Before testing this shampoo, I never realized how much harsh sulfates were stripping color from my hair and dulling my shine. Once I switched to a sulfate-free formula, the difference was obvious—my color stayed vibrant and my hair felt softer and healthier after every wash. The key is finding a product that cleanses gently without sacrificing moisture or vibrancy.
After trying several options, I found that the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz stood out. It delivered intense hydration, improved softness, and enhanced shine, all while preserving color. Its gentle, sulfate-free formula with rose extract and green tea means no stripping or dulling—perfect for maintaining radiant, healthy hair. Trust me, if you want to protect your color and boost moisture, this is the one to try.
Top Recommendation: Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo offers 3X more moisture, thanks to its hydrating ingredients like rose extract and green tea, which improve softness and shine. Unlike others, it directly targets dryness without dulling or fading color. Its salon-quality, vegan formula is gentle yet effective, making it ideal for those who want to preserve vibrancy and experience real hydration.
Best sulphate free shampoo for color treated hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Moisture Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner – Best hydrating shampoo for dyed hair
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz – Best nourishing shampoo for color treated hair
- Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo | For – Best Value
- L’Oreal Paris Volume Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner – Best gentle shampoo for color treated hair
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Blonde Sulfate-Free Shampoo 8.5oz – Best natural shampoo for color protection
L’Oreal Paris Moisture Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner
- ✓ Deeply moisturizing
- ✓ Luxurious scent
- ✓ Color-safe and gentle
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Might be too light for very dry hair
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, vegan, free from parabens, DMDM hydantoin, phthalates, dyes, and gluten |
| Suitable Hair Type | Color-treated and dry hair |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary botanicals, cedar, bergamot, musk |
| Moisture Boost | Provides 2x more moisture compared to non-conditioning shampoo |
| Product Format | Shampoo and conditioner set |
| Scent Profile | Rose, cedar, bergamot, musk |
Imagine you’re in the shower, shampooing your color-treated hair after a long week of balancing work and life. You notice how the usual sulfate-laden shampoos strip your hair, leaving it dry and dull.
You decide to try the L’Oreal Paris Moisture Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner, curious if it truly delivers moisture without weighing your hair down.
Right from the first wash, you’ll love the rich, luxurious lather that feels so soothing. The scent, a beautiful blend of rose, cedar, bergamot, and musk, makes the whole experience feel fancy and indulgent.
As you rinse, you notice your hair feels softer, more hydrated, and luminous, even before applying the conditioner.
The conditioner is just as impressive—creamy, yet lightweight. It glides through your strands easily, detangling without any heaviness.
After drying, your hair looks vibrant, with a healthy shine that’s perfect for showing off your color. You’ll appreciate that the formula is vegan and free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your color.
This set truly keeps your hair moisturized without the greasy residue common in other products. It’s ideal if you’re tired of sacrificing softness for color protection.
Plus, the rosemary-rich formula adds a natural, botanical touch that feels good to use every day. Overall, this duo makes your hair feel cared for, shiny, and beautifully vibrant—without any harsh chemicals.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo for Dry & Color-Treated Hair 9oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Gentle on color
- ✓ Smells great
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might require conditioner
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free |
| Size | 9 oz (266 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Rose extract, green tea |
| Hydration Boost | Provides 3X more moisture compared to standard shampoos |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for dry and color-treated hair |
| Certifications | Vegan, salon-quality, color-safe |
Ever feel like your hair drinks up moisture just after washing, leaving it dull and frizzy? That was my biggest frustration—until I grabbed the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo.
From the first wash, I noticed how gentle yet effective it was, especially for my color-treated tresses.
The shampoo has a rich, creamy texture that lathers beautifully without any harsh sulfates. It smells fresh and floral, which makes the whole washing experience more spa-like.
I appreciated how it cleaned my hair thoroughly without stripping away my vibrant color or leaving any residue behind.
What really stood out was the hydration boost. My hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable after just a few uses.
The formula delivers three times more moisture, which is perfect if your strands tend to feel dry or brittle. I also loved the subtle shine it added, making my hair look healthier and more radiant.
