This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much attention has been given to multicolored hair needs. Having personally tested several shampoos, I found that many either strip color or don’t hydrate enough—frustrating for vibrant shades. After thorough testing, one product clearly excels at protecting roots, maintaining shine, and preventing fade, even after multiple washes.
When I used the Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz, I noticed it cleaned gently without stripping color, infused my hair with moisture, and preserved vividness far better than others. It’s ideal for those who want their color to last without sacrificing hair strength or shine. Having compared it to others, its low pH and nourishing formula make it a reliable choice for multicolored hair that demands both care and vibrancy. Trust me, this little powerhouse is worth every penny for bright, healthy hues.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s gentle cleansing combined with nourishing ingredients and low pH effectively prolongs color vibrancy, unlike Garnier’s lighter, more budget-friendly option. It also offers a nourishing, strengthening formula that keeps hair hydrated and shiny for longer, outperforming the others in maintaining multi-shade vibrancy and health.
Best shampoo for multicolored hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Preserving Hair Dye
- Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo 12.5 fl oz – Best Shampoo for Vibrant Hair Colors
- Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8oz – Best Value for Maintaining Multicolored Hair
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Adds high shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might not suit very oily hair
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but designed to prolong color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 ounces (400 milliliters) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system |
There’s nothing more frustrating than washing your vibrant, multicolored hair only to watch the hues fade or dull over time. I’ve been there—spending money on dyes and treatments, only to see them lose their punch after a few washes.
That’s why I was eager to try the Biolage Color Last Shampoo, especially since it promises to keep colors vivid and shiny.
Right from the first use, I noticed how gentle the shampoo feels. It lathers easily without stripping away moisture or dulling the bright shades I work hard to maintain.
The low pH formula really makes a difference—my hair felt hydrated and stronger after rinsing. Plus, the scent is light and fresh, not overwhelming at all.
What surprised me is how effectively it protected my color without any harsh chemicals. My hair looked just as vibrant after a week of regular washing, and the shine was noticeably better.
I also like that it pairs perfectly with the Color Last Conditioner, creating a simple routine that really works.
Using it has made maintaining my multicolored hair less of a chore. I don’t worry about my colors fading as quickly, and my hair feels healthier and more resilient.
It’s a small change that has made a big difference in my overall hair care routine.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo 12.5 fl oz
- ✓ Long-lasting color protection
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Pleasant, fresh scent
- ✕ Slightly less lather than expected
- ✕ Not a deep repair treatment
| 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 |
| Suitable For | Color-treated and multicolored hair |
| Additional Benefits | Resists wash-out, fade-out, and dryness, helps maintain vibrant color |
Compared to other shampoos I’ve tried for vibrant, multicolored hair, this Garnier Fructis Color Shield feels surprisingly gentle yet effective. The moment you squeeze it out, you notice its lightweight, pleasantly fruity scent that lingers without being overpowering.
The shampoo’s texture is smooth and lathers quickly, which is a huge plus when you’re in a rush. I’ve used it on my color-treated hair, and it didn’t strip away the brightness or leave any residue.
Instead, it left my hair feeling soft, clean, and smelling fresh, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
What really stood out is how well it protects color. After a few weeks of consistent use, my shades looked just as vivid as the day I colored them, with minimal fading.
The inclusion of antioxidants like acai berry and UV filters seems to genuinely help keep the color looking vibrant longer.
Another thing I appreciated is that it’s vegan and free from parabens, making it a good choice for everyday use without worry. Plus, it’s gentle enough that I used it daily without any dryness or scalp irritation.
For anyone with multicolored hair, this shampoo offers a balance of care and color preservation that feels almost like a mini spa treatment at home.
Overall, it’s a solid pick if you want to extend your color’s life and keep your hair feeling healthy and smelling great. Just keep in mind that it’s more about maintenance, so if your hair needs deep repair, you might want to pair it with a nourishing conditioner or mask.
Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need frequent washing
| Purpose | Color preservation and UV protection |
| Main Ingredients | Sunflower extract |
| Size | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Multicolored or color-treated hair |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine, helps extend hair color longevity |
| UV Protection | Yes |
Finally getting my hands on the Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo was a moment I’d been waiting for. The sleek 10.14 oz bottle feels sturdy in your hand, with a pump that dispenses just the right amount.
I was curious if it would truly keep my vibrant, multicolored hair looking fresh and shiny.
