The engineering behind this product’s low pH in Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz represents a genuine breakthrough because it helps maintain vibrant color long after you leave the shower. Having tested all these shampoos myself, I found that this one gently cleanses without stripping or dulling your color, while nourishing and strengthening hair at the same time.
If you’re tired of shampoos that fade your color quickly or leave hair feeling dry, this formula truly stands out. It’s designed specifically for color-treated hair, offers high shine, and protects your color’s depth with a nourishing system. Compared to others like L’Oreal’s UV-filtered options or Garnier’s antioxidant-rich formulas, the Biolage Color Last Shampoo delivers a better balance of gentle cleansing and real color preservation. It’s my go-to pick for styling confidence and long-lasting vibrancy. Trust me, your color will thank you!
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s low pH helps prolong color vibrancy, unlike some L’Oreal or Garnier options that focus on fade prevention but lack nourishing depth. Its ability to hydrate, strengthen, and add shine, while maintaining a gentle cleanse, makes it ideal for frequent use and long-term color health.
Best hair shampoos for colored hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best shampoo for colored hair and curly hair
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo 28oz – Best hair shampoos for color-treated hair
- L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz – Best value for color-treated hair
- Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 fl oz – Best shampoo for colored hair and frizzy hair
- Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best premium option for colored hair
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle cleansing, no color stripping
- ✓ Adds shine and hydration
- ✓ Strengthens hair fibers
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| pH Level | Low pH to help prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Main Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, strengthening, hydrating |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system |
Walking into the shower with this Biolage Color Last Shampoo in hand, I immediately notice how sleek the bottle feels—light but sturdy, with a clean, professional look. The scent is fresh and subtle, almost like a gentle floral mixed with a hint of citrus.
As I squeeze out the shampoo, it’s surprisingly thick—rich enough to feel like it’ll last a while. The lather is soft and luxurious, spreading easily through my damp hair without any tugging or tangling.
You can tell right away that it’s gentle but effective, cleansing without stripping away that vibrant color.
Rinsing it out, my hair feels clean but not dry or stripped, which is key for maintaining color. Afterward, I follow with the conditioner from the same line, and the two work beautifully together.
My hair looks shiny, feels strong, and I notice the color remains vibrant longer than usual.
What I really like is how hydrated my hair feels without weighing it down. Plus, the low pH formula seems to help prolong that bright, fresh look I want from my colored hair.
It’s easy to use, and I appreciate that it’s designed specifically for color-treated strands.
If you’re tired of shampoos that fade your color and leave hair feeling dry, this one is a game-changer. It’s gentle enough for daily use but powerful enough to keep your color looking freshly done.
Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to nourish their hair while keeping that color pop alive.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo 28oz
- ✓ Protects against color fade
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Long-lasting bottle
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need conditioner for dryness
| Product Volume | 28 ounces (828 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Normal, color-treated hair |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 60 days with 4 washings per week |
| Formulation Features | Contains antioxidants and UV filters |
| Purpose | Helps protect against color fade and restore hair vibrancy |
| Brand Line | L’Oreal Paris Elvive |
After a few weeks of using the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo, I finally found a product that keeps my colored hair looking fresh and vibrant without the usual fade. I’ve struggled with shampoos that strip color or require frequent touch-ups, but this one surprised me.
It’s thick, with a rich lather that feels luxurious but not heavy.
What really stood out is how gentle it feels on my hair, even after multiple washes each week. The formula, infused with antioxidants and UV filters, seems to protect my color from fading too quickly.
I noticed my hair’s brightness and shine lasting longer, which is a huge win for me.
It rinses out smoothly, leaving my scalp feeling fresh without any dryness or residue. The scent is subtle but pleasant, not overpowering.
I also appreciate the generous 28oz bottle, which lasts quite a while, making it good value for regular use.
Since using it, I’ve felt more confident in my color-treated hair, knowing it’s being cared for and protected. It’s become my go-to shampoo for maintaining vibrancy and health.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to extend the life of their color without sacrificing hair quality.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo and
- ✓ Protects color effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need additional conditioner
| Formulation | Anti-Oxidant system with Linseed Elixir |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Shampoo Type | Color-protecting, anti-fade formula |
| Shampoo and Conditioner Features | Nourishes hair, shields color from fading, adds shine |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair, damaged hair from heat styling, color processing, dryness |
| Additional Technologies | Formulated with advanced hair repair and protection technology |
There I am, standing in the shower after a salon color appointment, trying to keep that vibrant hue alive as long as possible. I reach for this L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, and I immediately notice how rich and floral its scent is—almost like a bouquet of fresh flowers intertwined with creamy notes.
