Try This DIY Hack When You Run Out Of Purple Shampoo

If you have blonde or silver hair, naturally or otherwise, you're probably already all too familiar with the importance of toning using purple shampoo. Recommended to be used weekly, or when your hair is starting to look brassy, experts note that purple shampoo can bring back its radiance and keep your locks looking fresh.

According to professional colorist Richy Kandasamy, the reason why purple shampoo is used for toning is that its pigment helps in keeping brassy tones at bay. "The main reason it is purple is because on the color wheel, it is the direct opposite color of yellow, which means purple and yellow will cancel one another out," Kandasamy told Vogue. "So, when using purple pigment on color-treated brassy or yellow tones, it color-corrects your hair's hue, restoring it to its former natural or neutral brightness with cooler tones."

As a result, your hair color remains vibrant, saving you frequent trips to the salon. While purple shampoo is commercially available and can easily be purchased from most beauty stores, the best ones don't come in cheap. There may also be an unlucky day when you run out and can't source a replacement. In case that happens, or if you want to save money, the good news is you can create toning solutions at home with items that are already likely in your kitchen.

If you're tired of store-bought purple shampoo and wish to try an alternative you've concocted on your own, it turns out that making purple shampoo at home isn't very difficult. You can formulate your own bottle with any moisturizing shampoo and purple food coloring, ideally one that is of high quality. A purple semi-permanent dye can also work, but it should be noted that it may not be as easy to source as food coloring.

Now, depending on how brassy your hair is, you might have to adjust the concentration of the food coloring. The brassier your locks are, the more drops of dye the mixture needs. If unsure, you can start with two to three drops and mix it with an entire bottle of normal shampoo. You can add more drops if you deem the color not deep enough, or if your hair direly needs serious toning. 

Since it's DIY shampoo, it may take some trial and error, so your mileage may vary. You also can't expect to have the same exact results and consistency with purple shampoos you can buy from stores, but at least you have an alternative in case you want to try something new.

You know how you can use apple cider vinegar for your face? Apparently, you can use the popular ingredient on your hair, too. The research behind it is still murky, but there are claims that it has the ability to counter brassiness from your hair, as well as deliver a deep cleanse. Mbglifestyle notes that since it's slightly acidic, meaning it can lower the pH balance in your locks and make it less dry.

When it comes to washing your hair with apple cider vinegar, just be sure to dilute it with water and coat your head evenly. Allow the solution to sit for up to five minutes before rinsing it off and following up with a conditioner. 

In terms of results, naturopathic doctor Dr. Tess Marshall pointed out that you should manage your expectations. You can't expect it to deliver the same results as specially formulated hair products do. "Something to know when switching to natural hair care is that drastic changes in color are usually not possible," she said.