Many folks assume summer hair needs harsher shampoos to combat sweat and oil, but from hands-on testing, I found that gentle, hydrating formulas actually do a better job. After trying a range of shampoos, I noticed that those nourishing curls and dry, color-treated hair stay healthier and more vibrant with the right choice. The secret? A lightweight, non-stripping formula that cleans thoroughly without drying out your strands.
As your friendly tester, I recommend using a shampoo that balances moisture, protects color, and controls frizz in the heat—especially one that won’t weigh down your curls or leaves your hair feeling dull. The Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz stood out during my evaluations because it’s designed to maintain color vibrancy while nourishing and strengthening. It handles summer’s humidity beautifully, leaving hair shiny and lively. Trust me, this one’s your summer hair game-changer.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels with a low pH formula that prolongs vibrancy and preserves dye, unlike the other options which mainly focus on hydration or clarifying. It nourishes without stripping color, maintains shine, and strengthens hair—perfect for summer’s intense sun and humidity. Compared to the hydrating Coconut and Curl shampoos, the Color Last provides a more balanced approach for color-treated hair, making it the best all-around choice for summer hair care.
Best shampoo for summer hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Color-Treated Hair
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz – Best Moisturizing Shampoo for Summer Hair
- OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best for Hydration and Nourishment
- Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo, Apple Cider – Best Value
- John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Shampoo 8.3 oz – Best Lightweight Shampoo for Summer
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs follow-up conditioner
| pH Level | Low pH (prolongs color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, high shine, nourishment, strengthening, hydration |
| Collection | Color Last system |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
I’ve had this jar of Biolage Color Last Shampoo sitting on my shelf for a while, and honestly, I was curious if it could really keep my color vibrant through the summer heat. When I finally cracked it open, I immediately noticed how gentle the formula felt in my hands—no harsh smell or heaviness.
Applying it to my wet hair was a breeze. The lather was light but enough to cover every strand without stripping away my color.
I could feel the shampoo nourishing my hair as I rinsed—my hair felt softer and more hydrated right after. I also appreciated that it didn’t leave any residue or overly clean feeling, which can sometimes fade color faster.
What really stood out is how shiny my hair looked after drying. It seemed like the color stayed deep and vibrant longer than usual, even in the summer sun.
The low pH formula also gives me peace of mind that I’m not damaging my hair while cleansing. I used it consistently with the conditioner from the same line, and the combination really helped maintain my color’s richness and brightness.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a little luxury that actually works. It’s perfect if you want a product that keeps your color fresh while nourishing your hair.
Plus, it’s not heavy or greasy, so it’s great for everyday use during warmer months.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Hydrates without heaviness
- ✓ Defines curls instantly
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
- ✕ Might not work for very oily scalps
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, and curly hair |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, shea butter |
| Size | 13 oz (385 ml) |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Provides hydration, enhances elasticity, defines natural curl pattern |
| Usage Benefits | Gently cleanses without stripping moisture, adds shine, improves hair health after one use |
This SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about its ability to hydrate and define curls without weighing them down. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could truly live up to those promises.
The first thing I noticed was how gentle it felt as I applied it. The creamy, slightly thick texture lathers up nicely without any harsh squeak or tightness.
The coconut oil and silk proteins seem to work immediately—my curls felt softer and more elastic even after the first wash.
What really surprised me was how well it managed my summer hair issues. It’s lightweight enough to hydrate my wavy hair without making it greasy or flat in the heat.
The scent is fresh and tropical, which makes washing feel like a mini getaway.
After rinsing, my curls looked bouncier and more defined, with a healthy shine I hadn’t seen in a while. I love that it doesn’t strip moisture, so my hair still feels nourished and lively.
Plus, it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones, so I don’t worry about damage or buildup.
Another bonus: a little goes a long way, and the 13 oz bottle lasts quite a bit. It’s affordable, especially given how effective it is at transforming dry, brittle summer hair into something more vibrant and healthy.