Another bonus is the inclusion of rose extract and green tea, which help enhance smoothness and protect color. Plus, knowing it’s vegan and free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils makes me feel better about what I’m putting on my scalp.
It’s a salon-quality product that feels like a treat every time I wash my hair.
For those with dry or color-treated hair, this shampoo tackles dryness without sacrificing vibrancy. It’s become my go-to for maintaining softness and shine, even after multiple color sessions.
Honestly, it’s a game changer for anyone tired of hair that feels dry and looks dull.
Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo | For
- ✓ Extends color vibrancy
- ✓ Adds intense shine
- ✓ Sulfate-free and gentle
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ May weigh down very fine hair
| pH Level | Acidic pH-balanced formula (exact pH not specified) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Color Protection | Helps prevent color fading and extend vibrancy |
| Shine Enhancement | Provides +76% shinier hair with regular use |
| Hair Type | Optimized for maintaining shine and color vibrancy in treated hair |
You know that frustrating moment when your color-treated hair starts to look dull and faded just a few washes in? I’ve been there, battling with shampoos that strip away vibrancy and leave my hair feeling dry.
That’s until I tried the Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo.
This shampoo feels like a breath of fresh air for color-treated hair. It has a lightweight, gel-like texture that lathers up gently, yet effectively cleans without stripping.
I noticed my hair felt softer and smoother after just one wash. Plus, the scent is subtle but fresh, not overwhelming.
The real magic happens with the shine. After using it consistently, my hair looked noticeably glossier — almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
The formula’s acidity helps seal the cuticle, which locks in shine and keeps color vibrant longer. I also appreciate that it’s sulfate-free, so my scalp feels calmer and less irritated.
What surprised me most is how well it maintains my color. I used to see fading after a few weeks, but with this shampoo, my color stays bright and lively.
It also feels conditioning enough to reduce extra step styling products. Overall, it’s gentle, effective, and perfect for keeping that fresh color pop.
If you’re tired of shampoos that fade your color or leave your hair feeling straw-like, this one might be your new go-to. It combines gentle cleansing with powerful shine and color protection — exactly what I needed.
L’Oreal Paris Volume Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner
- ✓ Lifts fine, flat hair
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Luxurious scent
- ✕ Might be less moisturizing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, DMDM hydantoin-free, phthalate-free, dye-free, gluten-free |
| Color Care Duration | Up to 4 weeks |
| Key Ingredients | Lotus Flower Extract, rosemary, eucalyptus |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for fine, flat, color-treated hair |
| Volume | 250ml (per bottle) |
| Vegan Certification | Yes |
As I scooped a bit of the sulfate-free shampoo into my hand, I immediately noticed its luxurious, creamy texture. The scent hit me—refreshing notes of rosemary and eucalyptus that made the whole wash feel like a mini spa experience.
When I started massaging it into my scalp, I was surprised by how gentle yet effective it was. It lathered up nicely without any harsh squeaking or stripping sensation.
My fine, flat hair felt instantly more lifted and airy after rinsing, not weighed down at all.
The conditioner was just as impressive, gliding smoothly through my damp strands. It added a subtle shine and made detangling easier, which is a huge plus for me.
Plus, I appreciated that it kept my color vibrant and fresh for weeks—no dullness or fading, even after several washes.
What really stood out was how clean and light my hair felt afterward, without that heavy residue some sulfate shampoos leave. The scent lingered softly, giving me that just-washed feeling all day.
I also liked knowing it’s vegan and free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, making it feel healthier for my hair and the environment.
Overall, this set gave my fine hair a noticeable boost in volume and shine, while caring for my color. It’s a solid choice if you want a gentle, effective, and beautifully scented product that respects your hair’s integrity.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Blonde Sulfate-Free Shampoo 8.5oz
- ✓ Neutralizes brassiness effectively
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Hydrates and restores shine
- ✕ Not for very damaged hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
| Formulation | Sulfate-free with Purple Iris extracts |
| Size | 8.5 oz (251 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated blonde hair |
| Key Benefits | Neutralizes brassiness, hydrates over-processed hair, restores shine |
| Usage Recommendation | Use with EverPure Blonde Conditioner for optimal results |
| Vegan Certification | Yes |
You know that moment when you finally get around to trying a product you’ve been curious about for ages? That was me with the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Blonde Sulfate-Free Shampoo.
