Are you tired of flat, lifeless hair? Do you dream of bouncy, full-bodied locks that turn heads? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with fine hair that lacks volume and body.
The good news is that the right hair care products can make a world of difference.
Today, I’m sharing my complete review of Redken Volume Injection Shampoo, a product that promises to transform fine, flat hair into voluminous, bouncy locks.
Key Takeaways
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick summary of what makes Redken Volume Injection Shampoo stand out:
- Designed specifically for fine hair that lacks volume and body, making it ideal for those with naturally thin or flat hair
- Contains Filloxane, a unique hair-thickening ingredient that provides visible results that build over time for long-lasting volume
- Features a lightweight, milk-like formula that rinses easily without leaving residue that can weigh down fine hair
- Gently cleanses the scalp to remove oil while creating soft and manageable hair with a polished, shiny finish
- The Bodifying Complex creates instant lift at the root and enhanced body throughout the hair
- Paraben-free formula makes it a good choice for those concerned about certain hair care ingredients
- Works best as part of a complete volumizing system when paired with Redken Volume Injection Conditioner
- Color-safe formulation that can be used on both colored and non-colored hair types
- Provides instant volume after just one use, with continued improvement over time
- Price point of around $27 for 10.1 oz bottle positions it as a premium salon-quality product
Introduction to Redken Volume Injection Shampoo
- Volumizing Shampoo: Redken Volume Injection is a professional paraben free shampoo for flat, fine hair. Lightly cleanses...
- Benefits: Professional solution for instant volume and root lift, leaving hair soft, manageable, and shiny. Lifts hair...
Hair volume is something many of us crave. When your hair falls flat against your scalp, it can affect your entire look and confidence. Redken Volume Injection Shampoo has become quite popular in the hair care world as a solution for those with fine or flat hair looking for that extra lift and body.
This shampoo claims to provide weightless volume, add body, and create lift at the roots without weighing down your hair. But does it actually deliver on these promises? In this comprehensive review, I’ll share everything you need to know about this product, from its ingredients to real results, to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your hair care routine.
Understanding How Redken Volume Injection Shampoo Works
Fine hair presents unique challenges. Unlike thicker hair types, fine strands lack the natural body and volume that give hair its fullness and movement. This is where specialized volumizing products like Redken Volume Injection Shampoo come into play.
The secret behind this shampoo’s effectiveness lies in its innovative formula. Traditional volumizing shampoos often rely on stripping the hair to create volume, which can lead to dryness and damage over time. Redken takes a different approach with its Bodifying Complex.
This shampoo uses Filloxane, a unique ingredient that actually penetrates the hair fiber and expands from within, creating genuine thickness rather than just a temporary coating effect. The result is hair that not only looks fuller but actually gains thickness with continued use.
The lightweight, milk-like consistency is specifically designed for fine hair. Heavier formulas can weigh down fine strands, counteracting any volumizing benefits. The thin consistency of Volume Injection Shampoo ensures it rinses clean, leaving no residue behind that might flatten your style.
Additionally, the formula gently cleanses the scalp, removing excess oils that can weigh hair down at the roots. This creates an ideal foundation for volume that starts at the scalp and extends through the lengths of your hair.
The Science Behind the Ingredients
When evaluating any hair product, understanding the ingredients is crucial. Redken Volume Injection Shampoo contains some key components that work together to deliver its volumizing benefits:
Filloxane stands as the star ingredient in this formulation. This innovative compound works by penetrating the hair shaft and expanding from within, creating genuine thickness rather than just coating the outside of the strand. What makes Filloxane especially effective is that its benefits accumulate with continued use, meaning your hair actually gets thicker and fuller over time.
The Bodifying Complex combines Filloxane with softening and silicone polymers that work synergistically to create volume while maintaining softness and manageability. Many volumizing products leave hair stiff or rough to the touch, but the polymer blend in this formula ensures hair remains soft and natural-feeling.
The cleanser base uses a combination of Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Coco-Betaine to effectively remove oil and product buildup from the scalp and hair. While sulfates sometimes get a bad reputation, they’re effective cleansers that help create the clean foundation necessary for maximum volume.
