I’ve always loved experimenting with hair color, but I quickly learned that keeping it vibrant is a whole different story. A few years ago, I dyed my hair a deep red, only to watch the colour fade after just one week. It was frustrating, to say the least. That’s when I decided to dive deep into the world of shampoos specifically for color-treated hair. Over time, I tried dozens of products, but a few really stood out—and I want to share my journey with you.
First, I started with Pureology Hydrate Shampoo. At first glance, I thought, “Is it really worth $90?” But after the first wash, I was hooked. Honestly, my hair felt softer and looked shinier than it had in months. The rose extract and green tea made such a difference. Plus, it’s sulfate-free, so my colour didn’t fade even after several washes. From that moment on, I realised that investing in a good shampoo truly pays off.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
Key Benefits:
- Keeps colour vibrant and prevents fading
- Deeply hydrates and softens hair
- Sulfate-free and gentle on strands
- Revitalizes damaged hair with proteins and antioxidants
- Adds shine and smoothness for a healthy look
20k+ bought in the past month (13045reviews, 4.7/5 Rating)
Best overall
How to Use:
- Wet hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply a small amount to the scalp and hair.
- Massage gently to create a lather.
- Leave on 1–2 minutes, then rinse.
- Follow with Pureology Hydrate Conditioner for best results.
Before and after image
2-Color Wow Colour Security Shampoo
Next, I switched to ColorWow Colour Security Shampoo. This one is perfect if your hair tends to get oily, like mine sometimes does. The formula is super lightweight, and even though it cleans deeply, it doesn’t strip your colour. I loved how my hair stayed fresh longer, which meant fewer washes and less risk of fading. Honestly, it felt like a mini miracle for my red locks.
Colour Wow Colour Security Shampoo
Key Benefits:
- Wet hair completely.
- Apply a generous amount to the scalp and hair.
- Massage for 1–2 minutes to cleanse oil and buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Use 2–3 times per week or as needed for oily hair.
10k+ bought in the past month (5776reviews, 4.5/5 Rating)
Best for Oily Hair
How to Use
- Wet hair completely.
- Apply shampoo to scalp and work into a lather.
- Massage for 1–2 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Repeat if needed.
3-Moroccanoil Colour Care Shampoo.
Then came Moroccanoil Colour Care Shampoo. I had curly hair at the time, and keeping my curls soft and hydrated while preserving the colour was almost impossible. But this shampoo changed everything. The argan oil and pomegranate extract worked wonders. My curls felt nourished, my colour stayed vibrant, and I even noticed that my curl pattern looked healthier and more defined. It was like giving my hair a spa day every time I washed it.
Moroccanoil Colour Care Shampoo
Key Benefits:
- Nourishes and strengthens color-treated hair
- Infused with argan oil for deep hydration
- Helps maintain color vibrancy
- Smooths frizz and adds shine
2k+ bought in the past month (1571reviews, 4.5/5 Rating)
Best for Curly Hair
How to Use
- Wet hair and apply a small amount.
- Massage gently from roots to ends.
- Leave for 1–3 minutes.
- Rinse well and follow with Moroccanoil Color Care Conditioner.
4-Luseta Red Hair Shampoo.
Of course, I couldn’t skip Luseta Red Hair Shampoo. As someone who’s obsessed with red tones, I knew this was a must-try. Unlike regular shampoos, it deposits a tiny bit of colour with every wash, which keeps my red hair looking fresh for weeks. Plus, the blend of fruit oils added a glossy shine that I had never experienced before. I finally felt confident that my red hair wouldn’t fade too quickly.
Luseta Red Hair Shampoo
Key Benefits:
- Wet hair completely.
- Apply a generous amount to the scalp and hair.
- Massage for 1–2 minutes to cleanse oil and buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Use 2–3 times per week or as needed for oily hair.
100+ bought in the past month (1715reviews, 4.5/5 Rating)
Best for Oily Hair
How to Use
- Wet hair with lukewarm water.
- Apply evenly and massage gently.
- Leave on for 1–2 minutes to boost colour.
- Rinse well.
- Repeat if needed.
Redken Color Extend Magnetics
Finally, I experimented with Redken Colour Extend Magnetics Shampoo. This one is sulfate-free and packed with protein, making it perfect for repairing any damage caused by colouring. After using it for a few weeks, my hair felt firmer, softer, and healthier overall. The best part? My colour looked glossy and lasted longer than it ever had before.
Redken Colour Extend Magnetics
Key Benefits:
- Wet hair completely.
- Apply a generous amount to the scalp and hair.
- Massage for 1–2 minutes to cleanse oil and buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Use 2–3 times per week or as needed for oily hair.
3k+ bought in the past month (10604reviews, 4.5/5 Rating)
Best for Red Hair
How to Use
- Wet hair completely.
- Apply shampoo and massage it into the scalp.
- Lather for 1–2 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Use with Redken Colour Extend Magnetics Conditioner.
Looking back, I realise that each shampoo had its own magic. Some were perfect for hydration, some for shine, and others for maintaining the exact colour I wanted. But together, they taught me an important lesson: caring for colored hair isn’t just about washing it—it’s about choosing the right products, understanding your hair type, and treating it with love.
Now, my hair isn’t just colored—it’s vibrant, soft, and healthy. And honestly, trying all these shampoos was totally worth it. So, if you’re looking for the best shampoo for colour-treated hair, trust me: investing in the right one (or a few!) will change everything.
