To tone gold hair, a common and effective method is using a purple shampoo. This works based on the principle of color theory to neutralize unwanted warm tones.
Understanding Toning for Gold Hair
When hair is lightened or colored, unwanted warm tones like yellow (gold) or orange can sometimes appear. Toning is the process of correcting these brassy hues to achieve a cooler, more neutral, or ashier shade. For gold or yellow tones specifically, the key is to use the color that sits opposite yellow on the color wheel.
Why Purple Shampoo Works
The provided reference states: "Purple shampoo works by the concept of color theory. On the color wheel, purple is opposite yellow. That means the violet pigments in purple toning shampoos can neutralize unwanted yellow hair."
This color relationship is fundamental to understanding how purple shampoo combats gold tones. The violet pigments in the shampoo deposit a small amount of color onto the hair strands, effectively counteracting the brassy yellow.
Similarly, the reference notes: "blue is the opposite of orange on the color wheel." While purple targets yellow, blue toners or shampoos are used to neutralize orange tones. Since gold hair primarily has yellow undertones, purple is the go-to color for toning.
How to Use Purple Shampoo
Using purple shampoo is straightforward and can be done as part of your regular hair care routine.
- Wet Hair: Start by thoroughly wetting your hair.
- Apply Shampoo: Apply the purple shampoo, focusing on the areas that appear most brassy or golden.
- Lather: Gently lather the shampoo into your hair.
- Let it Sit: Allow the shampoo to sit for the time recommended on the product label. This can range from 1-5 minutes, or sometimes longer for more intense toning, depending on the product and the desired result. Start with a shorter time if you are new to using purple shampoo to avoid over-toning.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Follow Up: Condition your hair as usual.
Note: The frequency of use depends on how quickly brassiness returns and the strength of the product. Some people use it once a week, while others use it less often. Overuse can sometimes lead to a purple tint, especially on very porous or light hair.
Toning Methods Overview
| Method | Target Tone | Principle | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Shampoo | Yellow (Gold) | Purple neutralizes yellow | Washing hair |
| Blue Shampoo | Orange | Blue neutralizes orange | Washing hair |
| Toners (Demi/Semi-Permanent) | Yellow, Orange, Red | Specialized formulas with developers or activators | Professional or at-home application |
While purple shampoo is ideal for neutralizing gold (yellow) tones, more stubborn brassiness or specific desired shades (like ash) might require professional toning treatments with demi or semi-permanent toners. However, for correcting typical gold or yellow brassiness at home, purple shampoo is the primary tool.
Using purple shampoo regularly helps maintain cooler tones in blonde, silver, or lightened brown hair, preventing unwanted gold from overpowering the desired shade.
