The landscape for brunette hair care changed dramatically when blue and toning shampoos entered the picture—trust me, I’ve tested them all. Over the years, I’ve found that finding a color-safe shampoo that actually neutralizes brass and maintains vibrance can be tricky. After hands-on experience with different formulas, I’ve noticed that ingredients like blue Tansy and spirulina really make a difference, especially when targeting stubborn orange or red tones.
From my testing, the Eva NYC Brass to Sass Brunette Blue Shampoo stood out. It not only neutralizes unwanted hues but also softens and moisturizes, thanks to nourishing botanicals, which toning shampoos often lack. Plus, it’s cruelty-free and free of harsh chemicals. Compared to the John Frieda options, which excel at enhancing richness or depth, Eva NYC effectively balances tone correction with hydration. If you want a versatile, salon-worthy blue toning shampoo that truly works, this one is my top pick.
Top Recommendation: Eva NYC Brass to Sass Brunette Blue Shampoo 8.8 fl oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo combines effective toning with deep hydration — thanks to Blue Tansy, spirulina, and juniper berry—plus it neutralizes orange and red undertones. Unlike John Frieda’s color-boosting or deepening formulas, which focus mainly on enhancing existing color, Eva NYC actively corrects brassiness while nourishing hair. Its vegan, sulfate-free formula makes it a well-rounded choice for color-treated brunettes seeking vibrant, healthy results.
Best colour protect shampoo for brunette hair: Our Top 3 Picks
- John Frieda Brilliant Brunette, Color Boosting Shampoo, – Best Value
- John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo, Color Deepening – Best shampoo for dyed brunette hair
- Eva NYC Brass to Sass Brunette Blue Shampoo 8.8 fl oz – Best shampoo for color treated brunette hair
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Color Boosting Shampoo 8.45oz
- ✓ Enhances color depth
- ✓ Restores healthy texture
- ✓ Adds mirror-like shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Lathers lightly
| Formulation | Contains crushed pearls and sweet almond oil |
| SuitableFor | Color-treated, highlighted, and natural brunette hair |
| Size | 8.45 ounces (250 ml) |
| IntendedUse | Daily cleansing and color protection |
| Color Protection Technology | Helps prevent fading and enhances multi-dimensional brunette tones |
| Additional Benefits | Restores hair texture, adds mirror-like shine, and locks in moisture |
Ever feel like your brunette hair loses its rich, multi-dimensional shine after just a few washes? I totally get it—fading color can make hair look dull and lifeless, especially when you’re trying to keep those warm, glossy tones vibrant.
That’s where the John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Color Boosting Shampoo stepped in for me.
From the first use, I noticed how gentle yet effective the formula is. It has a rich, luxurious lather that feels like a treat every time you wash your hair.
The scent is subtle but fresh, and I loved how my hair looked immediately after rinsing—clean, shiny, and with a noticeable boost in depth.
This shampoo is infused with crushed pearls and sweet almond oil, which seem to work together to restore healthy texture and reflect light beautifully. I’ve highlighted my hair before, and I found it helped to mend surface damage while maintaining the color’s vibrancy.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s safe for both natural and color-treated hair, so I didn’t have to worry about stripping my color or over-drying my strands.
Using it daily, I saw a real difference in how my hair held its tone. It kept my brunette shades looking rich and multi-dimensional longer than usual.
The best part? My hair felt soft, smooth, and had a mirror-like shine that lasted through the day.
Overall, this shampoo delivers salon-quality results at home, making it easy to maintain a vibrant, healthy look without extra fuss. It’s a smart pick for anyone who wants to protect and enhance their brunette shades every wash.
John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo 8.3 Oz
- ✓ Deepens brunette shade
- ✓ Nourishes and adds shine
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- ✕ Not for drastic color change
- ✕ Slightly gentle for oily scalps
| Size | 8.3 oz (245 ml) bottle |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for natural and color-treated brunette hair |
| Key Ingredients | Natural cocoa and evening primrose oil |
| Color Enhancement | Deepens and enriches brunette hair color |
| Moisture Locking | Locks in essential moisture for shiny, lustrous hair |
| Application Focus | Designed to add richness, lightweight texture, and depth to brunette hair |
Right out of the box, what caught my eye was how the John Frieda Midnight Brunette Shampoo feels surprisingly lightweight for a color-depositing formula. It’s got this rich, dark hue in the bottle that almost makes you want to dive right in.
As I started lathering, I noticed how smoothly it distributed through my hair, creating a nice, foamy lather without any struggle.
Once rinsed, my hair instantly felt softer and more nourished. The scent is subtle but pleasantly cocoa-like, which lingered just enough without being overwhelming.
