How to Use Silver Shampoo

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Silver shampoo, known by some as purple shampoo, works to neutralize brassy and yellow tones from blonde and gray hair. [1] Using silver shampoo 1-2 times a week helps your hair look healthier and more color-balanced. Before you start using silver shampoo, pick a product that best fits your hair type. Then, let the shampoo sit in your hair before rinsing it out and applying a conditioner!

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Picking the Best Silver Shampoo

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/31\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/31\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Look for silver shampoos with formulas that include Vitamins A, B, D and E. If your hair is naturally brittle, nourish it with a product that offers strength, protection, and smoothness to your hair. This type of shampoo works for any shade of blonde hair. [2]
    • If you have ashy blonde hair, use a nutrient-rich shampoo with Vitamin B5 and wheat proteins. [3]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Remove the bright, harsh tones from your hair with a silver shampoo that includes extra color pigment. If you don’t want to spend extra money on a visit to your hairstylist, see if a twice-weekly silver shampoo can bring some new life into your hair routine. You can also use this type of product to extend the life of your highlights. [4]
    • This product works especially well for blonde hair that has lost its shine.
    • To find a pigment-rich product, look for a more versatile shampoo. For instance, a silver shampoo that works on highlights, blonde, and silver hair will likely have more pigment in the formula.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Keep your platinum blonde hair light and fresh with a customized silver shampoo formula. When you’re shopping, look for centaury as an ingredient—aside from giving your blonde hair some extra shine, it also helps keep your hair from yellowing, as well. Individuals with white hair can also try adding this product to their beauty routine! [5]
    • In many cases, products made with centaurea extract smell great, too!
    • This type of formula is also excellent for people with gray hair! [6]
    4. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Applying Silver Shampoo

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pump or squeeze an ample amount of shampoo onto one hand. Once you’ve covered the center of your palm, rub both hands together so that they’re coated in product. [7] If you have especially long or thick hair, consider tying back the upper layers of your hair with a clip or scrunchie. [8]
    • Although it’s called silver shampoo, don’t be surprised if the product looks purple.
    • You can use this shampoo in or out of the shower, depending on your beauty routine.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use your shampoo-covered hands to coat your hair completely with product. To ensure that all your hair gets covered, work with 1 inch (2.5 cm) sections of hair at a time. Start from the base of the hairline, using long and slow rubbing motions to knead the shampoo into your hair. [9]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6d\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6d\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Wait at least 3 minutes before rinsing out the silver shampoo from your hair. If you’re in the shower, take this time to continue your beauty routine. [11] Depending on your hair type or the specific product you’re using, you might want to leave the shampoo in your hair for a longer amount of time. [12]
    • This part of the process helps the silver shampoo to soak into your hair and combat any harsh, brassy tones.
    • You can also apply silver shampoo specifically to any yellow-looking sections of hair. Apply the product while your hair is dry, and then let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it out. Then, wash and condition your hair as usual—this should cancel out a lot of those yellow tones. [13]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Turn on your shower or bathroom faucet to a warm setting, and wash the suds out of your hair. Use your fingers to coax out any remaining product, and try to angle your head so the running water hits your scalp directly. [14]
    • Don’t be alarmed if the water looks purple as it rinses out. The product shouldn’t tint your shower or sink.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Squeeze or pump a coin-sized amount of silver or purple conditioner into the palm of one hand. After rubbing your hands together, use your fingers to swipe the conditioner into your hair. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up, rubbing it in slowly as you go. Wait at least 1 minute for the product to set into your hair. [15]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid11340134-v4-728px-Use-Silver-Shampoo-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Turn your shower or faucet to the coldest setting that you can handle, and wash out the conditioner. Don’t leave the cold water on for too long—only keep it on for 30 seconds or so until all of the product is gone. Once you’ve finished rinsing, use a towel to pat your hair dry until it’s no longer dripping wet. [17]
    • Check the bottle product to see if you can use a blow dryer after using a silver shampoo and conditioner.
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Silver shampoo is also a great option for people with light brown and silver hair. [18]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • To prevent silver or purple shampoo from making your hair look less shiny, try diluting it with regular conditioner. [19]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Using too much silver or purple shampoo can make your hair feel dry. Whenever this happens, add some moisture back into your hair with a deep conditioning treatment. [20]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      Is Pantene Good or Bad For Hair? Your Questions Answered
      How to
      Apply Purple Shampoo Correctly
      How to
      Get Shampoo out of Your Eyes
      How to
      Shampoo Your Hair
      How Long Should You Leave Shampoo in Your Hair? Tips for Shinier, Healthier Hair
      Clarifying Shampoo 101: How Often to Use It & How to Get the Best Results
      How & When to Apply Dry Shampoo for the Best Results
      How to
      Use Cornstarch as Dry Shampoo
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.oprahmag.com/beauty/hair/g26589439/best-shampoo-for-gray-hair/
      2. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g22001934/silver-shampoo/
      3. ↑ https://www.womanandhome.com/beauty/hair/silver-shampoos-for-long-lasting-colour-125325/#
      4. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g22001934/silver-shampoo/
      5. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g22001934/silver-shampoo/
      6. ↑ https://www.oprahmag.com/beauty/hair/g26589439/best-shampoo-for-gray-hair/
      7. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0WZNy3UpGDE&t=1m34s
      8. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0WZNy3UpGDE&t=1m18s
      9. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0WZNy3UpGDE&t=1m41s
      1. ↑ Charlie Adams. Professional Hair Stylist & Board Certified Haircolorist. Expert Interview. 21 July 2021.
      2. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/g26817422/best-purple-shampoos/
      3. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0WZNy3UpGDEt=1m51s
      4. ↑ Charlie Adams. Professional Hair Stylist & Board Certified Haircolorist. Expert Interview. 21 July 2021.
      5. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jLKZvimBXtI&t=2m23s
      6. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jLKZvimBXtI&t=2m40s
      7. ↑ Charlie Adams. Professional Hair Stylist & Board Certified Haircolorist. Expert Interview. 21 July 2021.
      8. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/g26817422/best-purple-shampoos/
      9. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/g26817422/best-purple-shampoos/
      10. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/a25348019/fanola-no-yellow-purple-shampoo-review/
      11. ↑ https://www.self.com/gallery/best-purple-shampoo-for-blonde-hair

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,768 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Gretchen Renata

        Feb 24, 2020

        "Better process tips for application of my blue (or silver, as you call it) shampoo."
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement