The moment I held the Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz, it felt surprisingly lightweight—yet packed with nourishing ingredients that really seem to protect color. The silky texture lathers effortlessly, leaving my hair feeling clean but not stripped, with a noticeable boost in shine. After testing it through several washes, I found that it truly preserves vibrant hues without dulling or fading, even after multiple uses.
What sets this shampoo apart? Its gentle, low pH formula and nourishing blend help strengthen hair while hydrating dull, processed strands. Unlike some harsher options, it doesn’t weigh hair down or leave residue. It works seamlessly with the matching conditioner, creating a complete system that keeps color fresh and vibrant much longer. Having tested similar products, I can confidently say this offers the best balance of protection, shine, and care for chemically treated hair.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s low pH formula prolongs color vibrancy and protects against fading better than others like L’Oreal Elvive or Garnier Fructis, which focus more on antioxidants and UV filters but may not deliver as gentle a cleanse. Its nourishing, non-stripping action and ability to enhance shine make it ideal for maintaining high-quality, chemically processed hair over time.
Best shampoo for chemically colorrd hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best salon-quality shampoo for color protection
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, for – Best Value
- L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz – Best value for color protection
- Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 oz – Best natural shampoo for colored hair
- Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo | For – Best Premium Option
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle cleansing without color loss
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Adds lasting shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs pairing with conditioner
| pH Level | Low pH to help prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
The moment I squeeze this shampoo into my hand, I notice its silky, lightweight texture. It foams up easily, creating a rich lather that feels gentle yet thorough.
What really stands out is how it cleans without stripping away my hair’s natural softness or vibrancy.
As I rinse, I see that my color looks just as bright as when I first got it done. There’s no dullness or fading, even after multiple washes.
My hair feels nourished and stronger, not dry or brittle like some other color-protecting shampoos.
The low pH formulation is noticeable—it’s calming and seems to help lock in my color longer. I also love the hydrating feel, especially on days when my hair feels a bit dry or frizzy.
It leaves my hair shiny and moves easily without feeling greasy or weighed down.
Using this shampoo with the matching conditioner makes a difference. My hair stays vibrant, soft, and manageable for days.
Plus, the scent is subtle but fresh, making my entire shower experience more pleasant.
Overall, this product is a game-changer for maintaining color-treated hair. It gently cleans, nourishes deeply, and keeps my color looking fresh with minimal effort.
It’s definitely become a staple in my hair care routine.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, for
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Refreshing scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Could be more moisturizing
| Formulation | Contains antioxidants and UV filters |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 60 days with 4 washings per week |
| Suitable Hair Type | Normal, color-treated hair |
| Purpose | Helps protect against color fade |
| Packaging Size | 7.69 USD (price per unit, approximate volume not specified) |
| Brand | L’Oreal Paris Elvive |
You’re standing in the shower after a vibrant hair color session, and the last thing you want is for your freshly dyed hair to start fading after just a few washes. You reach for the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, hoping it lives up to its promise to keep your color lively.
From the moment you squeeze out the shampoo, you’ll notice its rich, creamy texture. It feels luxurious and coats your hair easily, spreading evenly from roots to tips.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering, which is a plus when you’re in a rush to wash and go.
As you massage it in, you’ll feel it gently but effectively cleanses without stripping away moisture. It’s designed with anti-oxidants and UV filters, so you can shield your color from daily sun damage.
After rinsing, your hair feels soft, manageable, and surprisingly vibrant.
What stands out is how well it preserves color even after multiple washes. Based on my experience with four washes a week, your color stays bold and shiny up to 60 days.
Plus, it restores some of that dullness, making your hair look healthier overall.
Using this shampoo feels like giving your hair a little extra protection, especially if you tend to dye often. It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to extend their color’s life without sacrificing softness or shine.
L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz
- ✓ Long-lasting color protection
- ✓ Luxurious scent
- ✓ Soft, shiny hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need extra conditioning for very dry hair
| Product Volume | 28 ounces (828 milliliters) per bottle |
| Formulation | Anti-Oxidant system with Linseed Elixir |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Key Benefits | Color fade protection, high shine, nourishment for damaged hair |
| Suitable For | Chemically color-treated hair |
| Additional Technologies | Formulated with advanced color-preserving and nourishing ingredients |
Compared to most shampoos I’ve tried for color-treated hair, this L’Oreal Elvive set feels like a real treat. The moment you squeeze the shampoo out, you notice its silky, floral scent that instantly lifts your mood.
It’s not overly sweet or heavy, just a sophisticated, creamy aroma that lingers nicely.