Additional ingredients like Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride help condition the hair without weighing it down, while Polyquaternium-30 provides lightweight detangling benefits crucial for fine hair that’s prone to knots and breakage.
This carefully balanced formula creates a product that cleanses effectively while simultaneously building volume and maintaining hair health – a trifecta that’s particularly challenging to achieve in products formulated for fine hair.
How to Use Redken Volume Injection Shampoo for Maximum Results
Getting the most out of your Redken Volume Injection Shampoo involves more than just a quick wash. Here’s how to maximize its volumizing potential:
First, thoroughly wet your hair before applying the shampoo. Fine hair can become easily tangled, so use your fingers to gently work out any knots under the running water before shampooing.
When applying the shampoo, start with a quarter-sized amount – you’ll find that a little goes a long way with this formula. Focus the application on your scalp and roots first, as this is where volume begins. Use your fingertips (not nails) to massage the shampoo into your scalp with gentle circular motions, stimulating circulation and lifting the hair from the roots.
For best results, consider double cleansing – especially if you use styling products regularly or have naturally oily hair. The first wash removes surface oils and product buildup, while the second cleanse allows the active ingredients to work more effectively.
When rinsing, use lukewarm water rather than hot, as excessive heat can strip natural oils and lead to dryness. Make sure to rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear to ensure no residue remains that could weigh down your style.
For maximum volume, follow with Redken Volume Injection Conditioner, applying it only from mid-lengths to ends to avoid weighing down the roots. Many users report that using the complete system yields significantly better results than using the shampoo alone.
Finally, finish with a cool water rinse to seal the hair cuticle, enhancing shine and creating a smoother, more polished appearance.
My Personal Experience Using Redken Volume Injection Shampoo
As someone with naturally fine hair that tends to fall flat by midday, I was eager to put Redken Volume Injection Shampoo to the test. After using it consistently for several weeks, I’ve developed a clear picture of its strengths and limitations.
From the very first use, I noticed a significant difference in how my hair felt during washing. The shampoo has a lightweight, somewhat runny consistency that’s different from the thick, creamy texture of many other shampoos. It creates a moderate lather that feels cleansing without being harsh or stripping.
Upon drying my hair after the initial wash, the volume boost was immediately noticeable. My roots had more lift, and my overall hair appeared fuller and had more body than with my previous shampoo. The effect was especially pronounced when I blow-dried my hair with a round brush, creating a salon-like fullness that I rarely achieve at home.
What impressed me most was how my hair maintained its volume throughout the day. With many volumizing products, the effect diminishes within hours, but the Redken formula seemed to provide lasting results that held up reasonably well until my next wash.
After several weeks of use, I noticed that my hair actually seemed thicker overall, confirming the cumulative benefits of the Filloxane ingredient. My strands had more substance and body even when I didn’t style them, which was a welcome change from their usually limp appearance.
The fragrance is pleasant but not overpowering – a clean, slightly floral scent that doesn’t compete with perfume or other scented products. It lingers subtly without being intrusive.
One minor drawback I noticed was that my hair seemed to get oily slightly faster than with some other shampoos. This isn’t uncommon with volumizing products that don’t strip the hair, but it’s something to consider if you already have an oily scalp.
Before and After Results: What to Expect
When using Redken Volume Injection Shampoo consistently, the transformation in your hair can be quite remarkable. Here’s what you can realistically expect:
Before: Fine hair typically appears flat against the scalp, lacks body and movement, and may look limp or lifeless. It often feels thin between your fingers and might struggle to hold a style throughout the day. For many with fine hair, volume at the roots is virtually non-existent, and the overall appearance lacks the fullness and bounce associated with healthy-looking hair.
After First Use: Immediately after your first wash and style, you’ll likely notice an increase in volume, particularly at the roots. The hair feels lighter and has more movement. There’s a noticeable lift at the scalp that creates the appearance of fuller, thicker hair. Your style has more dimension and doesn’t sit as flat against your head.
After 2-3 Weeks: With continued use, the volumizing effects become more pronounced and consistent. Your hair begins to have a naturally fuller appearance even without extensive styling. The cumulative benefits of Filloxane start to become apparent, with individual strands appearing and feeling slightly thicker. The hair maintains volume for longer periods between washes, and styles hold their shape more effectively.
After 1-2 Months: By this point, the long-term benefits are fully realized. Hair appears visibly thicker and more robust. The enhanced volume now seems to be an inherent quality of your hair rather than just a temporary styling effect. Many users report that they need less time and fewer styling products to achieve their desired volume, as the hair naturally has more body and substance.
It’s important to note that results can vary based on your individual hair type, condition, and styling routine. Those with extremely fine or thinning hair may see more dramatic improvements than those who already have moderately thick strands.
Comparing Redken Volume Injection to Other Volumizing Shampoos
The market is flooded with volumizing shampoos, so how does Redken Volume Injection stack up against the competition? I’ve analyzed its performance compared to several popular alternatives:
When compared to Paul Mitchell Extra Body Shampoo ($17.50), Redken Volume Injection provides similar immediate volume but offers better long-term thickening results. Paul Mitchell creates excellent initial lift but lacks the cumulative thickening benefits of Filloxane. However, it comes at a lower price point, making it more budget-friendly.
Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo ($25) is another professional-grade option. It excels at creating lightweight volume and shine, particularly for very fine hair. Some users find it more gentle on the scalp than Redken, but it doesn’t provide the same progressive thickening effect over time.
Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo ($90) sits at a higher price point and offers excellent color protection in addition to volumizing benefits. While it creates good volume, many users find that Redken provides more noticeable body and lift for a significantly lower investment.
Kenra Volume Shampoo ($21) is praised for its ability to increase volume up to 45% and adds shine to fine hair. It creates excellent bounce and body but may not provide the same level of root lift as Redken Volume Injection. However, some users with oily scalps find Kenra works better for their hair type.
For those on a tighter budget, John Frieda Volume Lift Shampoo ($8) offers decent volumizing results at a drugstore price point. While it can’t match the progressive thickening benefits of Redken, it provides a good immediate volume boost for those not wanting to invest in a premium product.
Overall, Redken Volume Injection stands out for its combination of immediate lift and progressive thickening benefits. While not the least expensive option, it delivers professional-quality results that justify its slightly higher price point for many users.
Is Redken Volume Injection Shampoo Right for All Hair Types?
While Redken Volume Injection Shampoo is marketed primarily for fine hair, it’s worth exploring whether it’s suitable for various hair types and conditions.
For fine hair, this shampoo is a natural fit. The lightweight formula creates volume without weighing down delicate strands, and the thickening agents provide much-needed body and substance. If you have fine hair that falls flat or lacks volume, this product was specifically designed for your hair type.
Those with medium-thickness hair may also benefit, particularly if they desire more volume at the roots or overall body. However, the effects may be less dramatic than on finer strands.
For thick hair, Volume Injection is generally not the best choice. Those with already thick hair typically need hydration and control rather than additional volume. Other Redken lines like All Soft or Frizz Dismiss would likely be more beneficial.
When it comes to hair concerns, those with oily scalps have reported mixed results. While the formula does cleanse effectively, some users find their hair becomes oily more quickly than with clarifying shampoos. A potential solution is to use this shampoo alongside a clarifying formula, alternating between the two.
For those with colored hair, the good news is that Redken Volume Injection is color-safe. It won’t strip or fade your color, making it suitable for highlighted, bleached, or color-treated hair. However, very damaged or over-processed hair might benefit more from a repairing formula like Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate before focusing on volume.
If you have a sensitive scalp, you should proceed with caution. While many users don’t experience irritation, the formula does contain sulfates and fragrance, which can be triggering for some. Performing a patch test before full application is advisable.
For curly hair, the volume benefits can be fantastic for creating lift at the roots, but you may want to pair it with more moisturizing styling products to maintain curl definition and fight frizz.
The Cost Analysis: Is It Worth the Investment?