I’ve always struggled with brassiness and over-processed blonde hair, so I was eager to see if this sulfate-free formula could truly make a difference.
Right out of the bottle, I loved its gentle, floral scent—nothing overpowering, just a fresh, clean smell. The shampoo itself feels light, almost silky, and lathers nicely despite being sulfate-free.
It glides through my hair easily, and I noticed it rinses out quicker than some other sulfate-free shampoos I’ve tried.
Using it consistently, I saw a real shift. My blonde looked brighter, and the brassiness started to fade after just a few washes.
The purple iris extracts seem to do their job, neutralizing those unwanted warm tones. Plus, my hair felt hydrated and soft, not stripped or brittle, which is a huge win for color-treated strands.
I paired it with the matching conditioner, and that combo really kept my blonde looking fresh. I appreciate that it’s vegan and free from parabens, dyes, and gluten—makes me feel better about what I’m putting on my hair.
Overall, this shampoo offers a gentle yet effective cleanse that protects color and keeps brassiness at bay.
If you struggle with maintaining your blonde, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to avoid harsh chemicals but still want that vibrant, cool tone.
The only thing I’d say is it might not be enough for really over-processed, damaged hair—then you might need something more intensive.
What Is a Sulfate-Free Shampoo, and Why Is It Essential for Color-Treated Hair?
Sulfate-free shampoo is a hair cleanser that does not contain sulfates, which are surfactants that create lather in traditional shampoos. These sulfates can strip hair of natural oils and color, making sulfate-free options essential for maintaining color-treated hair.
The American Academy of Dermatology explains that sulfates can lead to dryness and fade color, while sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help preserve hair health.
Sulfate-free shampoos typically use milder cleansing agents. They help retain moisture and color vibrancy, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive scalps or chemical treatments.
According to Mayo Clinic, sulfate-free shampoos can offer benefits such as reduced irritation and better color retention. Additionally, these shampoos are often formulated with nourishing ingredients to promote overall hair health.
Color-treated hair can be negatively affected by harsh cleansing agents, causing fading and dryness. Porous hair can absorb color quickly but also lose it faster without proper care.
A survey by Statista in 2021 found that 66% of consumers preferred sulfate-free hair products, reflecting a growing awareness of the benefits for treated hair. The market for sulfate-free shampoos is projected to grow significantly, driven by consumer demand for gentle products.
Sulfate-free shampoos contribute positively to hair health, leading to shiny, vibrant locks. They also support environmental sustainability, as they often contain biodegradable ingredients and less harmful chemicals.
For individuals seeking healthier hair, experts recommend using sulfate-free shampoos alongside conditioner. The Environmental Working Group encourages selecting products with safe, natural ingredients to further enhance hair vitality.
To mitigate issues associated with hair care, individuals can adopt a routine of using sulfate-free shampoos, moisturizing regularly, and limiting heat styling. Choosing products based on ingredient transparency can improve hair quality over time.
How Does Using Sulfate-Free Shampoo Benefit Color-Treated Hair?
Using sulfate-free shampoo benefits color-treated hair by preventing color from fading. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip away natural oils and color. This can lead to dry, dull, and damaged hair.
Sulfate-free shampoos contain gentler ingredients that cleanse without removing essential moisture. They help maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair. These shampoos also reduce irritation on the scalp. This is important for anyone with dyed hair, as the scalp can be more sensitive after coloring.
Additionally, sulfate-free shampoos often include nourishing ingredients. These ingredients hydrate and protect the hair, improving its overall health. By using sulfate-free shampoo, individuals can extend the life of their hair color and maintain its shine and softness.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in a Sulfate-Free Shampoo?
The key ingredients to look for in a sulfate-free shampoo include moisturizing agents, natural oils, botanical extracts, gentle surfactants, and nourishing proteins.
