Dermatologists Break Down the Best Shampoos for Graying Hair (2024)

Dr. Farber recommends this highly-rated pick from Kérastase. “This purple shampoo has neutralizing agents to keep gray and blonde tones cool,” she says.

The formula highlights hydrating hyaluronic acid, rich antioxidants, and pigments that help remove brassy and yellow undertones. It can be used on any hair type, from fine to thick, from straight to curly, and even colored hair. Reviewers rave about the pleasant scent, hydrating properties, and the fact that the shampoo really works to keep brassiness away.

What a reviewer says: “I have naturally gray/white hair. This shampoo works better than any other purple shampoo I’ve tried, and I’ve tried a lot of them. I generally mix a small amount with regular shampoo and never have an issue with yellowing or brassy hair.”

The L’Oréal EverPure Sulfate-Free Purple Shampoo is highly rated among users, with several saying that it works just as well as more expensive salon haircare brands.

The shampoo costs a third of the price of some of the cheaper salon brands, but it is as just effective and contains the purple dyes needed to neutralize brassy yellow and orange tones. The vegan formula also contains no sulfates or parabens and works well on color-treated or highlighted hair. Just keep in mind that some users did not enjoy the strong scent.

What a reviewer says: “The purple combo toned the yellow way down and blended it into my white hair. I’m thrilled.”

A reviewer calls this pick from Amika “moisturizing and not heavy.” I could not agree more with this sentiment, along with the brand’s claims of the formula being clinically proven to tone, hydrate, and strengthen hair.

I have used different lines of Amika shampoo and conditioners for years (and still do) after my hairdresser recommended the brand to me. While I don’t have full on gray hair, I used the Bust Your Brass shampoo on my dyed blonde hair for two years. Not only did the formula work to prevent brassy hues, it also made my hair feel soft and moisturized—without weighing it down.

What a reviewer says: “Bought this in need to fight brass in my hair, and it works. Left in for just four minutes and my hair was so much better. Cant wait to try the conditioner.”

Dr. Farber also recommends this toning shampoo from Olaplex, saying it’s helpful for neutralizing yellow tones while being gentle on hair.

If you prefer a brighter, almost ice-like sheen, this shampoo is for you. It is highly concentrated, and several reviewers alike claim that the formula is effective in taking out brass. We also like that the formula is sulfate free. Just note that reviewers are mixed on the potency, saying it smells and stains strong.

What a reviewer says: “My gray is so icy with this shampoo it’s amazing. I never have brassiness or yellowing. I absolutely love it.”

The Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo is another favorite of mine from when I had blonde hair, and it works the same wonders on gray hair. The formula aims to preserve the coolness of blonde and silver tones and ward away yellow and warm tones. I like that the shampoo gently cleanses while maintaining vibrancy and moisture. Green tea extract and UV absorbers also help prevent hair from looking dull or aging.

What a reviewer says: “I am 67 years old and I decided to let my hair grow gray. I started using this product because my hairdresser recommended it. I’ve used it for a year and it’s the best decision I have ever made. Compliments on my hair and how my gray shines, is constant. I can be at the store and people will stop me and compliment how beautiful my gray looks.”

If dry, brittle hair is your main concern, Dr. Saedi recommends the HASK Argan Oil Shampoo. You can typically find it as a set with the matching conditioner for under $20.

Dr. Saedi explains that gray hair is more prone to breakage, so she advises looking for shampoos that help hydrate and protect the hair. “HASK Argan Oil Shampoo will help hydrate and restore dry, damaged hair. It smells like citrus and will leave your hair feeling delightfully silky,” she says. Reviewers agree that the shampoo really works to help soften hair and keep frizz away. Just note that this shampoo does not do anything to help with brass or yellow undertones.

What a reviewer says: “The only product I have used on my thinning hair for about a year and a half now. Even my hair stylist has seen ‘new growth’. Being in my 40s, I’ve missed the feeling of fullness in my hair, this product makes a difference.”

This antioxidant-rich formula is proudly free of parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil. Instead, it contains blue and silver pigments that help remove yellow hues. Additionally, European silver fir extract helps retain moisture and protect your hair against free-radical damage.

“Oribe Silverati is another good toning shampoo that is gentle, improves elasticity, and protects against environmental factors,” Dr. Farber says.

What a reviewer says: “I got this for my mom as a gift. She loves it so much! Her hairstylist even complimented her and bought it after she brought it to the salon for her wash. It leaves her hair smooth and makes her grey hair looks even more beautiful.”

Hardik Doshi, M.D., lead surgeon of hair restoration at Ample, says that shampoo plays a crucial role in keeping your silver locks looking lively and healthy. “Since gray hair has its set of demands, opting for a shampoo that caters to these unique needs can greatly impact the overall well-being and look of your hair,” he says.

Dr. Doshi recommends considering the following factors when shopping for shampoos for gray hair:

Dr. Saedi mentions that as we age, we naturally produce less oil. “As your hair loses its natural pigment and turns silver or gray, it’s important to focus on hydrating your scalp and your hair can keep it looking and feeling healthy,” she says.

Dr. Doshi agrees. He explains that gray hair can see changes in texture, feeling rougher and stiffer. “This results in hair being more susceptible to frizz and harder to handle,” he says. He also mentions that gray hair will can be more sensitive to yellowing and breakage, plus the drier texture can pose challenges when it comes to hair styling and upkeep. Gray hair shampoos can help mitigate these concerns.

According to Dr. Farber and Dr. Doshi, the amount of times needed to shampoo per week varies by person. “As your oil production lessens, you can extend the amount of time in between washes. A good indication that it’s time for a shampoo is when your hair is visibly greasy or when your scalp is flaky or feels itchy,” Dr. Saedi says.

Dr. Doshi says that daily washing is unnecessary and can leave to dryness in your hair and scalp. “Follow the instructions on the label, but keep in mind that excess use can lead to increased dullness, coarseness, and brittle hair—sometimes even irritation or sensitivity on your scalp,” he says. He adds that it is totally fine to complement your gray shampoo with a separate hydrating one.

Both Dr. Doshi and Dr. Saedi agree that using a gray hair shampoo two to three times should be more more than enough. “Some purple shampoos may be best when used about twice a week to avoid unwanted buildup or accidentally tinting it purple,” Dr. Saedi says.

We tested the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo and Amika Bust Your Brass Blonde Purple Shampoo.

Additionally, we consulted dermatologists and a hair restoration surgeon to get the professional opinions on shampoos for gray hair. We talked to Michele Farber, M.D., board-certified Dermatologist of Schweiger Dermatology Group; Nazanin Saedi, M.D., board certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University; and Hardik Doshi, M.D., lead surgeon of hair restoration at Ample. Dr. Farber and Dr. Saedi recommended the picks from Kérastase, Olaplex, Oribe, and HASK.

We then conducted our own research and read through numerous product descriptions and reviews to include the remaining picks.