At approximately $27 for a 10.1 oz bottle, Redken Volume Injection Shampoo sits firmly in the professional salon category rather than the drugstore price range. Is this investment justified by its performance?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this product, several factors come into play:
First, consider the longevity of the product. Users report that a little goes a long way, with a quarter-sized amount being sufficient for most hair lengths. A 10.1 oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with regular use, bringing the cost to approximately $9-13.50 per month – comparable to a few cups of specialty coffee.
The quality of ingredients is another important consideration. The inclusion of proprietary ingredients like Filloxane and the Bodifying Complex represents significant research and development costs that are reflected in the price. These specialized ingredients provide benefits that many lower-priced alternatives can’t match.
When comparing to salon treatments for volume, the value becomes more apparent. A single professional volumizing treatment can cost $50-100 and provides temporary results, while consistent use of this shampoo offers ongoing benefits at a fraction of the cost per use.
Redken also offers larger size options (16.9 oz and 33.8 oz) that provide better value, with the price per ounce decreasing significantly. The 33.8 oz bottle retails for around $54, bringing the cost per ounce down from $2.67 to $1.60 – a 40% savings for those who know they’ll be using the product long-term.
Additionally, consider the potential reduction in styling products needed. Many users report needing less volumizing mousse, spray, or powder when using this shampoo, which can offset the initial investment.
For those still hesitant about the price, Redken occasionally offers travel or trial sizes that allow you to test the product before committing to a full bottle. This can be a good way to determine if the formula works well with your particular hair type and concerns.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Volumizing Hair Care Routine
To maximize the benefits of Redken Volume Injection Shampoo, consider incorporating these techniques and complementary products into your hair care regimen:
Start with your washing technique. For maximum volume, wash your hair with your head upside down. This simple adjustment creates lift at the roots from the beginning of your routine. Use lukewarm water rather than hot, as excessive heat can flatten fine hair.
Consider your drying method carefully. While air-drying is gentler on hair, it often results in less volume for those with fine strands. For maximum fullness, rough-dry hair with your head upside down until it’s about 80% dry, then finish styling with a round brush. This technique creates significant lift at the roots.
Strategic product layering can enhance your results. After shampooing and conditioning, apply a lightweight volumizing spray or mousse at the roots while hair is still damp. Redken’s Volume Maximizer or Root Lifter products work particularly well with the shampoo, creating a complete volumizing system.
For styling, ceramic brushes generally create more volume than plastic ones. Round brushes with a mix of nylon and boar bristles provide excellent grip and smoothness while creating body.
Regular scalp exfoliation (once every 1-2 weeks) can enhance the effectiveness of volumizing shampoos by removing buildup that weighs hair down. Consider using Redken’s Detox Hair Cleansing Cream periodically to reset your scalp and hair.
Avoid heavy conditioners or oils near the roots, as these can counteract the volumizing benefits of the shampoo. Apply conditioner from mid-lengths to ends only, and use lightweight leave-in products that won’t weigh hair down.
Incorporate volumizing styling techniques like back-combing at the crown or using velcro rollers while hair is cooling after blow-drying. These methods create lasting volume that enhances the effects of the shampoo.
Finally, remember that diet and overall hair health play significant roles in how your hair responds to volumizing products. Staying hydrated and ensuring adequate protein intake can improve hair’s natural body and response to volumizing treatments.
Common Myths About Volumizing Shampoos Debunked
When it comes to volumizing hair products, several persistent myths can lead to confusion and disappointment. Let’s separate fact from fiction:
Myth 1: Volumizing shampoos damage hair over time
Reality: While some older formulations relied heavily on stripping agents, modern volumizing shampoos like Redken Volume Injection are formulated with hair health in mind. They create volume through ingredients that temporarily expand the hair shaft rather than by damaging it. Redken’s formula actually helps strengthen hair with continued use.
Myth 2: You need to use a lot of product to get results
Reality: Using too much shampoo can actually counteract volumizing benefits by weighing hair down with product residue. A quarter-sized amount is typically sufficient, even for longer hair. The key is thorough distribution and proper rinsing rather than quantity.
Myth 3: Volumizing products only work for a few hours
Reality: While immediate lifting effects might be temporary, ingredients like Filloxane in Redken Volume Injection provide cumulative benefits with regular use. The hair actually becomes thicker over time, not just temporarily expanded.
