The 10 Best Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair, Expert Recommendations
Expert-tested shampoos for every hair color, type, and need—your ultimate guide to protecting color-treated hair in 2025.
10 Best Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair: Editor-Approved Picks
Whether you’ve just transformed your look with a bold new color or you’re a hair-dye aficionado, maintaining the vibrancy and health of color-treated hair is crucial. From subtle highlights to deep brunette, red, or platinum shades, your color—and investment—deserves the best care. The shampoos you choose play a huge role in how long your color lasts and how healthy your hair stays.
We’ve gathered expert advice and firsthand editor testing to bring you the best shampoos for every hair type and color. Discover why switching to a color-safe formula is essential, which ingredients to avoid, and how to choose your perfect match.
Why Does Color-Treated Hair Need Special Care?
- Dyed hair is more susceptible to damage from sun exposure, heat styling, and regular washing.
- Harsh shampoos can strip color and leave hair looking dull or lifeless.
- Different colors (blondes, reds, brunettes) and hair textures (fine, curly, coarse) have unique needs for maintaining vibrancy and health.
- Regular, targeted care can help avoid faded color and keep strands healthy between salon visits.
Sophie Gutterman, celebrity hairstylist, notes: “When you go in the sun, color-treated hair is more susceptible to damage; especially when you also use hot tools, your hair could be damaged more.” Choosing the right shampoo is the first, most important step to better-preserved hair color.
How to Choose a Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
Key Features to Look For
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Sulfates are cleansing agents that help create a rich lather, but they can also strip away hair color and moisture. Look for shampoos labeled “sulfate-free.”
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Color-treated hair needs added hydration to combat dryness and breakage. Look for ingredients such as panthenol, argan oil, keratin, or wheat-derived conditioners.
- UV Protection: Protection against sun damage helps maintain color longer.
- Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh detergents and excessive surfactant use. A gentle cleanser helps retain your natural oils and color pigments.
- Specialized for Hair Type: Whether you have fine, curly, coarse, or processed hair, choose a formula tailored to your specific needs.
Sulfates: Should You Avoid Them?
Sulfates (like SLS and SLES) are excellent at removing oil and dirt, but they can strip away the natural oils your hair needs and accelerate color fading. Beauty team experts recommend ditching sulfates if you want to keep colored hair vibrant for longer. Sulfate-free shampoos also typically generate less foam but are gentler on sensitive scalps and help retain moisture.
Top 10 Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair (Editor Recommendations)
Our editors and professional stylists have tested hundreds of shampoos. Below are the top picks, organized by hair type, color, and unique needs. Each recommendation includes real-user insights and key benefits.
- Color WOW Color Security Shampoo
- Best for all hair types, especially fine and colored hair.
- Gentle, creamy lather that keeps color fresh and vibrant for longer.
- Prevents hair follicle blockage, protects color, and works well with extensions.
- Pros: Great for fine hair, long-lasting freshness, boosts vibrancy.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to standard shampoos.
- Paraben free, suitable for sensitive scalps.
Editor note: “My red-shaded locks look bolder for longer after switching to Color WOW.”
- Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste
- Ideal for frizzy or unruly color-treated hair.
- Utilizes pro-keratin formula to restore softness and manageability for up to 72 hours.
- Packs powerful frizz control and shine enhancement.
- Pros: Excellent for smoothing and easy brushing.
- Cons: Expensive, but delivers salon-quality results.
Editor note: “Hair feels smoother for days, even without heat tools.”
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo One
- Gentle daily formula suitable for color-treated hair.
- Adds deep shine and improves manageability with panthenol and wheat-derived conditioners.
- Leaves hair clean, healthy-looking, and with a tropical scent.
- Bonus: Vegan, paraben-free, color-safe.
How to use: Apply a small amount, massage, rinse. Suitable for daily use and all hair types.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
- Best for strengthening and conditioning color-treated hair.
- Contains amino ions for long-lasting vibrancy.
- Gentle on hair while maintaining salon-fresh color.
- L’Oréal Professionnel Vitamino Color Shampoo
- Formulated to enhance radiance and protect hair fibers.
- Includes antioxidants and UV filters for ultimate color preservation.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
- Made for dry, colored hair needing extra hydration.
- Sulfate-free with a blend of botanical extracts.
- Moroccanoil Color Care Shampoo
- Infused with argan oil for deep moisture and color protection.
- Best for coarse, thick hair types.
