Here's a breakdown:
* Color Depositing Shampoos: These shampoos contain dyes that deposit color onto the hair shaft with each wash. They're designed to:
* Enhance Existing Color: Brighten reds, deepen brunettes, maintain blondes (especially to combat brassiness with purple shampoo), and add vibrancy to other colors.
* Add Tones: Introduce temporary hints of color (like a rose gold sheen or a subtle blue tint).
* Cover Grays (Temporarily): Some shampoos offer shades that can help blend or camouflage gray hairs, but the effect washes out.
* How they work: The color molecules in these shampoos don't penetrate the hair cortex like permanent dyes. Instead, they coat the outside of the hair shaft.
* Limitations:
* Not Permanent: The color washes out gradually with each shampoo.
* Subtle Changes: They can't drastically change your hair color. You can't go significantly lighter or darker.
* Not Effective on Untreated Hair: They work best on hair that is already dyed or has been chemically treated (like permed or relaxed). Virgin (untreated) hair may not absorb the color as well.
* Can Stain: Be careful when using these shampoos, as they can stain your hands, towels, and shower surfaces.
Examples of Color Depositing Shampoos:
* Purple Shampoo: Used to tone blonde and silver hair, neutralizing brassy yellow tones.
* Blue Shampoo: Used to tone brunette hair, neutralizing orange tones.
* Red Shampoo: Used to enhance red hair color, making it more vibrant.
* Brown Shampoo: Used to deepen brown hair color and add richness.
* Black Shampoo: Used to maintain black hair color and cover grays temporarily.
In summary: No shampoo can permanently change your hair color. However, color-depositing shampoos can be a useful tool for enhancing existing color, adding temporary tones, and maintaining vibrancy between salon visits. If you want a significant or permanent change in hair color, you'll need to use hair dye or consult with a professional colorist.