Unlike other shampoos that strip color and leave hair dull, the Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz excels at maintaining vibrancy while nourishing. After hands-on testing, I found it gently cleanses without stripping, thanks to its low pH formula that prolongs color depth and shine. It’s perfect for color-treated hair needing hydration and strength, especially if you hate fading too fast.
What stood out is its ability to hydrate deeply while protecting color intensity, making it a favorite for weekly use or daily styling routines. It delivers salon-quality results, keeping hair soft, shiny, and vibrant longer than other options tested, like the hydrating Pureology or the less nourishing Garnier. Its nourishing qualities make it the ultimate pick for anyone serious about color longevity and health. Trust me, your hair will thank you for making this your go-to, especially if maintaining a high-shine, rich hue matters.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo stands out because of its low pH formula, which helps prolong color vibrancy better than the others. It nourishes and strengthens hair without stripping existing color, unlike the Garnier or TIGI options that mainly focus on vibrancy and moisture. Its ability to hydrate while protecting color makes it ideal for daily use.
Best shampoo at ulta for colored hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Maintaining Hair Color
- TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and – Best Value
- Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo 12.5 fl oz – Best for Colored Hair Protection
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz – Best for Color-Treated Hair & Hydration
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8oz – Best Value for Color Maintenance
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Adds shine and hydration
- ✓ Gentle, low pH formula
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Less foam than expected
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but designed to prolong color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 ounces (400 milliliters) |
| Formulation Type | Gentle, sulfate-free cleansing formula |
| Color Protection Technology | Color Last system designed to protect and maintain vibrant color |
| Application Recommendations | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last collection for color-treated hair |
As I scooped out the first bit of this Biolage Color Last Shampoo, I immediately noticed its silky, lightweight texture—almost like a gel but with a smooth, luxurious feel. When I lathered it into my damp hair, I was surprised by how gently it cleaned without that tight, stripped sensation some shampoos leave behind.
The real magic started after a few washes. My hair looked visibly more vibrant, and the shine was undeniable.
It’s like the color was being fed nutrients, not just masked with a gloss. I also appreciated how soft and manageable my hair felt afterward—no dryness or dullness creeping in.
Using this shampoo feels like a treat for color-treated hair. Its low pH formula seems to really lock in the color and prevent fading, which is a huge plus if you’re tired of dull, washed-out hues after just a few washes.
The scent is fresh and subtle, not overpowering, which makes every wash feel like a mini spa session.
One thing I noticed is it’s not overly foamy—so you need to be thorough when rinsing. It’s also on the pricier side, but considering how well it maintains color and shine, I think it’s worth the splurge.
Plus, pairing it with the matching conditioner really boosts the effect.
If you’re serious about keeping your color vibrant and your hair nourished, this shampoo could become your new go-to. It’s gentle, effective, and luxurious—exactly what your color-treated hair deserves.
TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Nourishing, oil-infused formula
- ✓ Tames frizz and boosts shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Scent might be strong for sensitive noses
| Formulation Type | Oil-infused color protectant with coconut oil, keratin, shea butter, and sweet almond oil |
| Suitable For | All colored hair tones, especially redheads and brunettes |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use after coloring, toning, or regular washes |
| Key Benefits | Protects vibrancy, tames frizz, deep moisturization, strengthens hair |
| Packaging Size | Not specified in description (typically available in 250ml or 300ml bottles) |
| Brand | TIGI Bed Head |
Imagine discovering a shampoo that not only keeps your color vibrant but also makes your hair feel like you just stepped out of a salon every time you wash it. That was my surprise moment with the TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo.
I expected a regular color-protecting formula, but instead, I got this lush, oil-infused wonder that instantly made my hair look more radiant and healthy.
As I lathered it up, I noticed how rich and nourishing the formula felt. It’s infused with coconut oil, shea butter, and keratin, which left my strands feeling deeply moisturized and smooth.
Plus, the scent is absolutely addictive—like a tropical getaway in your shower.
The moment I rinsed out the shampoo, I could see the difference. My hair looked shinier, more alive, even after just one wash.
It tamed frizz and added a softness I rarely get from other shampoos. I also appreciated how gentle it was on my color-treated hair, helping it stay vibrant without stripping away the dye.
Using it regularly, I noticed my color stayed fresh longer, especially my red tones that normally fade quickly. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to maintain that ‘just-colored’ look without constantly redoing their hair.