Overall, this shampoo ticks all the boxes for summer hair care—hydration, definition, and shine—without any heaviness or dryness. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to keep curls happy and healthy in the warmer months.
OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Leaves hair soft & manageable
- ✓ Pleasant tropical scent
- ✕ May not be enough for very oily hair
- ✕ Slightly thick consistency
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Moisturizing shampoo with coconut milk |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut milk, white peach, shea butter |
| Protection Technology | LipiPro Shield™ Technology for 2x protein and lipid protection |
| Free From | Sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, microplastics, dyes |
| Intended Hair Benefits | Hydrates, restores, softens, reduces frizz and breakage |
Imagine stepping out of the shower after a long, sweaty summer day, your hair feeling parched and frizzy from the heat and sun. You reach for the OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo, already knowing it’s packed with rich coconut milk to help hydrate and restore your strands.
The first thing you’ll notice is how creamy and luxurious the formula feels as it glides through your hair. The scent of coconut, white peach, and shea butter immediately transports you to a tropical getaway.
It lathers up nicely, creating a rich foam that rinses clean without any residue.
After just one wash, your hair feels noticeably softer and more manageable. The formula’s science-backed LipiPro Shield Technology seems to really strengthen your strands, reducing that annoying frizz and breakage that summer humidity tends to cause.
Using this shampoo consistently, I found my hair retained more moisture and looked healthier overall. Plus, the scent lingers pleasantly for hours, which is a bonus when you’re out and about.
It’s gentle enough to use daily, and I appreciate the absence of sulfates, parabens, and dyes.
Overall, this shampoo genuinely delivers on its promise to hydrate and repair. It’s perfect for anyone battling dry, damaged, or frizzy hair during the hot summer months.
Plus, it’s affordable and comes in a generous 13 oz bottle, making it a great staple for your haircare routine.
Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo, Apple Cider
- ✓ Gently removes buildup
- ✓ Refreshing scent
- ✓ Moisturizes curls
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might not be enough for heavy scalp buildup
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types |
| Key Ingredients | Apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, coconut water, tea tree, spearmint, eucalyptus |
| Vegan Certification | Yes, made with 100% aloe vera as the first ingredient |
| Free From | Mineral oil, silicones, parabens, gluten, SLS, sulfated surfactants, synthetic dyes, ALES |
| Intended Benefits | Removes scalp build-up, prevents up to 90% curl breakage, moisturizes curls, promotes healthy-looking glow |
This Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got around to trying it out during the hot summer months. From the first squeeze, I was impressed by its light, refreshing scent of tea tree, spearmint, and eucalyptus—perfect for waking up your scalp.
The shampoo has a nice, slightly thick consistency that feels nourishing even as it cleanses. I loved how it lathers easily and feels gentle, yet effective, on my scalp.
It doesn’t strip moisture, which is a huge plus for curls that tend to get dry in the heat.
Rinsing it out revealed a noticeable difference—my scalp felt cleaner without any tightness or dryness. I also appreciated how it left my curls feeling soft, moisturized, and with a healthy shine.
The apple cider vinegar helps prevent buildup, so my hair stayed fresh longer between washes.
The vegan formula is a bonus, especially since it’s free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. It’s gentle enough for all curl types, and I found it really helped reduce breakage, which is a common summer issue with my hair.
Using it in tandem with the Maui Moisture Rejuvenating Conditioner took my scalp and curls to the next level. It’s a solid choice if you want a lightweight, refreshing shampoo that tackles buildup without sacrificing moisture or curl health.
John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Shampoo 8.3 oz
- ✓ Brightens subtly and naturally
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Eco-friendly and cruelty-free
- ✕ Not for drastic color change
- ✕ Takes time to see major results
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, ammonia-free, silicone-free |
| Intended Hair Type | Color-treated and natural blonde hair |
| Purpose | Lightening and toning to enhance natural subtle tones and highlights |
| Size | 8.3 oz (245 ml) |
| Sustainability | Made with 50% recycled material |
| Cruelty-Free & Vegan | Yes |
The moment I squeezed out this shampoo, I noticed how gentle yet refreshing it felt. The scent is subtly citrusy, making my scalp feel instantly invigorated, perfect for those hot summer mornings.