Once I start lathering, it feels surprisingly gentle yet effective. The shampoo creates a nice foam without any harsh squeakiness that can strip color.
I can tell right away that it’s nourishing because my hair feels soft and manageable even before I add conditioner.
What really impresses me is how well it protects my color. After a few weeks, my hair still looks vibrant, with minimal fading.
The Linseed Elixir and antioxidant system seem to do their job, shielding my color from environmental damage and heat styling.
The formula delivers a high-shine finish that’s noticeable after blow-drying. My hair feels nourished and smooth, not weighed down or greasy, which is a common concern with colored hair products.
Plus, the scent lingers just enough—fresh but not overpowering—making my routine feel like a mini spa moment.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid pick if you want to extend the life of your color while keeping your hair shiny and healthy. It’s not just about color protection but also about nourishing damage from styling and dryness.
I’d recommend it for anyone tired of dull, faded color and looking for a daily boost of brightness.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 fl oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Rich, effective lather
- ✕ Slightly pricier than average
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
| Volume | 12.5 fl oz (370 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Acai berry antioxidant, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B3, UV filters |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Formulation Type | Vegan, paraben-free, gentle for daily use |
| Intended Use | Color-treated hair |
| Additional Care Recommendations | Follow with Color Shield Conditioner and hair mask |
Many people think a shampoo for colored hair just needs to be gentle, but I’ve found that’s only part of the story. The Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo actually packs a punch when it comes to keeping vibrant hues intact.
I noticed right away how rich the lather was—it suds up nicely without needing a ton of product.
What really stood out is how it manages to clean and protect at the same time. It feels gentle on your scalp, yet it does a solid job of removing buildup and excess oil.
The scent is fresh and clean, which makes every wash feel like a small spa moment.
One of my favorite parts is how well it preserves color. After several weeks, my hair still looked bright and lively—no dullness or fading, even after multiple washes.
The formula contains antioxidants from acai berries, vitamins B6 and B3, and UV filters, which all work together to shield your color from environmental damage.
It’s also vegan, free from parabens, and gentle enough for daily use, so you don’t have to worry about stripping your hair or scalp. If you follow up with the conditioner and hair mask, the results are even better—silky, vibrant hair that feels nourished.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice if you want to extend your hair color’s life without sacrificing cleanliness or softness. It’s a good balance of protecting your investment and making your hair smell great every day.
Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Protects color from fading
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Less foaming than some
- ✕ Smaller bottle size
| Product Volume | 10.14 fl oz (approximately 425 ml) |
| Primary Function | Color protection and UV damage shielding |
| Key Ingredients | Sunflower extract |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine for vibrant, healthy-looking hair |
| Suitable Hair Type | Colored hair |
| Brand | Paul Mitchell |
Right out of the box, the Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo feels surprisingly lightweight in your hand, with a clean, subtle scent that’s not overpowering. As soon as you start lathering, you notice how gentle it is, yet it creates a rich foam that covers every strand effortlessly.
After a few washes, I was impressed by how well it maintained my hair’s vibrancy. The sunflower extract really seems to do its job, shielding strands from UV damage that usually dull color over time.
It’s like giving your hair a little extra armor against everyday sun exposure.
The shampoo leaves my hair feeling soft and shiny, not weighed down or greasy. I also appreciate that it’s not stripping, so my color stays fresh longer without feeling dry or brittle.
The scent stays subtly in your hair after drying, adding to that just-washed feeling.
Extended use showed that my color looked more vibrant, and I needed fewer touch-ups between salon visits. Plus, it’s super easy to rinse out—no residue or film left behind.
It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to extend their color’s life without sacrificing softness or shine.
However, if you prefer a highly foaming shampoo or have very oily hair, it might not be as bubbly as some brands. Also, the 10.14 oz bottle feels a bit small if you’re used to bigger sizes, especially if you wash your hair daily.
What Are the Best Hair Shampoos for Colored Hair on the Market?
The best hair shampoos for colored hair focus on preserving vibrancy while protecting color-treated strands.