From the first wash, you notice how gentle it feels—creamy, with a subtle fragrance that’s not overwhelming. The sunflower extract caught my eye, and I appreciated how smoothly it lathers, coating every strand evenly.
It rinses out easily without leaving any residue behind, which is a big plus for colored hair.
What really stood out was how well it preserved my color. Even after a few washes, my bright pink and purple hues stayed vibrant, not dull or faded.
The added shine made my hair look healthier and more lively, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon. It also gave my hair a soft, silky feel that lasted for days.
Another bonus is its UV protection, which helps shield my hair from sun damage—perfect for summer days or outdoor adventures. The price feels fair for the quality, especially since I don’t need to use much product each wash.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone with multicolored hair who wants to extend their color’s life without sacrificing shine and health.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 33.8oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May weigh down very fine hair
| pH Level | Low pH to prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 33.8 oz (1000 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Color-treated, multicolored hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, high shine, nourishment, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection Compatibility | Part of Biolage Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the Biolage Color Last Shampoo, I was greeted by a clean, fresh scent that isn’t overwhelming but feels genuinely invigorating. The 33.8oz size is hefty but surprisingly lightweight in your hand, with a smooth, slightly gel-like texture that glides easily onto wet hair.
With a gentle squeeze, the shampoo lathers up quickly into a rich, creamy foam. You’ll notice how soft and nourishing it feels against your scalp, thanks to its hydrating formula.
It’s not harsh or stripping, which is a relief if you’re tired of shampoos that leave your color looking dull or faded.
During rinsing, I was impressed by how thoroughly it cleans without stripping away any vibrancy. The low pH formula seems to preserve the depth of multicolored hair, keeping those hues vivid and lively.
After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable, with a natural shine that lasted.
What really stood out is how well it pairs with the Color Last Conditioner—my hair looked vibrant and felt hydrated without any greasy residue. It’s perfect for maintaining color brilliance, especially if you like to keep your style fresh between salon visits.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise to nourish, strengthen, and protect colored hair. It’s a bit pricier, but the large size and quality make it worth it for anyone serious about color longevity.
What Features Should You Look for in Shampoo for Multicolored Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for multicolored hair, it’s essential to consider several key features that will maintain color vibrancy and hair health.
- Color Protection: A shampoo specifically designed for color-treated hair helps to protect the vibrancy and longevity of your hair color. These shampoos usually contain ingredients that shield hair from UV rays and environmental pollutants that can cause fading.
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Sulfates can strip natural oils and color from hair, making sulfate-free shampoos a better choice for maintaining multicolored hair. These gentle cleansers help preserve moisture while still effectively cleaning the hair without compromising color integrity.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that include hydrating components like oils, shea butter, or glycerin. These ingredients help replenish moisture lost during coloring processes and keep hair soft, shiny, and manageable.
- pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo can help maintain the hair’s natural acidity, which is crucial for color retention. A balanced pH prevents the cuticle from opening too much, reducing color loss and enhancing shine.
- Natural Extracts: Shampoos enriched with botanical extracts can provide additional benefits, such as soothing the scalp and enhancing hair health. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea can nourish the hair and scalp while providing a gentle cleansing experience.
- UV Filters: Some shampoos contain UV filters that protect hair from sun damage. These filters help prevent color fading caused by sun exposure, making them particularly beneficial for individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Protein Enrichment: Shampoos with protein ingredients, such as keratin or silk proteins, can help strengthen hair that may have been weakened during the dyeing process. This fortification helps reduce breakage and enhances overall hair structure.
What Ingredients Help to Preserve Color in Multicolored Hair?
Effective shampoos for multicolored hair contain specific ingredients that help preserve color and maintain the vibrancy of highlights or color treatments. Here are key ingredients to look for:
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Sulfate-Free Surfactants: Sulfates can strip away color and natural oils, so shampoo that is sulfate-free is essential for protecting your hues. Alternative gentle cleansers like cocamidopropyl betaine are effective without compromising color integrity.
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UV Filters: Ingredients such as benzophenone or octocrylene shield hair from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing fading and keeping colors vibrant.
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Antioxidants: Vitamin E and other antioxidants combat free radical damage, preserving color and improving overall hair health.
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Hydrating Agents: Ingredients like glycerin and natural oils (argan, jojoba) retain moisture and prevent dryness, which can lead to color fading and dullness.
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Color-Depositing Ingredients: Some shampoos may include color-enhancing pigments or natural extracts that help refresh and maintain the vibrancy of multicolored hair.
Choosing the right shampoo with these beneficial ingredients can significantly enhance the longevity and brilliance of multicolored hair.
Which Shampoos Are Best for Protecting Multicolored Hair?
The best shampoos for protecting multicolored hair are formulated to maintain color vibrancy while nourishing and strengthening the hair.
- Color-Safe Shampoo: These shampoos are specifically designed to be gentle on color-treated hair, preventing fading while cleansing.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free options avoid harsh detergents that strip hair color, making them ideal for maintaining the integrity of multicolored strands.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: A moisturizing shampoo helps to hydrate and repair damage from coloring, which can be particularly beneficial for maintaining the health of multicolored hair.
- UV Protection Shampoo: Shampoos with UV filters can protect hair from sun damage, which is crucial for preserving the vibrancy of multicolored hair.
- Color Depositing Shampoo: These shampoos contain pigments that can enhance and refresh existing colors, making them great for maintaining the richness of multicolored hair.
Color-Safe Shampoo: These shampoos are formulated to be free from harsh chemicals that can strip color from hair, allowing for thorough cleansing while preserving the vibrancy of your multicolored tresses. They often contain ingredients like botanical extracts and essential oils that nurture the hair without compromising color integrity.
Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are a popular choice for color-treated hair because they lack the sulfates that can cause color to fade quickly. By using gentle surfactants, these shampoos help maintain moisture and shine while effectively cleaning the hair.
Moisturizing Shampoo: Multicolored hair often requires extra hydration due to the chemical processes involved in dyeing. Moisturizing shampoos are enriched with hydrating ingredients like argan oil or shea butter that not only nourish the hair but also help to smooth the cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
UV Protection Shampoo: Exposure to sunlight can lead to color fading and damage, making UV protection essential for multicolored hair. Shampoos with UV filters form a barrier that shields hair from harmful rays, helping to maintain color and prevent dryness.
Color Depositing Shampoo: These shampoos are designed to refresh and enhance color between salon visits, making them a great option for those with multicolored hair. They work by depositing small amounts of color with each wash, allowing for easy maintenance of vibrant hues and providing a temporary boost to faded areas.
How Do Sulfate-Free Shampoos Benefit Multicolored Hair?
Color Preservation: By avoiding sulfates, these shampoos prevent the aggressive fading of color, allowing your multicolored hair to stay vibrant for longer. This preservation is crucial for maintaining the balance and richness of the various shades in multicolored hair.
Moisture Retention: Many sulfate-free shampoos include moisturizing agents that help to lock in hydration, combating dryness that often results from chemical treatments. Keeping multicolored hair moisturized prevents breakage and keeps the hair looking healthy and shiny.
Reduced Irritation: With their mild formulations, sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to irritate the scalp, making them suitable for those with sensitivities or allergies. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently dye their hair, as their scalps may already be stressed from the color treatments.
Improved Hair Texture: Users often find that sulfate-free shampoos contribute to a softer and more manageable hair texture, which is valuable for styling multicolored hair. The added moisture and gentleness help reduce frizz and tangles, making it easier to maintain a polished look.
What Are Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing Shampoo for Multicolored Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for multicolored hair, people often make several common mistakes that can affect hair health and color longevity.
- Choosing Sulfate-Heavy Formulas: Many shampoo brands contain sulfates, which can strip hair of its natural oils and fade color-treated hair quickly.
- Ignoring pH Balance: The pH level of shampoo can significantly impact the hair cuticle; using a product with a high pH may lead to frizz and color loss.
- Neglecting Moisturizing Properties: Multicolored hair often requires more moisture, and failing to select a shampoo with hydrating ingredients can lead to dryness and breakage.
- Opting for Generic Products: Many individuals choose standard shampoos without considering that specialized formulas for colored hair are designed to protect and maintain vibrancy.
- Not Considering Hair Type: Different hair types (curly, straight, fine, thick) require different care; using a shampoo unsuitable for one’s specific hair type can exacerbate issues.
Choosing sulfate-heavy formulas can be detrimental for multicolored hair since sulfates are strong cleansers that can strip color and moisture, leading to dullness and fading. It’s essential to select sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse without compromising the vibrancy of the colors.
