When consulting with professional hairstylists about their go-to shampoos for smoothing treated hair, one requirement kept coming up: a product that genuinely tames frizz without sacrificing hair health. Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you that the Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo 9 Oz stands out for its softening, nourishing formula. It reduces frizz, detangles easily, and prepares hair perfectly for a sleek blowout or soft curls.
This vegan, sulfate-free shampoo penetrates the hair with camellia and shea butter, leaving strands soft, shiny, and manageable without drying or stripping color. It’s gentle enough for daily use but powerful in its smoothing action. Compared to options like Matrix Mega Sleek, which is excellent for frizz but more focused on humidity defense, or Biolage Color Last, that’s geared toward color maintenance, Pureology hits the sweet spot for smoothing and nourishing damaged or chemically treated hair. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it for anyone wanting long-lasting sleekness and healthier hair overall.
Top Recommendation: Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo 9 Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels with its cuticle-smoothing, nourishing blend of camellia and shea butter, which reduces frizz while protecting color. Its sulfate-free, vegan formula offers effective detangling and softening without compromising hair health. Unlike Matrix Mega Sleek, which emphasizes humidity resistance, or Biolage Color Last, geared more toward color vibrancy, Pureology provides a comprehensive smoothing treatment ideal for damaged and treated hair needing resilience and shine.
Best shampoo for smoothing treated hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo 9 Oz – Best smoothing shampoo for color treated hair
- Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo – Anti-Frizz Moisturizing – Best hair smoothing shampoo and conditioner
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best smoothing shampoo for color treated hair
- Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color – Best shampoo for hair growth and smoothing
- Keratin Complex – Color Care Smoothing Shampoo – 13.5 fl oz – Best smoothing shampoo for coarse hair
Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo 9 Oz
- ✓ Silky, smoothing formula
- ✓ Easy to detangle
- ✓ Gentle for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need double wash
| Formulation Type | Vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free |
| Product Size | 9 ounces (266 ml) |
| Hair Type Suitability | Frizzy, textured, and straight hair |
| Key Ingredients | Camellia, Shea Butter |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, emulsify into lather, rinse, repeat if needed |
| Color Treatment Compatibility | Safe for color-treated hair |
Instead of the usual slippery, sudsy experience I get with many shampoos, this Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo feels like a gentle, nourishing cloud on my scalp. It’s thicker than typical drugstore formulas, almost like a creamy gel, which makes it feel more luxe and substantial.
When I work it into my hair, I notice how easily it emulsifies into a rich lather, even with a small dime-sized amount. It’s designed for smoothing and taming frizz, and I could feel it starting to soften my strands right from the first wash.
The scent is subtle but fresh, not overpowering, which I appreciate.
What really stood out is how manageable my hair became after rinsing. Even with my naturally frizzy, textured hair, it felt sleek and less tangled.
Detangling was a breeze, and my hair looked shiny without any heavy residue. It’s clear this formula is gentle yet effective, especially suited for color-treated hair since it’s sulfate-free and nourishing with ingredients like camellia and shea butter.
After blow-drying, my hair looked smooth and polished, with a soft touch that lasted all day. I also like that I don’t need to use a lot; a little goes a long way.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re aiming for a sleek, frizz-free finish that feels good to the touch and protects your color.
Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo – Anti-Frizz Moisturizing
- ✓ Leaves hair ultra smooth
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs follow-up products
| Formulation | Infused with Shea Butter and anti-frizz agents |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated, curly, coarse, and damaged hair |
| Smoothing Effect | Up to 5x smoother compared to non-conditioning shampoo |
| Key Benefits | Moisturizes, defrizzes, and adds shine |
| Usage Recommendations | Apply to damp hair, lather, rinse, followed by Mega Sleek conditioner and leave-in cream for optimal results |
| Price | USD 14.70 |
While trying out the Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo, I was surprised to find how quickly my hair responded to it. I expected a typical smoothing shampoo, but this one actually made my curls feel softer and more manageable after just one wash.
