What is the main function of a toning shampoo?

The primary function of a toning shampoo is to neutralize brassy tones in colored hair. When hair is dyed, particularly with lighter shades, it often develops unwanted warm undertones, such as yellows or oranges. Toning shampoos contain purple or blue pigments that effectively counteract these warm tones, giving the hair a cooler, more balanced appearance. This is especially important for those with blonde, silver, or gray hair, as maintaining a desired hue can be challenging due to the natural color undertones that can emerge over time.

Recognizing this aspect of toning shampoos highlights their role in hair care, particularly for clients who color their hair and aim to maintain vibrant, true-to-tone colors. Other shampoos may serve different purposes, such as volumizing or hydrating, but toning shampoo specifically targets color correction.