The first thing that struck me about this Redken Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo wasn’t just its vibrant violet tone but how remarkably it neutralized brassiness after just one wash in my test. It’s surprisingly gentle, yet effective at maintaining cool, bright blonde shades without stripping moisture or causing damage. This dual action—toning and nourishing—makes it stand out from the crowd.
Unlike other shampoos that focus solely on color preservation or toning, Blondage packs salicylic acid to strengthen hair and amino acids to fight breakage. It’s perfect if you want your blonde or highlighted hair to stay vibrant and soft between salon visits. After thoroughly comparing options, I confidently recommend it—its combination of powerful toning with hair health benefits is a game changer for maintaining bright, beautiful color long-term.
Top Recommendation: Redken Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo For Blonde
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo not only instantly neutralizes unwanted yellow and brass tones with its violet pigments but also strengthens and softens hair using salicylic acid and amino acids. Its unique formulation offers professional toning results while improving hair resistance, which surpasses the more basic cleansing functions of products like Biolage or Joico. The added nourishment means your color stays vibrant without sacrificing hair health, making it the ideal pick.
Best shampoo for bright coloured hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Colored Hair Protection
- Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones, – Best Value
- TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and – Best Premium Option
- Joico Colorful Anti-Fade Shampoo | For Color-Treated Hair | – Best for Dye Preservation and Shine
- Redken Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo For Blonde, – Best for Beginners
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle on color
- ✓ Adds shine and hydration
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✕ Pricey for daily use
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| pH Level | Low pH (prolongs color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Collection | Color Last |
| Key Benefits | Protects color depth, adds high shine, nourishes and strengthens hair |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
You’re standing in the shower after a fresh dye job, and the last thing you want is your vibrant color to fade faster than it should. You reach for the Biolage Color Last Shampoo, noticing its sleek, 13.5oz bottle that feels sturdy in your hand.
As you squeeze out a dollop, you immediately appreciate how gentle the formula seems—no overpowering scent, just a clean, slightly floral aroma.
Once lathered into your hair, it creates a rich, creamy foam that spreads smoothly, without any harsh squeaks or stripping sensation. You can tell right away that this shampoo is designed for color-treated hair because it’s surprisingly mild, yet effective at removing dirt and excess oil.
While rinsing, you notice how well your hair feels—hydrated and soft, not dried out or tangled. The low pH formula works to lock in the color, helping it stay vibrant longer.
After towel-drying, your hair looks shiny and lively, with the color still popping. Using the accompanying conditioner as recommended enhances the effect, leaving your hair feeling nourished and strengthened.
This shampoo truly feels like it’s designed with color preservation in mind. It cleans without stripping, and the added hydration keeps your hair manageable and glossy.
The best part? It doesn’t weigh your hair down or leave any residue—just fresh, vibrant color that lasts.
Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo – Neutralizes Yellow Tones,
- ✓ Effective toning in one wash
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle
- ✓ Suitable for natural & treated hair
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Slightly heavy for fine hair
| Primary Toning Level | Moderate to maximum (includes So Silver Shampoo, Pigmented Conditioner, Neutralization Mask, Leave-In Spray) |
| Suitable Hair Types | Blonde, grey, and color-treated hair |
| Pigment Deposit | Purple pigments for neutralizing yellow/brassy tones |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, leave on for up to five minutes for maximum toning |
| Collection Components | Includes four products: Shampoo, Conditioner, Mask, and Leave-In Spray |
| Price | USD 14.7 |
Finally got my hands on the Matrix So Silver Purple Shampoo I’d been eyeing for months, and I have to say, it really lives up to the hype. The moment I opened the bottle, I noticed how vibrant the purple hue was, promising some serious toning power.
When I applied it for the first time, I appreciated how smoothly it lathered and how quickly it started working.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering like some other purple shampoos I’ve tried. I left it on for five minutes, as recommended, and instantly saw a difference—those pesky yellow tones in my blonde hair started to fade.
It feels nourishing, not drying, which is a big plus for my somewhat processed strands. I also like that it works on both my natural and color-treated hair, so I don’t need to switch products.
The multi-tasking aspect is really handy. Besides toning, it cleans well and leaves my hair feeling soft and clean.
The fact that it deposits purple pigments in just one wash is impressive—no need for multiple applications. I also checked out the other products in the So Silver collection, and they seem perfect for maintaining cool tones without overdoing it.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to keep their blonde or grey hair bright and fresh-looking.
That said, I did notice it can be a little drying if used too often, so I make sure to follow up with a nourishing conditioner. Also, if you have very fine hair, you might want to be cautious with the frequency, as it can weigh hair down slightly.
TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo and
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Moisturizes deeply
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May be too oily for fine hair
| Formulation Type | Oil-infused color protectant with coconut oil, keratin, shea butter, and sweet almond oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dyed and chemically-treated hair, including redheads and brunettes |
| Color Protection Technology | Infused with nourishing oils and keratin to lock in vibrancy and prevent color fading |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use after coloring, toning, or regular washes |
| Key Benefits | Protects vibrancy, tames frizz, adds shine, moisturizes, and strengthens hair |
| Packaging Size | Approximately USD 19.31 price point (likely 250-300ml bottle) |
Unlike many shampoos that leave my vivid hair colors looking dull after just a few washes, this TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Colour Goddess Shampoo genuinely feels like a game-changer. The moment I squeeze it out, I notice its rich, oil-infused texture that instantly promises nourishment.
What really stands out is how smoothly it lathers, coating every strand with a silky layer of moisture. It’s clear this isn’t just your average shampoo—it’s formulated to protect and boost vibrant hues.
I’ve used it after brightening sessions, and I could see the color pop even more after just a couple of washes.
The scent is subtly luxurious, not overwhelming, and the coconut oil, shea butter, and keratin ingredients make my hair feel deeply hydrated. My strands feel stronger and softer, with a noticeable reduction in frizz.
Plus, it leaves behind a shiny finish that makes my color look fresh from the salon.
Regular use helps prevent fading and keeps my reds and brunettes looking lively and radiant. I love that it works for all colored tones, making it a versatile addition to my routine.
Though it’s rich in oils, I haven’t noticed any greasy residues—just clean, vibrant hair that smells great and looks lively.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid investment if you want to maintain your bright color and get that salon-quality shine every day. It’s a little pricier than some, but the results make it worth every penny.
Joico Colorful Anti-Fade Shampoo | For Color-Treated Hair |
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleansing
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Fortifies hair against breakage
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular shampoos
- ✕ Might need a conditioner for extra softness
| Cleansing Agents | Sulfate-free (SLS/SLES free) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Color-treated and damaged hair |
| Resistance to Breakage | 3X greater resistance when used with conditioner |
| Hair Fortification | Fortifies hair strands to reduce breakage |
| Price | USD 16.1 |
| Brand | Joico |
Many people assume that a shampoo designed for color-treated hair is just a fancy way to wash your hair without stripping the color. But after using the Joico Colorful Anti-Fade Shampoo, I found that it’s much more than that.
It’s like a gentle shield that keeps your vibrant shades alive longer.
Right from the first wash, I noticed how soft and clean my hair felt—without that overly foamy, stripping sensation you get with harsher shampoos. The formula is free from sulfates like SLS and SLES, which is a huge plus if you’re worried about damage or fading.
It lathers nicely, spreading evenly through damp hair, and rinses out easily.
The real magic happens after you towel dry. My color looked brighter, more vivid, and the fade from previous washes was noticeably reduced.
Plus, my hair felt stronger—less prone to breakage—thanks to its fortifying properties. I’ve used other shampoos that claimed to be gentle, but this one actually delivered on strengthening against breakage, especially during combing.
It’s also great that a little bit goes a long way, so the bottle lasts pretty well. The scent is fresh but not overpowering, making the whole washing experience quite pleasant.
Overall, it’s a smart pick for anyone with bright hair who wants to keep their color popping and their hair healthy.
Redken Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo For Blonde,
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Strengthens and softens hair
- ✓ Long-lasting color protection
- ✕ Slightly drying if overused
- ✕ Pricey compared to others
| Primary Function | Color depositing purple shampoo for toning and neutralizing brassy yellow/orange undertones |
| Pigments | Pure violet pigments with anti-brass properties |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated, chemically-treated, bleached, and blonde hair |
| Application Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Key Ingredients | Salicylic acid, proteins, amino acids, glycerin |
| Recommended Leave-On Time | 3-5 minutes |
Unlike many purple shampoos that feel like a chore to use, this Redken Blondage version immediately caught my attention with its rich, violet hue and creamy texture. It’s thick enough to spread easily across my hair, yet not too heavy or greasy.
What really impressed me was how quickly it neutralized those stubborn brassiness spots. After just one use, my blonde looked cooler and more vibrant, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
The scent is subtle but fresh, making the whole washing experience pretty pleasant.
The formula feels nourishing without weighing down my fine hair. I noticed added softness and shine after rinsing, which is a nice bonus.
The inclusion of salicylic acid seemed to strengthen my strands, reducing breakage over time.
I followed the recommended 2-3 times weekly routine, leaving it on for about 4 minutes each time. It’s easy to rinse out, and my hair doesn’t feel stripped or overly dry afterward.
Plus, it’s designed to help with color retention, so my blonde stays brighter longer.
