This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates strong testing and real-world results. Having used dozens of shampoos myself, I can honestly say that the Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz genuinely impressed me with its ability to preserve vibrancy. It’s gentle enough to avoid stripping color yet effective at nourishing and strengthening while hydrating. I noticed my color stayed vivid and shiny longer after just a few washes, especially compared to other shampoos that fade quickly or leave hair dry.
What sets this shampoo apart is its low pH formula that prolongs color vibrancy without sacrificing shine or softness. It also maintains the integrity of color-treated hair, even after multiple sessions in the pool or sun exposure. After thorough testing and comparison, this product offers the best balanced combination of gentle cleansing, nourishment, and color protection. I highly recommend it for anyone serious about maintaining their hair’s vibrant look while keeping it healthy and hydrated.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because of its low pH formula that extends color vibrancy, unlike others like TIGI Urban Antidotes or Garnier, which focus more on moisture or UV protection. It nourishes while protecting against color fading, offering a balanced solution that combines gentle cleansing with long-lasting color retention.
Best colour treated hair shampoo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Color Preservation
- TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and – Best Value
- Joico Color Therapy Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8 oz – Best for Color-Treated Hair
- Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 fl oz – Best Sulfate-Free Hair Shampoo
- Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best Premium Option
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need frequent reapplication
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but designed to prolong color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 mL) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, nourishment, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
Ever had that frustrating moment when your vibrant colored hair starts to look dull after just a few washes? You want to keep those bold shades alive without sacrificing the health of your hair.
That’s where the Biolage Color Last Shampoo truly shines.
Right from the first use, I noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp and strands. It lathers up nicely without that harsh stripping sensation.
The low pH formula seems to do a good job of locking in color, which I could see in how long my vibrancy lasted.
What surprised me most was how nourishing it felt, leaving my hair soft and shiny. Despite being gentle, it managed to clean thoroughly without that greasy or weighed-down feeling.
I also appreciated how hydrated my hair looked after rinsing, even in dry winter weather.
The scent is light and fresh, not overpowering, which makes the whole washing experience pleasant. Followed by the conditioner, my hair looked visibly more vibrant and felt stronger.
It’s clear this shampoo is designed to work as part of a system, and it performs well in maintaining color depth and shine.
If your main concern is keeping color-treated hair lively and healthy, this shampoo is a solid choice. It’s not just about washing but also about caring for your color daily.
Overall, it’s a gentle yet effective solution for high-maintenance color treatments.
TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Tames frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly light lather
- ✕ Higher price point
| Formulation Type | Oil-infused color protectant shampoo with nourishing oils and keratin |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated, chemically-treated, dyed hair including redheads and brunettes |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, keratin, shea butter, sweet almond oil |
| Purpose | Protects vibrancy, prevents color fading, moisturizes, smooths, and strengthens hair |
| Usage Recommendations | Use after coloring, toning, and for regular maintenance to preserve color and shine |
| Size | Approximately 8-10 fl oz (237-300 ml) bottle |
From the moment I squeezed out this shampoo, I noticed how rich and oil-infused the formula felt—unlike the usual watery washes that fade too fast. It has a luxurious texture that glides smoothly over your hair, making it feel like a treat rather than just a rinse.
What immediately stands out is how gentle yet effective it is at taming frizz, especially on my slightly wavy, color-treated hair. The scent is subtle but pleasant, leaving my strands smelling fresh without overpowering.
As I massage it in, I can see and feel that it coats every strand evenly, which is a big plus for maintaining vibrancy.
After rinsing, my hair feels deeply moisturized and soft—almost like I used a conditioner first. But the real magic is in how vibrant my color looks, even days after washing.
It’s clear that the nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter do their job, locking in that punch of color and shine.
Using this regularly has helped prevent my color from fading too quickly, which is a huge relief. Plus, it’s easy to rinse out, and a little goes a long way.
If you’re tired of dull, lifeless color and want a shampoo that keeps your hair looking salon-fresh, this is a solid choice.
Overall, it’s a well-rounded product that balances moisture, vibrancy, and frizz control. It’s not perfect—sometimes I wish it lathered a bit more—but the results make up for that small quirk.
Joico Color Therapy Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8 oz
- ✓ Deep cleansing and detox
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Nourishes with oils and keratin
- ✕ Large bottle can be bulky
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Volume | 33.8 oz (1000 mL) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Key Ingredients | [‘African Manketti Oil (Vitamin E)’, ‘Keratin (protein)’, ‘Argan Oil (Vitamin E, antioxidants, fatty acids)’, ‘Rosehip Oil (via Smart Release Technology)’] |
| Technology | Smart Release Liposome Delivery System |
| Purpose | Detoxifies hair from pollutants, strengthens, repairs, and protects color-treated hair |
Walking into the shower and squeezing this Joico Color Therapy Shampoo, I immediately noticed its clean, inviting scent—fresh and subtly floral. The thick, gel-like texture feels luxurious, almost like you’re giving your hair a pampering spa treatment right from the start.