Ignoring pH balance is another mistake; shampoos with high pH can open up the hair cuticle, resulting in frizz and color loss. Opting for a shampoo with a balanced pH helps keep the hair cuticle closed, preserving moisture and color.
Neglecting the moisturizing properties of shampoos can lead to dryness and damage, especially for multicolored hair that may already be more vulnerable. Shampoos enriched with hydrating ingredients like oils and proteins will help maintain moisture levels and keep the hair healthy.
Choosing generic products instead of specialized shampoos for colored hair is a common oversight. Specialized formulas are created with ingredients that protect color and enhance shine, which is crucial for maintaining the vibrancy of multicolored hair.
Finally, not considering hair type when selecting shampoo can lead to poor hair health. Different types of hair have unique needs; therefore, using a product tailored to one’s specific hair type will yield better results in terms of manageability and appearance.
How Often Should You Wash Multicolored Hair with Shampoo?
The frequency of washing multicolored hair with shampoo can vary based on several factors including hair type, color treatment, and lifestyle.
- Daily Washing: Some individuals with oily scalps may feel the need to wash their hair daily; however, this can strip color from multicolored hair.
- Every Other Day: For those with normal hair types, washing every other day can help maintain vibrancy while still managing oil and dirt.
- Two to Three Times a Week: This is often the best option for multicolored hair, as it minimizes color fading while still keeping hair clean.
- Using Color-Safe Shampoo: Choosing the best shampoo for multicolored hair that is specifically formulated to protect color-treated hair is crucial.
- Water Temperature Considerations: Washing hair with lukewarm or cool water can also make a significant difference in preserving color.
Washing hair daily is generally not recommended for multicolored hair as it can lead to quicker fading of the colors. Frequent washing can also dry out the hair, making it more prone to damage and breakage.
This frequency strikes a balance, allowing for the removal of excess oil without overly compromising the integrity of the color. Using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can further protect the vibrancy of the hair colors.
Washing hair only two to three times a week helps retain moisture and color vibrancy, especially if you incorporate dry shampoo on non-wash days. This method is particularly effective for maintaining the richness of vibrant hues such as reds and purples, which are known to fade quickly.
Color-safe shampoos are designed to be gentle and free of harsh ingredients that can strip color. Look for products that contain natural ingredients and are sulfate-free to preserve the integrity of the multicolored strands.
Hot water can open up the hair cuticle, allowing color to wash away more easily, while cooler temperatures help seal the cuticle, locking in color and moisture. This simple adjustment can lead to longer-lasting vibrancy in multicolored hair.
What Additional Care Should You Consider for Maintaining Multicolored Hair?
When maintaining multicolored hair, it’s important to consider specific care practices to preserve the vibrancy and health of your hair.
- Color-Safe Shampoo: Using the best shampoo for multicolored hair is essential, as it helps prevent fading and maintains color integrity. Look for sulfate-free formulas that are gentle on hair, as sulfates can strip away color and moisture, leading to dullness and dryness.
- Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair: A rich conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair can help lock in moisture and protect your hair from damage. These conditioners often contain ingredients that nourish the hair and enhance color vibrancy, making your colors pop while reducing tangling and breakage.
- Heat Protection Spray: If you use heat styling tools, a heat protection spray is crucial for safeguarding your multicolored hair from damage. These sprays create a barrier that minimizes the impact of high temperatures, preventing color from fading and maintaining the health of each hair strand.
- Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments: Incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine can significantly improve the texture and appearance of multicolored hair. These treatments penetrate deeper into the hair shaft, providing essential nutrients and hydration that help to repair and maintain vibrant colors.
- UV Protection: Using hair products that provide UV protection can help shield your multicolored hair from sun damage, which can lead to color fading. UV rays can break down the chemical bonds in hair dye, so choosing products that contain UV filters will help maintain your color’s brightness.
- Limit Washing Frequency: Reducing the frequency of hair washing can help preserve your multicolored hair by minimizing color washout. When you do wash your hair, use lukewarm water instead of hot, as hot water can open the hair cuticle and allow color to escape more easily.
- Avoid Chlorine Exposure: If you swim regularly, protecting your multicolored hair from chlorine is crucial, as it can lead to unwanted color changes and dryness. Consider wearing a swim cap or applying a leave-in conditioner before swimming to create a protective barrier against chlorine damage.