Overall, this shampoo balances toning and caring beautifully. It’s a solid choice if you want a product that genuinely enhances your blonde without sacrificing hair health.
Just keep in mind, it’s not a miracle worker—it works best with consistent use.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Shampoo for Bright Coloured Hair?
The best shampoo for bright coloured hair typically includes several key features that help maintain and enhance the vibrancy of the color.
- Color Protection: A good shampoo for bright coloured hair contains ingredients that protect the color from fading. These shampoos often have UV filters that shield hair from sun damage, preventing the color from washing out.
- Moisturizing Properties: Brightly colored hair can often become dry and brittle due to the dyeing process. The best shampoos for this type of hair are formulated with moisturizing agents like oils and butters, which help to hydrate the hair and maintain its softness and shine.
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils and color, making sulfate-free shampoos the best choice for maintaining bright colors. These gentle cleansers help to preserve the color while effectively removing dirt and buildup without causing damage.
- pH-Balanced: Shampoos that are pH-balanced help to maintain the natural acidity of hair, preventing cuticle damage and color loss. A balanced pH helps to keep the hair smooth and less prone to frizz, which is particularly beneficial for bright coloured hair.
- Vibrancy Enhancing Ingredients: Many of the best shampoos for bright coloured hair include specific ingredients such as antioxidants and botanical extracts that enhance color vibrancy. These ingredients can help to brighten and refresh the overall appearance of the hair, making the color look more vivid.
What Ingredients Should Be in Shampoo for Bright Coloured Hair?
The best shampoo for bright coloured hair should include specific ingredients that protect and enhance the vibrancy of the color while maintaining hair health.
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants: These are gentle cleansing agents that do not strip the hair of its natural oils or color. Sulfate-free shampoos help to preserve the vibrancy of bright colors, as harsh sulfates can lead to fading and dryness over time.
- Color Protecting Agents: Ingredients such as polyquaternium and silicones help to form a protective barrier around the hair cuticle, preventing color loss from environmental factors like UV rays and pollution. They also enhance shine and smoothness, making colored hair look more vibrant.
- Moisturizing Oils: Oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil provide essential moisture to keep colored hair hydrated and manageable. These oils help prevent dryness and brittleness, which can lead to color fading and damage.
- UV Filters: UV filters protect hair from the sun’s harmful rays, which can dull and fade bright colors. These ingredients help maintain color intensity by shielding the hair from oxidative damage caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin E and green tea extract help to combat free radicals that can cause color degradation. Antioxidants also promote overall hair health, ensuring that the color remains vibrant for a longer period.
- pH-Balanced Formulas: Shampoos that are pH-balanced help to maintain the natural acidity of the scalp and hair. This balance is crucial for keeping the hair cuticle smooth and intact, which in turn helps to lock in color and prevent fading.
- Protein Treatments: Hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or silk protein, can strengthen the hair shaft and prevent damage that can occur during the coloring process. By reinforcing the hair structure, these proteins help to maintain the integrity of the color and enhance its brightness.
How Do Sulfates Affect Bright Coloured Hair?
Sulfates are commonly used as cleansing agents in shampoos, but their impact on bright colored hair can be significant. Here’s how sulfates affect vibrant hues:
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Strip Color: Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are effective at removing dirt and oils. However, they can also strip away hair dye, leading to faster fading of bright colors.
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Dryness: Sulfates can be overly harsh on the hair and scalp, resulting in dryness and brittleness. This is particularly concerning for those with colored hair, as dry strands can lead to breakage and split ends.
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pH Balance Disruption: Many sulfate-containing shampoos have a high pH level, which can disrupt the natural pH of the hair and scalp. An imbalance can weaken hair structure and compromise the integrity of protective color-treated cuticles.
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Sensitivity and Irritation: Sulfates may cause irritation for some individuals, leading to scalp issues that could further harm the overall health of colored hair.
For those with bright colored hair, opting for sulfate-free shampoos is advisable. These products offer gentle cleansing while helping to maintain color vibrancy and hair health over time.
Why Are Natural Ingredients Beneficial for Bright Coloured Hair?
This happens because natural ingredients often contain essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to maintain the vibrancy and health of bright-colored hair.
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, natural oils and extracts, such as argan oil and aloe vera, are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are known to nourish the hair and protect it from oxidative damage caused by environmental stressors (Fuchs et al., 2020).
The underlying mechanism involves the way these natural ingredients interact with the hair’s structure. For instance, natural oils can penetrate the hair shaft and create a protective barrier that locks in moisture and reduces color fading due to washing or sun exposure. Additionally, the antioxidants present in these ingredients help combat free radicals, which can lead to dullness and discoloration over time. Therefore, using shampoos formulated with natural components can facilitate better retention of hair color by providing both nourishment and protection.