- OGX Fade-Defying + Orchid Oil Shampoo
- Affordable and gentle option for daily use.
- Rich orchid oil helps lock in color and shine.
- Bumble and Bumble Color Minded Shampoo
- Works for all colors but especially new highlights and toners.
- Mild cleansing, no color-stripping ingredients.
- Oribe Shampoo for Beautiful Color
- Luxury pick with bioflavonoids and watermelon extract to shield against environmental stressors.
- Protects against UV rays and keeps hair luminous.
What others are reading
How to Properly Care for Color-Treated Hair
A good shampoo is just one part of smart color care. Experts recommend these daily and weekly routines for vibrant hair:
- Wash Less Often: Shampooing every day can fade color, so aim for 2–3 times per week or use dry shampoo between washes.
- Cooler Water: Hot water opens the hair cuticle and releases pigment. Wash with lukewarm or cool water.
- Use Color-Protecting Conditioners: Conditioner—especially those designed for colored hair—help seal the cuticle and lock in color.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Use heat protectants and avoid frequent use of flat irons and curling wands.
- Shield from Sun Exposure: Wear hats or use UV sprays when spending time in direct sunlight.
- Trim Regularly: Prevent split ends for healthier-looking color.
Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoos for Dyed Hair
- Sulfates (SLS/SLES): Main culprit for stripping color and natural oils.
- Alcohols: Some alcohols (like isopropyl alcohol) can result in excessive dryness.
- Parabens: Often avoided for gentler, healthier formulas.
- Heavy Silicones: Can build up and dull color over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are sulfate-free shampoos better for color-treated hair?
Sulfate-free shampoos do not strip the hair’s natural oils or color pigments aggressively. They are gentler and help maintain the vibrancy of your hair color for longer.
Can all hair types use sulfate-free shampoo?
Yes. Sulfate-free shampoos are especially beneficial for coarse, curly hair and those with sensitive scalps. They retain more moisture and cause less damage and dryness.
How often should I wash color-treated hair?
Most professionals recommend 2–3 times per week. Limiting washes helps keep color longer by avoiding frequent color runoff.
Do I need a separate shampoo for blonde, red, or brunette hair?
Some shampoos are specifically formulated for certain colors, but a high-quality color-safe shampoo can suit all shades. For blondes, consider purple shampoos to cancel brassiness; for reds or brunettes, hydrating formulas with antioxidant protection are ideal.
Should I use conditioner for colored hair?
Always. Conditioners restore moisture, seal the cuticle, and help keep color vibrant. Use conditioners designed for color-treated hair to maximize benefits.
Editor Tips: Making Your Color Last
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Select a formula specifically designed for your hair type and color.
- Limit Exposure to Chlorine and Salt Water: Protect hair during swimming with a cap and post-swim UV-protection spray.
- Use Weekly Hair Masks: Nourishing masks boost hydration and prevent color fade.
- Opt for Salon-Quality Products: Investing in leading brands often yields better, longer-lasting results.
- Don’t Skip Regular Touch-Ups: Maintain vibrancy with periodic salon appointments for color refreshes and trims.
Comparison Table: Color-Safe Shampoo Features
| Shampoo | Best For | Sulfate-Free | Price Range | Main Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Color WOW Color Security | Fine, All Hair Types | Yes | $$ | Vibrancy & Gentle Cleansing |
| Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste | Frizzy/Unruly | Yes | $$$ | Frizz Control & Softness |
| Paul Mitchell Shampoo One | Daily, All Hair Types | Yes | $ | Gentle Clean & Shine |
| Redken Color Extend Magnetics | Strengthening | Yes | $$ | Long-Lasting Color |
| L’Oréal Vitamino Color | Radiance | Yes | $ | UV Protection |
Conclusion: Your Color-Safe Shampoo Checklist
With the right shampoo, color-treated hair can stay vibrant, strong, and healthy. Prioritize sulfate-free, moisturizing formulas and cater to your unique color and texture. Regular care and smart product choices ensure your color turns heads for months after dye day. Shop these expert-tested shampoos and see the difference in your shine, vibrancy, and overall hair health.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g28799147/shampoo-color-treated-hair/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/hair/g39639009/best-sulphate-free-shampoo/
- https://www.haircosmopolitan.com/products/paul-mitchell-shampoo-one
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/body/24868-12-best-shampoos-for-color-treated-hair
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
