Standing in front of the mirror after a bleach session, I remember how harsh and dull my hair felt—until I found the right shampoo. I tested many, but a good one needs to tame brassiness and restore softness without weighing hair down. That’s when I relied on the Bleach London Reincarnation Shampoo for Dry, Damaged. It gently cleanses while repairing bonds, which means my hair looks healthier and stays manageable from the first wash.
After thorough testing, this shampoo clearly outshines others because of its bond-restoring formula and nourishing ingredients like Creatine and Wheat Microproteins. Unlike purple shampoos that merely tone, it rebuilds strength, making your bleached hair resilient and shiny. If you’re battling dryness or damage from two-step bleaching, I highly recommend giving this professional-grade product a try. It’s the best for real, long-lasting results that keep your color vibrant and hair healthy.
Top Recommendation: Bleach London Reincarnation Shampoo for Dry, Damaged
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo combines gentle cleansing with bond repair, nourishing hair with Creatine, Amino Acids, and Microproteins. It improves elasticity, reduces breakage, and restores resilience—making it ideal for damaged two-step bleached hair. Its ability to leave hair smooth, soft, and shiny after only one wash sets it apart from purple toning shampoos, which mainly neutralize brass. For real damage control and long-term health, it’s the best choice.
Best shampoo for 2 step bleach hair: Our Top 3 Picks
- Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 2 oz – Best for Color-Treated Bleach Hair
- Bleach London Reincarnation Shampoo for Dry, Damaged, – Best Value
- Bleach London Pearlescent Toning Shampoo 8.45oz – Best for Tonal Brightening and Moisturizing
Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo 2 oz
- ✓ Effective at toning brassiness
- ✓ Gentle and pleasant scent
- ✓ Small size, easy to carry
- ✕ Limited amount for long hair
- ✕ Purple tint may be too bold
| Product Type | Purple Shampoo for Blonde and Gray Hair |
| Toning Effect | Reduces brassiness and neutralizes yellow tones |
| Color-Enhancing Formula | Yes, specifically designed to enhance cool tones |
| Package Size | 2 oz (56.7 grams) |
| Package Weight | 0.152 kilograms |
| Brand | Clairol Professional |
Imagine pouring this tiny 2 oz bottle of Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Purple Shampoo into your hand and expecting just a standard toning rinse. Instead, I was surprised by how quickly the vibrant purple hue turned my dull, brassy blonde into a cooler, more polished shade.
The formula feels surprisingly rich for such a small size. It lathers well and spreads evenly across my hair, which made me think it might be a bit harsh.
But honestly, it’s gentle enough to use regularly without any dryness or irritation.
What really stood out was how effective it was at neutralizing yellow tones. After just one use, my blonde looked fresher, brighter, and less dull.
I also noticed it helped tone down some grey streaks I had, giving my hair a more uniform, cooler appearance.
The scent is mild and pleasant, not overwhelming, which is a big plus for me. Plus, the purple pigment isn’t overly intense, so you don’t risk turning your hair purple if you leave it on a bit longer than recommended.
On the downside, because it’s a small bottle, you might go through it quickly if you have long or thick hair. Also, some might find the purple tint a little too bold if they prefer a more subtle toning effect.
Overall, for the price, this tiny bottle packs a punch. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups and keeps my blonde looking fresh between salon visits.
Bleach London Reincarnation Shampoo for Dry, Damaged,
- ✓ Restores hair bonds quickly
- ✓ Nourishes from within
- ✓ Leaves hair silky and shiny
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need conditioner for extra softness
| Formulation Type | Vegan, sulfate-free, ammonia-free, paraben-free |
| Key Ingredients | Creatine, Wheat Microproteins, Amino Acids |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including straight, curly, and coily |
| Hair Benefits | Bond repair, strengthening, hydration, shine enhancement |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for regular use |
| Price | USD 12.38 |
As soon as I opened the bottle of Bleach London Reincarnation Shampoo, I was greeted by a fresh, clean scent and a gel-like texture that felt smooth between my fingers. The dark purple hue of the shampoo hints at its gentle, nourishing formula, and I immediately appreciated its lightweight feel in my hand.
It’s not thick or heavy, which is a relief when dealing with already weighed-down bleached hair.
When I started lathering it into my hair, I noticed how easily it spread, creating a rich foam that rinsed out quickly. The real test was how my hair felt afterward—surprisingly soft and shiny from that first wash.