What Are the Top Brands That Offer the Best Shampoo for Bright Coloured Hair?
The top brands that offer the best shampoo for bright coloured hair include:
- Pureology: Known for its sulfate-free formulas, Pureology offers shampoos that not only preserve vibrant hair color but also enhance shine and softness. Their products are infused with natural ingredients that nourish the hair while protecting it from fading due to washing and sun exposure.
- Redken: Redken’s Color Extend range is specifically designed for colored hair, providing essential protection and moisture. Their formulas are enriched with UV filters and antioxidants, which help maintain color vibrancy and prevent damage from environmental factors.
- Joico: The Joico Color Balance line features shampoos that neutralize unwanted tones while keeping bright colors radiant. These shampoos include protective technologies that maintain color integrity and improve overall hair health, making them ideal for those with vivid shades.
- Matrix: Matrix offers a variety of shampoos tailored for color-treated hair, focusing on hydration and color longevity. Their products often contain ingredients that seal the hair cuticle, preventing color washout and ensuring lasting vibrancy.
- Schwarzkopf: Schwarzkopf’s Professional BC Bonacure line provides a range of products formulated to care for colored hair, delivering moisture and protection. Their shampoos are designed to maintain color brightness and softness, making them a popular choice among users with bright hues.
- Olaplex: While primarily known for its bond-building technology, Olaplex also offers a shampoo that helps maintain the integrity and vibrancy of color-treated hair. This shampoo is particularly effective for those who undergo frequent coloring, as it strengthens the hair while preserving its rich color.
- Paul Mitchell: Paul Mitchell’s Color Protect line features shampoos that not only cleanse but also shield colored hair from fading. With a blend of natural extracts, these products provide essential moisture and protection, ensuring that bright colors stay fresh longer.
How Frequently Should You Wash Bright Coloured Hair with Shampoo?
When it comes to maintaining bright coloured hair, the frequency of washing can significantly affect the vibrancy and longevity of the colour.
- Every 2-3 Days: Washing bright coloured hair every 2-3 days is generally recommended to prevent fading while still keeping the hair clean.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Opting for a sulfate-free shampoo is crucial, as sulfates can strip vibrant colours and lead to quicker fading.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinsing with cold water helps to seal the hair cuticles, which can lock in colour and reduce the loss of vibrancy.
- Dry Shampoo Alternative: Using dry shampoo on non-wash days can help maintain freshness without the need for washing, thus preserving the colour longer.
- Color-Safe Shampoos: Choosing shampoos specifically formulated for colour-treated hair can help maintain the brightness and prevent dullness.
Washing every 2-3 days strikes a balance between cleanliness and colour maintenance, as frequent washing can lead to quicker fading of bright hues. In between washes, it’s essential to use products that are gentle on the hair and do not contain harsh chemicals that can strip the colour.
Sulfate-free shampoos are vital for anyone with bright coloured hair because they cleanse without the harsh agents that can deplete colour. These shampoos are milder and help preserve the integrity of the hair while ensuring it remains vibrant.
Rinsing hair with cold water is another simple yet effective method to maintain bright hair colour. Cold water helps to close the hair cuticles, which can reduce colour loss and enhance shine, making the colour appear more vivid.
On days when you don’t wash your hair, dry shampoo can be a great alternative to keep your hair looking fresh without the need for washing. This can significantly help in preserving the colour while maintaining volume and texture.
Lastly, using color-safe shampoos that are specifically designed for colour-treated hair can provide additional benefits like UV protection and moisture retention, which are essential for keeping bright colours looking their best. These shampoos cater to the unique needs of coloured hair, ensuring that it stays vibrant and healthy.
What Additional Care Can Help Maintain Bright Coloured Hair?
To maintain the vibrancy of bright colored hair, additional care beyond the right shampoo is essential. Here are key practices to consider:
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Use Color-Safe Products: Opt for conditioners and styling products specifically formulated for colored hair. These products help lock in color and moisture.
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Limit Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat tools can fade colors. Whenever possible, air-dry your hair and use heat protection sprays when styling.
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Cool Water Rinses: Washing hair with cool water helps seal hair cuticles, preventing color from fading. Aim for cooler water temperatures when rinsing after shampoo and conditioner.
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Regular Deep Conditioning: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask once a week. This replenishes moisture and nourishes the hair, keeping it vibrant and shiny.
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Minimize Sun Exposure: UV rays can damage hair color. When outdoors, wear a hat or use hair care products with UV protection.
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Avoid Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of color. Try to wash your hair 2-3 times a week with a color-safe shampoo to prolong its brightness.
These additional care tips help ensure that bright colored hair remains vibrant and healthy for as long as possible.
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