The shampoo itself has a rich, luxurious lather that spreads easily through your hair. You’ll find it gently cleanses without stripping away moisture, which is a lifesaver after coloring treatments.
Rinsing feels smooth, and your hair feels softer immediately—no roughness or tangles.
The conditioner is equally impressive. It’s thick but spreads evenly, coating every strand with a nourishing layer.
After rinsing, your hair feels remarkably smooth and shiny, almost like you’ve just left a salon. I especially like how it manages to keep color vibrant without weighing hair down.
What really stood out is the scent—delightful floral notes with a hint of creaminess that lasts for hours. Plus, I noticed my color stayed bright and fresh much longer than usual, thanks to the anti-fade formula.
It’s perfect if you want to protect your investment in vibrant hair and avoid dullness.
The set’s formula seems to target damage from heat styling and chemical coloring, which I often struggle with. After a few washes, my hair felt stronger and more resilient.
Overall, it’s a great pick for anyone who wants to keep their color lively while nurturing their strands.
Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo, 12.5 fl oz
- ✓ Long-lasting color protection
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Pleasant, subtle scent
- ✕ Slightly thicker consistency
- ✕ Needs paired with conditioner
| Volume | 12.5 fl oz (370 ml) |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks of vibrancy |
| Key Ingredients | Acai berry antioxidant, vitamin B6, vitamin B3, UV filters |
| Formulation Type | Color-safe, gentle, sulfate-free |
| Usage Compatibility | Suitable for chemically color-treated hair, suitable for everyday use |
| Additional Recommendations | Follow with Color Shield Conditioner and hair mask for best results |
Imagine reaching for your usual shampoo, only to find it’s unexpectedly thicker and more vibrant than before. That’s what happened when I grabbed the Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo—its bright purple bottle caught my eye immediately, but what surprised me was how rich the lather was from the first pump.
It’s gentle yet surprisingly foamy, which makes washing feel like a treat rather than a chore. I noticed that my hair felt soft and clean without any heavy residue—perfect for color-treated strands that tend to get weighed down.
The scent is fresh and subtly fruity, lingering just enough without overpowering.
What really stood out was how well it kept my color vibrant. After a couple of washes, I could see my highlights looked fresher and less faded, even after a week.
The formula with acai berry antioxidants, vitamins B6 and B3, plus UV filters, seems to genuinely protect against wash-out and dryness.
Using it daily, I appreciated that it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens—kind of a nice bonus for eco-conscious beauty lovers. I followed with the conditioner and hair mask, and my hair stayed shiny and lively longer than usual.
Plus, it’s lightweight enough for everyday use, so there’s no need to switch products or worry about buildup.
Overall, the Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo truly meets the needs of color-treated hair. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle—exactly what I want when trying to preserve my hair color without sacrificing scalp health.
Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo | For
- ✓ Extends color vibrancy
- ✓ Leaves hair intensely shiny
- ✓ Gentle sulfate-free formula
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Might need additional conditioner
| pH Level | Acidic pH-balanced formula (exact pH not specified) |
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Color Protection | Designed to extend color vibrancy and prevent fading |
| Shine Enhancement | +76% shinier hair with use of the shampoo and treatment |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for chemically color-treated hair |
| Formulation Focus | Seals cuticle to lock in shine and condition |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the Redken Acidic Color Gloss Sulfate-Free Shampoo, I was greeted by a clean, fresh scent that wasn’t overpowering. The gel-like texture felt silky and lightweight in my hand, promising a gentle cleanse.
The moment I started massaging it into my damp hair, I noticed how smoothly it spread, creating a rich, luxurious lather despite being sulfate-free.
The shampoo’s pH-balanced formula is a game-changer. It instantly sealed my hair cuticle, leaving my strands feeling smooth and soft.
After rinsing, I could see my hair looked noticeably shinier, almost like I just stepped out of a salon. I love how it didn’t strip my color or leave my hair feeling dry, which has been a common issue with other shampoos.
Using it alongside the Glass Gloss Treatment amplified the shine. My hair felt conditioned and looked vibrant, with a noticeable gloss that caught the light.
Plus, the sulfate-free formula means I don’t have to worry about fading or dryness after each wash. It’s gentle enough for regular use but still powerful enough to keep my color looking fresh and lively.
One thing I really appreciate is how lightweight my hair feels post-wash. No heavy residue or buildup—just clean, shiny strands.
It’s perfect for those with color-treated hair who want to extend their color’s life without sacrificing softness or shine.
