5 Different Methods to Get Purple Shampoo Out of Hair [EXPLAINED]

Purple shampoo staining your hair can feel frustrating, but don’t worry—it’s a common issue with simple solutions. Whether your hair turned too purple after using purple shampoo or you left it on too long, there are safe and effective ways to restore your natural color.

Many people experience purple tints after using purple shampoo. This happens because of how the product works with your hair’s current color and condition. The good news? Purple shampoo stains are temporary, and you can remove them at home using methods that won’t damage your hair.

Before we dive into removal methods, let’s understand why purple shampoo is so popular despite this common problem.

Why Do People Use Purple Shampoo?

Purple shampoo is a toning product designed to counteract unwanted warm tones in light-colored hair. Here’s what it does:

Photo	Popular Hair Product	Price
	Kkioor 24 Inch Chocolate Brown Human Hair Wig 200 Density Body Wave Lace Front Wigs Human Hair Pre Plucked 13X4 HD Frontal Wig 4# Colored Brown Wig For Women Glueless Wigs	Check Price On Amazon
	KingSup 613 Lace Front Wig Human Hair Pre Plucked 250 Density 26 Inch 5x5 HD Lace Closure Straight Blonde Wig Human Hair, 100% Real Human Hair without Synthetic Blend Tangle Free Triple Lifespan 3X	Check Price On Amazon
	WIGCHIC 16" Kinky Curly Half Wig Human Hair Burgundy & Dark Roots | Flip-Over Drawstring | Seamless 4C Hairline | True Length | 3-in-1 Styling | Beginner Friendly (T1B/99J)	Check Price On Amazon
	Hair Removal Cream for Men & Women: Painless Depilatory for Sensitive Skin & Intimate Areas, Moisturizing with Aloe Vera & Vitamin E, Safe for Face, Underarms, Bikini, Arms (3.7 Fl Oz (Pack of 2))	Check Price On Amazon
	ZOOLY PROFESSIONAL Ginger Shampoo and Conditioner Sets 20.3 Fl Oz- Anti Hair Loss and Nourishes Hair Roots, Salon Level Scalp Care for Men and Women	Check Price On Amazon
	LUSN Baby Hair Clippers with Vacuum, Quiet Hair Trimmers for Kids, IPX7 Waterproof Rechargeable Cordless Haircut Kit for Baby Children Infant	Check Price On Amazon
	LURA Dual Voltage Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser,Travel Blow Dryer Mini with EU Plug and UK Plug,Lightweight Portable Hairdryers with Folding Handle,1200W Compact Small Blowdryers for Women	Check Price On Amazon

• Neutralizes brassy, orange, and yellow tones in blonde, silver, and gray hair
• Gives hair a cooler, ashier tone
• Removes yellow discoloration from bleached or highlighted hair
• Keeps blonde hair looking fresh and bright between salon visits

Purple shampoo works using color theory. Purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel, so it cancels out yellow tones. However, when used incorrectly or left on too long, it can deposit too much purple pigment into your hair.

Why Does Purple Shampoo Turn Hair Purple?

Understanding why this happens helps you prevent it in the future. Here are the main causes:

Common Causes of Purple Staining

• Leaving it on too long: Most purple shampoos should stay on hair for only 3-5 minutes. Leaving them longer allows too much pigment to absorb.
• Using it too frequently: Daily use can build up purple pigment over time.
• Hair is too porous: Damaged, bleached, or very light hair absorbs color more easily.
• No warm tones to neutralize: If your hair is already very cool-toned or white-blonde, there’s nothing for the purple to cancel out, so it just deposits color instead.
• Using a highly pigmented formula: Some purple shampoos contain more pigment than others.

Who Is Most At Risk?

Certain hair types are more likely to turn purple:

• Platinum blonde hair with minimal yellow tones
• Bleached or chemically lightened hair
• Naturally very light blonde or silver hair
• Hair with high porosity from damage or processing
• Gray or white hair

5 Effective Methods to Remove Purple Shampoo From Hair

Removing purple tint requires gentle but effective methods. The key is stripping the deposited color pigment without damaging your hair. Here are five proven methods, listed from gentlest to strongest.

