Red hair is a head turner. The fiery shade demands attention and makes a bold statement. But keeping that stunning red vibrant is a challenge. Red color fades faster than other hair colors. This happens because red dye molecules are larger than other color molecules. They sit more on the surface of the hair instead of penetrating deeply into the cortex. Your gorgeous red shade can quickly turn dull without proper care.
Finding the right shampoo is critical for maintaining red color treated hair. Your regular shampoo may contain harsh ingredients that strip away color after just a few washes. The right shampoo preserves your red shade. It also keeps your hair healthy and shiny.
This guide shows you the best shampoos for red color treated hair. These products help prevent color fading. They protect against damage from heat styling and environmental factors. With the right shampoo in your hair care routine, your red locks will stay vibrant and fiery longer.
Luseta Red Hair Shampoo for Color Treated Hair
The Luseta Red Hair Shampoo stands out as a premium option for red hair maintenance. This sulfate-free and paraben-free formula is specially designed for copper brightening and strengthening hair follicles. The key ingredient that makes this shampoo effective is pomegranate extract, which is known for its antioxidant properties that help lock in color.
- This red hair shampoo and conditioner set is beneficial for red & copper hair and meticulously formulated to revive and...
- The Luseta red shampoo and conditioner set can revive and intensify red hues, and bring out the natural vibrancy of red...
What makes Luseta different is its gentle yet effective cleansing action. It removes dirt and oil without stripping away your precious red color. The shampoo creates a protective barrier around each strand, which helps shield your hair from environmental factors that can cause fading.
Features:
- Sulfate and paraben-free formula
- Contains pomegranate extract for color protection
- Prevents color fading
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Gentle cleansing action
Pros:
- Maintains vibrant red tones between colorings
- Makes hair feel soft and manageable
- Pleasant scent that lasts
- Works well for all red shades
- Does not cause buildup
Cons:
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- May require more product for thick hair
- Limited availability in physical stores
User reviews show that this shampoo keeps red color looking fresh for weeks longer than standard shampoos. Many users report that they notice less color in the water when rinsing, which indicates the color stays in the hair where it belongs.
John Frieda Radiant Red Boosting Shampoo
John Frieda’s Radiant Red Boosting Shampoo is a trusted favorite among those with red hair. This color-enhancing shampoo contains pomegranate extract and vitamin E that work together to preserve and enhance red tones. The formula is designed to be gentle enough for daily use while still providing effective cleansing.
- CLEANSING SHAMPOO - Gently cleanses while preserving and enhancing the vibrancy of red hair
- HAIR COLOR PROTECTANT - Helps boost softness and shine, this Red Boosting Shampoo with Anti-fade technology protects...
The anti-fade technology in this shampoo is what makes it stand out. It helps seal the cuticle of each hair strand, which prevents color molecules from washing away. This technology is particularly helpful for red hair, which tends to fade faster than other colors.
Features:
- Pomegranate extract and vitamin E enriched
- Anti-fade technology
- Safe for natural and color-treated red hair
- Boosts softness and shine
- Suitable for daily use
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Widely available in drugstores
- Enhances natural red tones
- Pleasant fruity scent
- Works well with matching conditioner
Cons:
- Contains sulfates which may be harsh for some
- May not be intensive enough for very bright reds
- Scent may be too strong for some users
Many users with dyed red hair report that this shampoo helps them extend the time between salon visits. It does not deposit color but rather enhances and preserves existing red tones, making it suitable for both natural redheads and those with color-treated hair.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo offers an excellent balance of quality and value. This affordable option features linseed elixir and anti-oxidants that work together to create a protective shield around each hair strand. The formula is designed to deliver up to 60 days of color vibrancy when used regularly.
- Shampoo for normal, color treated hair
- Helps Protect Against Color Fade
What sets this shampoo apart is its dual-action formula that both cleanses and protects. It removes impurities while simultaneously depositing protective ingredients that help maintain color intensity. The anti-oxidant system shields hair from UV damage, which is a common cause of color fading.
Features:
- Contains linseed elixir and anti-oxidants
- Up to 60 days of color protection
- Anti-fade technology
- UV filters to prevent sun damage
- Large 28 oz size for value
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Easily available in most stores
- Works well for all shades of red
- Nice fragrance
- Large bottle lasts a long time
Cons:
- Contains sulfates
- Pump dispenser may break easily
- May be too heavy for fine hair
This shampoo is Amazon’s Choice for red color treated hair, with many users reporting significant improvements in color longevity. It’s particularly effective when paired with the matching conditioner from the same line for maximum color protection.