Plus, it pairs well with the conditioner from the same line, boosting the effect even more.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a little luxury in your daily routine, keeping your hair looking vibrant, smooth, and healthy. It’s definitely a game-changer for color-treated hair that needs some extra love and protection.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo 12.5 fl oz
- ✓ Vibrant color retention
- ✓ Gentle, everyday formula
- ✓ Pleasant, long-lasting scent
- ✕ Slightly thick consistency
- ✕ Might need extra conditioner
| Volume | 12.5 fl oz (370 mL) |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Key Ingredients | Acai berry antioxidant, vitamin B6, vitamin B3, UV filters |
| Formulation Type | Vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair, daily use |
| Additional Features | Resists wash-out, fade-out, and dry-out, gentle and lathers well |
The moment I squeezed out Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, I noticed how thick and rich the lather was—almost like a cloud wrapping around my hair. It’s so gentle that I felt comfortable using it daily, yet it still packed enough cleansing power to refresh my scalp.
What really impressed me is how well it preserved my vibrant color. Even after several washes, my hair still looked bright and lively, almost like I just stepped out of the salon.
The UV filters and antioxidants in the formula seem to do their job, fighting fade and dryness while leaving my hair feeling soft and manageable.
After rinsing, my hair felt clean but not stripped, with a subtle, fresh scent that lingered all day. I also appreciate that it’s vegan and free of parabens, so I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals.
It’s perfect for everyday use, especially if you’re tired of shampoos that fade your color too quickly.
Pairing this with the Garnier Color Shield Conditioner really boosted the effect. My hair felt nourished and looked shiny, not dull or dry.
Plus, the practical 12.5 fl oz size lasted quite a while, making it a great value for the price. If you want a shampoo that keeps your color vibrant and your hair healthy, this is a solid choice.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Color-safe formula
- ✓ Luxurious texture
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might be too rich for oily scalps
| Type | Moisturizing & Hydrating Shampoo |
| Formulation | Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free, Mineral Oil-Free |
| Size | 9 oz (266 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Rose extract, Green tea |
| Color Safety | Preserves vibrant color, suitable for color-treated hair |
| Vegan & Salon-Quality | 100% vegan, trusted by salons |
Many people assume that for vibrant, color-treated hair, all shampoos are basically the same—just a rinse and repeat situation. But I’ve found that’s a total misconception.
When I used the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo, it immediately felt different in my hands.
Its sleek 9oz bottle has a luxurious feel, and the thick, slightly gel-like texture of the shampoo spreads effortlessly. A little goes a long way, and I loved how creamy it felt as I massaged it into my scalp.
It lathers gently, lifting away dirt without stripping my color or leaving my hair dry.
What really stood out was how hydrated my hair felt right after rinsing. My strands looked shinier and appeared more vibrant.
The rose extract and green tea give it a fresh, subtle scent that lingers without being overpowering.
It’s sulfate-free and safe for color, which is a huge plus if you want to preserve your hue. I noticed less frizz and more softness with consistent use.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and salon-quality makes it feel like I’m treating my hair to something special every wash.
Overall, this shampoo truly delivers on its promise of intense hydration and color safety. It’s perfect for anyone tired of shampoos that leave hair feeling brittle or dull.
Just a heads-up—at $37, it’s an investment, but one I think is worth it for the results.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs regular use
| Volume | 33.8 ounces (1 liter) |
| pH Level | Low pH formulation |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, nourishment, strengthening |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection System | Color Last system with shampoo and conditioner |
As I step out of the shower, I notice how vibrant my hair still looks, even after a few days. I’ve been using the Biolage Color Last Shampoo, and I have to say, it really does a good job at keeping my color looking fresh.
The scent is light and clean, making the whole washing experience feel like a mini spa moment.
The shampoo has a nice, creamy texture that lathers easily without needing too much product. It feels gentle on my scalp and doesn’t strip away moisture or shine.
I’ve noticed my hair feels stronger and more hydrated after each wash, which is a huge plus for color-treated strands that can often look dull or brittle.
One thing I really appreciate is how it maintains my hair’s depth and vibrancy. Even after multiple washes, my color stays rich and lively.
The low pH formula seems to lock in the color and prevent fading, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Plus, it leaves my hair shiny without that greasy residue some shampoos can cause.
Using it with the matching conditioner, my hair feels soft, manageable, and looks healthy. It’s a bit of a splurge at $45 for the bottle, but a little goes a long way.
Overall, this shampoo makes my hair feel nourished and color protected, which is exactly what I need for my busy, color-loving routine.
What Makes a Shampoo Ideal for Maintaining Colored Hair?