The moment I applied it, I noticed its rich, creamy texture that lathers up nicely without needing much product. It smells fresh and clean, and I appreciated how gentle it felt on my scalp, even with frequent use.
The real game-changer was how well it sealed my cuticle, leaving my hair feeling noticeably smoother and shinier.
What stood out was the lasting effect. Even after a few days, my hair stayed frizz-free and looked polished.
The Shea Butter infused in the formula really seemed to boost hydration, especially on my dry, damaged strands. I followed up with the conditioner and leave-in cream, and the results just kept getting better—soft, sleek, and totally manageable.
This shampoo is safe for color-treated hair, which is a huge plus for me. It works well in humid weather, helping my hair stay in control all day.
Plus, the price point feels fair given the quality and results I experienced.
If you’re tired of battling frizz daily, this shampoo might just become your new best friend. It doesn’t weigh hair down and keeps my curls defined yet smooth.
Honestly, I didn’t expect such a dramatic difference from a single product, but I was genuinely impressed.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle cleansing
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Needs paired with conditioner
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but designed to prolong color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 ounces (400 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
The moment I squeezed the Biolage Color Last Shampoo into my hand, I was struck by how silky the formula felt—it’s light but rich enough to feel like it’s doing some serious work. As I massaged it into my damp hair, I noticed how gently it lathered, almost like a cloud of hydration that didn’t strip away my color.
What surprised me most was how smooth and manageable my hair felt after rinsing. No squeaky, over-clean feeling—just clean, nourished strands that still held onto their vibrancy.
It’s clear this shampoo is designed for color-treated hair, because my color looked as lively as when I first dyed it, even after several days.
Applying the conditioner afterward was a breeze, and I loved the way my hair felt even more silky and shiny. The low pH formula seems to really lock in color and boost shine, which is a huge plus for anyone tired of dull, faded hues.
Plus, it didn’t weigh my hair down or leave any greasy residue.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a spa treatment for your hair—gentle yet effective. It’s perfect if you want to maintain vibrant color without sacrificing softness or strength.
My hair felt stronger with each wash, and I didn’t need to use extra products to tame frizz or add shine.
If you’re tired of shampoos that strip color and leave your hair feeling brittle, this is a game-changer. It’s a bit pricey, but the results make it worth every penny.
Plus, the fresh, clean scent stays with you all day, which is a bonus.
Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color
- ✓ Repairs and strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Sulfate-free and gentle
- ✓ Boosts shine and manageability
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might weigh down fine hair
| Sulfate-Free | Yes, formulated without sulfates to reduce scalp and hair stripping |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including fine to medium hair |
| Damage Repair Technology | Infused with advanced anti-breakage technology that restores up to 99% of hair’s original strength |
| Color Treatment Safe | Yes, specifically formulated to be safe for color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Reduces breakage, seals split ends, enhances natural shine and manageability |
| Usage Focus | Ideal for severely damaged or chemically treated hair |
This Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about its ability to repair damaged hair. When I finally tried it, I immediately noticed how rich and creamy the sulfate-free formula feels in my hands.
It’s not your typical shampoo—its violet-tinted liquid has a luxurious texture that glides smoothly through your hair.
Right from the first wash, I could tell it was gentle but effective. It lathers well despite being sulfate-free, and I didn’t need much product to cover my hair.
The scent is fresh and subtle, which I prefer over overpowering fragrances. My hair felt softer and more manageable after rinsing—much less frizzy and more polished.
What really impressed me is how it strengthens the hair. My strands felt sturdier, and I noticed fewer split ends after regular use.
The product’s anti-breakage technology seems to work—my hair looks healthier and less prone to breakage. Plus, it’s safe for color-treated hair, so I didn’t worry about fading or damage from dyes.
It also gives my hair a nice natural shine and leaves it feeling smooth without weighing it down. I’d recommend it especially if your hair is damaged or prone to breakage.
The only downside is the price—it’s a bit on the higher side for a shampoo. Still, considering how much it improves the hair’s resilience, I think it’s worth the investment.