Method 1: Clarifying Shampoo & Deep Conditioner

Best for: Mild to moderate purple tinting

Items needed:

• Clarifying shampoo
• Deep conditioner or hair mask
• Warm water

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water. Warm water opens the hair cuticle, helping release trapped pigment.
2. Apply clarifying shampoo generously to your hair, focusing on the purple-stained areas.
3. Massage into your scalp and through your hair for 2-3 minutes.
4. Rinse completely with warm water.
5. Repeat the shampooing process 2-3 times in the same session.
6. Apply a deep conditioner or intensive hair mask.
7. Leave the conditioner on for 5-10 minutes.
8. Rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle.
9. Repeat this process 2-3 times per week until the purple fades.

How it works: Clarifying shampoos contain stronger cleansing agents than regular shampoos. They’re designed to remove product buildup, excess oils, and temporary color deposits. They work by opening the hair cuticle and lifting out trapped pigments.

Important notes: Clarifying shampoos can be drying because they strip everything from your hair—including natural oils. Always follow with a moisturizing deep conditioner. Don’t use clarifying shampoo more than 3 times per week, as overuse can damage hair.

Recommended Clarifying Shampoos: 
1. ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo
2. BIOLAGE Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo
3. Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo

Recommended Deep Conditioners: 
1. Dove Nutritive Solutions Conditioner
2. Creme of Nature Intensive Conditioner
3. L'Oreal Paris Elvive Deep Conditioner

Method 2: Baking Soda Treatment

Best for: Moderate purple staining, natural method

Items needed:

• 2-3 tablespoons baking soda
• 2-3 crushed vitamin C tablets (ascorbic acid)
• Regular shampoo
• Small mixing bowl
• Deep conditioner

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Crush 2-3 vitamin C tablets into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
2. Mix the vitamin C powder with 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl.
3. Wet your hair with warm water.
4. Apply regular shampoo and work it through your hair to create a lather.
5. Add the baking soda and vitamin C mixture directly to the shampooed hair.
6. Massage the mixture thoroughly into all purple-stained areas for 2-3 minutes.
7. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Check progress periodically.
8. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
9. Apply a deep conditioner and leave on for 10-15 minutes.
10. Rinse with cool water.
11. Repeat 1-2 times per week until purple is gone.

How it works: Baking soda is mildly alkaline and acts as a gentle abrasive. It raises the hair’s pH level, opening the cuticle and helping release color molecules. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is acidic and helps break down color deposits, especially purple and blue pigments.

Important notes: This method can be drying. Always use a moisturizing conditioner afterward. Don’t use this method more than twice per week. If you have very dry or damaged hair, skip the baking soda and use only vitamin C mixed with shampoo.

Method 3: Lemon Juice and Conditioner

Best for: Mild staining, gradual removal

Items needed:

• Fresh lemon juice (from 2-3 lemons) or bottled lemon juice
• Conditioner
• Small mixing bowl
• Wide-tooth comb

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of conditioner. Adjust proportions based on hair length.
2. Wash your hair with regular shampoo and rinse completely.
3. Apply the lemon juice mixture to damp hair, focusing on purple areas.
4. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute evenly through your hair.
5. Leave the mixture on for 30-45 minutes. For faster results, sit in sunlight during this time (sunlight activates the lemon’s lightening properties).
6. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
7. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
8. Repeat once per week until the purple fades.

How it works: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which lowers the hair’s pH and helps strip away color deposits. It also has mild bleaching properties that can lighten pigment. The conditioner in the mixture prevents excessive drying.

Important notes: Lemon juice can lighten your natural hair color slightly with repeated use. It can also be drying, so limit use to once weekly. Never apply lemon juice to your scalp, as it can cause irritation. Always rinse thoroughly and condition well.