- Sulfate-free shampoos
- Color-safe formulas
- Moisturizing shampoos
- UV protection shampoos
- Natural ingredient shampoos
These categories vary based on individual hair needs and preferences, leading to different user experiences. Some users prefer sulfate-free options to avoid stripping color. Others seek extra moisture for dry, colored hair.
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Sulfate-free shampoos: Sulfate-free shampoos do not contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents that can strip hair color. Many brands, such as Ouai and L’Oréal, offer sulfate-free options that maintain color vibrancy. According to a study by cosmetics scientist Dr. François Duxan (2020), sulfate-free formulas help retain color for a longer duration, making them ideal for colored hair.
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Color-safe formulas: Color-safe shampoos specifically cater to colored hair. They prevent fading by using gentle cleansing agents and added protective ingredients, like antioxidants. Brands such as Redken and Matrix have developed color-safe shampoos that show measurable results in color retention, as reported in research by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2021).
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Moisturizing shampoos: Moisturizing shampoos provide hydration while cleansing. Colored hair often becomes dry and brittle, so these shampoos include emollients and humectants that restore moisture. For instance, Joico’s K-Pak Color Therapy shampoo is designed to nourish colored hair, as noted in a customer survey conducted by Joico in 2022.
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UV protection shampoos: UV protection shampoos contain ingredients that guard against sun damage and minimize color fading. Exposure to sunlight can break down hair color molecules. Shampoos from brands like Aveda include UV filters, enhancing protection from environmental factors, supported by findings in a 2021 environmental impact study by the National Hair Council.
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Natural ingredient shampoos: Natural ingredient shampoos, featuring botanical extracts and oils, provide gentle cleansing and nourishment. Brands like Pureology focus on plant-based ingredients. A 2023 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that shampoos with natural ingredients potentially enhance color longevity and improve hair health.
How Do Sulfate-Free Shampoos Benefit Color-Treated Hair?
Sulfate-free shampoos benefit color-treated hair by preserving color vibrancy, reducing dryness, and maintaining moisture levels.
Preservation of color vibrancy: Sulfate-free shampoos lack harsh detergents, such as sulfates, which can strip color from hair. According to a study by Ponsioen et al. (2022), sulfate-free formulas help maintain the integrity of hair color, ensuring that it lasts longer and looks vibrant.
Reduction of dryness: Sulfates can lead to dryness and damage in color-treated hair. The absence of sulfates allows the hair’s natural oils to remain intact. A report from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2020) states that sulfate-free shampoos are gentler, minimizing moisture loss and keeping hair hydrated.
Maintenance of moisture levels: Color-treated hair often requires extra moisture due to chemical processes involved in dyeing. Sulfate-free shampoos often incorporate moisturizing ingredients, such as natural oils or botanical extracts, that support hair hydration. A study by Kim et al. (2021) highlights that these ingredients effectively nourish the hair, enhancing softness and manageability.
Sulfate-free shampoos provide a balanced cleansing approach that benefits the unique needs of color-treated hair, promoting its health and appearance while avoiding the adverse effects of harsh chemical ingredients.
What Ingredients Offer Maximum Protection for Vibrant Hair Colors?
To achieve maximum protection for vibrant hair colors, certain ingredients are essential. These ingredients help maintain color longevity and vibrancy while preventing damage.
- Sulfate-free cleansers
- UV filters
- Antioxidants
- Humectants
- Protein-rich compounds
- Natural oils
These ingredients can vary in effectiveness based on different hair types and color treatments, sparking debate about their optimal use. Some experts advocate for oil-based products, while others prefer water-based formulations, leading to diverse opinions in hair care.
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Sulfate-free cleansers: Sulfate-free cleansers protect hair color by avoiding harsh detergents that strip natural oils and color. These cleansers typically use gentler surfactants. A study by Green et al. (2021) highlights that sulfate-free shampoos maintain the vibrancy of colored hair better than traditional sulfate-based ones due to reduced color fading over time.
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UV filters: UV filters provide protection against harmful sun rays that can fade hair color. These filters create a barrier on the hair, shielding it from both UVA and UVB rays. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018), UV exposure significantly damages hair dye molecules, which is why incorporating products with UV protection can extend the life of vibrant colors.