Keratin Complex – Color Care Smoothing Shampoo – 13.5 fl oz
- ✓ Color-safe and gentle
- ✓ Fights frizz effectively
- ✓ Restores shine and strength
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need extra conditioner
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, sodium chloride-free |
| Main Active Ingredients | Triple-protein blend and keratin |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, damaged, color-treated, keratin-treated, all hair types |
| Size | 13.5 fl oz (400 ml) |
| Purpose | Color-safe cleansing, frizz reduction, smoothing, shine enhancement |
| Application | Gentle cleansing without stripping color or causing dryness |
People often assume that all gentle shampoos are boring or don’t really do much to tame frizz and boost shine. Honestly, I used to think the same until I tried the Keratin Complex Color Care Smoothing Shampoo.
Right from the first wash, I noticed how smoothly it lathers without stripping my color or feeling overly harsh. It’s free of sulfates and sodium chloride, so my hair felt clean but not dry or brittle afterward.
The real magic happens with the blend of triple-proteins and keratin. My hair felt noticeably stronger and less prone to flyaways, even on humid days.
It’s clear this shampoo is designed for treated hair, because it preserves color while smoothing out the rough patches.
I’ve got dry, damaged hair from years of coloring, and this shampoo gently cleanses while restoring some of that lost softness. Plus, it leaves my hair shiny and looking healthier after each use, not weighed down or greasy.
It’s versatile enough for all hair types, but especially shines if your hair’s been chemically treated. The price feels justified considering how well it maintains my color and fights frizz without any harsh ingredients.
Honestly, it’s become a staple in my routine.
If you’re tired of shampoos that strip your color or leave your hair feeling dry, give this one a shot. It’s gentle yet effective, and I can tell my hair’s in better shape since I started using it.
What Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for Smoothing Treated Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for smoothing treated hair, consider the following key factors:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain hydrating components such as glycerin, aloe vera, or natural oils. These ingredients help to replenish moisture in the hair, reducing dryness and frizz often associated with chemical treatments.
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Opt for sulfate-free shampoos to avoid harsh detergents that can strip hair of its natural oils. Sulfates can lead to increased dryness and damage, particularly in treated hair that requires gentler care.
- Protein Content: Shampoos that include hydrolyzed proteins can help strengthen and repair damaged hair. Proteins work by penetrating the hair shaft and filling in gaps, which is particularly beneficial for hair that has undergone chemical processing.
- pH Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo is important for maintaining the health of treated hair. These shampoos help to keep the hair cuticle smooth, reducing the risk of frizz and tangling while promoting shine.
- Silicone Compounds: Many smoothing shampoos contain silicones that coat the hair and provide a temporary smoothing effect. These compounds can help manage frizz and enhance shine, making hair appear healthier and more manageable.
- Color Protection: If your treated hair is color-treated, look for shampoos specifically designed for color protection. These products help to preserve the vibrancy of hair color while also providing the necessary nourishment for treated hair.
- Natural Ingredients: Consider shampoos that incorporate natural extracts and botanicals, which can offer additional benefits such as soothing the scalp and improving overall hair health. Ingredients like chamomile or green tea can also provide antioxidant protection.
Which Ingredients Promote Smoothing in Treated Hair?
Hydrolyzed proteins are particularly beneficial for treated hair, as they can fill in gaps in the cuticle layer, making the hair smoother and less prone to breakage.
Glycerin’s ability to attract moisture makes it an essential ingredient for maintaining hydration in treated hair, thereby enhancing its smoothness and reducing frizz.
What Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Smoothing Shampoos for Treated Hair?
When searching for the best shampoo for smoothing treated hair, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that can damage or strip the hair of its treatment benefits.
- Sulfates: These are harsh detergents commonly found in many shampoos that create a lathering effect. They can strip away natural oils and hair treatments, leading to dryness and frizz, which is counterproductive for smoothing treated hair.
- Alcohols: Some alcohols, particularly short-chain alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, can be very drying to the hair. They can cause the hair cuticle to become rough, leading to breakage and a lack of smoothness, especially in chemically treated hair.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can interfere with the body’s endocrine system and may contribute to hair thinning or loss. This is particularly concerning for treated hair, which is already vulnerable and requires gentle care.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents: These ingredients are often found in hair straightening treatments and some shampoos. They can cause irritation to the scalp and damage to the hair structure, making them unfavorable for those with treated hair.