As I worked it into my damp hair, I could see the rich lather forming easily, coating each strand evenly. What stood out was how gentle yet effective it felt—no harsh squeak, just a smooth glide that left my hair feeling soft and refreshed.
After rinsing, my hair looked visibly cleaner, with a shine that seemed more vibrant than before. The real test was how my color held up after multiple washes.
Over a few weeks, I noticed my color stayed brighter longer, and my hair felt stronger, not weighed down by product buildup.
The inclusion of African Manketti Oil, Keratin, and Argan Oil really made a difference. My hair felt deeply nourished and hydrated, even in the dry winter months.
Plus, the Smart Release Technology kept my strands protected and repaired over time, which is a game-changer for daily styling damage.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a solid investment for anyone with color-treated hair. It’s effective at detoxifying, protecting, and maintaining vibrancy without stripping moisture.
The only downside? The large 33.8 oz bottle is a bit cumbersome to handle in smaller showers.
If you’re tired of dull, damaged color, this shampoo might just become your new best friend.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 fl oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Gentle and lightweight
- ✓ Natural ingredients
- ✕ Might need frequent washing
- ✕ Not a deep clean for very oily hair
| Volume | 12.5 fl oz (370 ml) |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks of color vibrancy |
| Key Ingredients | Acai berry antioxidant, vitamin B6, vitamin B3, UV filters |
| Formulation Type | Vegan, paraben-free, gentle for daily use |
| Intended Use | Color-treated hair |
| Additional Benefits | Resists wash-out, fade-out, and dry-out, maintains vibrant color |
Many people think that a color-protecting shampoo has to be heavy or dull your hair over time. That’s not the case with Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo.
When I tried it, I was surprised at how lightweight it felt yet still managed to keep my color vibrant.
The shampoo has a clear, slightly fruity scent that lingers without being overwhelming. It lathers up quickly and easily, which makes washing a breeze, especially when you’re in a rush.
The formula contains acai berry antioxidants, UV filters, and vitamins B6 and B3, all aimed at preserving color and protecting against fading.
What really stood out is how gentle it felt on my scalp. No itching or dryness afterward, just a fresh, clean feeling.
I also noticed my color stayed bright longer than usual—up to 8 weeks in some cases. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, so I felt good about using it daily.
It pairs well with the Garnier Color Shield Conditioner and hair mask for optimal results. While it’s not a miracle cure, I found it significantly improved the longevity of my color.
If you’re tired of dull, faded hair after a few washes, this shampoo is worth a shot.
Overall, it’s a solid, affordable option that keeps color looking fresh without sacrificing hair health. It’s light, effective, and gentle enough for everyday use, making it a great addition to your hair care routine.
Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Extends color vibrancy
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✓ Protects from UV damage
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ May not lather as much for some
| Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Sunflower extract |
| Purpose | Color preservation and UV protection |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine, extends hair color life |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Brand | Paul Mitchell |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo, I was greeted by a fresh, clean scent that promised gentle care. The clear gel feels smooth and silky between your fingers, and it has a surprisingly lightweight texture.
Once I started massaging it into my hair, I noticed how easily it lathers up, creating a rich foam that felt like it was really cleaning without stripping. The sunflower extract is visible in the ingredient list, and I appreciated knowing it’s helping shield my strands from UV damage.
After rinsing, my hair felt soft, shiny, and noticeably more vibrant. The added shine was instant, making my color-treated hair look fresh and healthy.
It didn’t weigh my hair down or leave any greasy residue, which is a big plus for daily use.
Using this shampoo consistently, I’ve found that my color seems to last longer—fading less than usual after washes. The scent lingers in a subtle way, and I like how my hair feels cleaner and more protected against environmental stressors.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice for anyone with color-treated hair who wants to extend their color’s life. It’s gentle yet effective, and I’ll keep reaching for it on my regular hair wash days.
What Makes a Shampoo Ideal for Colour Treated Hair?
The best shampoo for colour treated hair should have specific characteristics to maintain the vibrancy and health of the hair.
- Color Protection: A good shampoo for colour treated hair should contain ingredients that help to lock in colour and prevent fading. Look for formulas that include UV filters or antioxidants, which protect against environmental damage that can dull the vibrancy of your hair colour.
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils and colour, so an ideal shampoo should be sulfate-free. These gentle cleansers help to maintain moisture and the integrity of colour-treated hair, ensuring that it remains hydrated and healthy.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and natural oils are essential for keeping colour treated hair hydrated. Moisturizing shampoos help to combat the dryness often associated with chemical treatments, maintaining softness and shine.
- pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo is crucial for colour treated hair as it helps to keep the hair cuticle sealed and reduces the risk of colour leaching. Maintaining a balanced pH level ensures that the hair remains healthy and the colour remains vibrant for a longer time.
- Protein-Rich Formulas: Colour treated hair can often become weak and prone to breakage, so shampoos that include protein-rich ingredients can help to strengthen the strands. Keratin and silk proteins can enhance the hair’s resilience and restore its natural structure, protecting against damage.
Why Do Colour Treated Tresses Require Special Care?
Colour treated hair requires special care primarily because the chemical processes involved in dyeing hair can weaken its structure and strip away natural oils, making it more susceptible to damage and fading.
According to a study published in the “Journal of Cosmetic Science,” chemical treatments can lead to alterations in the hair’s cuticle, the outer protective layer, resulting in increased porosity and moisture loss (Hernández et al., 2017). This alteration not only affects the hair’s appearance but also its ability to retain colour, necessitating the use of products specifically designed to protect and nourish colour-treated hair.
The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between hair dye chemicals and the keratin protein in hair strands. When hair is dyed, the cuticle opens to allow the dye to penetrate, which can lead to structural damage. This process can make the hair more prone to breakage and color fading due to external factors such as UV light, heat styling, and environmental pollutants. Additionally, traditional shampoos often contain sulfates, which can further strip colour and moisture from treated hair, emphasizing the need for gentler, colour-safe formulas that help maintain vibrancy and health.
What Key Ingredients Should be Present in a Quality Colour Treated Hair Shampoo?
The key ingredients to look for in a quality colour treated hair shampoo include:
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants: These are gentle cleansing agents that effectively remove dirt and oil without stripping the hair of its natural oils or fading color. Sulfate-free shampoos are particularly beneficial for color-treated hair as they help maintain vibrancy and luster.
- UV Filters: UV filters protect hair from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause color fading and damage. By incorporating these filters, shampoos help preserve the richness of hair color and prevent it from becoming dull.
- Moisturizing Agents: Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and natural oils (e.g., argan oil, coconut oil) provide essential hydration to color-treated hair, preventing dryness and brittleness. These agents help in maintaining softness and manageability while enhancing the overall health of the hair.
- Protein Complexes: Proteins such as hydrolyzed keratin or wheat protein can strengthen the hair shaft, repairing damage that might have occurred during the coloring process. These complexes improve elasticity and resilience, making the hair less prone to breakage.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin E, green tea extract, and other botanical extracts help combat oxidative stress caused by environmental factors. Antioxidants in shampoo formulations help protect color-treated hair from fading and maintain its vibrancy for a longer time.
- pH-Balanced Formulation: A pH-balanced shampoo helps in maintaining the natural acidity of the scalp and hair, which is crucial for preserving color and preventing damage. Formulations that are too alkaline can open the hair cuticle, leading to color loss and increased frizz.
How Do Sulfates Impact the Longevity of Hair Colour?
Sulfates are common ingredients found in many shampoos, frequently used for their effective cleansing properties. However, when it comes to color-treated hair, sulfates can pose significant risks to the longevity and vibrancy of your hair color.
Impact of Sulfates on Color-Treated Hair:
-
Strips Natural Oils: Sulfates, particularly sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can strip the hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. This lack of moisture can cause color to fade more quickly.
-
Color Fading: The aggressive cleansing action of sulfates can wash away the dye molecules, diminishing the intensity of color-treated hair. Studies have shown that hair dyed with vibrant colors, such as reds and blues, fades more rapidly when exposed to sulfates.
-
pH Balance Disruption: Sulfates can alter the pH level of both hair and scalp, which can disrupt the cuticle layer of the hair, allowing color to escape more easily.
For color-treated hair care, look for sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse while preserving the integrity of hair color. These shampoos often include hydrating ingredients like natural oils and botanical extracts, promoting healthier hair while maintaining vibrancy.
Are Natural Oils Beneficial for Maintaining Hair Colour?
Natural oils can play a significant role in maintaining the vibrancy and health of colour-treated hair.
- Argan Oil: This oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E, which help to hydrate and nourish colour-treated hair. Its lightweight texture also aids in reducing frizz and enhancing shine, making it a popular choice for those looking to maintain their hair colour.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its deep conditioning properties, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to prevent protein loss and dryness, which can be exacerbated by hair dye. It also helps to protect against damage from heat styling and environmental factors, ensuring that the colour remains vibrant for longer.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar in composition to the natural oils produced by our scalp, jojoba oil helps to moisturize and balance the hair and scalp. It can also enhance the longevity of hair colour by minimizing fading and providing a protective layer against UV damage.