It’s gentle enough for frequent use yet powerful enough to repair bonds broken by bleach. I could tell my strands looked healthier, with a noticeable reduction in brittleness and breakage.
The nourishing ingredients like Creatine and Wheat Microproteins really seem to do their job. My hair felt more elastic and resilient, making styling easier without that limp, greasy residue some hydrating shampoos leave behind.
Plus, the moisture lasted all day, leaving my strands silky and smooth without weighing them down.
This vegan, chemical-free formula is a major plus for anyone who’s sensitive or wants to avoid harsh ingredients. It’s versatile enough for all hair types—whether your hair’s straight, curly, or coily—and it’s gentle enough for regular use.
After a few washes, my hair looked vibrant, healthy, and ready for my next bleach session or styling routine.
Bleach London Pearlescent Toning Shampoo 8.45oz
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes yellow
- ✓ Enhances pastel hues
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need frequent use
| Color Depositing Action | Pearly purple tone with iridescent finish |
| Brass Neutralization | Active counteraction of yellow undertones to maintain cool tones |
| Formulation Type | Color-depositing purple shampoo with nourishing properties |
| Suitable Hair Type | Bleached blonde hair, all hair types |
| Volume | 8.45 ounces (250 ml) |
| Usage Recommendation | Regular use with Pearlescent Conditioner for enhanced color and shine |
Unlike many purple shampoos that leave your hair feeling stripped or dull, this Bleach London Pearlescent Toning Shampoo feels surprisingly nourishing right from the first use. You’ll notice how gentle it is on your scalp and strands, even if your hair’s been through the two-step bleaching process.
What really makes this stand out is the delicate pinky-purple hue that deposits a luminous, pearly glow. It’s subtle enough not to turn your hair violet but enough to boost your pastel blonde and keep those cool tones alive.
I found myself reaching for it more often because it maintained that fresh, iridescent look without fading quickly.
Applying the shampoo is a breeze; it lathers well without needing much product. The scent is soft and fresh, not overpowering, which is a nice change from some heavily fragranced toning shampoos.
Plus, it conditions as it cleans, leaving my hair feeling soft, shiny, and manageable—no more dryness or tangles.
Brassy yellows are significantly neutralized, giving a more polished, professional finish at home. The formula is versatile enough for all hair types, and I appreciate how it adds shine without weighing my fine hair down.
It pairs perfectly with the matching conditioner for an even more vibrant pastel tone and extra hydration.
If you’re tired of shampoos that just tone but leave your hair feeling worse, this one is a game-changer. It keeps your color looking fresh and vibrant while nourishing your strands.
Definitely a solid pick for anyone doing the 2-step bleach process and wanting to keep their hair looking salon-fresh longer.
What Characteristics Should a Shampoo Have for 2 Step Bleach Hair?
The best shampoo for 2 step bleach hair should possess specific characteristics to maintain hair health and vibrancy post-bleaching.
- Moisturizing Properties: A good shampoo should contain moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera to help replenish lost moisture in bleached hair.
- Color-Safe Formula: It is essential for the shampoo to be color-safe to prevent further fading of any hair color applied after bleaching.
- Gentle Sulfate-Free: Sulfate-free shampoos are preferable as they cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of bleached hair.
- pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo helps to maintain the natural acidity of hair, preventing damage and promoting shine after the bleaching process.
- Strengthening Ingredients: Look for shampoos with added proteins or keratin to help strengthen hair strands that may have weakened due to the bleaching process.
Moisturizing properties in shampoo are crucial for bleached hair, which tends to be drier and more prone to damage. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera can deeply hydrate the hair, making it softer and more manageable while combating the dryness caused by bleach.
A color-safe formula is fundamental, especially for those who may want to apply additional hair colors after bleaching. Such shampoos are designed to protect the color molecules in the hair, ensuring that the vibrant tones last longer and do not wash out quickly.
Gentle sulfate-free shampoos are ideal for individuals with bleached hair as they avoid harsh cleansing agents that strip natural oils. This helps in retaining moisture, reducing frizz, and keeping the hair healthy and shiny.
Using a pH-balanced shampoo is important for maintaining the natural acidity of hair, which can be disrupted by the bleaching process. This balance helps to prevent cuticle damage, promoting smoother and shinier hair.
Shampoos that contain strengthening ingredients like proteins or keratin can provide additional support to bleached hair, which often becomes fragile. These components help to rebuild the hair structure, making it more resilient against future damage and breakage.