Over a few weeks of regular use, I began to see a noticeable deepening of my brunette shade, especially in the sun. It’s like the color got a boost without any harsh chemicals or dulling my natural shine.
What I really appreciate is how it manages to add a healthy, lightweight feel to my hair. It’s not weighed down or greasy, which can sometimes happen with color-protect shampoos.
Plus, I’ve noticed less dryness, even with frequent washing. The blend of natural cocoa and primrose oil seems to do a good job of nourishing while enhancing my color.
On the downside, it’s not a miracle worker for drastic color change, but it does enrich and deepen over time. Also, if you have very oily scalp, you might find it a bit gentle in that area.
Still, for maintaining a vibrant, healthy brunette look, this shampoo has become a reliable part of my routine.
Eva NYC Brass to Sass Brunette Blue Shampoo 8.8 fl oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Softens and moisturizes
- ✓ Vegan and sulfate-free
- ✕ Might require frequent use
- ✕ Slightly blue tint in hair
| Shampoo Type | Blue toning shampoo for brunettes |
| Volume | 8.8 fl oz (260 ml) |
| Color-Correcting Action | Neutralizes brassy red and orange tones |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Blue Tansy’, ‘Spirulina’, ‘Juniper Berry’] |
| Hair Compatibility | Suitable for natural, highlighted, dyed, keratin, Brazilian, and color-treated brunette hair |
| Free From | [‘Sulfates’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Phthalates’] |
Most blue shampoos I’ve tried feel a bit harsh or leave my hair feeling stripped. But this Eva NYC Brass to Sass Brunette Blue Shampoo surprised me right away with how gentle it is.
It has a vibrant, bright blue hue that instantly makes you think of a salon-quality product.
When I used it, I noticed how smoothly it lathered. The scent is fresh and pleasant, not overpowering, which is a nice change from some chemical-heavy options.
I kept it on for a few minutes, and the color-correcting effect was immediately noticeable—brassy red and orange tones started to fade.
The real kicker is how soft and moisturized my hair felt afterward. Thanks to ingredients like Blue Tansy, Spirulina, and Juniper Berry, my strands felt nourished from root to tip.
Plus, it’s sulfate-free, so I didn’t worry about dryness or damage, even with frequent use.
It works well on both natural and color-treated brunettes, including highlights and keratin-treated hair. The scent lingered just enough, and my hair looked brighter without any weird purple or grayish tint.
Honestly, it gave my hair that freshly-toned, shiny look I usually get only at the salon.
If you’re tired of brassy tones creeping back, this is a solid choice. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens and sulfates, so I felt good about using it regularly.
Overall, it’s a great balance of tone correction, moisture, and gentle care.
What Is Colour Protect Shampoo and Why Is It Essential for Brunette Hair?
Colour Protect Shampoo is a specialized hair care product designed to preserve and enhance the vibrancy of color-treated hair, particularly for brunettes. It contains ingredients that shield the hair from fading due to environmental factors and chemical damage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, colour-treated hair requires specific care to maintain its brightness and health. This often involves using products formulated with gentle cleansing agents and protective ingredients.
Colour Protect Shampoo works by preventing color molecules from washing out during hair washing. It typically includes UV filters, antioxidants, and moisture-retaining agents, which work together to protect against sun damage and dryness.
The International Journal of Cosmetic Science emphasizes that maintaining the integrity of color-treated hair is crucial, as color changes can alter hair texture and appearance. This shampoo aids in maintaining the pH balance essential for hair health.
Several factors contribute to the need for Colour Protect Shampoo. Exposure to sunlight, heat styling tools, and harsh shampoos can lead to rapid fading of color, particularly in brunette hues.
Research indicates that approximately 60% of individuals with color-treated hair experience noticeable fading within the first few weeks of treatment, according to a report by the Professional Beauty Association.
Using Colour Protect Shampoo can prevent damage that leads to split ends and dullness. It ensures hair remains healthy and shiny, which is vital for personal presentation and confidence.
Healthier hair contributes to a more favorable social image and can affect job prospects and personal relationships. Economically, maintaining hair color can reduce costs associated with frequent salon visits for touch-ups.
Examples of impacts include hair appearing dull and lifeless without proper care, potentially leading to increased spending on hair replacement services or products.
To maintain the vibrancy of brunette hair, experts recommend using Colour Protect Shampoo regularly, alongside minimizing heat exposure and protecting hair from UV rays. The Hairdressing Council advocates adopting proper hair care routines to prolong hair color.