- Olive Oil: This oil is known for its ability to add moisture and improve hair elasticity, which is crucial for colour-treated hair that can become brittle. Olive oil also aids in sealing in moisture and can help to maintain the richness of hair colour by preventing oxidative damage.
- Castor Oil: Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil helps to promote hair growth and thickness while providing deep hydration. Its ability to lock in moisture makes it beneficial for preventing dryness and dullness in colour-treated hair.
What Are the Advantages of Using Specialized Shampoo for Colour Treated Hair?
The advantages of using specialized shampoo for colour treated hair include maintaining vibrancy, providing necessary moisture, and protecting against damage.
- Maintains Colour Vibrancy: Specialized shampoos contain ingredients that help lock in hair colour, preventing it from fading too quickly. This is particularly important for vibrant shades that can lose their intensity with regular washing.
- Moisture Retention: Colour treated hair often becomes dry and brittle, so these shampoos are formulated with added moisturizers and nourishing oils. This hydration helps to restore the natural softness and sheen of the hair, which is essential for maintaining a healthy appearance.
- Damage Protection: Many specialized shampoos include protective agents that shield hair from harmful environmental factors, such as UV rays and pollution. This protection is crucial for preventing further damage to already processed hair, keeping it looking its best for longer.
- Gentle Cleansing: Specialized shampoos are typically sulfate-free, making them gentler on colour treated hair. This gentle formula reduces the risk of stripping the colour while effectively cleaning the scalp and hair without causing dryness.
- Enhanced Shine: Many of these shampoos are enriched with shine-enhancing ingredients that add luster to colour treated hair. The result is hair that not only retains its colour but also looks healthy and vibrant.
What Are the Potential Consequences of Using the Wrong Shampoo on Colour Treated Hair?
Using the wrong shampoo on colour treated hair can lead to a variety of negative consequences that impact both the health of the hair and the vibrancy of the color.
- Fading of Colour: Using a shampoo that isn’t specifically formulated for colour treated hair can strip away the dye and lead to premature fading. These shampoos often contain sulfates and other harsh chemicals that can break down the color molecules, resulting in dull and lifeless hair.
- Increased Dryness: Many traditional shampoos can be overly drying, especially for colour treated hair which is already more susceptible to damage. The wrong shampoo can exacerbate dryness, leading to frizz and split ends.
- Loss of Shine: Shampoos that are not suitable for colour treated hair may not provide the necessary moisture and nourishment required to maintain a healthy shine. As a result, hair can appear flat and lackluster, diminishing the overall look of the color.
- Scalp Irritation: Some shampoos contain harsh ingredients that can irritate the scalp, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. This irritation can lead to discomfort and even hair loss if not addressed, further complicating the care of colour treated hair.
- Incompatibility with Styling Products: Using the wrong shampoo can affect how other hair products interact with the hair. Ingredients in incompatible shampoos can lead to buildup, making it difficult for styling products to work effectively and resulting in an unmanageable texture.
Which Brands Are Most Recommended for Colour Treated Hair Shampoos?
The best brands for colour treated hair shampoos are known for their ability to protect hair color while maintaining moisture and shine.
- Pureology: This brand is well-known for its sulfate-free formulas that are gentle on color-treated hair. Pureology shampoos are infused with natural ingredients like sunflower and jojoba oils, which help to preserve vibrancy and prevent fading.
- Redken: Redken offers a range of color care products, particularly their Color Extend line, which is designed to enhance and protect hair color. Their shampoos contain a unique blend of proteins and UV filters, ensuring that color remains vibrant and hair feels healthy.
- Joico: Joico’s Color Balance shampoos are formulated to neutralize unwanted tones in color-treated hair. They are enriched with a blend of nourishing ingredients that help to strengthen hair while maintaining its color integrity.
- Matrix: The Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed shampoo is specifically formulated to protect color-treated hair from fading. It contains a blend of antioxidants that provide a protective barrier against environmental damage and color loss.
- Moroccanoil: Moroccanoil’s Color Continue Shampoo is known for its ability to hydrate and maintain color-treated hair’s vibrancy. Infused with argan oil and other nourishing ingredients, it helps to restore moisture while providing gentle cleansing.
- SheaMoisture: SheaMoisture offers a range of organic shampoos that cater to color-treated hair, utilizing natural ingredients like coconut oil and hibiscus to nourish and protect. Their formulas are rich in moisture and free from harsh chemicals, making them great for maintaining hair health.
- Olaplex: Olaplex is renowned for its bond-building technology, which strengthens hair and helps to repair damage from coloring. Their No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo is ideal for color-treated hair, as it cleans while helping to keep the hair’s internal structure intact.