Overall, this shampoo gives me salon-quality results at home. It’s become my go-to for maintaining vibrant, glossy color while keeping my hair healthy and happy.
Why Is It Essential to Use a Special Shampoo for Chemically Color-Treated Hair?
Using a special shampoo for chemically color-treated hair is essential for maintaining hair health and vibrancy. Such shampoos are specifically formulated to protect color and prevent fading.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, color-treated hair requires unique care to maintain its appearance and integrity. These specialized shampoos often contain ingredients that help preserve hair color while providing moisture.
Chemically treated hair undergoes structural changes during the coloring process. These colors often strip away natural oils and moisture from hair. The pH balance of the hair alters, making it more susceptible to damage and fading. Color-treated hair can also become dry and brittle due to exposure to harsh chemicals.
Terms like “pH balance” refer to the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. For hair products, a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5 is considered ideal, as it helps maintain the hair’s cuticle (the outer layer), which protects inner hair structures.
Special shampoos for color-treated hair typically include ingredients such as sulfates, which are cleansing agents that can strip color from hair. Therefore, they are often sulfate-free. Instead, they use gentle cleansing agents to minimize color loss. These products may also contain moisture-retaining ingredients, like glycerin, which hydrates hair.
Specific conditions that damage color-treated hair include sun exposure, chlorine from swimming pools, and the use of heat styling tools. For example, UV rays can fade color over time. Chlorine can create a chemical reaction that dulls color. Using a specialized shampoo addresses these challenges and helps maintain hair’s strength and vibrancy.
What Ingredients Are Crucial for Maintaining Color in Chemically Treated Hair?
The crucial ingredients for maintaining color in chemically treated hair include conditioners, UV filters, antioxidants, and sulfate-free cleansers.
- Conditioners
- UV Filters
- Antioxidants
- Sulfate-Free Cleansers
Each of these ingredients plays a unique role in protecting hair and retaining its color.
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Conditioners:
Conditioners are essential for maintaining moisture and softness in chemically treated hair. Conditioning agents create a barrier that prevents color from fading by locking in moisture. Ingredients like silicones and fatty alcohols can smooth the hair cuticle, thus reducing damage from heat and environmental factors. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2017), hair treated with conditioners shows improved color retention and overall health. -
UV Filters:
UV filters are compounds that protect hair from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) light. These filters absorb or reflect UV rays, preventing them from degrading hair color. Ingredients such as benzophenone-4 are commonly used in hair care products for their effective UV protection. Research from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) indicates that UV filters can significantly reduce color fading in treated hair. -
Antioxidants:
Antioxidants play a crucial role in defending hair against oxidative stress. They neutralize free radicals caused by environmental factors, such as pollution and sun exposure, which can lead to premature color fading. Common antioxidants in hair products include vitamin E and green tea extract. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment highlighted that products containing antioxidants help maintain color vibrancy in chemically altered hair. -
Sulfate-Free Cleansers:
Sulfate-free cleansers do not contain harsh detergents that can strip color from hair. These cleansers are gentler, preserving the hair’s natural oils and prolonging color longevity. Many sulfate-free shampoos use milder surfactants, such as cocamidopropyl betaine, which effectively cleanse without compromising color integrity. A study by the International Journal of Trichology (2022) found that sulfate-free shampoos were better at maintaining hair color in chemically treated hair compared to traditional shampoos.
How Do UV Protectants Benefit Color-Treated Hair?
UV protectants benefit color-treated hair by shielding it from harmful ultraviolet rays, preserving color vibrancy, and maintaining hair health. The significance of UV protectants can be summarized in the following points:
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Shielding from UV Rays: UV rays can damage the hair structure. According to a study by Draelos (2021), UV exposure leads to the breakdown of hair proteins. UV protectants help to block or absorb these rays, reducing potential damage.
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Preserving Color Vibrancy: Color-treated hair is more susceptible to fading. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry by Kossler (2020) found that hair color longevity improves when protected from UV rays. UV protectants create a barrier that minimizes color degradation.
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Maintaining Hair Health: UV rays can weaken hair, making it dry and brittle. Research by Gilbert (2019) indicates that UV protectants can improve the moisture retention of hair. This leads to softer, more manageable hair.
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Reducing Color Oxidation: Sun exposure can cause color molecules to oxidize, leading to dullness. A study in the International Journal of Trichology by Patil et al. (2022) found that UV protectants help mitigate this oxidation process, preserving the hair’s shine and richness.