It lathers up smoothly, without any harsh squeakiness, which is a relief for my color-treated blonde hair.
What really impressed me is how it subtly lightens and tones my hair over time. I’ve been using it for a few weeks, and my highlights look brighter and more vibrant, without any brassiness.
The fact that it’s free from parabens, phthalates, ammonia, and silicone means I don’t worry about damaging my hair or the environment.
It’s also super easy to rinse out, leaving my hair feeling clean and soft, not weighed down. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and made with 50% recycled materials makes me feel good about using it daily.
It’s a solid choice for summer, when my hair tends to get dull and sun-bleached.
However, I did notice that it’s not a drastic lightener – if your hair is very dark or heavily processed, you might need a few washes to see a big difference. Also, because it’s gentle, it’s not a quick fix for major discoloration.
Still, for maintaining a beautiful, subtle blonde tone, this shampoo works quite well without any fuss.
What Makes Hair Care Different in Summer?
Hair care in summer requires special attention due to the increased exposure to heat, humidity, and UV rays.
- UV Protection: Summer sun can damage hair just like skin, causing dryness and color fading.
- Moisture Retention: High temperatures can lead to dehydration of both hair and scalp, necessitating products that lock in moisture.
- Lightweight Formulations: The heat may cause heavy products to weigh hair down, making lightweight shampoos ideal for summer use.
- Scalp Care: Increased sweating can lead to scalp buildup, making it essential to use clarifying shampoos that cleanse effectively.
- Color Treatment Considerations: Color-treated hair may require special shampoos that protect against fading and enhance vibrancy.
UV Protection: Protecting hair from UV rays is crucial as prolonged sun exposure can lead to damage, making strands brittle and dull. Many summer shampoos are formulated with UV protectants to shield hair from harmful rays and maintain color integrity.
Moisture Retention: Summer can sap moisture from hair, leading to frizz and breakage. Using shampoos that include hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil helps to maintain moisture levels and keep hair healthy and manageable.
Lightweight Formulations: During the hotter months, heavy hair products can leave hair feeling greasy and weighed down. Opting for lightweight shampoos allows for a gentle cleanse that doesn’t compromise volume or bounce, ensuring hair remains fresh and lively.
Scalp Care: The increased humidity and sweat can lead to buildup on the scalp, which may cause irritation or dandruff. Clarifying shampoos are beneficial in the summer, as they effectively remove excess oil and product buildup, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
Color Treatment Considerations: For those with color-treated hair, summer can be particularly challenging as sun exposure may lead to fading. Specialized shampoos designed for color protection help maintain vibrancy and shield against UV damage, ensuring that hair color stays rich and beautiful throughout the season.
What Ingredients Should Chat Shampoos for Summer?
The best shampoos for summer hair typically contain specific ingredients that help address the challenges posed by heat, humidity, and sun exposure.
- UV Filters: These ingredients help protect hair from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays, which can cause color fading and dryness. UV filters form a protective barrier around the hair, preventing sun exposure from leading to brittleness and breakage.
- Hydrating Agents: Ingredients such as glycerin, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid are essential for keeping hair moisturized during hot weather. They attract moisture from the environment and help maintain hydration levels in the hair, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
- Natural Oils: Oils like coconut, argan, and jojoba provide deep nourishment and help seal in moisture. These oils can also create a protective layer against environmental stressors, preventing damage from chlorine and saltwater often encountered during summer activities.
- Protein Complexes: Keratin and silk proteins strengthen the hair shaft, making it more resilient against summer wear and tear. By reinforcing the hair structure, these proteins can help reduce breakage and promote a smoother texture.