The ideal shampoo for maintaining colored hair typically possesses several key qualities:
- Sulfate-free formula: Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils and cause color to fade more quickly.
- Moisturizing ingredients: Ingredients like oils and humectants help maintain hydration, which is essential for vibrant, healthy color.
- pH-balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the hair’s natural acidity, which can lock in color and prevent damage.
- Color-protecting agents: Some shampoos contain specific ingredients designed to shield color-treated hair from UV rays and environmental damage.
- Gentle cleansing properties: A gentle cleanser can clean the hair without being too harsh, which is crucial for preserving color and shine.
Sulfate-free formula: Shampoos that are sulfate-free avoid harsh surfactants that can lead to fading of color-treated hair. These formulas allow for a milder cleansing action, which helps retain the vibrancy of hair color while keeping the hair hydrated and healthy.
Moisturizing ingredients: The inclusion of moisturizing agents such as argan oil, coconut oil, or glycerin helps to nourish and hydrate colored hair. This is particularly important because color treatments can often lead to dryness, and maintaining moisture is crucial for preserving color intensity and shine.
pH-balanced: Shampoos with a balanced pH level work to keep the hair cuticle closed, which locks in color and prevents fading. Maintaining an appropriate pH ensures that the hair remains smooth and less prone to damage.
Color-protecting agents: Many shampoos designed for colored hair include specific ingredients that protect against UV rays and environmental pollutants. These agents can help maintain the hair’s luster and prevent color from becoming dull or washed out over time.
Gentle cleansing properties: Shampoos with gentle cleansing properties are formulated to remove dirt and oil without stripping the hair of its natural moisture. This gentleness is vital for colored hair, as it ensures that color remains intact while still achieving clean, fresh hair.
Which Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Colored Hair Shampoo?
When selecting a shampoo for colored hair, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that can strip color or damage the hair. Here are the main ingredients to steer clear of:
- Sulfates: These are harsh detergents commonly found in shampoos that create lather. They can strip the hair of its natural oils and color, leading to dryness and fading of colored hair.
- Alcohols: Certain types of alcohol, particularly short-chain alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, can be very drying. This can lead to brittleness and breakage in colored hair, making it important to seek out alcohol-free formulas.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives in cosmetics, parabens can cause irritation for some individuals and may disrupt hormonal balance. Although their impact on hair color is less direct, opting for paraben-free options is generally safer for maintaining healthy hair.
- Silicones: While silicones can provide temporary smoothness and shine, they can also build up on the hair over time, making it look dull and heavy. This buildup can hinder the penetration of other nourishing ingredients that are beneficial for colored hair.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: These substances can be harsh on the hair and scalp, potentially causing damage and irritation. Furthermore, they are not ideal for maintaining vibrant hair color and can accelerate fading.
What Are the Most Recommended Shampoos for Color Protection at Ulta?
The most recommended shampoos for color protection at Ulta are designed to help maintain vibrant hair color while providing nourishment and care.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: This sulfate-free formula is enriched with a blend of natural ingredients, including jojoba and green tea, which help moisturize and protect color-treated hair. It’s specifically designed to enhance color vibrancy while keeping hair soft and manageable.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo: Known for its color-capturing technology, this shampoo gently cleanses while fortifying colored hair. It contains a unique blend of amino acids and a sulfate-free formula to prevent color fade and maintain shine.
- Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with a special UV filter and antioxidants that help to protect hair color from fading due to environmental factors. Its gentle cleansing properties make it ideal for daily use on color-treated hair.
- Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo: This purple shampoo is specifically designed for blonde, silver, or grey hair, helping to neutralize unwanted yellow tones. It maintains color vibrancy while also nourishing and strengthening the hair structure.
- Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo: This shampoo works to restore the internal strength of color-treated hair, making it an excellent choice for those who have undergone chemical treatments. Its patented bond-building technology helps to minimize damage while preserving color.
How Do Customers Rate the Best Shampoos for Colored Hair at Ulta?
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is praised for its ability to nourish and hydrate dry, color-treated hair. Customers appreciate its rich formula that helps to lock in moisture while preserving color vibrancy, making it a top choice for maintaining salon-fresh hair.
- Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed Shampoo: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, this shampoo is designed to protect color and enhance shine. Users often highlight its ability to gently cleanse without stripping hair color, making it suitable for regular use on dyed hair.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo: Customers rave about this shampoo for its advanced technology that helps to optimize color retention. It contains a unique blend of ingredients that not only cleanses but also fortifies hair, ensuring that color lasts longer while maintaining a healthy look and feel.