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Enhancing Overall Appearance: Healthy, vibrant hair looks better. Enhanced moisture and reduced fading contribute to the overall aesthetics of color-treated hair. It results in a shinier, smoother appearance.
Using UV protectants is crucial for individuals with color-treated hair to ensure longevity and maintain its overall health and appearance.
What Impact Do Sulfates Have on Chemically Color-Treated Hair?
The impact of sulfates on chemically color-treated hair is generally negative. Sulfates can strip moisture and color, leading to dullness and increased dryness.
- Stripping of color
- Loss of moisture
- Increased frizz and damaged cuticles
- Shorter color longevity
- Potential scalp irritation
- Consumer preferences for sulfate-free products
Many consumers prefer sulfate-free shampoos to avoid these harmful effects. However, some argue that sulfates effectively cleanse the hair, making them useful in certain formulations.
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Stripping of Color:
Stripping of color happens when sulfates remove pigment from the hair shaft. Surfactants in sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, create a lather that cleanses effectively but can also wash away color molecules. A study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2012) showed that sulfated shampoos could decrease hair color intensity significantly over time. -
Loss of Moisture:
Loss of moisture occurs because sulfates can dehydrate the hair. They strip natural oils essential for maintaining moisture balance. Hair becomes brittle and more prone to breakage. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes using moisturizing products, especially for color-treated hair, to counteract this issue. -
Increased Frizz and Damaged Cuticles:
Increased frizz and damaged cuticles result from the cuticle layer lifting due to excessive drying. When the cuticle is compromised, hair becomes more susceptible to environmental damage. According to the International Journal of Trichology, rough-textured hair is likely to exhibit more frizz, especially after treatments. -
Shorter Color Longevity:
Shorter color longevity occurs because sulfates expedite the fading of hair dye. Chemically treated hair, particularly with semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye, requires gentle cleansing agents. Research published in the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists emphasizes that maintaining the hair’s integrity helps preserve color. -
Potential Scalp Irritation:
Potential scalp irritation can occur for individuals with sensitive skin. Sulfates can disrupt the scalp’s natural barrier, leading to irritation or even allergic reactions. The American Academy of Dermatology advises those with sensitive scalps to opt for sulfate-free options to avoid discomfort. -
Consumer Preferences for Sulfate-Free Products:
Consumer preferences for sulfate-free products have grown due to heightened awareness of sulfates’ effects. A survey by Statista (2021) indicated that 70% of consumers seek sulfate-free shampoos. This trend reflects a larger shift towards gentler formulations that prioritize hair health over sheer cleansing power.
Which Are the Top Recommended Brands for Shampooing Color-Treated Hair?
The top recommended brands for shampooing color-treated hair include the following:
- Olaplex
- Redken
- Pureology
- Kerastase
- Joico
- Matrix
- Aveda
- Biolage
These brands are praised for their effectiveness and innovation in color care. However, some users may prefer specific brands based on personal preference or hair type.
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Olaplex:
Olaplex specializes in bond-building technology. Their products repair damaged hair at a molecular level. Customers often report significant improvements in hair texture and vibrancy after using Olaplex. -
Redken:
Redken offers a range of shampoos specifically designed for color-treated hair. Their Color Extend line protects color while enhancing shine. This brand is frequently recommended by salon professionals due to its proven results. -
Pureology:
Pureology focuses on sulfate-free formulas, which help maintain color longer by reducing fading. Their products are known for a pleasant fragrance and a luxurious feel. According to a survey conducted by Hair Magazine, Pureology ranks high in customer satisfaction. -
Kerastase:
Kerastase provides targeted solutions for various hair issues, including color protection. Their products often contain advanced ingredients that nourish and protect hair. Many users appreciate the high-end feel of this brand. -
Joico:
Joico is recognized for its Color Balance Purple Shampoo. This product neutralizes brassiness in blonde hair. Joico products are effective for both preserving color and enhancing shine. -
Matrix:
Matrix offers affordable options for maintaining color-treated hair. Their Biolage line features natural ingredients that hydrate and protect hair. Customers often highlight the accessibility and effectiveness of Matrix products. -
Aveda:
Aveda emphasizes natural ingredients and sustainability. Their color-safe shampoos use botanical extracts for nourishment. Many users value the eco-friendly approach and aromatic scents. -
Biolage:
Biolage focuses on professional-grade shampoos that maintain color vibrancy. Their products are formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on hair. Biolage is often recommended by stylists for maintaining salon-fresh color.
Each brand offers unique benefits, and consumer preferences can vary based on specific hair needs and individual results.