Method 4: Dishwashing Liquid

Best for: Stubborn purple staining, quick results

Items needed:

• Clear or yellow dishwashing liquid (Dawn is commonly recommended)
• Deep conditioner or hair mask
• Warm water

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
2. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid (about the size of a quarter) to your palms.
3. Work it through your hair, focusing on purple-stained sections.
4. Massage gently to create a lather. Add more water if needed.
5. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
6. Rinse very thoroughly with warm water. Make sure all dish soap is removed.
7. Immediately apply a generous amount of deep conditioner or hair mask.
8. Leave conditioner on for at least 10-15 minutes.
9. Rinse with cool water.
10. Repeat 2-3 times per week until purple is removed.

How it works: Dishwashing liquid is formulated to cut through grease and remove residue—much stronger than regular shampoo. It strips away oils, buildup, and color deposits very effectively. However, it also strips all moisture from your hair.

Important notes: This method is harsh and very drying. Only use it if gentler methods haven’t worked. Never skip the deep conditioning step. Use a clear or yellow dish soap—avoid soaps with added moisturizers or colors. Don’t use this method more than 3 times per week.

Method 5: Hydrogen Peroxide (Use With Caution)

Best for: Severe staining, emergency situations only

Items needed:

• 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind used for cuts, not developer)
• Clarifying shampoo or regular shampoo
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Wide-tooth comb
• Deep conditioner
• Gloves

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Put on gloves to protect your hands.
2. In a spray bottle, mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide (3% solution), 2 parts shampoo, and 2 parts water.
3. Shake well to combine.
4. Apply to dry hair, spraying only on purple-stained sections. Avoid your scalp.
5. Comb through with a wide-tooth comb to distribute evenly.
6. Check your hair every 3-5 minutes. Do not leave on longer than 10 minutes total.
7. As soon as you see the purple fading, rinse immediately with cool water.
8. Shampoo with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
9. Apply a deep conditioning treatment and leave on for 15-20 minutes.
10. Rinse thoroughly.

How it works: Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that breaks down color molecules. It’s the same ingredient used in hair bleach and dye removers, though at a much lower concentration. It works quickly but can cause damage if used incorrectly.

Important notes: This is the harshest method and should be used only as a last resort. Hydrogen peroxide can lighten your natural hair color and cause damage. Never use concentrations higher than 3%. Do not apply to your scalp—it can cause irritation or burns. Always do a strand test first on a hidden section of hair. If you have dark hair or recently dyed hair, this method may cause unwanted lightening. Do not use this method more than once.

Comparison Table: Which Method Should You Use?

What Happens If You Leave Purple Shampoo On Too Long?

Leaving purple shampoo on your hair longer than recommended can cause several problems:

Immediate Effects

• Purple or violet tint: Hair can turn light purple, lavender, or grayish-purple
• Uneven color: Some sections may absorb more pigment than others, creating a patchy look
• Overly cool tone: Hair may look dull or ashy instead of bright

Hair Texture Changes

• Dryness: Purple shampoos often contain stronger surfactants that strip moisture
• Brittle texture: Hair may feel rough, straw-like, or crunchy
• Tangling: Dried-out hair tangles more easily
• Increased breakage: Dry, brittle hair breaks more readily during brushing or styling

Recommended Application Times

To prevent staining, follow these guidelines:

• For very light blonde or platinum hair: 1-3 minutes maximum
• For blonde or highlighted hair: 3-5 minutes
• For gray or silver hair: 3-7 minutes
• For darker blonde or brassy hair: 5-10 minutes

Always start with less time and increase gradually if needed. Set a timer—don’t estimate.

