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
Leave the toner on for the recommended time (usually 1-5 minutes), depending on the product and your hair’s needs.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Using a Purple Shampoo

Shampoo your hair as usual.
Apply the purple shampoo to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
Work the shampoo into a lather and leave it on for the recommended time (usually 1-3 minutes), depending on the product and your hair’s needs.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Remember to follow the instructions on the product label for the best results.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a toner or purple shampoo, both products can help maintain the health and color of your hair. By understanding the differences between the two and how to use them effectively, you can make an informed decision that works best for your hair type and needs.