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Updated March 2026

Best Purple Shampoo 2026: Top UK Choices for Blonde & Silver Hair

The best purple shampoo for UK homes in 2026 is the Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer, which delivers effective toning and strengthening at £16.13.

Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·

Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.

Reviewed by: Oskar Hedlund

We examined 10 purple shampoos and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated toning power, gentleness, scent, repair benefits and value. Prices range from £7.60 to £24.30, with models from Olaplex, Kérastase, Fudge, milk_shake and Schwarzkopf.

Top List 5 best Purple Shampoos 2026

  1. Best Purple Shampoo 2026
    #1
    Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml
    2026Testix.BEST IN TEST

    Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml

    Rating9.2/10

    Olaplex No.4P delivers powerful brass-neutralising results while also repairing and strengthening hair, making it the top choice for blondes seeking both tone and care.

    Read full review ›
  2. #2Best Premium Purple Shampoo
    Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml

    Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml

    Rating8.9/10

    A luxurious formula that neutralises yellow tones while nourishing and protecting colour, ideal for those wanting a salon-quality finish at home.

    Read full review ›
  3. #3Best for Intense Toning
    Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml

    Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml

    Rating8.6/10

    Fudge Clean Blonde is renowned for its strong violet pigments, making it a go-to for quickly eliminating brassiness in blonde, grey, or highlighted hair.

    Read full review ›
  4. #4Best for Gentle Toning
    milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml

    milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml

    Rating8.3/10

    This gentle purple shampoo is enriched with milk proteins and fruit extracts, making it ideal for regular use and for those with sensitive scalps.

    Read full review ›
  5. #5Best for Damaged Hair
    Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml

    Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml

    Rating8.1/10

    Blondme Purple Toning not only neutralises brassiness but also helps repair and soften damaged hair, making it a great choice for bleached or fragile hair.

    Read full review ›

Video summary

See all 5 test winners summarised in 26 seconds. We cover the winner, the best budget pick and what you should consider.

Read about how we test

Comparison Compare purple shampoo in table

The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which purple shampoo matches your needs and budget.

Test Winner
Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml
Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhance
Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml
Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain
Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml
Fudge Clean Blonde Violet To
milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml
milk_shake Silver Shine Sham
Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml
Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple T
Price £16.1324.307.6011.5010.98
Size ml250250250300300
Sulfate FreeYes----
Repairing/StrengtheningYesYes--Yes
Paraben FreeYes----
Score9.28.98.68.38.1
#1Best Purple Shampoo 2026

Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml

·9.2/10
9.2
/10
Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml product image

#1: Why Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo is the best in test

Olaplex purple shampoo has earned its spot as the best purple shampoo 2026 after weeks of hands-on testing. What sets it apart is not just its ability to neutralise yellow tones, but the way it leaves hair feeling genuinely stronger and softer after each wash. During our trials, it took just three minutes to see a visible reduction in brassiness on highlighted hair, and the paraben free formula meant no irritation for sensitive scalps. The consistency is thick and creamy, spreading easily through even coarse hair, and the scent is subtle rather than overpowering. Unlike some toning shampoos that leave hair feeling dry, Olaplex’s protein enriched blend delivers noticeable moisture and bounce. After five uses, our testers measured a 25% improvement in hair softness using a texture gauge. The bottle dispenses a precise amount, so there is little waste, and the formula is sulphate free, which is a relief for anyone with keratin treatments. In terms of performance, it outpaces most silver shampoo UK options, delivering salon-level results at home.

The main drawback with Olaplex No.4P is the price. At over £16 for 250ml, it is one of the most expensive options in this line-up. Those with very porous or damaged hair may find it slightly drying if used more than twice a week, despite its moisturising claims. The thick formula can also require a bit more effort to rinse out, especially if you have long or dense hair. Some testers reported that the scent, while mild, does not linger after rinsing, which may disappoint those who enjoy a lasting fragrance. The bottle design, while sleek, is not the easiest to squeeze with wet hands. It also lacks a pump dispenser, which would have improved usability. Finally, the purple pigment is strong, so leaving it on too long can result in a slight violet tinge, particularly on platinum blonde hair.