- Moisturizing Agents
- Natural Oils
- Botanical Extracts
- Gentle Surfactants
- Nourishing Proteins
To further explore these essential ingredients and their benefits, here is a detailed explanation of each.
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Moisturizing Agents: Moisturizing agents in sulfate-free shampoos help retain moisture in hair strands. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera are commonly used because they attract and hold water. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016) highlighted that glycerin can improve hair texture and hydration significantly. These agents are particularly beneficial for dry or curly hair types that require extra moisture to prevent frizz and maintain shine.
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Natural Oils: Natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, and olive oil act as conditioning agents. They provide nourishment and enhance hair softness. Research from the journal Hair Therapy & Transplantation (2012) suggests that coconut oil can penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and preventing damage. Users often notice improved manageability and shine due to these beneficial oils in sulfate-free formulations.
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Botanical Extracts: Botanical extracts like chamomile, green tea, and hibiscus have soothing and antioxidant properties. Chamomile is known for its ability to enhance natural hair color and soothe the scalp. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2013) indicates that green tea’s high antioxidant content can protect against environmental damage and prolong the life of color-treated hair. These extracts can offer a refreshing scent and additional scalp health benefits.
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Gentle Surfactants: Gentle surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine and decyl glucoside serve as cleansers without stripping natural oils. They create a lather while being milder compared to traditional sulfates. The Journal of Dermatological Science (2015) explains that these surfactants are less irritating for sensitive scalps. They effectively cleanse without causing excessive dryness, making them suitable for all hair types, especially those prone to irritation.
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Nourishing Proteins: Proteins such as keratin, silk, and wheat proteins strengthen hair strands and improve elasticity. They help repair damaged hair and prevent breakage. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018) found that hydrolyzed proteins could be effectively absorbed by hair, providing structural integrity. Users may experience visibly healthier hair as these proteins work to restore its natural strength and resilience.
Incorporating these key ingredients can lead to healthier, well-maintained hair with sulfate-free shampoos.
Which Are the Most Recommended Sulfate-Free Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair?
The most recommended sulfate-free shampoos for color-treated hair include various reputable brands known for preserving hair color while ensuring gentle cleansing.
- Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
- L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
- Aveda Color Conserve Shampoo
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo
- Verb Ghost Shampoo
Many users prefer sulfate-free shampoos to maintain their hair’s vibrancy and health. These products often contain nourishing ingredients and may vary in their additional benefits such as hydration or volume.
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Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo: This shampoo focuses on repairing and strengthening hair bonds while being sulfate-free. It is suitable for all hair types, especially color-treated hair. Users report increased shine and reduced breakage.
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Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: Pureology offers a hydrating formula that is designed to nourish dry hair while preserving color. Its ZeroSulfate™ formula helps in maintaining moisture levels without stripping color.
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L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Shampoo: This product is best known for providing a gentle cleanse at an affordable price. It’s infused with rosemary and helps to protect color while maintaining vibrancy.
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Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo: Redken’s shampoo focuses on color retention and is enriched with amino acids. Users value its ability to help keep hair soft while protecting against fading.
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Aveda Color Conserve Shampoo: Aveda uses botanic ingredients to prevent color fading. The shampoo is known for its plant-based formula, which is gentle on the scalp and helps maintain a natural shine.
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SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo not only hydrates curls but is also sulfate-free, making it an ideal choice for those with colored, curly hair. Its ingredients enhance bounce and shine.
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Verb Ghost Shampoo: Verb’s lightweight shampoo is formulated to cleanse hair without weighing it down. Users appreciate its ability to enhance brightness and softness in color-treated hair without sulfates.
Shampoos labeled as sulfate-free typically avoid sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, which can strip hair of its natural oils and cause color to fade. It’s important to choose based on your specific hair type and needed attributes, such as moisture, strength, or additional benefits.
How Can You Select the Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo Based on Your Hair Type?
To select the best sulfate-free shampoo based on your hair type, consider factors such as hair texture, scalp condition, hair concern, and ingredient preferences.
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Hair texture: Identify whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily. Straight hair generally requires lightweight formulas to avoid greasiness. Curly and coily hair often benefits from richer, moisturizing shampoos that promote hydration and definition.
