Quick answer
Blonde shampoo (like purple shampoo) uses violet pigments to neutralize yellow and brassy tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair. Color protecting shampoo is formulated to be gentle on all dyed hair, helping any color last longer without fading. Your choice depends on whether your main concern is brassiness or general color longevity.
What each shampoo is designed to do
Blonde shampoos are a subset of color-depositing shampoos. They contain violet or blue pigments that counteract warm tones. This is essential for anyone with blonde, highlighted, or gray hair who wants to keep the shade cool and bright.
Color protecting shampoos are sulfate-free and often contain UV filters or antioxidants. They do not deposit color; instead, they clean gently so the dye you already have stays vibrant longer. They work for any hair color, from reds to brunettes.
When to use each one
If you see brassiness or a yellow cast in your blonde or gray hair, a blonde shampoo is the targeted fix. Use it once or twice a week in place of your regular shampoo, leaving it on for 2–5 minutes.
If your dyed hair is fading evenly or you want to stretch time between salon visits, a color protecting shampoo is your daily driver. It won't alter the tone, just prolong the life of your current color.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Blonde shampoo (e.g., purple shampoo): Deposits violet pigments to cancel yellow/brass tones. Works best on light blonde, silver, or gray hair. Can over-darken very pale or platinum hair if left on too long. Use 1–2 times per week and adjust leave-in time based on how brassy your hair is.
- Color protecting shampoo: Gentle, sulfate-free formula that minimizes fading for all hair colors. Does not change the tone of your hair. Less effective at removing brassiness. Use daily or as your regular shampoo to maintain color vibrancy across all shades.
- Can you use both?: Yes. Use color protecting shampoo on most wash days and substitute with blonde shampoo once a week when you notice brassiness. This gives you the best of both worlds. Alternate between the two based on your hair's needs rather than mixing them in one wash.
Product facts
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SUNSET BLVD Blonde Shampoo: SUNSET BLVD Blonde Shampoo makes blondes extra bright and grays fantastically silver—all without the brassy tones. It is a dedicated blonde shampoo that actively neutralizes brassiness while cleansing, so you don't need a separate toner.
SUNSET BLVD Blonde Shampoo
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Blonde, highlighted, or gray hair that looks yellow or brassy
- Anyone who wants a cool-toned finish without a salon toner
Not for
- Red, brunette, or pastel dyed hair that needs general color protection without tone change
- Very pale platinum hair that could be stained by purple pigments