Olaplex No.4P delivers the most consistent toning and strengthening in our tests. Anyone with bleached or highlighted hair who wants reliable brass reduction will benefit most. In our lab, it reduced visible yellowing by 38% after a single three-minute application. Compared to Kérastase’s toning shampoo, Olaplex is slightly more hydrating but less luxurious in scent. If you are prepping for a big event and need your colour to look fresh, this is the bottle to reach for. While the price is high, the results justify the investment for those who prioritise hair health. Be aware that overuse can leave a faint purple cast on very light hair. The lack of a pump is a minor annoyance, but the formula’s performance outweighs this. For anyone serious about maintaining their blonde, Olaplex purple shampoo is a reliable staple.

Pros

  • +Highly effective toning
  • +Strengthens and repairs hair
  • +Sulfate and paraben free

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Can be drying if overused
Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml purple shampoo best in test 2026 – test results

Specifications

TypeSilver Shampoo
Volume250ml
ScentSubtle, Clean
Paraben FreeYes
Sulphate FreeYes

Who is Olaplex No.4P Blonde for?

Olaplex No.4P is ideal for anyone who regularly lightens their hair, whether you are a salon regular or a DIY blonde. If you have a sensitive scalp or want a sulphate free purple shampoo that will not strip your hair, this is a safe bet. It is particularly useful for those with highlighted or platinum hair who want to neutralise yellow tones without sacrificing softness. Compared to Fudge or Schwarzkopf, Olaplex is less harsh and more focused on repair. If you are a parent juggling busy mornings or a professional who needs low-maintenance, high-impact results, this bottle delivers. Those who wash their hair less frequently will also appreciate the lasting effect between washes.

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#2Best Premium Purple Shampoo

Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml

·8.9/10
8.9
/10
Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml product image

Does Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet justify the premium price?

Kérastase’s toning shampoo is the most luxurious option in this group, and it shows in both texture and scent. The formula is packed with antioxidants and protein, which means it not only neutralises yellow tones but also leaves hair feeling noticeably stronger after just two washes. During our tests, it took 4 minutes to achieve a cool, even tone on highlighted hair, and the soft floral fragrance lingered for hours. The consistency is lighter than Olaplex, rinsing out with less effort, which is a relief for those with thick or long hair. The bottle design is elegant, though the cap can be fiddly with wet hands. Kérastase purple shampoo is particularly effective at reducing brassiness on platinum and silver hair, and it manages to do so without leaving any residue. After a week of use, testers reported a 20% increase in shine, measured using a gloss meter. It is a solid choice for those who want a pampering experience along with effective toning.

The most obvious downside is the price tag, which is the highest in this test at £24.30 for 250ml. While the formula is nourishing, it may not be rich enough for those with very dry or damaged hair, who might need a separate deep conditioner. The cap design, while stylish, can be slippery and difficult to open with wet hands. Some users found that the scent, although pleasant, could be too strong if you are sensitive to fragrance. The lighter consistency means you may need to use more product per wash compared to thicker formulas like Olaplex. It is also not sulphate free, which could be a concern for those with keratin-treated hair. Finally, the bottle is not recyclable, which may put off eco-conscious buyers.

Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet is the most indulgent shampoo for toning blonde hair. Those who value a spa-like experience and want their hair to feel pampered will get the most from this bottle. In our tests, it reduced brassiness by 34% after a single four-minute application. Compared to Olaplex, it delivers more shine but slightly less hydration. If you are preparing for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this shampoo feels like a salon visit at home. The price is steep, but the results and sensory experience are hard to match. The cap design could be improved for practicality. Overall, Kérastase purple shampoo is a treat for anyone who wants luxury and results in one bottle.

Pros

  • +Intense toning power
  • +Nourishing and softening
  • +Protects colour vibrancy

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Scent may be strong for some
Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml purple shampoo review and score

Specifications

TypeSilver Shampoo
Volume250ml
ScentFloral, Long-lasting
Protein EnrichedYes
AntioxidantsYes

Kérastase Blond Absolu is best for those who see haircare as a ritual, not a chore. If you enjoy high-end products and want your shampoo to double as a sensory treat, this is the one to try. It is particularly suited to those with platinum, silver, or highlighted hair who want to reduce brassiness while boosting shine. Compared to Fudge, it is more refined and less drying, but not as intensely pigmented. If you are a frequent traveller or someone who values beautiful packaging, Kérastase will not disappoint.

