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Oct 16, 2024

12 Best Shampoos for Gray Hair - Brightening Toning Shampoo for Grays

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. These wash-day favorites provide the perfect balance of shine and

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

These wash-day favorites provide the perfect balance of shine and hydration

Gray hair deserves the same color care and attention as any other shade, including finding the right shampoo to help keep brassiness at bay.

The best shampoos for gray hair contain formulas like those used for blondes, meaning the ingredients that reduce warm tones in the hair and deeply hydrate. And since both shades are susceptible to turning yellow due to a lack of pigment, purple shampoos (often reserved for blondes) work just as well on gray hair, too. These cleansing staples can also leave your hair shinier and more hydrated than ever—a real plus since silver or white hair is often more fragile and prone to breakage.

And if you’re gray by design, Stephanie Brown, master colorist at IGK SoHo in New York City previously told Bazaar that sulfate-free picks—like Kristin Ess’s the One Purple Shampoo and Better Not Younger’s Silver Lining Purple Shampoo—are ideal for helping color last even longer. Read on for our short list of the best shampoos for gray hair (and silver foxes in general) that help boost shine and manageability.

R+Co’s Sunset Blvd shampoo features a lighter indigo tint than some other toning versions, making it a perfect match for blonde and gray tones. And since it can be used daily, it’s also ideal for those of us who don’t want to have to switch between two or three different cleansers regularly.

One satisfied customer writes: “I’ve used it for years on my hairdresser’s recommendation and love it. Keeps my hair a lovely white.” —Judy D.

Designed specifically for silver, white, and platinum blonde hair, this gentle shampoo uses okara extract to help repair visible damage. So whether you’re bleached platinum or simply reach for your blow dryer on the daily, this will help banish yellow tones and those wiry, dry-looking strands.

One satisfied customer writes: “I use on my naturally gray-white hair and I get compliments about the color. Very nice shampoo. I only wash about every five to seven days, depending on my activities. Helps with the ugly yellow from the minerals in our water. I have slightly dry hair and I use the conditioner also. Both are great products that you can use sparingly.” —Anonymous

This brand specializes in hair color products, so you can count on its toning shampoo to live up to its reputation. Purple pigments keep gray hair bright, while silk proteins strengthen against breakage.

One satisfied customer writes: “This product really works. It doesn’t dry my hair out like other purple shampoos do. I highly recommend it.” —Kay N.

Sometimes, getting your silver or gray hair back on track is as simple as clarifying away the buildup. Think of this shampoo as a reset button—it seamlessly whisks away dirt and excess product using Japanese-sourced rice extract.

One satisfied customer writes: “I’m very picky and have tried many high-end brands. Having a bit of dry scalp and hair lately. I decided to this and can’t believe the results. Very clean and soft.” —Racheal

Oribe's products are cult favorites, including this brightening shampoo that is specifically made for white and gray hair. Turn to this when your colorist is busy, or your regular toner isn’t cutting it. Plus, the formula isn't a stark color like purple, courtesy of silver and blue pigments, so there's no chance it'll stain your shower.

One satisfied customer writes: "I switched to Silverati from another Oribe line after going natural. I already loved my natural silvery white, but this enhances the beauty. It gets rid of yellow tones, and I prefer this over a purple shampoo. It also smells great. I only wash my hair once or twice a week, so a bottle of the shampoo and conditioner lasts me months, but I would really love a liter size!" —Jamie P.

Not only do the bright purple pigments neutralize yellow and golden tones, but the formula also provides UV protection and hydrates to prevent brittle strands after hours in the sun.

One satisfied customer writes: "Nourishing and cleansing. Such awesome results instantly. Takes out the brass that sneaks in. Smells great too!! Worth every penny!! You don’t need much when you use it. Exceptional!! Total fan!" —Ruth

You’ll love what this purple shampoo does for your hair color and how the keratin in its formula makes it feel. In addition to quite literally busting brass, the essential also delivers on hydration and strength for delicate gray hair.

One satisfied customer writes: “Absolutely love this shampoo, smells amazing and corrects any yellow that I had!” —Kauralie

The anti-yellowing purple tint in this shampoo fights brassiness and boosts shine immediately. If you frequent the salon to touch up your color, this pick also helps keep it fresh between visits.

One satisfied customer writes: "I have gray hair and wanted a product I could use more frequently that would tone down the yellow that can occur. So far, I am extremely satisfied with the blondage shampoo and conditioner" – Pancw1

Pick up Kristin Ess’s take on purple shampoo if your gray hair feels especially fragile. It uses a proprietary strengthening complex to mend split ends and strengthen other weak areas of the hair as it boosts your overall color.

One satisfied customer writes: “Not only does this smell insanely divine, it works magnificently!! Highly recommend if you’re debating. After this purchase, I’m going to try KE other products.” —Courtney

Over 24,000 Amazon shoppers are raving about L’Oréal’s sulfate-free EverPure purple shampoo, which is practically a steal at under $10 a tube. It deposits the perfect amount of purple dye to counteract brassiness while gently cleansing.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Hibiscus Flower Extract

One satisfied customer writes: “Excellent product, amazing on gray hair, takes the brassiness out. Great scent!” —Stephanie Chicagoland USA

Instead of synthetic dyes, this cleanser from the experts at Phyto uses natural compounds and violet pigments to banish lingering brassiness, plus white mallow to add shine.

One satisfied customer writes: “Always this product transforms my hair to a brighter and more beautiful texture. It feels healthier and more alive. Thank you!” —Rosa N.

A purple shampoo made just for gray and white hair, this cleanser from Better Not Younger uses a blend of burdock root, bamboo, sage, and more to keep it strong and bright.

One satisfied customer writes: “First time user and I’m really impressed. After first use I could see a difference in my gray hair. The dullness was gone.” —Silver Charm

Generally, no. Unless the brand specifies daily use, most pigmented shampoos should be incorporated into your wash-day routine as needed. Aim for once a week, or whenever you start seeing brassy tones begin creeping up.

Yes, purple shampoo can absolutely stain white, silver, gray, or blonde hair, which is why it’s important to closely follow the instructions for your product of choice. If you do find that you’re left with a purplish cast, a follow-up wash with a clarifying shampoo can help remove extra pigment.

The color theory you might have learned in middle-school art class will be useful here. It’s simple: Purple cancels out yellow and orange tones on the color wheel. So when you apply it to your hair, the pigments help neutralize the hair’s yellow tones.

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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