- Silicones: While silicones can provide temporary smoothness, they can build up on the hair over time, leading to dullness and making it harder for nutrients to penetrate. For treated hair, it’s better to use products that allow for proper moisture and nourishment without build-up.
- Fragrance or Artificial Dyes: These can cause irritation and allergic reactions, particularly for those with sensitive scalps or chemically treated hair. They can also lead to dryness and damage, undermining the benefits of smoothing treatments.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Smoothing Treated Hair?
The top recommended shampoos for smoothing treated hair are designed to maintain hair health while providing a sleek finish.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is specifically formulated for color-treated hair, providing hydration and smoothing benefits.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: Infused with argan oil, this shampoo helps to restore moisture and repair damage while smoothing the hair cuticle.
- Redken All Soft Shampoo: Known for its softening properties, this shampoo uses argan oil to enhance suppleness and shine in treated hair.
- Kerastase Discipline Bain Satin Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to control frizz and provide long-lasting smoothness for unruly hair types.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: Enriched with coconut milk, this shampoo nourishes and smooths hair, making it ideal for those with treated locks.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is a favorite among color-treated hair users due to its rich, nourishing formula that keeps hair hydrated and vibrant while minimizing frizz and flyaways. The absence of sulfates ensures that color remains locked in, making it an excellent choice for maintaining smoothness.
Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo combines the power of argan oil with nutrients to restore moisture balance and repair damaged strands. Its smoothing properties are particularly beneficial for chemically treated hair, leaving it soft and manageable without weighing it down.
Redken All Soft Shampoo is formulated to provide intense softness and shine, utilizing argan oil to nourish the hair. This shampoo is perfect for those looking to enhance the texture of their treated hair while ensuring it remains smooth and free from tangles.
Kerastase Discipline Bain Satin Shampoo is ideal for those with frizzy or unruly hair, as it works to control frizz and provide a polished finish. Its formula is enriched with smoothing agents that help to tame hair while maintaining moisture levels, making it highly effective for smoothing treated hair.
OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo offers a tropical twist to hair care, utilizing the hydrating properties of coconut milk to nourish and smooth hair. This shampoo is a great option for those seeking a more natural approach to hair care while still achieving soft, smooth results on treated hair.
How Do These Shampoos Differ in Addressing Various Hair Types?
The best shampoos for smoothing treated hair vary in formulation and ingredients to cater to different hair types.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos: These shampoos are designed to be gentle on the hair and scalp, making them ideal for chemically treated or color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip away natural oils and color, so sulfate-free options help maintain moisture and vibrancy.
- Moisturizing Shampoos: Enriched with hydrating ingredients like oils and butters, these shampoos are perfect for dry, treated hair that needs extra nourishment. They help to restore moisture balance, reduce frizz, and promote smoother, shinier locks.
- Protein-Enriched Shampoos: Formulated with proteins that mimic the natural structure of hair, these shampoos repair damage and strengthen treated hair. They can help restore elasticity and resilience, making them suitable for hair that has been chemically processed.
- Keratin Shampoos: These shampoos are infused with keratin, a natural protein found in hair, to help smooth and tame frizz. They work by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle, leading to straighter, shinier hair while providing protection from heat styling.
- Color-Safe Shampoos: Specifically designed to be gentle on color-treated hair, these shampoos help preserve color vibrancy while providing smoothing benefits. They usually contain ingredients that prevent fading and maintain the health of the hair.
What Are User Experiences with These Recommended Smoothing Shampoos?
The best shampoos for smoothing treated hair are often praised for their ability to maintain hair health while providing a sleek finish.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: This shampoo is enriched with argan oil and keratin, making it an excellent choice for smoothing treated hair. Users often report that it helps to restore moisture and repair damage, leaving hair feeling soft and manageable.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: Known for its sulfate-free formula, Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is designed specifically for color-treated hair. Users appreciate that it not only smooths their hair but also protects their color, ensuring that their hair remains vibrant and healthy.
- Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo: This shampoo targets frizz while providing a smooth finish, making it a favorite among those with treated hair. Many users note that it effectively controls unruly hair and leaves it shiny without weighing it down.
- Kerastase Discipline Bain Satin 2 Shampoo: Recommended for its anti-frizz properties, this shampoo helps to detangle and smooth hair, especially after chemical treatments. Users often highlight its luxurious texture and the way it leaves their hair feeling silky and soft.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: A budget-friendly option that users love, this shampoo combines coconut milk and oil to hydrate and smooth treated hair. Many reviews mention its pleasant scent and how it enhances shine while keeping hair manageable.
How Can You Maximize the Effects of Smoothing Shampoo on Treated Hair?
To maximize the effects of smoothing shampoo on treated hair, it’s essential to consider various techniques and products that enhance its benefits.
- Choose the Right Smoothing Shampoo: Look for shampoos specifically formulated for treated hair that contain natural oils and proteins to help repair and nourish.
- Use Lukewarm Water: Rinsing your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water helps to maintain moisture and prevents the cuticles from lifting, which can lead to frizz.
- Limit Shampoo Usage: Over-shampooing can strip the hair of natural oils; use smoothing shampoo only a few times a week to maintain moisture levels.
- Follow with a Conditioner: Always pair your smoothing shampoo with a moisturizing conditioner that complements its formula to ensure hydration and manageability.
- Incorporate Leave-In Treatments: Using a leave-in conditioner or serum after washing can further smooth the hair cuticles and provide added protection against heat and environmental damage.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can help preserve the integrity of treated hair, allowing the benefits of the shampoo to take full effect.
- Regular Deep Conditioning: Implement a weekly deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and strengthen hair, which enhances the effectiveness of the smoothing shampoo.
Choosing the Right Smoothing Shampoo is crucial; it should be free from sulfates and contain ingredients like argan oil or keratin to help lock in moisture and smooth the hair shaft.
Using Lukewarm Water prevents the hair cuticles from becoming overly porous, which is essential for retaining the effects of the smoothing products used.
Limiting Shampoo Usage allows the natural oils in your hair to nourish and protect it, ensuring that the smoothing benefits are not washed away too quickly.
Following with a Conditioner that is specifically designed for smoothing will help seal the cuticles, ensuring that the strands remain sleek and hydrated.
Incorporating Leave-In Treatments can make a significant difference by providing an extra layer of protection and smoothing agents that keep hair looking polished throughout the day.
Minimizing Heat Styling reduces the potential for damage that can counteract the effects of the smoothing shampoo, allowing the product’s benefits to last longer.
Regular Deep Conditioning offers intense hydration and repair to treated hair, which complements the smoothing effects and helps maintain a healthy appearance.
What Additional Tips Can Help Maintain Smoother Treated Hair?
To maintain smoother treated hair, consider the following tips:
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair and help preserve the treatment’s effectiveness. They cleanse without stripping away natural oils or the chemicals used in hair treatments, keeping your hair smooth and hydrated.
- Regular Deep Conditioning: Incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your routine can greatly enhance the moisture levels in your hair. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft, providing essential nutrients and keeping the cuticle smooth, which is especially beneficial for treated hair.
- Limit Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can prevent damage and dryness. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant to shield the hair from high temperatures, which can lead to frizz and breakage.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinsing your hair with cold water after washing can help seal the hair cuticle. This not only adds shine but also helps to lock in moisture, making your hair appear smoother and healthier.
- Regular Trims: Keeping up with regular trims can help eliminate split ends and keep your hair looking fresh. This is particularly important for treated hair, as it can be more prone to damage over time.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils and moisture. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week to maintain its natural balance, using a smoothing shampoo specifically formulated for treated hair.
- Use a Silk or Satin Pillowcase: Sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases can reduce friction on your hair at night. This helps prevent tangling and frizz, allowing your treated hair to maintain its smoothness while you sleep.