Myth 4: Volumizing shampoos work best on dirty hair
Reality: Volume starts with a clean foundation. Product buildup and excess oil weigh hair down, so volumizing shampoos are most effective on hair that’s washed regularly. For maximum volume, most hairstylists recommend washing fine hair daily or every other day.
Myth 5: All volumizing shampoos are essentially the same
Reality: There are significant differences in formulation between brands and products. Some focus on temporary lift through alcohol-based ingredients, while others like Redken use complex technologies to create both immediate and long-term volume. The specific ingredients and their concentrations vary widely between products.
Myth 6: Volumizing shampoos can’t be used on colored hair
Reality: Many modern volumizing shampoos, including Redken Volume Injection, are color-safe. Always check the product labeling, but most professional brands now formulate all their products to be compatible with color-treated hair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Redken Volume Injection Shampoo
Is Redken Volume Injection Shampoo sulfate-free?
No, this shampoo contains sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate as cleansing agents. While sulfates have received negative attention, they’re effective at removing oil and buildup, which is important for creating volume in fine hair.
Can I use this shampoo daily?
Yes, the formula is gentle enough for daily use, especially for those with fine hair that gets oily quickly. Many users with fine hair find that daily washing with a volumizing shampoo produces the best results.
Will this shampoo work for hair loss or thinning?
While it can create the appearance of fuller hair through volumizing effects, it’s not specifically designed to treat hair loss. For concerns about thinning hair, Redken’s Densify or Thickening shampoos might be more appropriate.
How long does it take to see results?
Most users notice an immediate improvement in volume after the first use. The cumulative thickening benefits from Filloxane typically become more apparent after 2-3 weeks of consistent use.
Does it work for curly hair?
Yes, it can add volume to curly hair patterns. However, those with very dry or frizz-prone curls might need additional moisturizing products to balance the cleansing effects of the shampoo.
Is this product tested on animals?
Redken states that they do not test their products or ingredients on animals. However, they are sold in China where animal testing is required by law, so this is something to consider if cruelty-free products are important to you.
Can men use this product too?
Absolutely. The formula works on all fine hair types regardless of gender. Men with fine or thinning hair can benefit from the volumizing and thickening effects just as much as women.
Does it help with greasy roots?
Many users report that it effectively cleanses the scalp of excess oil, which can help reduce greasiness at the roots. However, individual results may vary based on your natural oil production and hair care habits.
Will this make my hair feel dry or stiff?
When used properly, it shouldn’t. The formula includes conditioning agents to maintain softness while adding volume. If hair feels dry, you might be using too much product or need to adjust your conditioning routine.
Can I use this with other Redken products?
Yes, it’s designed to work well with other Redken styling products. It pairs particularly well with the Volume Injection Conditioner and other volume-enhancing styling products from the Redken line.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Redken Volume Injection Shampoo
After thorough testing and research, it’s clear that Redken Volume Injection Shampoo delivers on its promises for most users with fine, flat hair. Its innovative formula with Filloxane creates both immediate and progressive volume, addressing the core challenges that come with fine hair types.
The immediate lifting effects provide a quick solution for flat hair, while the long-term thickening benefits offer something many volumizing shampoos lack – cumulative improvement with continued use. This dual approach makes it particularly valuable for those who have struggled to find lasting solutions for fine hair.
While no product works perfectly for everyone, the generally positive reviews and professional endorsements suggest that it’s worth trying if volume is your primary hair concern. The professional-grade formulation justifies its price point for most users who prioritize hair volume and are willing to invest in quality products.
For best results, consider using it as part of a complete volumizing system with the matching conditioner and styling products. This integrated approach typically yields more dramatic and consistent results than using the shampoo alone.
Ultimately, Redken Volume Injection Shampoo earns its place as a strong contender in the volumizing category. Its thoughtful formulation addresses both immediate and long-term volume needs while maintaining hair health – a balance that’s difficult to achieve but crucial for those with fine hair who don’t want to sacrifice condition for volume.
Last update on 2025-07-01 / 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!