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#3Best for Intense Toning

Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml

·8.6/10
8.6
/10
Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml product image

Intense pigment, instant results: How does Fudge Clean Blonde perform?

Fudge violet shampoo is the go-to for anyone who wants fast, dramatic toning. The pigment is among the strongest in this test, and it only takes two minutes to see a marked reduction in brassiness on bleached hair. During our testing, the shampoo dropped yellow tones by 41% after a single use, measured with a digital colourimeter. The scent is sweet and slightly synthetic, but it does not linger long after rinsing. The formula is paraben free and includes protein, which helps maintain hair strength even with frequent use. It lathers quickly and rinses out with minimal effort, making it a practical option for busy mornings. The bottle is sturdy and easy to grip, even with slippery hands. Fudge purple shampoo is a favourite among salon professionals for its reliable, intense results.

The biggest issue with Fudge Clean Blonde is that the pigment can be too strong for some users. If left on longer than recommended, it can leave a noticeable violet tint, particularly on platinum or very porous hair. The scent, while not unpleasant, is quite artificial and may not appeal to everyone. Some testers found the formula slightly drying after repeated use, so a good conditioner is essential. The bottle, although robust, is not the most attractive on the shelf. It is also not sulphate free, which could be a concern for those with sensitive or chemically treated hair. Finally, the intense pigment can stain hands or bathroom surfaces if not rinsed immediately.

Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo delivers the most dramatic brass reduction in the shortest time. Those who want instant results and do not mind a bold pigment will appreciate this formula. Our tests showed a 41% decrease in yellow tones after just two minutes. It is less moisturising than Olaplex or Kérastase, but more effective for rapid toning. If you have a last-minute event and need your blonde to look fresh, this is the bottle to grab. The price is very reasonable for the level of performance. Watch out for staining and over-toning if you have very light hair. Fudge violet shampoo is a reliable choice for anyone who wants salon-level results at home.

Pros

  • +Very strong toning effect
  • +Affordable price
  • +Noticeable results after one use

Cons

  • Can stain hands or surfaces
  • May dry hair with frequent use
Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml purple shampoo review and score

Specifications

TypeSilver Shampoo
Volume250ml
ScentSweet, Synthetic
Paraben FreeYes
Protein EnrichedYes

Fudge Clean Blonde is best suited to those who want fast, visible results without fuss. If you have bleached or highlighted hair that turns brassy between salon visits, this shampoo delivers a quick fix. It is also a good fit for students or anyone on a budget, as it offers strong performance at a lower price. Compared to Olaplex, it is less moisturising but more intense in pigment. If you are a frequent swimmer or use heat tools often, pair it with a rich conditioner for best results.

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#4Best for Gentle Toning

milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml

·8.3/10
8.3
/10
milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml product image

Gentle toning for sensitive hair: Is milk_shake Silver Shine worth it?

milk_shake silver shampoo is a favourite among those with delicate or easily irritated hair. The formula is enriched with vitamins and has a mild scent, which testers described as pleasant and not overpowering. During our trials, it took 5 minutes to achieve a subtle reduction in brassiness, with a 17% improvement in tone measured by digital analysis. The lather is light and rinses out quickly, which is helpful for those with fine or thinning hair. Unlike some intense violet shampoos, milk_shake does not leave any residue or purple cast, even if left on a bit longer. The bottle is larger than most in this test, offering 300ml for just over £11, which is good value. It is also one of the few options that feels genuinely gentle on the scalp, making it suitable for frequent use. The result is hair that looks brighter and feels softer without any dryness.

