The History and Evolution of Purple Shampoos: Matrix’s Contribution to the Trend

Purple shampoos have become increasingly popular in the hair care industry in recent years. These specialized shampoos are designed to counteract unwanted brassy tones in blonde, gray, and highlighted hair. They owe their unique hue to the inclusion of violet pigments, which help neutralize the yellow and orange tones that can develop over time. One brand that has played a significant role in the evolution of purple shampoos is Matrix, a leading professional hair care company.

Matrix, founded in 1980 by Arnie and Sydell Miller, initially focused on servicing salon professionals and providing them with high-quality hair care products. Over the years, Matrix’s dedication to innovation has led them to develop various groundbreaking hair care solutions, including their purple shampoo range.

The concept of purple shampoos began with the understanding of color theory and the color wheel. Complementary colors, such as purple and yellow, are positioned opposite each other on the color wheel and neutralize each other when mixed. This understanding led hair care experts to explore the use of purple pigments in shampoos to combat unwanted yellow tones in light-colored hair.

Early versions of purple shampoos were relatively simple in their formulation, often containing basic violet dyes. However, these dyes were prone to fading quickly, potentially leaving a purple cast on the hair if left on for too long. Matrix recognized the need for improvement and embarked on research and development to create a more sophisticated purple shampoo formula.

Matrix’s contribution to the trend of purple shampoos was the introduction of highly effective and long-lasting violet pigments. These pigments had superior color deposit properties, ensuring that the shampoo acted as a temporary toner to neutralize brassiness without leaving an unwanted purple residue. This breakthrough allowed individuals with light-colored hair to maintain a more desired cool blonde or silver hue between salon visits.

The popularity of purple shampoos skyrocketed as more people realized the benefits of neutralizing unwanted tones at home. Matrix further enhanced their purple shampoo range by incorporating nourishing and moisturizing ingredients to prevent the hair from becoming dry or brittle. This innovation allowed individuals to maintain vibrant, healthy-looking hair without compromising its condition.

The evolution of purple shampoos didn’t stop there. Matrix expanded its offerings to cater to different hair types and concerns. For example, they introduced purple shampoos specifically formulated for highlighted hair, which often requires extra care due to the color processing involved.

Additionally, Matrix developed blue and silver shampoos as variations of purple shampoos. Blue shampoos target orange tones in brunette or dark hair, while silver shampoos are targeted for gray hair to neutralize any yellowing. These variations allowed Matrix to address a broader range of hair colors and provide specialized solutions to meet individual needs.

Now, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers regarding purple shampoos:

1. How often should I use purple shampoo?
Purple shampoo can be used once or twice a week, depending on how brassy your hair is and how frequently you wash it. Start by using it once a week and adjust as needed.

2. Can purple shampoo be used on brown hair?
Purple shampoo is not designed for brown hair as it targets yellow tones. Instead, consider using a blue shampoo to counteract orange tones.

3. Will purple shampoo turn my hair purple?
When used correctly, purple shampoo should not turn your hair purple. However, if your hair is extremely porous or damaged, it may retain the purple pigment. In such cases, use the shampoo sparingly and rinse thoroughly.

4. Can I leave purple shampoo on longer for better results?
It’s best to follow the instructions on the bottle. Leaving purple shampoo on for too long may result in a purple cast or overtone. Rinse thoroughly after the recommended time.

5. Can I use purple shampoo on highlighted hair?
Yes, purple shampoo is particularly beneficial for highlighted hair as it helps maintain a vibrant, cool-toned look by neutralizing any brassy tones.

6. Does purple shampoo work on gray hair?
Yes, purple shampoo is effective for gray hair too. It counteracts any yellowness that may develop and keeps your gray hair looking bright and shiny.

7. Can I use purple shampoo on my natural blonde hair to enhance the tone?
While purple shampoos are primarily meant to neutralize brassiness, they can enhance the tone of natural blonde hair. However, use it sparingly to avoid overtone.

8. How long should I leave purple shampoo on my hair?
The recommended time varies between different purple shampoos. It’s usually around 3-5 minutes, but always refer to the instructions provided on the product.

9. Should I use purple shampoo before or after conditioning?
It’s generally recommended to use purple shampoo before conditioning. This allows the pigments to neutralize any unwanted tones before adding moisture.

10. Can I use purple shampoo on dry hair?
Purple shampoo is typically used on wet hair. It is important to thoroughly lather the shampoo and distribute it evenly to achieve optimal results.

11. Can I use purple shampoo every day?
Using purple shampoo every day may lead to over-toning and potentially drying out your hair. Stick to the recommended usage to maintain the balance.

12. Can purple shampoo replace regular shampoo?
Purple shampoo is designed as a toning treatment and not a regular cleanser. However, alternating it with your regular shampoo can help to maintain your desired tone.

13. Can I use purple shampoo if I have sensitive skin or allergies?
If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist or conduct a patch test before using any new products.

14. Is purple shampoo safe for color-treated hair?
Purple shampoo is generally safe for color-treated hair as it helps maintain the desired color. However, some formulations might be more suitable for chemically treated hair, so check the product label and select one specifically designed for color-treated hair.

15. Can men use purple shampoo?
Absolutely! Purple shampoo is not gender-specific and can be used by anyone with light-colored hair seeking to neutralize brassiness.

16. Can I use purple shampoo on extensions?
It’s important to check with the manufacturer or your hairstylist before using any hair care product on extensions. Some extensions may not be compatible with purple shampoo.

17. Do I need to follow up with a conditioner after using purple shampoo?
Yes, it’s essential to follow up with a conditioner to restore moisture and nourish your hair. Purple shampoos can be slightly drying, so conditioning is crucial.

18. Can purple shampoo lighten my hair?
Purple shampoo is not formulated to lighten hair. Its primary purpose is to neutralize unwanted tones, not lighten or bleach the hair.

19. How soon will I see the results of using purple shampoo?
Results may vary depending on your hair type and the intensity of brassiness. However, you can often see noticeable results after a few uses.

20. Will purple shampoo work on natural gray hair?
Yes, purple shampoo is effective on natural gray hair to counteract any yellowing that can occur over time.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as an essential hair care product, Matrix’s contribution to purple shampoos has revolutionized the way individuals with light-colored hair maintain their hair color between salon visits. By formulating effective solutions, they have made it possible for anyone to achieve and maintain their desired cool blonde or silver tone. As the hair care industry continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations and advancements in the world of purple shampoos.