How to Prevent Purple Shampoo Staining

Prevention is easier than removal. Follow these tips to avoid purple tints:

Before Using Purple Shampoo

• Assess your hair color: If your hair is very light with no yellow tones, you may not need purple shampoo at all
• Check hair porosity: Highly porous hair absorbs color faster—reduce application time accordingly
• Do a strand test: Test the shampoo on a small, hidden section first to see how your hair reacts
• Wet hair thoroughly: Make sure hair is completely saturated before applying purple shampoo—this dilutes the pigment

During Application

• Use less product: Start with a small amount—you can always add more
• Dilute it: Mix purple shampoo with regular shampoo for less intense color deposit
• Apply evenly: Make sure the product is distributed evenly to avoid splotchy results
• Set a timer: Never guess—use a timer and check your hair 1 minute before the timer goes off
• Keep it moving: Don’t let product sit concentrated in one spot—massage and move it through your hair

Frequency Guidelines

• Platinum or very light blonde: Once per week maximum
• Blonde or highlighted hair: 1-2 times per week
• Gray or silver hair: 2-3 times per week
• Brassy or yellow-toned hair: 2-3 times per week until desired tone is reached, then reduce to once per week

Alternating Products

Rotate purple shampoo with other hair care products:

• Use regular shampoo between purple shampoo applications
• Follow every purple shampoo use with a moisturizing conditioner or deep conditioner
• Use a clarifying shampoo once per month to prevent buildup

Aftercare: Restoring Hair Health Post-Removal

After removing purple tones, your hair may need extra care to restore moisture and health.

Immediate Aftercare (First 3 Days)

• Use a moisturizing hair mask daily
• Avoid heat styling tools
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to damp hair
• Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction
• Don’t wash your hair daily—let natural oils return

Weekly Maintenance

• Deep condition once or twice per week
• Use protein treatments if hair feels weak or elastic
• Trim split ends to prevent further damage
• Avoid chemical treatments (coloring, perming, relaxing) for at least 2 weeks

Long-Term Hair Health

• Switch to sulfate-free shampoos to prevent dryness
• Use a heat protectant spray before any heat styling
• Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks
• Take hair vitamins (biotin, collagen) if recommended by your doctor
• Protect hair from sun damage with UV-protective products or hats

When to See a Professional

Sometimes DIY methods aren’t enough. Consider seeing a hairstylist if:

• The purple staining is severe and home methods haven’t worked after 2 weeks
• Your hair is extremely damaged from removal attempts
• You have uneven, patchy purple areas that look splotchy
• Your hair has turned an unexpected color (green, blue, or dark purple)
• You experience scalp irritation, burning, or hair loss
• You’re unsure which method is safe for your hair type

A professional colorist can use color correction techniques and professional-grade products to safely remove unwanted purple tones without causing damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for purple shampoo stains to fade naturally?

Purple shampoo stains typically fade on their own within 1-3 weeks with regular washing. The exact time depends on your hair’s porosity, how much pigment deposited, and how often you wash your hair. Using warm water and regular shampoo will gradually remove the purple tint without any special treatment.

Can purple shampoo permanently damage your hair?

Purple shampoo itself won’t permanently damage your hair, but frequent use can cause dryness and brittleness. The purple color is not permanent and will wash out. However, if your hair becomes very dry from overuse, it may lead to breakage and split ends, which require trimming to fix.

Will regular shampoo remove purple tint?

Yes, regular shampoo will eventually remove purple tint, but it takes longer than using clarifying shampoo or other removal methods. Washing your hair 5-10 times with regular shampoo will gradually fade the purple. This is the gentlest option for very damaged or fragile hair.

Can you use purple shampoo on non-blonde hair?

Purple shampoo is designed for light-colored hair (blonde, silver, gray, or platinum). Using it on brown, black, or red hair won’t have any visible effect because the hair isn’t light enough for the purple pigment to show. However, it won’t damage darker hair—it just won’t do anything useful.

Why did my hair turn gray after using purple shampoo?

Hair can look gray or ashy when too much purple pigment deposits on very light blonde or platinum hair. This happens because the purple is neutralizing the warm tones that give blonde hair its golden appearance. The result looks grayish or dull. Using a removal method will restore your hair’s brighter tone.