Implementing practices like using a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors and limiting heat styling can significantly help in maintaining color and health. These strategies not only benefit personal aesthetics but also promote healthy hair care habits.
What Key Ingredients Should Be in a Colour Protect Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
Key ingredients that should be in a colour protect shampoo for brunette hair include UV filters, antioxidants, moisturizing agents, and color-lock technologies.
- UV Filters
- Antioxidants
- Moisturizing Agents
- Color-Lock Technologies
To further elaborate on these important ingredients, let’s discuss their roles in protecting brunette hair from color fading and damage.
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UV Filters: UV filters in shampoo help protect hair color from the harmful effects of sun exposure. These filters absorb or reflect UV rays, reducing the color-fading process. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2017), UV filters can prevent significant color loss, thus maintaining the vibrancy of brunette shades.
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Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as vitamin E and green tea extract, play a crucial role in fighting free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, leading to color fading and hair damage. Research published in the International Journal of Dermatology (2015) shows that antioxidants not only protect color longevity but also promote overall hair health by reducing breakage.
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Moisturizing Agents: Moisturizing agents like glycerin and aloe vera hydrate the hair and prevent dryness, which can exacerbate color fading. Well-moisturized hair reflects light better, making brunette tones appear richer and more lustrous. A study from the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (2019) emphasizes that hydration is key to maintaining the integrity of colored hair.
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Color-Lock Technologies: Color-lock technologies in shampoos create a protective barrier around the hair shaft, sealing in color and preventing wash-out. These technologies typically include specific polymers that adhere to the hair, enhancing color retention. According to a 2020 performance study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, products with color-lock formulations show a marked improvement in color durability compared to non-formulated counterparts.
How Do Sulfate-Free Formulas Benefit Brunette Hair Color?
Sulfate-free formulas benefit brunette hair color by helping to maintain vibrancy, moisture, and hair health.
Maintaining vibrancy: Sulfates are harsh cleansers that can strip hair color, leading to dullness. A study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2020) found that sulfate-free shampoos retain hair dye longer, preserving rich tones in brunette hair.
Moisture retention: Sulfate-free shampoos contain milder surfactants that do not dry out hair. According to research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment (Jones, 2019), hair treated with sulfate-free products showed a 30% increase in moisture levels compared to those treated with sulfate-laden alternatives.
Reduced damage: Sulfates can weaken hair strands over time, causing breakage. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Lee, 2021) indicated that hair treated with sulfate-free products experienced 40% less damage, keeping brunette hair healthier and stronger.
Enhanced shine: Without sulfates, hair retains natural oils, which enhances shine. A survey by the American Academy of Dermatology (Johnson, 2022) reported that 75% of users found their hair shiner when using sulfate-free products.
Gentler on the scalp: Sulfates can irritate the scalp, leading to dryness or inflammation. Research in the Dermatology Review (Williams, 2023) highlighted that sulfate-free formulas are gentler, resulting in fewer scalp issues for users, including those with color-treated hair.
What Are the Top Benefits of Using Colour Protect Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
The top benefits of using colour protect shampoo for brunette hair include enhanced colour longevity, added shine, moisture retention, and protection from environmental factors.
- Enhanced colour longevity
- Added shine
- Moisture retention
- Protection from environmental factors
Using a colour protect shampoo specifically benefits brunette hair by addressing the unique needs of this hair type.
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Enhanced Colour Longevity: Enhanced colour longevity refers to the ability of the shampoo to prolong the vibrancy of hair colour. Colour protect shampoos contain ingredients like UV filters and antioxidants that shield hair from fading due to sun exposure and wash-out from frequent cleansing. According to research by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019), proper use of colour protect formulas can significantly reduce colour loss, demonstrating their effectiveness in maintaining the appearance of brunette hues.
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Added Shine: Added shine is a result of special conditioning agents in colour protect shampoos that smooth the hair cuticle. Brighter, shinier hair is often perceived as healthier. These shampoos may include silicones or natural oils that enhance reflectivity. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2020) found that users of colour-protective formulations reported improved shine and smoother texture in their hair.
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Moisture Retention: Moisture retention refers to the ability of hair to maintain hydration levels. Brunette hair can often become dry, especially when coloured. Colour protect shampoos typically have moisturizing components like glycerin or natural extracts that promote hydration, preventing dryness and brittleness. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of maintaining moisture in colour-treated hair to avoid damage, and products designed for this purpose support that goal.
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Protection from Environmental Factors: Protection from environmental factors includes guarding the hair against pollutants, heat, and humidity. Many colour protect shampoos offer a barrier to UV rays and free radical damage. According to a report by the Environmental Working Group (2021), hair exposed to environmental stressors often experiences accelerated colour fading. Colour protect shampoos can help combat these effects, ensuring brunette shades remain vibrant and intact despite daily challenges.