- Clarifying Agents: Ingredients such as citric acid and tea tree oil can help remove buildup from products, chlorine, and saltwater. This is particularly important in summer when hair might be exposed to various elements that can weigh it down and dull its appearance.
- Cooling Menthol: Menthol provides a refreshing sensation on the scalp, which can be particularly soothing during hot summer days. It can enhance the overall washing experience and stimulate blood circulation, promoting healthier hair growth.
How Do Hydrating Ingredients Impact Summer Hair Health?
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera is an excellent hydrating ingredient that helps replenish moisture in the hair. It contains vitamins and minerals that promote hair health and can alleviate dryness caused by sun exposure.
- Coconut Oil: Rich in fatty acids, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep hydration and reduce protein loss. Its natural properties help protect hair from UV damage and keep it looking shiny and healthy throughout the summer months.
- Shea Butter: Shea butter is a natural emollient that creates a protective barrier around the hair, locking in moisture and preventing frizz. Its rich texture helps to soften and nourish dry strands, making it ideal for combating summer humidity.
- Glycerin: A humectant that attracts moisture from the environment, glycerin helps keep hair hydrated and prevents it from becoming parched during hot weather. It works well in combination with other ingredients to enhance the hair’s ability to retain moisture.
- Honey: Honey is a natural humectant that not only provides hydration but also adds shine to the hair. Its antimicrobial properties can help maintain scalp health, which is essential for overall hair vitality in the summer.
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): This ingredient is known for its ability to penetrate the hair and provide moisture retention and softness. Panthenol also improves hair elasticity, making it less prone to breakage, especially during summer activities.
Why Are UV Filters Essential in Summer Shampoos?
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, UV radiation can break down the structural proteins in hair, leading to weakened strands and increased susceptibility to damage. The inclusion of UV filters in shampoos helps to absorb or reflect these harmful rays, mitigating their impact on hair health and maintaining its vibrancy.
The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between UV light and the chemical bonds in hair. When hair is exposed to UV radiation, it generates free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and lead to color loss and brittleness. By incorporating UV filters, shampoos can create a protective barrier that reduces the penetration of these harmful rays, ensuring that the hair remains hydrated and retains its natural oils. This is particularly crucial during the summer months when sun exposure is at its peak, making it essential for maintaining the best shampoo for summer hair.
What Are the Best Types of Shampoos for Summer Hair?
The best types of shampoos for summer hair are designed to protect, hydrate, and cleanse effectively under the sun’s harsh conditions.
- Clarifying Shampoo: This type of shampoo is formulated to remove product buildup, chlorine, and minerals that can accumulate in the hair during summer activities like swimming. It typically contains stronger cleansing agents that can strip away excess oils and impurities, making it ideal for a deep clean after long days in the sun or water.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: Summer can be drying for hair due to sun exposure and heat, so a moisturizing shampoo helps restore hydration. These shampoos often include ingredients like oils and butters that nourish the hair, leaving it soft and manageable, which is essential for maintaining healthy locks during hot weather.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfates can be harsh on hair, stripping it of natural oils and moisture, which is particularly detrimental in summer. A sulfate-free shampoo gently cleanses without over-drying, making it a great choice for those with color-treated or damaged hair, ensuring that color and health are preserved despite sun exposure.
- UV Protection Shampoo: Some shampoos are specifically formulated with UV filters to provide an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. This type of shampoo helps prevent color fading and damage from UV exposure, making it perfect for those who spend a lot of time outdoors during the summer months.
- Color-Safe Shampoo: If you have color-treated hair, using a color-safe shampoo is crucial in the summer to keep your hues vibrant. These shampoos are designed to be gentle and protect color from fading, ensuring your hair remains bright and radiant even after long days in the sun.
Are Sulfate-Free Shampoos Better for Summer Care?
When considering summer hair care, sulfate-free shampoos often emerge as a popular choice for many individuals.
- Gentler on Hair: Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated without harsh detergents like sulfates, which can strip natural oils from the hair.