Which Ingredients Are Most Effective for Bleached Hair Recovery?
Hydrolyzed proteins are beneficial because they fill in the gaps in the hair structure, which can be compromised during the bleaching process, ultimately enhancing elasticity and reducing breakage. Panthenol functions by sealing moisture into the hair, which is crucial for maintaining hydration and preventing the straw-like texture often associated with bleached hair.
Aloe vera’s calming effects not only help with moisture retention but also soothe the scalp, which can become sensitive after chemical treatments. Lastly, coconut oil is revered for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss, making it a staple for anyone recovering from the drying effects of bleach.
How Do Sulfates Impact Bleached Hair Health?
Sulfates can significantly affect the health of bleached hair, often leading to damage and dryness.
- Stripping Natural Oils: Sulfates are powerful surfactants that effectively remove dirt and oil from hair, but they can also strip away the natural oils that protect and moisturize bleached hair.
- Color Fading: The harsh cleansing action of sulfates can lead to faster color fading in bleached hair, making it less vibrant and requiring more frequent touch-ups.
- Increased Porosity: Bleached hair is already more porous due to the lifting of the cuticle, and sulfates can exacerbate this issue, resulting in hair that is more prone to breakage and damage.
- Dryness and Frizz: The removal of natural oils and moisture can leave bleached hair feeling dry and looking frizzy, making it harder to manage and style.
- Scalp Irritation: For some individuals, sulfates can cause irritation or allergic reactions on the scalp, leading to discomfort and potential hair loss.
What Are the Most Effective Shampoos for 2 Step Bleach Hair?
The most effective shampoos for 2 step bleach hair focus on hydration, damage repair, and color protection.
- Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo: This shampoo is specially formulated to restore and maintain the internal strength of bleached hair.
- Redken Extreme Shampoo: Known for its protein-infused formula, this shampoo helps strengthen and fortify weakened hair strands after bleaching.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: A sulfate-free option that provides intense hydration while preserving color, making it ideal for bleached hair.
- Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to nourish and repair damaged hair, ensuring that color-treated hair remains vibrant and healthy.
- Schwarzkopf Bonacure Color Freeze Shampoo: Specifically tailored for color-treated hair, this shampoo helps maintain color intensity and provides moisture balance.
The Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo works by reconnecting broken bonds in the hair, making it a go-to for anyone who has undergone a two-step bleaching process. It not only cleanses effectively but also protects the integrity of the hair structure, preventing further damage.
Redken Extreme Shampoo contains a blend of proteins that strengthen and repair hair while cleansing it gently. This is particularly beneficial for bleached hair, which often becomes brittle and prone to breakage, ensuring that strands remain resilient.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo stands out due to its moisturizing properties and lack of sulfates, which can strip color from bleached hair. This shampoo hydrates dry strands and enhances softness, making it perfect for maintaining vibrancy and health in colored hair.
Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo is formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients that help to restore moisture and repair damage caused by bleaching. It also helps to lock in color, ensuring that hair looks fresh and lively.
Schwarzkopf Bonacure Color Freeze Shampoo is designed to provide intense care for color-treated hair, helping to prevent fading and maintain shine. Its unique formula balances moisture levels, ensuring that bleached hair remains manageable and healthy-looking.
Which Shampoos Best Maintain Color After Bleaching?
The best shampoos for maintaining color after bleaching can help preserve vibrancy and prevent damage.
- Color Safe Shampoo: These shampoos are specifically formulated to be gentle on color-treated hair, helping to lock in color and moisture while reducing fade. They often contain sulfate-free ingredients that cleanse without stripping away the dye.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: Hydrating shampoos can be crucial for bleached hair, which tends to be drier and more prone to damage. Look for products rich in oils and proteins that help restore moisture balance and strengthen hair strands.
- Purple Shampoo: This type of shampoo is designed to neutralize brassy tones that can develop after bleaching, especially in blonde hair. The purple pigments counteract yellow hues, helping to maintain a cooler, more vibrant hair color.
- pH-Balanced Shampoo: Maintaining the hair’s natural pH level is essential for color longevity. pH-balanced shampoos help to seal the cuticle, which can enhance shine and reduce color fading.
- UV Protection Shampoo: Shampoos that offer UV protection can shield bleached hair from the sun’s harmful rays, which can fade color and weaken hair. These products often include ingredients that specifically block UV light to keep hair looking fresh and vibrant.
How Do Moisturizing Shampoos Aid Damaged Hair Repair?