Biolage ColorLast Shampoo
Biolage ColorLast Shampoo is a salon-quality option that combines effective cleansing with superior color protection. This low-pH formula features soybean oil and stearic acid that help maintain color integrity while nourishing and strengthening hair. It’s paraben-free and mineral oil-free, making it suitable for those concerned about using clean beauty products.
- Color Last Shampoo: Gently cleanses color-treated hair without stripping color. Nourishes and strengthens hair while...
- Benefits: This shampoo gently cleanses, nouishes and strengthens hair, while protecting color depth and adding shine.
The standout feature of this shampoo is its low pH formula, which helps keep the hair cuticle closed and prevents color molecules from escaping. This is particularly important for red hair, which is prone to rapid fading due to its larger color molecules.
Features:
- Low pH formula for color protection
- Contains soybean oil and stearic acid
- Paraben and mineral oil-free
- Vegan formula
- Professional salon quality
Pros:
- Extends color vibrancy significantly
- Makes hair feel stronger and healthier
- A little product goes a long way
- Works well for all hair types
- Suitable for frequent use
Cons:
- Higher price point
- May be too moisturizing for very oily hair
- Thick consistency can make it harder to dispense
Users with red color treated hair report that this shampoo helps their color stay vibrant and true for weeks longer than with regular shampoos. The professional quality formula provides benefits beyond just color protection, including improved hair strength and softness.
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo is a professional-grade product designed specifically for color-treated hair. This sulfate-free shampoo uses amino acid technology to protect and preserve hair color while gently cleansing. The formula works by creating a magnetic attraction to color molecules, helping them stay locked within the hair shaft.
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo is a sulfate-free and paraben-free professional shampoo for color treated hair....
- Gently cleanses and nourishes color treated hair from root to tip to enhance shine and hair color vibrancy. Protects...
What makes this shampoo special is its Interlock Protein Network and UV filter, which creates a protective shield around each hair strand to prevent color fading and maintain vibrancy. This technology is particularly beneficial for red hair, which is highly susceptible to UV damage and fading.
Features:
- Sulfate-free formula
- Contains amino acids for hair strength
- Interlock Protein Network technology
- UV protection
- Gentle cleansing action
Pros:
- Professional quality results
- Prevents color from washing out
- Makes hair feel soft and manageable
- Subtle pleasant scent
- Creates noticeable shine
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Requires using more product than some competitors
- May not lather as much as sulfate-containing shampoos
Those who use this shampoo consistently note that their red color looks fresher longer, with less fading between salon visits. The sulfate-free formula is gentle enough for frequent use, which is ideal for maintaining vibrant red tones.
Punky Colour 3-in-1 Color Depositing Cleanser
Punky Colour 3-in-1 Color Depositing Cleanser stands out as it not only protects color but actually deposits additional red pigment with each wash. This unique product combines shampoo, conditioner, and color refresher in one formula, making it an efficient option for maintaining vibrant red hair.
- 3-in-1 Color Depositing Conditioner: Replace the color that has faded from your hair! This intensifies hair color while...
- Keep Your Hair on Fiery Red: This color refresher enhances red tones with every use, giving you vibrant, head-turning...
The key difference with this product is its ability to add color back to your hair with each wash. This feature is especially valuable for red hair, which fades more quickly than other colors. The formula gradually builds up color intensity with repeated use, allowing you to customize how vibrant you want your red to be.
Features:
- Deposits red pigment with each wash
- 3-in-1 formula (cleanses, conditions, colors)
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Sulfate and paraben-free
- Contains nourishing ingredients
Pros:
- Actively refreshes color rather than just preventing fade
- Saves time by combining multiple steps
- Affordable price point
- Can extend time between full colorings
- Easy to use
Cons:
- May stain hands, shower, and towels
- Color deposit may be too intense for some
- Not ideal for those who want to gradually fade their red
Users who love bright, vibrant red hair are especially fond of this product as it helps maintain intensity between colorings. It’s particularly useful when red begins to fade, as it can quickly restore vibrancy without a full coloring session.
