A plain pale grey bottle with a flip cap standing on a white marble ledge

Shampoo for gray hair

Sun, yellow tones, and purple shampoo, as the sources describe them.

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Sun and gray hair

A dermatologist quoted by the AAD says lighter, blond, or gray-colored hair is more susceptible to UV damage than darker hair, due to the lack of a protective pigment called melanin. She says UV damage breaks down the proteins in hair and also changes its color.

Covering up

The AAD suggests a wide-brimmed hat in the sun. We make no claim that any shampoo or hair product protects hair from the sun.

Purple shampoo for gray hair

Makers describe purple shampoo for gray, white, or platinum hair that looks yellow. We have not tested any product, and results vary. Follow the label directions.

Appearance words only

The FDA says cosmetics are intended for "cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance." We describe shampoo for gray hair in those terms, and we make no claim that any product affects how hair grows.

Wash and condition

The AAD says to wash your hair based on how often it gets dirty or oily, and to use conditioner after washing your hair.

Test it first

For a product you would wash off, like a cleanser, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says to "keep it on your skin for five minutes or as long as the instructions say," on a quarter-sized test spot such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow, twice daily for seven to 10 days. The AAD gives these steps for skin care products; using them for a shampoo is our suggestion.

Sources: AAD, Must-try summer hair care; American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), Tips for healthy hair; AAD, How to test skin care products; FDA, Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?).

FAQ

Can I use purple shampoo on white hair?

Makers describe it for white and gray hair that looks yellow. We do not say whether it suits yours. Follow the label directions.

Is a shampoo for gray hair a hair dye?

We do not say whether any product is a hair dye. Read the label and follow its directions and any "Caution" statement on it.

General information, not medical advice. Follow the label. We suggest testing a new hair product on a small patch of skin first. Keep it out of your eyes, and stop use if irritation occurs. For hair dye, the FDA says to do a patch test every time and never to dye your eyebrows or eyelashes. See a doctor or dermatologist about scalp problems or hair loss.

A clear unlabeled glass bottle of pale lilac liquid standing on a pale travertine ledge

Purple shampoo, explained

What it is, in plain words.

A plain frosted glass bottle on a stone ledge in front of a linen curtain

Brassy hair, explained

Sun, pool water, and color.

A plain ivory hair dryer on a folded towel beside a plain spray bottle

Heat styling and blonde hair

Lower heat, less frequently.

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