Maintaining vibrant, healthy hair after coloring can feel like a full-time job. The right shampoo can protect your color, strengthen your strands, and enhance shine, so your hair always looks salon-fresh.
Whether you’re rocking bold reds, soft pastels, or sun-kissed highlights, we’ve curated the top 10 shampoos for color-treated hair in 2026, all salon-approved and highly rated.
These shampoos are selected for color protection, gentle cleansing, expert recommendations, and user feedback so that you can trust your hair is in good hands.
1️⃣ Pureology Hydrate Shampoo – Best Overall
If you want a shampoo that protects your color and keeps your hair silky, Pureology Hydrate is a classic winner. Sulfate-free and packed with antioxidants, it gently cleanses without stripping your hair of its natural oils. It’s one of the best shampoos for color-treated hair.
- Hair type: All color-treated, especially dry or processed
- Price: ~$30–$40
- Tip: Pair with Pureology Hydrate Conditioner to maximize moisture and color retention.
This one’s a favorite among stylists because it balances hydration and color protection perfectly. You’ll notice your hair feels softer and your color pops longer.
👉 Find out if shampoo is bad for your hair or not
2️⃣ Kérastase Chroma Absolu Bain Chroma Respect – Luxury Salon Pick
For a premium salon experience at home, Kérastase Chroma Absolu is hard to beat. Its amino acid and cica-enriched formula strengthens fragile strands while locking in vibrant color.
- Hair type: Fine, fragile, or highly processed
- Price: ~$45–$50
- Tip: Use 2–3 times per week for delicate hair or after salon treatments.
If you’re looking to maintain that fresh-from-the-salon feel, this is the one pros often recommend.
3️⃣ L’Oreal Professionnel Vitamino Color Shampoo – Best Daily Use
L’Oreal’s Vitamino Color is perfect for everyday maintenance. It keeps hair bright and healthy thanks to its gentle, resveratrol-infused formula.
- Hair type: All color-treated hair
- Price: ~$20–$25
- Tip: Combine with a deep conditioner weekly to prevent dryness.
It’s a reliable, affordable option that’s easy to find online, making it one of the best shampoos for color-treated hair.
👉 Did you know that you get different shampoos? Learn more here to choose the right one for your hair.
4️⃣ Matrix Total Results Color Obsessed Shampoo – Best Value
If you’re looking for high-quality color protection without breaking the bank, this shampoo is a solid choice. Its gentle formula helps maintain your color while keeping hair soft and manageable.
- Hair type: Daily-wash color-treated hair
- Price: ~$15–$20
- Tip: Quick 2-minute washes keep your color vibrant without extra effort.
5️⃣ Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo – Nourishment & Fade Protection
Joico’s Color Therapy Shampoo is designed to reinforce color and strengthen hair after chemical treatments. Its rich formula keeps hair soft and prevents fading.
- Hair type: Dry, damaged, or all color-treated hair
- Price: ~$25–$30
- Tip: Pair with the matching conditioner to maximize color protection.
Many Medford stylists recommend this for clients with chemically treated hair.
6️⃣ Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo – Best for Blondes
Blondes, highlights, and silver tones: this is your BFF. Redken’s Blondage shampoo neutralizes brassiness while keeping your hair soft and shiny.
- Hair type: Blonde, highlighted, or silver hair
- Price: ~$30–$35
- Tip: Use 1–2 times per week to maintain icy, vibrant tones.
It’s the go-to for maintaining icy, vibrant tones without orange or yellow undertones.
👉 Find out what the best shampoo is for a dry scalp
7️⃣ Pureology Strength Cure Blonde Shampoo – Blonde & Lightened Hair
Sulfate-free and gentle, this shampoo strengthens fragile, bleached hair while protecting color.
- Hair type: Blonde or lightened hair
- Price: ~$35–$40
- Tip: Pair with a purple conditioner to combat brassiness.
This one’s highly recommended by professionals in Boston-area salons, including Medford stylists.
8️⃣ Kevin.Murphy Color Me Everlasting.Colour Wash Protect Shampoo – Premium
A high-performance, salon-grade shampoo that keeps color vibrant and strands healthy. Ideal for bold colors or heat-styled hair.
- Hair type: Color-treated hair needing extra care
- Price: ~$50+
- Tip: Invest in this if you want salon-level results at home.
It’s an investment, but your hair will thank you with shine and longevity.
9️⃣ Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Color Shampoo – Refreshing & Scalp-Friendly
Tea tree and peppermint oils invigorate the scalp while protecting color, leaving hair fresh and vibrant.
- Hair type: All color-treated hair, especially oily roots
- Price: ~$25–$30
- Tip: Perfect for mornings when your scalp needs a refreshing boost.
🔟 Milkshake Flower Power Color Maintainer Shampoo – Softness & Vibrancy
Keeps hair soft, silky, and color-rich, making it ideal for sensitive or processed hair.
- Hair type: All color-treated hair
- Price: ~$30–$35
- Tip: Use with Milkshake conditioner or mask for extra shine and softness.
This one’s loved for its gentle cleansing and subtle floral scent, making haircare a little treat.
Tips for Maintaining Color-Treated Hair
- Wash hair 2–3 times per week to prevent fading.
- Always use lukewarm water, never hot.
- Consider heat protectants before styling tools.
- Use UV-protecting sprays when outdoors to keep color vibrant.
- Ask your local Medford stylist about sample sizes before buying high-end shampoos.
👉 Learn more about what role humectants play in products for your hair
Keep Your Color Vibrant & Hair Healthy in 2026
While choosing the right shampoo is important, the key to long-lasting color and healthy hair is knowing your hair’s unique needs. That’s where Haste Urban Hair Spa can help.
From professional hair and scalp analysis to advice on coloring, treatments, and maintenance, our experts guide you in selecting the right products and strategies to keep your hair vibrant and strong.
📍 Book your consultation online or visit our studio to see how personalized advice can transform your hair care routine.
FAQ
How often should I wash color-treated hair?
You can wash color-treated hair 2–3 times per week is ideal. Over-washing can strip oils and fade your color faster.
Are sulfates really bad for colored hair?
Sulfates can remove natural oils and pigment. Sulfate-free shampoos help preserve color and maintain moisture.
Can I use regular shampoo on color-treated hair?
You can, but color-safe or salon-quality shampoos protect your investment and extend the life of your color.
How do I choose the right shampoo for my hair type?
Consider texture, moisture level, and color treatment. Dry hair needs hydration; blonde/lightened hair may need brassiness control.
Should I pair my shampoo with conditioner or other products?
Yes, a matching conditioner, mask, or leave-in keeps strands strong, hydrated, and color-rich.
Can Haste Hair help me choose the right products?
Absolutely, our personalized hair and scalp analysis ensures your routine is perfectly tailored to your color and hair type.