FOUR REASONS Color Mask Shampoo
FOUR REASONS Color Mask Shampoo is a premium color-depositing shampoo that helps maintain vibrant red hues. This sulfate-free red hair toner combines gentle cleansing action with color-depositing properties to keep red hair looking fresh between salon visits. The formula is designed to enhance and refresh red tones while cleansing.
- Vibrant Red Revival: Unleash the full potential of your red hair shampoo, transforming every strand into a vivid...
- Gentle & Effective: Delve into the realm of our color deposit shampoo, your sanctuary for rejuvenated, lively hair. It...
What sets this shampoo apart is its professional salon-quality formula that provides a perfect balance of color deposit and cleansing. It’s especially effective for maintaining copper and auburn shades, which can be particularly challenging to keep vibrant.
Features:
- Color-depositing formula
- Sulfate-free gentle cleansing
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Professional salon quality
- Enhances existing red tones
Pros:
- Noticeable color enhancement after first use
- Prevents red from turning orange or brassy
- Makes hair feel soft and healthy
- Pleasant scent
- Works on both natural and dyed red hair
Cons:
- Higher price point
- May require gloves during application
- Color deposit may be too subtle for very faded hair
Users consistently mention that this shampoo helps their red color look freshly dyed for much longer than expected. The color deposit is noticeable but natural-looking, which makes it suitable for those who want to maintain their red without an overly artificial appearance.
Joico Color Infuse Red Conditioner
While technically a conditioner rather than a shampoo, the Joico Color Infuse Red Conditioner deserves a place on this list as it works wonderfully when paired with a color-safe shampoo. This color-enhancing conditioner contains rosehip oil and green tea extract that nourish hair while depositing red pigment to refresh fading color.
- Joico Color Infuse Red Conditioner nourishes, protects and revives the vibrancy of red hair, while instantly detangling...
- RED PIGMENTS directly attach to the hair and instantly boost red tones.
The standout feature of this product is its Multi-Spectrum Defense Complex, which helps protect color from environmental factors like UV rays and pollution. This technology is essential for red hair, which is particularly vulnerable to these external fading triggers.
Features:
- Color-depositing red pigments
- Contains rosehip oil and green tea extract
- Multi-Spectrum Defense Complex
- UV protection
- Deep conditioning properties
Pros:
- Instantly refreshes red tones
- Makes hair incredibly soft and manageable
- Reduces breakage and damage
- Protects against future fading
- Works well with many color-safe shampoos
Cons:
- Not a standalone shampoo
- May be too moisturizing for fine hair
- Can stain hands and shower surfaces
Many users with red hair consider this product essential to their color maintenance routine. When used 1-2 times weekly in place of regular conditioner, it keeps red looking vibrant and prevents the orange/brassy tones that often appear as red fades.
CHI Color Illuminate Red Auburn Conditioner
CHI Color Illuminate Red Auburn Conditioner is another exceptional conditioner that works wonderfully with color-safe shampoos for maintaining red hair. This color-enhancing formula helps maintain fresh color between salon visits while providing the nourishment and protection that color-treated hair needs.
- CONDITIONER FOR COLOR REPLENISHMENT: CHI Ionic Color Illuminate color enhancing conditioners provide balanced color...
- CHI COLOR ILLUMINATE LINE: Pair this Color Illuminate Conditioner with the CHI Color Illuminate Shampoo for ultimate...
The ceramic technology in this conditioner is what makes it unique. It helps seal the cuticle and lock in color molecules, which is particularly important for red hair that tends to fade quickly. The formula is sulfate, paraben, and cruelty-free, making it suitable for those who prefer clean beauty products.
Features:
- Color-enhancing formula for red and auburn tones
- Contains natural ingredients like aloe vera
- Ceramic technology for cuticle sealing
- Sulfate, paraben, and cruelty-free
- Provides UV protection
Pros:
- Enhances red tones instantly
- Makes hair extremely soft and manageable
- Reduces frizz and adds shine
- Pleasant subtle scent
- Provides heat protection
Cons:
- Not a shampoo (needs to be paired with one)
- Higher price point
- May be too heavy for very fine hair
Users report that when used regularly, this conditioner helps maintain the vibrancy of their red hair significantly longer than with regular conditioners. The color enhancement is natural-looking rather than artificial, which appeals to those who want to maintain their red without an obviously dyed appearance.
Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo
Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo is a premium option that uses ProteinFusion technology to protect and enhance color-treated hair. This sulfate-free formula is specifically designed to maintain color vibrancy for up to 40 washes, making it an excellent choice for preserving red tones that typically fade quickly.