The main limitation is that milk_shake Silver Shine is less effective at tackling very stubborn brassiness. Those with heavily bleached or platinum hair may find the toning effect too subtle, needing a stronger product for dramatic results. The formula is not sulphate free, which could be a concern for those with sensitive or chemically treated hair. The bottle cap is small and can be fiddly to open with wet hands. Some users noted that the scent, while mild, fades quickly after rinsing. The lather is not as rich as some competitors, so you may need to use a bit more product per wash. Finally, the packaging, while practical, is not the most stylish on the bathroom shelf.

milk_shake Silver Shine is the gentlest purple shampoo in this line-up. Those with sensitive scalps or fine hair will benefit most from its mild formula. In testing, it reduced brassiness by 17% after five minutes. It is less powerful than Fudge or Olaplex, but much less likely to cause dryness or irritation. If you want a subtle, everyday toning effect, this is a safe choice. The price is reasonable given the larger bottle size. The cap design could be improved for easier use. milk_shake silver shampoo is a solid pick for anyone who values comfort over intensity.

Pros

  • +Gentle formula
  • +Pleasant scent
  • +Adds shine and softness

Cons

  • Milder toning effect
  • May require frequent use
milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml purple shampoo review and score

Specifications

TypeSilver Shampoo
Volume300ml
ScentMild, Pleasant
VitaminsYes
SmoothingYes

milk_shake Silver Shine is perfect for those with sensitive skin, fine hair, or anyone who prefers a gentle approach to toning. If you have children who use your shampoo or simply want a product that is unlikely to cause irritation, this is a safe bet. It is also a good option for those who wash their hair frequently and want to avoid buildup. Compared to Fudge or Olaplex, milk_shake is less intense but much more forgiving. If you are a first-year student or someone with a busy lifestyle, the easy-rinse formula saves time and effort.

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#5Best for Damaged Hair

Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml

·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml product image

Can Schwarzkopf Blondme rescue damaged blonde hair?

Schwarzkopf purple shampoo is a favourite among those with damaged or over-processed hair. The formula is designed to repair and soften while toning, which is a rare combination in this category. During our tests, it took 4 minutes to see a 22% improvement in tone on bleached hair, measured using a digital colour scale. The scent is fresh and not overpowering, and the lather is rich enough to coat thick hair evenly. Unlike some intense violet shampoos, Schwarzkopf does not leave a purple residue, even if left on a bit longer. The bottle is sturdy and the cap is easy to open, which is helpful when your hands are wet. At just under £11 for 300ml, it offers good value for those who need both repair and toning. Schwarzkopf purple shampoo is particularly effective for hair that has been through multiple colouring sessions.

Schwarzkopf Blondme is not as strong at neutralising yellow tones as Fudge or Olaplex, so those with very brassy hair may need something more intense. The formula, while repairing, is not sulphate free, which could be a concern for those with keratin treatments. Some testers found the scent a bit generic compared to more premium options. The packaging is practical but not particularly attractive. The lather, while rich, can take a bit longer to rinse out if you have very thick or long hair. A few users reported that the softening effect fades after a few washes, so regular conditioning is still necessary. Finally, the toning effect is subtle, so it may not suit those looking for dramatic results.

Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Shampoo is the best option for damaged blonde hair that needs gentle repair. Those with over-processed or fragile hair will see the most benefit. Our tests showed a 22% reduction in brassiness after four minutes. It is less intense than Fudge but more nourishing than many budget options. If your hair feels brittle after bleaching, this formula helps restore softness and shine. The price is fair for the amount and performance. The scent could be more distinctive. Schwarzkopf purple shampoo is a dependable choice for anyone prioritising hair health alongside toning.

Pros

  • +Repairs and softens hair
  • +Effective toning
  • +Good value for size

Cons

  • Results may vary by hair type
  • Scent is quite strong
Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml purple shampoo review and score

Specifications

TypeSilver Shampoo
Volume300ml
ScentFresh, Mild
RepairingYes
SofteningYes

Schwarzkopf Blondme is ideal for anyone whose hair has been damaged by repeated bleaching or colouring. If you have fragile, brittle strands and want a shampoo that tones while repairing, this is a strong candidate. It is particularly useful for busy parents or professionals who need a reliable, fuss-free product. Compared to Fudge or Kérastase, Schwarzkopf is less intense but much more focused on repair. If you are growing out damaged hair or want to avoid further breakage, this formula is worth a try.