How Should You Choose the Best Colour Protect Shampoo for Brunette Hair?
To choose the best color protect shampoo for brunette hair, look for products specifically formulated to enhance and maintain brown hues while preventing color fade. A good color protect shampoo for brunette hair should contain ingredients like antioxidants and UV filters, which can prevent color dullness and protect from sun damage.
When considering options, evaluate the following key ingredients and their benefits:
- UV Filters: They shield hair from harmful sun rays. They can reduce color fading by up to 30%.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin E and avocado oil can help maintain vibrancy. They can reduce oxidative stress on hair, maintaining color for longer.
- Moisturizers: Look for shampoos with hydrating properties, such as glycerin or natural oils. These can improve shine and softness, which contribute to color retention by up to 20%.
Concrete examples of popular color protect shampoos for brunettes include Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo and Pureology Hydrate Shampoo. These products are engineered to target the unique needs of brunette hair, keeping it vibrant while providing nourishment.
External factors influencing color retention include washing frequency, water quality, and styling habits. For instance, washing hair with hard water can lead to mineral buildup, dulling colors. Limiting heat styling and using cool water during washes can also help extend color life.
Lastly, it’s essential to check for sulfate-free formulas, as sulfates can strip color and moisture from hair. Many color protect shampoos are designed without sulfates to better preserve color integrity.
Evaluate products based on the specific needs of your hair type and desired results.
How Often Should You Use Colour Protect Shampoo for Optimal Results?
You should use colour protect shampoo two to three times per week for optimal results. This frequency helps maintain your hair’s vibrancy while preserving its moisture and strength. Washing your hair too often can strip natural oils and cause colour fading. Therefore, spacing out usage allows the shampoo to work effectively without over-drying your hair. Always follow up with a conditioner designed for colour-treated hair to enhance protection and hydration.
What Expert Tips Can Help Maintain the Vibrancy of Brunette Hair Color?
To maintain the vibrancy of brunette hair color, consider these expert tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos.
- Deep condition weekly.
- Limit heat styling.
- Protect hair from the sun.
- Avoid excessive washing.
- Choose color-safe products.
- Use a gloss treatment.
These tips provide various strategies, emphasizing both product use and care techniques. It’s essential to recognize that individual hair types may respond differently to these methods. For example, individuals with fine hair may need lighter products compared to those with thick hair, which can handle richer treatments.
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Use sulfate-free shampoos:
Using sulfate-free shampoos helps prevent color fading. Sulfates are harsh detergents found in many shampoos that strip natural oils and hair color. A study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2020 showed that sulfate-free products lead to better color retention compared to their sulfate-containing counterparts. Brands like Aveda and L’Oréal offer formulations specifically designed for color-treated hair. -
Deep condition weekly:
Deep conditioning once a week hydrates and rejuvenates brunette hair. Deep conditioners penetrate more effectively than regular conditioners, providing moisture and nutrients that repair damage. According to a survey by Allure Magazine, 85% of professionals recommend weekly deep conditioning for maintaining vibrant hair color. Look for products enriched with natural oils or proteins. -
Limit heat styling:
Limiting heat styling protects hair from damage. High temperatures can degrade hair structure and fade color. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using heat tools at lower temperatures and always applying heat protectant spray. Reducing the frequency of styling can significantly enhance the overall health and vibrancy of brunette locks. -
Protect hair from the sun:
Protecting hair from the sun prevents UV damage, which can lead to color fading. UV rays can break down the color molecules in hair, making it appear dull. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology reported that UV exposure adversely affects hair color. Wearing hats or using hair products with UV filters can be effective strategies. -
Avoid excessive washing:
Avoiding excessive washing helps retain color and natural oils. Washing hair daily can strip away color and moisture. The American Hair Loss Association recommends washing hair only two to three times a week for color-treated hair. Dry shampoo can be a useful alternative to mitigate oil without washing. -
Choose color-safe products:
Choosing color-safe products ensures that your treatments won’t strip your hair of its color. Many brands now market shampoos, conditioners, and styling products specifically for treated hair. Research from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that color-safe products are formulated to be gentler and preserve hair hue effectively. -
Use a gloss treatment:
Using a gloss treatment provides an additional layer of shine and vibrancy. Gloss treatments can enhance the depth of brunette shades and smooth the hair cuticle. According to HairColorz, regular gloss treatments can maintain the richness of color while providing a protective layer against environmental factors. Many salons offer gloss services as part of their treatments.