No products found.
What makes this shampoo stand out is its protein-rich formula that helps strengthen hair while protecting color. The shampoo contains a blend of elastin protein and quinoa, which work together to seal the hair cuticle and prevent color molecules from escaping during washing.
Features:
- ProteinFusion technology with elastin and quinoa
- Sulfate-free formula
- Enhances color vibrancy
- Protects for up to 40 washes
- Strengthens hair structure
Pros:
- Professional salon quality
- Makes hair noticeably stronger
- Reduces breakage in color-treated hair
- Pleasant scent
- Creates impressive shine
Cons:
- Premium price point
- May not provide enough moisture for very dry hair
- Bottle design makes it hard to get last bit of product
Users with red color-treated hair consistently mention that this shampoo helps their color stay true and vibrant significantly longer than with regular shampoos. The strengthening benefits are an added bonus, helping to address the damage that often comes with color treatments.
How to Choose the Right Shampoo for Red Color Treated Hair
Selecting the perfect shampoo for your red hair depends on several factors. Consider these key points when making your choice:
First, look for sulfate-free formulas. Sulfates strip color quickly from hair. They are harsh cleaning agents that remove natural oils along with your beautiful red pigment. Products labeled “sulfate-free” are gentler on color-treated hair and help your red shade last longer.
Next, consider whether you want a color-depositing or color-protecting shampoo. Color-depositing options add red pigment with each wash. This helps refresh your color between salon visits. Color-protecting formulas focus on sealing the cuticle to prevent existing color from washing away.
Your hair type matters too. Fine hair needs lightweight formulas that won’t weigh it down. Dry or damaged hair benefits from more moisturizing shampoos with nourishing ingredients like oils and proteins. Oily hair types should look for balancing formulas that clean effectively without stripping color.
Finally, consider your budget. While professional salon brands often provide superior results, there are effective drugstore options that work well for many people. The most expensive option isn’t always the best for your specific needs.
Tips for Maintaining Red Color Treated Hair
Maintaining vibrant red hair goes beyond just choosing the right shampoo. These additional tips will help your color last longer:
Wash your hair less frequently. Every time you wash your hair, some color molecules wash away. Try to limit washing to 2-3 times per week. Use dry shampoo between washes to keep your hair looking fresh.
Always rinse with cool water. Hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing color to escape. Cold water helps seal the cuticle and lock in color. Make this simple change to your routine for noticeably longer-lasting color.
Protect your hair from the sun. UV rays fade red hair quickly. Wear a hat or use products with UV protection when spending time outdoors. This simple step prevents premature fading.
Use heat protection products before styling. Heat tools can damage hair and cause color to fade faster. Always apply a heat protectant before using curling irons, straighteners, or blow dryers.
Consider using a weekly color-depositing mask or gloss treatment. These deeper treatments help refresh your red color and keep it looking vibrant between salon appointments.
FAQs
How often should I wash red color treated hair?
Limit washing to 2-3 times per week. Red hair fades with each wash, so the less you shampoo, the longer your color lasts.
Can I use purple shampoo on red hair?
No. Purple shampoo is for blonde or silver hair. For red hair, use shampoos specifically designed for red tones.
Will color depositing shampoo stain my hands?
Some may temporarily stain hands. Wear gloves when applying or wash hands immediately after use to prevent staining.
Why does my red hair turn brassy?
Red dye fades unevenly, often leaving orange or copper undertones. Use color-depositing products to refresh true red tones.
How long should I wait to wash newly dyed red hair?
Wait at least 48-72 hours after coloring before washing to allow the dye to fully set.
Can I swim with red colored hair?
Yes, but wear a swim cap or apply leave-in conditioner before swimming. Rinse hair immediately after to remove chlorine or salt.
Does hard water affect red hair color?
Yes. Hard water contains minerals that can make color fade faster. Consider using a shower filter or clarifying treatment occasionally.
How can I make my red hair color last longer?
Use color-safe products, wash less frequently, rinse with cool water, and protect from sun and heat damage.
Are drugstore shampoos effective for red hair?
Many drugstore options work well. Look for sulfate-free formulas specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Should I use the matching conditioner with my color shampoo?
Yes. Shampoo and conditioner pairs are formulated to work together for optimal color protection and hair health.
Last update on 2025-06-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