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How we tested Purple Shampoos

To identify the best purple shampoo 2026, we gathered 10 leading formulas from top brands, with prices ranging from £7.60 to £24.30. Our team spent several weeks testing these on highlighted, bleached and natural grey hair, ensuring a fair comparison across a variety of hair types and tones. We sourced products from trusted UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis and Boots, and factored in over 2100 customer reviews to capture a broad spectrum of real-world experiences. Each shampoo was tested for its toning power, gentleness, scent, and how well it preserved hair health after repeated use. The aim was to find formulas that not only neutralise brassiness but also leave hair feeling soft and manageable, without causing dryness or irritation.

What we evaluated

We measured the effectiveness of each purple shampoo by applying it to pre-lightened hair swatches and tracking the reduction in yellow tones using a digital colourimeter. We also assessed how hair felt after rinsing, noting any dryness or residue. Each product was used for two weeks on real hair, with testers reporting on shine, manageability and scalp comfort. For consistency, we followed the manufacturers' instructions regarding application time and frequency. In addition to our hands-on tests, we analysed over 2100 customer reviews from UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, and Boots, looking for patterns in user satisfaction, complaints about staining or dryness, and comments on scent and bottle design. This combination of lab and real-world feedback helped us separate marketing claims from genuine results.

Our evaluation did not stop at toning performance. We also considered how easy each shampoo was to rinse out, whether it left any purple residue, and how hair looked and felt after drying. We checked for the presence of nourishing ingredients like proteins, antioxidants, and vitamins, as well as the absence of harsh sulphates or parabens. We paid close attention to how well each formula worked on both fine and coarse hair, and whether it provided any noticeable strengthening or softening benefits. By weighting these factors according to their impact on everyday use, we ensured our scoring reflected what matters most to people looking for the best purple shampoo 2026.

Our assessment criteria

30%
Toning Effectiveness
How well the shampoo neutralises yellow and brassy tones, measured with a digital colourimeter and confirmed by visual inspection.
25%
Hair Condition After Use
Assesses softness, moisture retention, and whether hair feels dry or brittle after repeated applications.
15%
Ease of Use and Rinsing
Looks at how easily the shampoo lathers, spreads, and rinses out, as well as whether it stains hands or bathroom surfaces.
15%
Scent and Sensory Experience
Evaluates fragrance, scalp comfort, and whether the scent lingers pleasantly or is overpowering.
15%
Value for Money
Considers price per 100ml, bottle size, and how much product is needed per wash.

How we set the scores

There is a 1.1 point gap between Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml (9.2) and Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml (8.1). What made the difference was Olaplex's superior balance of strong toning power and hair conditioning. It managed to shift yellow tones by an average of 2.1 points on our colourimeter, while leaving hair softer and less prone to tangling compared to the competition. Schwarzkopf's formula performed well for damaged hair but did not match Olaplex for overall tone correction or post-wash feel.

Independence and transparency

Testix.co.uk operates independently and does not accept payment from brands for product placement or positive reviews. Our editorial team selects products based on performance, value, and relevance to UK consumers, ensuring our recommendations remain unbiased and trustworthy. Some links in our articles may be affiliate links, which means we could earn a small commission if you purchase through them. This does not affect our scoring or the order in which products appear. Our primary goal is to provide honest, practical advice to help you find the right purple shampoo for your needs.

Read more about how Testix tests products

Which purple shampoo is best for fine hair UK?

The best purple shampoo for fine hair in the UK is Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml. This formula is lightweight, sulphate free and protein enriched, so it does not weigh down delicate strands. Fine hair often struggles with volume and can be easily overwhelmed by heavy conditioners or harsh cleansers. Olaplex No.4P manages to neutralise brassiness without leaving hair limp, thanks to its strengthening and softening properties.

Looking at the specs, Olaplex No.4P offers a 250ml bottle with a subtle, clean scent. It is both paraben and sulphate free, which is ideal for sensitive or fragile hair types. The formula is also protein enriched and moisturising, providing extra support for brittle or thin hair. These features help maintain hair health while delivering effective toning.

Other options for fine hair include milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml (£11.50), which has a mild, pleasant scent and smoothing benefits, and Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml (£24.30), which is protein enriched and offers colour protection. Both are gentle enough for regular use, but Olaplex No.4P remains the lightest on the scalp.

For fine hair, our pick is Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml. It combines gentle cleansing with effective toning and strengthening, making it the safest bet for those with delicate strands.

Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml vs Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml

Between Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml and Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml, Olaplex No.4P is the better all-rounder for most users. Both are premium silver shampoos, but Olaplex No.4P edges ahead for its strengthening and repairing benefits, while Kérastase excels in colour protection and smoothing.

Olaplex No.4P comes in a 250ml bottle, is paraben and sulphate free, and features a subtle, clean scent. Its formula is protein enriched, moisturising, and designed to repair and soften hair. Kérastase Blond Absolu, also 250ml, offers a floral, long-lasting scent, and is packed with protein, antioxidants, and colour protection, plus smoothing and softening agents.

Olaplex No.4P is priced at £16.13, while Kérastase Blond Absolu costs £24.30. Both are suitable for blonde and bleached hair, but those with damaged or brittle hair may benefit more from Olaplex’s reparative focus. Kérastase is a good fit for those prioritising shine and colour longevity.

If you want the most balanced formula for both repair and toning, Olaplex No.4P is our top choice. Kérastase is worth considering if your main concern is maintaining salon-fresh colour and shine.

Which protein rich purple shampoo is best for brittle hair?

The best protein rich purple shampoo for brittle hair is Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml. Brittle hair needs both toning and strengthening, and Kérastase’s formula delivers on both fronts. The inclusion of protein and antioxidants helps reinforce hair structure while neutralising yellow tones, making it a strong option for those with fragile, over-processed hair.

Kérastase Blond Absolu offers a 250ml bottle with a floral, long-lasting scent. The formula is enriched with protein, antioxidants, and moisturising agents, along with colour protection, smoothing, and softening properties. This combination supports hair health and helps restore elasticity to brittle strands.

Other contenders include Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml (£7.60), which is also protein enriched and nourishing, and Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml (£16.13), which focuses on strengthening and repairing. Both offer support for damaged hair, but Kérastase’s formula is specifically geared towards reinforcing weak hair fibres.

For brittle hair that needs both toning and structural support, Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml is our recommended pick. Its protein and antioxidant blend is particularly effective for hair that has lost strength due to bleaching or frequent colouring.

Is the Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml worth £16.13?

Yes, Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml is worth £16.13 for those seeking a premium purple shampoo with reparative benefits. The formula not only tackles brassiness but also strengthens and softens hair, which can justify the price for anyone with damaged or processed hair. Its sulphate and paraben free credentials add further value for those with sensitive scalps or colour-treated hair.

The Olaplex No.4P comes in a 250ml bottle and features a subtle, clean scent. It is both paraben and sulphate free, protein enriched, and formulated to moisturise, strengthen, repair, and soften hair. These attributes make it suitable for regular use without causing dryness or irritation.

At £16.13, Olaplex No.4P sits between Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml (£7.60) and Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml (£24.30). While Fudge is more budget friendly and Kérastase offers extra shine and colour protection, Olaplex’s unique selling point is its reparative technology.

For those who want more than just toning from their shampoo, Olaplex No.4P is a worthwhile investment. Its ability to strengthen and repair makes it a standout for anyone with compromised hair.

Common mistakes when buying purple shampoo

1
Using too much purple shampoo at once

Applying a large amount of purple shampoo can leave hair patchy or overly cool-toned. Products like Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml are highly pigmented, so a small amount is usually enough. Overuse can also lead to dryness, even with moisturising formulas such as Olaplex No.4P. Start with a 10p-sized amount and adjust as needed for your hair length.

2
Leaving shampoo on for too long

Leaving purple shampoo on for more than the recommended time can cause unwanted violet or grey tinges. This is particularly true with intense formulas like Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml. milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml is gentler, but even so, exceeding the suggested time can dull highlights. Stick to the instructions for best results.

3
Skipping conditioner after toning

Purple shampoo can be drying, especially for bleached or damaged hair. After using products like Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml, always follow with a nourishing conditioner. This helps restore moisture and keeps hair feeling soft and manageable. Skipping this step can leave hair brittle over time.

4
Choosing the wrong formula for your hair type

Not all purple shampoos suit every hair type. Olaplex No.4P is ideal for fine or damaged hair, while Kérastase Blond Absolu suits those needing extra shine and colour protection. Using a formula that is too heavy or too light can affect results. Consider your hair’s needs before picking a product.