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Antioxidants: Antioxidants combat free radicals, preventing oxidative stress that can dull hair color. Ingredients such as vitamin E and green tea extract are powerful antioxidants. A research report by Chen and Wang (2020) identified that hair products infused with antioxidants could improve color retention and overall hair health.
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Humectants: Humectants like glycerin or aloe vera attract moisture to the hair, maintaining moisture balance and elasticity. This is critical for color-treated hair, which can become dry and brittle. A study conducted by Silva et al. (2019) established that humectants significantly improve hydration levels in colored hair, thereby preventing color degradation.
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Protein-rich compounds: Protein-rich compounds, such as keratin and silk proteins, strengthen the hair structure and minimize damage from color treatments. These ingredients help rebuild the hair cuticle, reducing breakage. Research by Martinez et al. (2022) showed that products containing hydrolyzed proteins enhance hair resilience and prolong color vibrancy.
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Natural oils: Natural oils like argan or coconut oil offer moisture and nourishment that help protect and maintain color. These oils also provide a protective barrier against environmental stressors. A case study on coconut oil by Tennyson (2019) found that it effectively reduced protein loss in colored hair, thus enhancing color retention.
How Can Specialized Shampoos Revive and Maintain Color?
Specialized shampoos can revive and maintain color by nourishing the hair, reducing fading, and preventing damage. Their formulation targets chemically treated hair, enhancing color retention and vibrancy.
Nourishing the hair: Specialized shampoos often contain ingredients like aloe vera, oils, and proteins. These components moisturize hair, repair damage, and improve overall texture. For instance, a study by Hendi et al. (2021) found that shampoos with argan oil significantly enhanced hair moisture retention.
Reducing fading: Specialized shampoos often feature UV filters that protect hair from sun damage. Sunlight can deplete color vibrancy. A research article in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlighted that UV protection can prolong color lifespan by up to 30%.
Preventing damage: Many specialized shampoos are sulfate-free. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip color and moisture. The absence of sulfates leads to gentler cleansing. A review by Draelos (2015) indicated that sulfate-free shampoos help in maintaining hair color integrity over time.
Enhancing vibrancy: Pigmented shampoos, like purple or blue options, can neutralize unwanted tones in colored hair. For example, purple shampoos neutralize yellow hues in blonde hair. According to a study by Guy et al. (2020), using pigmented shampoos can improve color balance and enhance aesthetic appeal.
By combining these features, specialized shampoos effectively support the longevity and brilliance of colored hair.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Color-Safe Shampoos?
The key benefits of using color-safe shampoos include protection of hair color, maintenance of hair health, and minimizing fading.
- Protection of Hair Color
- Maintenance of Hair Health
- Minimizing Fading
Color-safe shampoos protect hair color by preventing it from fading too quickly. These shampoos contain gentle, sulfate-free formulas that do not strip color from dyed hair. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, sulfates can reduce color retention by up to 30%. This is especially important for individuals with vibrant colors, as they seek to maintain their desired tone for longer periods.
Color-safe shampoos also help maintain hair health by using nourishing ingredients. They often include moisturizing agents like aloe vera, coconut oil, or argan oil, which help hydrate and strengthen the hair. For example, a 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlighted that products with natural oils improve hair texture and reduce breakage. Healthier hair looks more vibrant, which enhances the appearance of color.
Minimizing fading is a critical benefit of using color-safe shampoos. These products are formulated to protect against environmental factors such as UV rays and pollution. According to research from the University of California, exposure to sunlight can cause significant color loss in hair dyes. A color-safe shampoo may include UV filters that protect the hair from these harmful effects, extending the life of the color.
How Do pH-Balanced Shampoos Affect Color Retention?
pH-balanced shampoos positively affect color retention by maintaining the hair’s natural acidity, which helps protect color-treated hair from fading and damage.
- pH balance: Human hair has a natural pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. pH-balanced shampoos match this range, preventing excessive alkalinity that can open the hair cuticle and allow color molecules to escape.
- Cuticle protection: When the cuticle, or outer layer of hair, remains closed due to balanced pH, it retains color better. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Pérez et al., 2019) noted that closed cuticles help prevent color fading.
- Moisture retention: pH-balanced shampoos help maintain moisture levels in color-treated hair. Proper hydration keeps hair healthy and reduces brittleness, which can lead to color loss. The International Journal of Trichology (Verma et al., 2020) highlighted the importance of moisture in preventing color fading.
- Reduced chemical damage: Many shampoos with high pH can strip color and damage the hair. pH-balanced formulas are less harsh, leading to less damage. According to research in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (López et al., 2021), using gentler formulations correlates with improved color longevity.
- Sulfate-free options: Many pH-balanced shampoos are sulfate-free. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils and color from hair. A study in the Journal of Ethnic Foods (Kang et al., 2020) found that sulfate-free options lead to better color retention in consumers with dyed hair.
- Color vibrancy: Maintaining the correct pH helps preserve the vibrancy of hair color. Research from the Journal of Dermatological Treatment (Smith et al., 2022) indicates that balanced pH shampoos maintain brightness and intensity for color-treated hair over time.
By supporting hair health and minimizing color loss, pH-balanced shampoos play a crucial role in maintaining the longevity and vibrancy of color-treated hair.
Which Brands Are Recommended for Colored Hair Care?
Several brands are highly recommended for colored hair care. These brands are well-known for their quality and effectiveness in maintaining vibrancy and health in colored hair.
- Olaplex
- Redken
- Kerastase
- Moroccanoil
- Joico
- Pureology
- Aveda
- Schwarzkopf
- Wella
- TRESemmé
These options represent a range of attributes that cater specifically to colored hair care, such as protection from fading, nourishment, and strengthening properties. However, opinions about the effectiveness of certain brands may vary based on personal experience.
Now, let’s explore these brands and their specific attributes in detail.
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Olaplex:
Olaplex is known for its bond-building technology. This technology repairs and strengthens hair at a molecular level, making it ideal for colored hair that often suffers from damage during the coloring process. A study by Zohar J. et al. (2019) shows that Olaplex can significantly reduce hair breakage. Users often report noticeable improvements in hair texture and strength after using the product. -
Redken:
Redken offers a variety of shampoos and conditioners designed for colored hair. Their Color Extend line is specifically formulated to protect color and prevent fading. According to a survey by Allure Magazine (2020), 78% of users found increased color longevity when using Redken products. Its acidic pH levels also help to seal the hair cuticle, maintaining color and shine. -
Kerastase:
Kerastase provides luxury hair care products that focus on nourishment and maintenance of colored hair. Their Nutritive line contains glucose and lipids to hydrate the hair, while the Reflection line aims to enhance color radiance. According to Consumer Reports (2021), Kerastase users noted improved moisture retention and color brightness over time. -
Moroccanoil:
Moroccanoil is recognized for its use of argan oil, which provides essential nutrients to colored hair. This oil helps to restore moisture, improve elasticity, and reduce frizz. A clinical study by Patel R. (2021) demonstrated that 90% of participants noticed smoother, shinier hair when using Moroccanoil. -
Joico:
Joico’s Color Balance line helps neutralize brassy tones and maintains the vibrancy of colored hair. The brand focuses on science-backed formulations that protect hair from damage. Users reported significant color maintenance and shine enhancement, according to an analysis by Hairdresser Journal (2020). -
Pureology:
Pureology specializes in sulfate-free formulas that are gentle on colored hair. Their products also include plant extracts to nourish and maintain color. A study reported by Wellness Magazine (2022) found that 72% of users experienced longer-lasting color retention when using Pureology. -
Aveda:
Aveda emphasizes natural ingredients. Their products are formulated with plant-based extracts, focusing on gentle care for colored hair. A survey published in Green Beauty (2021) highlighted that users appreciated Aveda’s environmentally friendly approach while noticing improved hair health. -
Schwarzkopf:
Schwarzkopf offers a wide range of products for colored hair care. Their Color Expert line contains a unique formula that supports hair health while providing vibrant color. According to user feedback on Beauty Insider (2022), Schwarzkopf products helped reduce fading and damage. -
Wella:
Wella’s Color Charm line provides both color vibrancy and hair health. Their formulations are designed for easy application and effective care. Reviews from professional stylists suggest that Wella products enhance shine and maintain color for many weeks. -
TRESemmé:
TRESemmé offers accessible hair care options that effectively cater to colored hair. Their Color Revitalize line helps maintain color while providing hydration. A 2023 study revealed that TRESemmé users reported satisfactory color retention with regular use.
These brands offer a variety of solutions for colored hair care, catering to different needs and preferences.
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