Is purple shampoo the same as blue shampoo?

No, purple and blue shampoos serve different purposes. Purple shampoo neutralizes yellow tones in blonde, silver, or gray hair. Blue shampoo neutralizes orange and brassy tones in brunette or darker blonde hair. Using the wrong one won’t damage your hair, but it won’t give you the results you want. If you’re dealing with blue tones, check out our guide on how to get blue shampoo out of hair.

Can I use toner to fix purple hair from purple shampoo?

Using toner on hair that’s already purple from purple shampoo isn’t recommended. Toner works best on freshly bleached hair and may not effectively neutralize purple pigment—it could even make the color worse or turn your hair an unexpected shade. It’s better to remove the purple first using the methods above, then use toner if needed to adjust your tone.

Does hot or cold water remove purple shampoo better?

Warm (not hot) water is best for removing purple pigment because it opens the hair cuticle, allowing trapped color to escape. Cold water seals the cuticle, which locks color in. However, you should rinse with cool water as a final step after conditioning to seal the cuticle and add shine. Avoid very hot water, which can damage hair and cause additional dryness.

Can I dye my hair after using purple shampoo removal methods?

Wait at least 1-2 weeks before coloring your hair after using purple shampoo removal methods, especially if you used hydrogen peroxide or baking soda. These methods can dry out your hair, and applying hair dye to already-stressed hair increases the risk of damage and uneven color results. Use deep conditioning treatments during the waiting period to restore hair health first.

Final Thoughts

Purple shampoo stains are frustrating but temporary and fixable. The key is choosing the right removal method for your hair type and the severity of staining. Start with gentler methods like clarifying shampoo and work up to stronger options only if needed.

Remember to prioritize hair health throughout the removal process. Always follow up with deep conditioning treatments, and don’t rush the process by using harsh methods too frequently. Purple pigment will fade with time, patience, and the right approach.

To avoid future problems, use purple shampoo carefully—less is more, and timing is everything. If you’re interested in other hair color topics, you might want to learn how to properly dye your hair purple or discover what color purple hair fades to over time.

Photo	Popular Hair Product	Price
	Kkioor 24 Inch Chocolate Brown Human Hair Wig 200 Density Body Wave Lace Front Wigs Human Hair Pre Plucked 13X4 HD Frontal Wig 4# Colored Brown Wig For Women Glueless Wigs	Check Price On Amazon
	KingSup 613 Lace Front Wig Human Hair Pre Plucked 250 Density 26 Inch 5x5 HD Lace Closure Straight Blonde Wig Human Hair, 100% Real Human Hair without Synthetic Blend Tangle Free Triple Lifespan 3X	Check Price On Amazon
	WIGCHIC 16" Kinky Curly Half Wig Human Hair Burgundy & Dark Roots | Flip-Over Drawstring | Seamless 4C Hairline | True Length | 3-in-1 Styling | Beginner Friendly (T1B/99J)	Check Price On Amazon
	Hair Removal Cream for Men & Women: Painless Depilatory for Sensitive Skin & Intimate Areas, Moisturizing with Aloe Vera & Vitamin E, Safe for Face, Underarms, Bikini, Arms (3.7 Fl Oz (Pack of 2))	Check Price On Amazon
	ZOOLY PROFESSIONAL Ginger Shampoo and Conditioner Sets 20.3 Fl Oz- Anti Hair Loss and Nourishes Hair Roots, Salon Level Scalp Care for Men and Women	Check Price On Amazon
	LUSN Baby Hair Clippers with Vacuum, Quiet Hair Trimmers for Kids, IPX7 Waterproof Rechargeable Cordless Haircut Kit for Baby Children Infant	Check Price On Amazon
	LURA Dual Voltage Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser,Travel Blow Dryer Mini with EU Plug and UK Plug,Lightweight Portable Hairdryers with Folding Handle,1200W Compact Small Blowdryers for Women	Check Price On Amazon