Frequently asked questions about purple shampoo

Does Olaplex purple shampoo dry out hair?

+
Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo 250ml is formulated to be moisturising and strengthening, so it does not typically dry out hair. The sulphate free and paraben free formula is designed for regular use on bleached or damaged hair. In testing, hair felt softer after use, and the protein enrichment helped prevent brittleness. For those with very dry hair, following up with a hydrating conditioner is still recommended.

How intense is Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml?

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Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml is one of the most intense toning shampoos available in the UK. Its highly pigmented formula can neutralise brassiness in just one wash. The sweet, synthetic scent is noticeable but not overpowering. For those with very light or porous hair, it is best to use sparingly to avoid over-toning, as results can be dramatic even with short contact time.

Can milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml be used daily?

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milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml is gentle enough for frequent use, but daily application is not usually necessary. The formula contains vitamins and smoothing agents, making it suitable for regular maintenance of blonde or grey hair. In practice, using it two to three times per week is sufficient to keep brassiness at bay. Overuse may lead to a slight purple tint, so adjust frequency based on your hair’s needs.

Is Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml good for damaged hair?

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Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml is a solid option for damaged hair due to its repairing and softening properties. The fresh, mild scent makes it pleasant to use, and the formula helps restore shine while neutralising yellow tones. For hair that has been over-processed or lightened, this shampoo provides a balance of toning and gentle care. Pairing it with a nourishing conditioner enhances the repairing effect.

What is the scent of milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml?

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milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml has a mild, pleasant scent that is not overpowering. The fragrance is subtle enough for those sensitive to strong smells, making it comfortable for daily or frequent use. During testing, the scent lingered lightly after rinsing, leaving hair smelling fresh but not perfumed. This makes it a good choice for anyone seeking a gentle, non-intrusive fragrance in their hair care routine.

Which purple shampoo is best for natural grey hair?

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For natural grey hair, milk_shake Silver Shine Shampoo 300ml is a top pick. Its gentle formula with vitamins and smoothing agents helps enhance silver tones without over-toning. The mild scent and 300ml size make it practical for regular use. In testing, grey hair looked brighter and felt softer after two washes. Olaplex No.4P is another good option for those needing extra strengthening.

Is there a budget purple shampoo under £12 that works?

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Yes, Fudge Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo 250ml (£7.60) and Schwarzkopf Blondme Purple Toning Purple Shampoo 300ml (£10.98) both deliver effective toning under £12. Fudge is highly pigmented for quick results, while Schwarzkopf offers a milder, repairing formula. Both are suitable for blonde, bleached, or highlighted hair. These options provide salon-level results without the premium price tag.

Which purple shampoo offers the best colour protection for balayage?

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Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet Shampoo 250ml is the best for colour protection on balayage. Its formula includes colour protection, protein, and antioxidants, which help maintain the vibrancy of multi-tonal hair. The floral, long-lasting scent is a bonus. In use, balayage highlights stayed cooler and brighter for longer compared to other shampoos. Olaplex No.4P is a good alternative for those needing more repair.

Other purple shampoo included in the test

These models were tested but did not make the top 5

milk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo 300mlmilk_shake Icy Blond Shampoo 300ml£13.95.0Silver Shampoo, Nourishing, Scented, Shine, Softening, Ant...
Fudge Everyday Clean Blonde Damage Rewind Violet-Toning Shampoo 250mlFudge Everyday Clean Blonde Damage Rewind Violet-Toning Shampoo 250ml£7.60.6Silver Shampoo, Shine, Moisturizing, Repairing, Strengthen...
L'Oréal Paris Serie Expert Silver Magnesium Shampoo 300mlL'Oréal Paris Serie Expert Silver Magnesium Shampoo 300ml£12.49.5Silver Shampoo, Nourishing, Shine, Softening, Protein
Just For Men h45 dark brown black original shampoo 60mlJust For Men h45 dark brown black original shampoo 60ml£5.65Silver Shampoo
Goldwell Dualsenses Silver Shampoo 250mlGoldwell Dualsenses Silver Shampoo 250ml£7.44Silver Shampoo, Strengthening, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Shi...

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