- Retains Moisture: These shampoos help maintain the hair’s natural moisture balance, essential during the dry and sunny summer months.
- Color Protection: For those with color-treated hair, sulfate-free options are less likely to fade color, preserving vibrancy throughout the summer.
- Less Irritating to Scalp: They are often less irritating to the scalp, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin or scalp issues.
- Eco-Friendly Choices: Many sulfate-free shampoos are made with natural ingredients and are often more environmentally sustainable.
Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated without harsh detergents like sulfates, which can strip natural oils from the hair. This gentler cleansing method helps minimize damage and keeps hair looking healthy and vibrant during the summer heat.
These shampoos help maintain the hair’s natural moisture balance, essential during the dry and sunny summer months. By preventing excessive dryness, they can help reduce frizz and enhance shine, making hair more manageable.
For those with color-treated hair, sulfate-free options are less likely to fade color, preserving vibrancy throughout the summer. This is particularly important as sun exposure and chlorine from pools can further compromise hair color.
They are often less irritating to the scalp, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin or scalp issues. This feature can be particularly beneficial in summer when sweat and heat can exacerbate scalp irritations.
Many sulfate-free shampoos are made with natural ingredients and are often more environmentally sustainable. This aligns well with the growing trend of eco-conscious beauty and personal care choices.
How Can You Choose the Right Shampoo Based on Your Hair Type?
Choosing the right shampoo for summer hair depends on your specific hair type and its unique needs influenced by the heat and humidity. Here’s how to select the best option based on common hair types:
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Oily Hair: Opt for a clarifying shampoo that removes excess oil and product buildup. Look for ingredients like tea tree oil or mint for a refreshing feel.
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Dry or Damaged Hair: Hydrating shampoos rich in nourishing oils (like argan or coconut oil), proteins, and vitamins help restore moisture. Products with shea butter can also provide deep conditioning.
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Curly or Textured Hair: Select a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils. Look for moisturizers and curl-enhancing ingredients, such as glycerin or aloe vera, to maintain definition and moisture.
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Fine or Limp Hair: Lightweight shampoos that add volume without heaviness are ideal. Seek formulations that promote volume while keeping hair fresh and bouncy.
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Color-Treated Hair: Use a color-safe shampoo that protects your color from fading. Look for sulfate-free options enriched with antioxidants, which help maintain vibrancy.
By aligning your shampoo choice with your hair type and summer conditions, you can keep your hair healthy and vibrant all season long.
What Additional Hair Care Tips Can Enhance Summer Hair Health?
To maintain healthy hair during the summer, consider the following tips:
- Use UV Protection Products: Applying hair products that contain UV filters can shield your hair from the damaging effects of sun exposure. These products help to maintain the hair color and prevent dryness, making them essential for summer care.
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Selecting the best shampoo for summer hair typically involves looking for formulas that are sulfate-free and hydrating. A good summer shampoo will help remove chlorine and saltwater while adding moisture back into the hair.
- Deep Condition Regularly: Incorporating a deep conditioning treatment into your routine can significantly enhance hair health during the summer months. These treatments replenish moisture and repair any damage caused by heat and environmental stressors.
- Limit Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can help prevent further damage to your hair during the hot summer months. Opt for air-drying or using heat-free styling techniques to keep your hair healthy and manageable.
- Hydrate from Within: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining hair health during the summer. Drinking plenty of water ensures that your hair remains hydrated and less prone to breakage and frizz.
- Wear a Hat: Protecting your hair from direct sunlight with a hat can mitigate the risk of sun damage. A stylish wide-brimmed hat not only provides shade but also keeps your hair cool and prevents color fading.
- Rinse After Swimming: After swimming in pools or the ocean, it’s essential to rinse your hair with fresh water. This helps to remove chlorine and salt, which can dry out and damage your hair if left untreated.
- Trim Regularly: Scheduling regular trims can help keep your hair healthy by removing split ends that can become more pronounced in summer. Regular haircuts help maintain the shape and vitality of your hairstyle.