The 7 Best Blue Shampoos of 2025

Discovering the best blue shampoos of the year can be a game-changer for brunettes dealing with brassy tones. Hairstylists have voiced their opinions, and the consensus is clear: blue shampoo is an essential tool for anyone wanting to maintain that cool, vibrant brunette shade. Whether your hair is color-treated or natural, understanding the benefits of blue shampoo and how to use it properly can make all the difference. Let’s explore the top recommendations and insights from professional hairstylists.

Why blue shampoo is essential for brunettes

As a brunette, keeping your hair free from brassy tones is a common struggle. The culprit behind this unwanted color change is often exposure to various elements like sunlight, chlorine, and hard water. Blue shampoo works wonders by neutralizing orange and red tones, ensuring your hair stays the cool, deep shade you love. This is particularly important for those with color-treated hair, but natural brunettes can benefit as well.

Blue shampoos are formulated with blue pigments that adhere to the hair shaft, counteracting the warm hues. It’s a simple solution that can easily be incorporated into your regular hair care routine. For the best results, finding a product that suits your unique hair type and needs is key.

Incorporating a high-quality blue shampoo into your regimen can save you time and money on salon visits, allowing you to extend the life of your color and keep it looking fresh.

How does blue shampoo work for color correction?

Color correction with blue shampoo is based on the principles of color theory. In the color wheel, blue sits opposite to orange, which means these colors can cancel each other out. When applied to hair, the blue pigments in the shampoo help to balance out orange and red brassy tones that can make brunette hair look dull and faded.

The effectiveness of blue shampoo comes down to the quality of its ingredients and the specific needs of your hair. While some products are designed to be gentle enough for daily use, others may have more intense pigmentation for use once or twice a week.

By choosing the right blue shampoo, you contribute to healthier-looking hair, as many of these products are also formulated with nourishing ingredients that hydrate and protect the hair shaft.

What are the top rated blue shampoos for brunettes?

• dpHue Cool Brunette – This shampoo not only combats brassiness but also adds a luminous shine to your hair.
• Bondi Boost Brunette Booster – Known for its natural ingredients, this option is great for those looking for a clean beauty product.
• Matrix Brass Off – A professional favorite that is high-powered for significant tonal correction.
• Joico Blue Shampoo – Perfect for those who need a strong defense against persistent brassy tones.
• Fanola No Orange – A cult favorite that is highly effective and budget-friendly.

How often should you use blue shampoo?

The frequency of blue shampoo application can vary depending on your hair type and the level of brassiness you’re experiencing. Generally, hairstylists recommend using it once a week to avoid over-depositing blue pigments, which could lead to your hair taking on a slight blue hue.

However, if you’re just noticing the first signs of brassiness or if you have very light highlights, you might want to start by using blue shampoo every other week. Pay attention to how your hair responds and adjust the frequency accordingly.

Remember, the goal is to maintain your desired brunette shade, not to replace it with an entirely new color. A balance must be found, and this is where the expertise of your hairstylist can be invaluable.

What ingredients to look for in blue shampoo?

When selecting a blue shampoo, it’s important to look beyond the color-correcting pigments. The best blue shampoos often include hydrating and hair-strengthening ingredients such as argan oil, keratin, and proteins that can help repair and protect your hair. Antioxidants like vitamin E can also protect your hair from environmental damage.

Sulfate-free formulas are another factor to consider, as they are gentler on the hair and scalp, reducing the risk of stripping away natural oils. Some blue shampoos also contain UV protectants, which can help prevent future brassiness caused by sun exposure.

Combining these beneficial ingredients with the color-correcting power of blue pigments can give you a shampoo that not only maintains your color but also improves the overall health of your hair.

Can blue shampoo be used on natural brunettes?

Natural brunettes can certainly use blue shampoo, especially if they notice their hair developing an unwanted warmth. Environmental factors, such as sun exposure, pollution, and mineral deposits from water, can alter the tone of natural hair just as they can with color-treated hair.

By using blue shampoo, natural brunettes can refresh their color, enhancing cooler tones in their hair and adding a touch of shine. It’s an excellent way for those who prefer not to dye their hair to still manage and maintain their native color vibrancy.

For natural brunettes, the key is to use blue shampoo sparingly, as their hair may not have the same level of brassiness as someone with dyed hair.

What is the difference between blue and purple shampoo?

Blue and purple shampoos are both used for tonal correction, but they target different hair colors. Purple shampoo is formulated for blondes, helping to neutralize yellow tones. Blue shampoo, on the other hand, is designed for brunettes, countering orange and red brassiness.

The choice between the two depends on the shade of hair you have and the specific color correction needed. For those with mixed highlights or ombre styles that include both blonde and brunette, alternating between blue and purple shampoo might yield the best results.

Understanding the nuances between these two products can help you make an informed decision about which to use for your hair care routine.

Frequently asked questions about blue shampoo

What is the most effective blue shampoo?

The effectiveness of blue shampoo can be subjective, as it depends on your hair type and the level of brassiness. However, products like dpHue Cool Brunette and Matrix Brass Off are highly regarded for their results.

It’s best to consult with your hairstylist, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on their experience with different products on various hair types.

What is the best shampoo according to hairdressers?

Hairdressers often recommend shampoos based on their clients’ specific needs, but in terms of blue shampoos, Joico Blue Shampoo and Bondi Boost Brunette Booster frequently make the list due to their high-quality ingredients and effectiveness.

Ultimately, the best shampoo is one that meets your hair’s needs while providing the desired tonal correction without damaging your hair.

Why did my hairdresser say not to use purple shampoo?

Your hairdresser might advise against using purple shampoo if you are a brunette because it’s formulated for neutralizing yellow tones in blonde hair, not the orange or red tones that typically affect brunettes. Blue shampoo is the recommended option for those with darker hair seeking to correct brassiness.

Using the correct type of tonal shampoo will ensure that you’re targeting the right color spectrum for your hair’s needs.

How long should I let blue shampoo sit in my hair?

The recommended time for leaving blue shampoo in your hair varies by product, but generally, it’s between 3 to 5 minutes. Leaving it on too long can potentially lead to over-toning, giving your hair a blue tinge.

Always follow the instructions on the product’s label and start with the shortest recommended time, especially if you’re new to blue shampoo.

By understanding how blue shampoos work, how often to use them, and what ingredients to look for, brunettes can keep their hair looking its best. Whether you opt for a product like dpHue Cool Brunette or Matrix Brass Off or another top-rated blue shampoo, the key is to use it correctly and in moderation to maintain the beautiful, cool brunette tones you desire.