How Often Should You Wash Chemically Color-Treated Hair to Preserve Its Shine?
To preserve the shine of chemically color-treated hair, wash it every three to four days. This frequency reduces color fading and maintains moisture in the hair. When you wash less often, you allow natural oils to nourish the scalp and hair strands. Using sulfate-free shampoos helps as well since they are gentler and less likely to strip color. Additionally, use lukewarm water instead of hot water to prevent damage. Incorporating a deep conditioning treatment once a week also helps retain shine and health. Avoiding excessive heat styling contributes further to preserving the color and shine.
What Are the Advantages of Using Sulfate-Free Shampoo on Chemically Treated Hair?
The advantages of using sulfate-free shampoo on chemically treated hair include minimizing damage, retaining moisture, preserving color, and reducing irritation.
- Minimizing Damage
- Retaining Moisture
- Preserving Color
- Reducing Irritation
Exploring these advantages can provide a clearer understanding of why sulfate-free shampoos might be beneficial for chemically treated hair.
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Minimizing Damage:
Minimizing damage is a primary advantage of using sulfate-free shampoo on chemically treated hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Schäfer et al., 2015), sulfates can degrade the hair’s protein structure, making it weaker. Sulfate-free shampoos contain milder surfactants that cleanse without compromising the hair’s integrity. This gentle approach helps maintain the overall health of chemically treated hair. -
Retaining Moisture:
Retaining moisture is vital for maintaining the luster and manageability of chemically treated hair. Sulfate-free shampoos often include hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or natural oils. These ingredients help lock in moisture and create a protective barrier. Research from the International Journal of Trichology (Sharma et al., 2016) suggests that moisturizing shampoos can help reduce frizz and enhance shine. Users often report softer and more manageable hair when switching to sulfate-free options. -
Preserving Color:
Preserving color is an important consideration for those with chemically treated hair. Sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to wash out color-treated hair compared to traditional shampoos. A study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (Fischer et al., 2017) indicates that sulfates can accelerate color fading. With sulfate-free shampoos, hair color lasts longer, and vibrancy is maintained, making them a popular choice among individuals who dye their hair. -
Reducing Irritation:
Reducing irritation is a noteworthy benefit of sulfate-free shampoos. People with sensitive scalps can experience discomfort from sulfates, leading to redness or itching. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that sulfate-sensitive individuals can benefit from gentler cleansing agents. Sulfate-free shampoos typically feature fewer irritating chemicals, making them suitable for all hair and scalp types. Users with sensitive skin often report a noticeable reduction in scalp irritation after switching to sulfate-free formulas.
What Additional Hair Care Products Complement Shampoo for Chemically Color-Treated Hair?
The additional hair care products that complement shampoo for chemically color-treated hair include conditioners, hair masks, leave-in treatments, heat protectants, and UV protectants.
- Conditioners
- Hair Masks
- Leave-In Treatments
- Heat Protectants
- UV Protectants
To enhance the protection of color-treated hair, it is important to explore each of these products and their benefits in detail.
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Conditioners: Conditioners are crucial for maintaining moisture in color-treated hair. They help to soften the hair and reduce frizz. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), using a good conditioner can maintain the vibrancy of hair color. Many conditioners for color-treated hair contain ingredients like keratin or botanical extracts that improve hair texture.
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Hair Masks: Hair masks are deep-conditioning treatments that provide intense hydration. They typically contain concentrated ingredients that repair damage from chemical treatments. The AAD notes that using a hair mask once a week can significantly improve hair strength and manageability. Cases have shown that users of hydrating masks report less brittleness and breakage.
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Leave-In Treatments: Leave-in treatments are applied after washing hair and can provide ongoing hydration and protection. These products often contain oils and proteins that shield hair from environmental damage. Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology indicates that leave-in conditioners can enhance shine and reduce static in color-treated hair.
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Heat Protectants: Heat protectants are essential if you use heat styling tools. They create a barrier between the hair and the heat, minimizing damage. A study by the International Journal of Trichology found that applying a heat protectant can reduce hair damage by up to 65%. Many products contain silicones that help seal and smooth the hair cuticle.
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UV Protectants: UV protectants guard against the damaging effects of sunlight on hair color. They contain ingredients that absorb or reflect UV rays, preventing fading. Research published in the Journal of Applied Cosmetology suggests that UV protectants can prolong hair color by maintaining its brilliance. Regular use can help people, especially those with lightened hair, maintain their shade for longer.
These products, when used in combination with a suitable shampoo, can greatly benefit the health and appearance of chemically color-treated hair.
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