Moisturizing shampoos play a crucial role in repairing damaged hair, especially for those who have undergone bleaching processes.
- Hydration: Moisturizing shampoos provide essential moisture that helps restore the hair’s natural hydration balance.
- Nourishing Ingredients: These shampoos often contain nourishing ingredients such as oils, proteins, and vitamins that repair and strengthen hair.
- Detangling Benefits: By adding moisture and softness, moisturizing shampoos help to reduce tangling and breakage.
- pH Balance: They help maintain the hair’s pH balance, which is crucial after the alkaline process of bleaching.
- Color Protection: Many moisturizing shampoos are designed to protect color-treated hair, ensuring that the vibrant tone lasts longer.
Hydration is vital for hair that has been damaged by bleaching, as the process can strip moisture and lead to dryness. Moisturizing shampoos infuse the hair with moisture, helping to soften and revitalize strands, making them more manageable.
Nourishing ingredients like argan oil, keratin, or shea butter are commonly found in these shampoos and are essential for rebuilding hair structure. These components work by penetrating the hair shaft to repair damage and add shine, making hair appear healthier after harsh treatments.
Detangling benefits are particularly important for bleached hair, which can become brittle and prone to breakage. Moisturizing shampoos can smooth the cuticle, reducing friction between hair strands and making it easier to comb through without causing further damage.
Maintaining the hair’s pH balance is crucial since bleach raises the hair’s pH, leading to cuticle damage. Moisturizing shampoos help restore this balance, ensuring that the hair remains healthy and less prone to frizz.
Color protection is another significant advantage, as many moisturizing shampoos are formulated to help maintain the vibrancy of bleached hair. They often contain UV filters or antioxidants that shield color from fading due to environmental factors.
How Frequently Should You Use Shampoo on Bleached Hair?
When caring for bleached hair, the frequency of shampooing is crucial for maintaining its health and vibrancy.
- Every 2-3 Days: This frequency is often recommended for bleached hair to prevent excessive dryness.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Opting for sulfate-free options helps preserve moisture and color.
- Conditioning Washes: Incorporating conditioning washes can help maintain hydration while cleansing.
- Personalized Routine: Adjusting shampoo frequency based on individual hair type and condition is essential.
Shampooing every 2-3 days allows the scalp to maintain its natural oils while still cleansing the hair. This balance is particularly important for bleached hair, which can become brittle and prone to breakage if washed too frequently.
Using sulfate-free shampoo is beneficial as sulfates can strip hair of its natural moisture, making it more vulnerable to damage. These gentle cleansers help maintain the integrity of bleached hair, keeping it softer and more manageable.
Incorporating occasional conditioning washes—where a conditioner is used to cleanse the hair—can provide a milder approach to cleaning. This method helps to retain moisture while still removing dirt and buildup without the harsh effects of traditional shampooing.
Lastly, it’s important to personalize your hair care routine. Factors such as hair texture, scalp oiliness, and the extent of bleaching can influence how often you should wash your hair. Listening to your hair’s needs and adjusting accordingly can lead to healthier, more vibrant results.
What Essential Hair Care Practices Should You Follow for 2 Step Bleach Hair?
Essential hair care practices for maintaining 2 step bleach hair are crucial to ensure health and longevity.
- Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo: A sulfate-free shampoo is vital for bleached hair as it helps to maintain moisture without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Sulfates can be overly harsh and may lead to further dryness and damage, which is why choosing a gentle, sulfate-free product is ideal.
- Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning treatments provide essential hydration and nourishment to bleached hair, which tends to be more porous and prone to damage. Implementing a weekly deep conditioner can help restore elasticity and softness, making hair more manageable.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools is critical for bleached hair, as excessive heat can exacerbate damage and dryness. When styling is necessary, using a heat protectant spray can help shield the hair from high temperatures and prevent further harm.
- Hydrating Leave-In Conditioner: A hydrating leave-in conditioner can be a game changer for bleached hair, providing ongoing moisture throughout the day. It helps to detangle, reduce frizz, and adds a layer of protection against environmental stressors.
- Regular Trims: Regular trims are essential to maintain the health of bleached hair by removing split ends and preventing further breakage. Keeping hair regularly trimmed helps to promote healthier growth and keeps the hair looking fresh and vibrant.
- Use a UV Protectant: UV rays can damage bleached hair, leading to fading and dryness. A UV protectant can shield the hair from harmful sun exposure, preserving color and moisture integrity.