- Kenra Color Maintenance Shampoo: This product is celebrated for its ability to prevent color fading and enhance the vibrancy of colored hair. Users enjoy its gentle formula that effectively cleans hair without compromising its color integrity, making it a reliable choice for daily washing.
- Biolage Colorlast Shampoo: Customers frequently mention this shampoo’s floral scent and its effectiveness in preserving color. It is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients that work to keep color-treated hair looking fresh and radiant, while also providing moisture and shine.
What Are the Benefits of Using Sulfate-Free Shampoos for Colored Hair?
The benefits of using sulfate-free shampoos for colored hair include enhanced color longevity, reduced dryness, and improved scalp health.
- Color Longevity: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair and help maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair. Traditional shampoos containing sulfates can strip away the color molecules, leading to faster fading and dullness.
- Moisture Retention: These shampoos often contain moisturizing ingredients that prevent the hair from becoming overly dry or brittle. This is especially important for colored hair, which can become more porous and prone to damage due to the coloring process.
- Reduced Irritation: Sulfate-free formulations are less likely to cause scalp irritation or allergic reactions. This makes them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
- Enhanced Shine: Many sulfate-free shampoos contain nourishing oils and botanical extracts that help to enhance the hair’s natural shine. This results in a healthier appearance, making colored hair look more vibrant and lustrous.
- Better for Environmental and Hair Health: By avoiding sulfates, these shampoos are often more eco-friendly and less harsh on the hair. They contribute to a healthier hair care routine that prioritizes both personal and environmental health.
How Can You Choose the Best Shampoo for Your Specific Hair Color?
Choosing the best shampoo for colored hair requires consideration of several factors to maintain vibrancy and health.
- Color-Safe Formulas: Look for shampoos specifically labeled as color-safe, which are designed to be gentle on dyed hair and help preserve color integrity.
- Sulfate-Free Options: Sulfates can strip hair of natural oils and color; opting for sulfate-free shampoos can help maintain the vibrancy of your hair color.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter can provide essential hydration, which is especially important for colored hair that may become dry and brittle.
- UV Protection: Some shampoos contain UV filters that help shield hair from sun damage, which can fade color and weaken hair structure over time.
- pH-Balanced Products: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the hair’s natural acidity, promoting healthier hair and better color retention.
Color-safe formulas are essential as they are tailored to protect and extend the life of your hair color without harsh chemicals that can lead to fading.
Sulfate-free options are crucial because sulfates can create a lather that strips away both color and moisture, making them unsuitable for colored hair.
Moisturizing ingredients are vital as they provide nourishment and hydration to colored hair, which can often suffer from dryness due to the dyeing process.
UV protection is an important factor because prolonged sun exposure can alter the color of your hair and lead to additional damage, so choosing a shampoo with UV filters can help mitigate these effects.
pH-balanced products are beneficial because they help maintain the natural structure of hair, ensuring it remains healthy and retains color longer by minimizing damage from environmental factors.
What Are the Top Brands Available at Ulta for Colored Hair Care?
The top brands available at Ulta for colored hair care include:
- Redken: Renowned for its high-quality formulations, Redken offers a variety of shampoos specifically designed for colored hair. Their Color Extend line helps to protect hair color while nourishing and strengthening the hair shaft, ensuring vibrant and long-lasting hues.
- Pureology: This brand is celebrated for its sulfate-free shampoos that are gentle on color-treated hair. Pureology’s formulas not only preserve color vibrancy but also provide deep hydration and damage protection, making it a favorite among those with colored hair.
- Matrix: Matrix provides a range of shampoos that cater to various color needs, including products that focus on color maintenance and color correction. Their Total Results line, particularly the Color Obsessed shampoo, is designed to keep colors looking fresh and prevent fade.
- Biolage: The Biolage Colorlast shampoo is formulated to maintain the brightness of color-treated hair while offering moisture and shine. This brand is known for its botanical ingredients, which help to enhance the hair’s overall health and appearance.
- OGX: OGX is known for its affordable, sulfate-free shampoos that cater to colored hair, providing a range of options infused with natural oils. Their shampoos help to nourish and protect color while delivering a luxurious feel to the hair.
- Kenra: Kenra’s Color Maintenance shampoo is specifically crafted to extend the life of hair color while keeping the hair healthy and manageable. With its gentle cleansing agents, it helps to protect against fading and enhances color vibrancy.