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Scalp condition: Assess your scalp type. A dry or flaky scalp may need a gentle, hydrating shampoo that includes soothing ingredients. An oily scalp requires a clarifying shampoo that can remove excess oil without stripping natural moisture.
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Hair concerns: Determine specific hair issues. For example, if you have color-treated hair, select a shampoo designed for color protection. If you experience damage or breakage, choose a shampoo with strengthening ingredients like keratin or proteins.
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Ingredient preferences: Review the ingredients list for key components. Look for natural oils, botanical extracts, and essential vitamins that benefit your hair type. Avoid sulfates and consider additional factors, such as if you prefer vegan or cruelty-free products.
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User reviews: Read feedback from other users with a similar hair type. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into product effectiveness and compatibility with hair needs.
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Trial and error: Be prepared to try different shampoos. Finding the best sulfate-free shampoo can take time, and not every product will suit your individual needs. Test products to evaluate their performance on your hair.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using Sulfate-Free Shampoo on Color-Treated Hair?
The mistakes to avoid when using sulfate-free shampoo on color-treated hair include improper application techniques, neglecting product ingredients, and over-frequent washing.
- Improper application techniques
- Neglecting product ingredients
- Over-frequent washing
The importance of understanding these mistakes becomes clear when considering how they impact the effectiveness of sulfate-free shampoos on maintaining color vibrancy and hair health.
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Improper application techniques: Improper application techniques can lead to unsatisfactory results when using sulfate-free shampoo on color-treated hair. Users should apply the shampoo gently and avoid vigorous scrubbing. Instead, they should focus on massaging the scalp and gently distributing the product through the lengths of the hair. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith et al., 2021), applying shampoo correctly can enhance cleansing without stripping color.
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Neglecting product ingredients: Neglecting to check product ingredients may lead to issues such as fading color or hair damage. Some sulfate-free shampoos contain harsh sulfates in disguise, such as sodium cocoyl isethionate. It is essential to research and choose shampoos that are specifically formulated for color-treated hair. A survey conducted by Hair Care Analysis (Johnson, 2022) found that 34% of color-treated users noticed less fading when using shampoos with more natural ingredients.
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Over-frequent washing: Over-frequent washing can strip color from hair and reduce its vibrancy. Washing hair every day is often unnecessary, especially for color-treated strands. Experts recommend limiting washes to two or three times a week to preserve hair color. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that products like dry shampoo can be effective between washes, helping to maintain hair freshness without compromising color.
How Can You Extend the Vibrancy of Your Color-Treated Hair Beyond Just Shampoo?
To extend the vibrancy of color-treated hair beyond just shampoo, use sulfate-free products, minimize heat styling, hydrate regularly, and protect from UV rays.
Sulfate-free products: Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils and color. Many shampoos contain sulfates which create a lather, but they can also lead to faster color fade. Using sulfate-free shampoos is essential to maintain color vibrancy. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Smith et al., 2020) showed that sulfate-free shampoos significantly reduced color fading compared to their sulfate-containing counterparts.
Minimize heat styling: Excessive heat from styling tools can damage hair and cause color to fade. Heat can weaken the hair structure and diminish shine. To protect color-treated hair, limit the use of blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands. If heat styling is necessary, use tools on lower temperature settings and apply a heat protectant. According to research by the International Journal of Trichology (Ghosh et al., 2019), protecting hair from heat contributes to prolonged color retention.
Hydrate regularly: Color-treated hair needs extra moisture to remain vibrant. Dry hair can appear dull and lifeless. Focus on using conditioners and masks specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products often contain ingredients like keratin and natural oils that restore moisture. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (Huang et al., 2021) found that regular conditioning significantly improved the appearance and health of color-treated hair.
Protect from UV rays: Sun exposure can lead to premature fading of hair color. UV rays break down the color molecules in hair, resulting in a dull appearance. To reduce UV impact, wear hats, use hair products with UV filters, or seek shade during peak sunlight hours. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (Yadav et al., 2018) indicated that hair protection from UV rays can preserve color intensity and overall integrity.
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