Beautiful color may be made at the salon, but it's maintained at home. In order to keep your new color salon-fresh and vibrant, you need to use the right haircare regimen. From avoiding environmental factors or damaging ingredients like sulfates to using at-home toning shampoos, there are many ways to protect and extend the life of your color.
WHAT CAUSES HAIR COLOR TO FADE?

Photo Credit: @jleighwebdoeshair
Understanding why your vibrant salon color starts to lose its luster is the first step in preventing it. Several factors contribute to color fading, some of which are more prominent during warmer months.
Now that we know the enemies of vibrant color, let's explore how Redken helps you fight back with the best shampoo for color treated hair.
FIND THE RIGHT SHAMPOO FOR YOUR COLOR-TREATED HAIR

You don't need to avoid summer fun to maintain your color. Besides tossing on a hat or lathering on hair sunscreen, you can protect against color-fading with the right haircare regimen. From moisturizing and strengthening your strands to toning your beach blonde, these are the best shampoos for color treated hair to try in the summer and year-round.
REDKEN COLOR EXTEND MAGNETICS: YOUR EVERYDAY AT HOME COLOR PROTECTOR
If you're looking for an everyday solution that offers comprehensive color protection, look no further than Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo. Redken’s Color Extend Magnetics is a sulfate-free haircare system that helps to add shine and enhance color vibrancy for all hair colors. It's truly a top contender when asking, "what is the best shampoo for color treated hair?"
"The RCT technology of Color Extend Magnetics targets the root, core, and tip of each hair strand. With Soy Protein, Arginine, and Sepicap, the hair receives protein to add structure, as well as conditioning and restoration benefits,” explains Redken Artist Jaclyn Harwood, “This system works to strengthen the hair and lock in color.” This means not only is your color protected, but your hair also feels healthier and looks shinier. It's the ideal sulfate free shampoo for color treated hair for anyone seeking longevity and brilliance. For optimal results, pair it with Redken Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner . This system provides an excellent foundation for any colored hair products regimen.

REDKEN ACIDIC COLOR GLOSS: FOR ULTIMATE HAIR SHINE AND LASTING COLOR VIBRANCY

Want to achieve that ultimate glossy finish that lasts? The Redken Acidic Color Gloss range is your secret weapon for extending salon-fresh color and maximize salon-fresh color and shine. To further lock in your color and amplify its brilliance, start your routine with Acidic Color Gloss Shampoo and Conditioner. For a deep treatment weekly, use in place of conditioner for hydration, shine and color vibrancy the Acidic Color Gloss Hydrating Hair Mask. Lock in shine and protect hair from heat with the Acidic Color Gloss Leave-In Treatment. Finally, increase shine, control frizz and add a glossy finish with the Acidic Color Gloss Naked Gloss Lightweight Hair Oil . This system is designed to keep your color looking fresh, vibrant, and incredibly glossy between salon visits.
REDKEN COLOR EXTEND BLONDAGE: BANISH BRASS, EMBRACE BRIGHTNESS
If you've recently gone blonde, you know that summertime stressors such as sun and chlorine can cause blonde hair color to become brassy or even green, with unwanted yellow undertones showing through. Redken’s Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo is a color-depositing purple shampoo system that works to banish brass while keeping blonde hair color cool and bright. Think of this as your at-home toner, and a must-have among products for color treated hair for blondes.
“Redken’s Blondage system tones, brightens and strengthens blonde hair,” explains Harwood, “The system’s pure violet pigments counteract yellow undertones leaving the hair brighter, while Redken’s Triple Acid Protein Complex strengthens the hair. Summertime sunshine and outdoor activities can contribute to loss of moisture in the hair’s proteins, leaving the hair brassy and adding unwanted warmth. Redken’s Blondage neutralizes these unwanted tones to ensure blonde hair color stays bright and strong." For anyone asking, "color-treated hair shampoo for blondes?" this is your answer. Complete your routine with Blondage Conditioner and the Blondage Anti-Brass Mask for maximum brass-fighting power.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAMPOO FOR YOUR COLOR-TREATED HAIR
With so many options, how do you pick the perfect one? Check out our Hair 101 article on how to choose the best shampoo for your hair.
Consider these factors:
1. Your Hair Type:
2. Your Color's Longevity Needs:
3. Specific Hair Concerns:
KEY INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR IN COLOR-SAFE SHAMPOOS
Beyond just looking for "color-safe" on the label, understanding key ingredients can help you make an informed choice:

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING COLOR-TREATED HAIR BEYOND SHAMPOO
Your shampoo is a crucial first step, but a holistic approach is key to truly lasting color.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID WITH COLOR-TREATED HAIR
Despite our best intentions, sometimes our day-to-day habits can damage our hair color. From forgetting to use a heat protectant to over-washing our strands with harsh clarifying shampoos, there are several ways that our haircare routines can affect our hair color. By taking a few extra precautionary measures, you can drastically change the look and feel of hair. Here are seven bad hair habits that could be fading your hair color.
FAQ: SHAMPOO FOR COLOR-TREATED HAIR
What is the difference between color treated and chemically treated hair?
Color-treated hair is a type of chemically treated hair where a chemical process is used to alter the hair's pigment. Chemically treated hair is a broader term that includes color treatments, but also other chemical services like perms, relaxers, and keratin treatments. Both color-treated and other chemically treated hair often require specialized care, usually sulfate-free and strengthening products, due to the structural changes the chemicals induce.
Why do I need a special shampoo for color-treated hair?
Color-treated hair is more vulnerable to fading, dryness, and damage. Specialized shampoos help preserve color vibrancy, maintain hair health, and prevent premature fading by avoiding harsh ingredients and adding moisture.
Which shampoo should I use for color-treated hair?
The best shampoo for color-treated hair is typically a sulfate-free formula designed to protect and enhance color vibrancy. Redken Color Extend Magnetics is an excellent choice for all color-treated hair types, while Redken Blondage is specifically formulated for blondes to neutralize brassiness. For damaged, color-treated hair, Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate provides repair and strengthens hair to better hold color. For intense, molecular level shine and color vibrancy, Redken Acidic Color Gloss.
How do I know if a shampoo is color-safe?
Look for labels like “sulfate-free,” “color-safe,” or “for color-treated hair.” Product descriptions and ingredient lists can also help you identify suitable options.
Can I use a regular conditioner with color-safe shampoo?
For best results, use a conditioner from the same color-safe line. These are formulated to work together to protect and nourish color-treated hair.
Are there shampoos for specific hair colors?
Yes! For example, Redken’s Color Extend Magnetics and Acidic Color Gloss shampoos are suitable for all color-treated hair, while Blondage is designed for blondes. Choose a shampoo that matches your hair color and needs.
Can I use purple shampoo on all color-treated hair?
Purple shampoos like Redken’s Color Extend Blondage are formulated specifically for blonde, silver, or highlighted hair to neutralize brassy tones. They’re not necessary for darker shades, but are excellent for maintaining cool or platinum blondes.
What is the benefit of using a bonding shampoo or system?
Bonding shampoos, such as Redken's Acidic Bonding Concentrate, help repair and strengthen damaged hair. Healthy hair holds color better and is less likely to fade or become discolored.
What ingredients should I avoid in shampoos for color-treated hair?
Sulfates are the main ingredient to avoid, as they can strip color and natural oils from your hair. Look for sulfate-free formulas to protect your color and keep your hair healthy.
How often should I wash color-treated hair?
It’s best to limit washing to 2–3 times per week. Over-washing can cause color to fade faster. When you do wash, always use a gentle, color-safe shampoo.
How long does color-treated hair last?
The longevity of color-treated hair varies widely based on factors such as the type of dye used (e.g., permanent, semi-permanent), the vibrancy of the color (fashion colors fade faster), hair porosity, and your at-home haircare routine. Generally, permanent hair color from a salon can last 4-8 weeks before needing a touch-up due to root growth and some fading.
What can make color-treated hair last longer?
To make color-treated hair last longer, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, wash your hair less frequently with lukewarm water, always use heat protectant before styling, wear a hat to protect from sun exposure, and incorporate masks and treatments to strengthen and hydrate your hair. Avoid harsh clarifying shampoos and ensure consistency in your color-safe haircare routine.
How long does it take hair color to fade?
Hair color can start to show signs of fading within 2-4 weeks, though some colors, especially vibrant reds or pastels, may fade more noticeably and quickly. The rate of fading depends on various factors like washing frequency, sun exposure, heat styling, and the quality of your haircare products.
How long does color from a salon last?
Professional salon hair color, especially permanent dyes, typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks before roots start to show significantly and some fading occurs. Semi-permanent colors might last 4-6 weeks, while fashion colors can fade quicker, sometimes in just 1-2 weeks if not properly maintained.
How to treat color-treated hair at home?
Treat color-treated hair with gentle care. Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, and incorporate weekly hair masks or treatments designed for color protection and repair. Minimize heat styling, protect your hair from sun and chlorine, and opt for cooler water temperatures when washing.
What hair color fades the slowest?
Darker, natural-looking shades (like deep browns and blacks) often fade the slowest because their pigments are more stable and less susceptible to environmental factors. Conversely, vibrant reds, purples, and pastels tend to fade the fastest due to their larger, less stable pigment molecules.
What hair color stays the longest?
Hair colors that stay longest are generally those closer to your natural hair shade, especially darker, rich tones. These colors have pigments that integrate more seamlessly with your hair's natural undertones and are less prone to oxidation and stripping compared to lighter or more vibrant artificial shades.
How often should I wash my color-treated hair?
Aim to wash your color-treated hair as infrequently as possible, ideally 2-3 times a week, or even less if your hair can tolerate it. On non-wash days, use a dry shampoo to refresh your roots and extend your style.
What effect does swimming and chlorine have on color-treated hair?
Chlorine is very damaging to color-treated hair, causing fading, brassiness, and dryness. To protect your hair, wet it thoroughly with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil before swimming. This creates a barrier against chlorine absorption. Rinse your hair immediately after swimming with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
What causes hair color to fade in the summer?
Sun exposure, chlorine from pools, and saltwater can all cause color to fade or change. UV rays break down color pigments, while chlorine and saltwater strip moisture, making hair more prone to fading and damage.
How can I protect my hair color in the summer?
Use a sulfate-free, color-protecting shampoo, wear a hat or use hair sunscreen, and rinse hair after swimming. Consider using strengthening and moisturizing products, like the Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate system, to keep hair healthy.
TAKE THE HAIR QUIZ TO FIND THE RIGHT PRODUCT FOR YOU
Investing in the right shampoo for color treated hair and following a consistent, protective haircare routine will ensure your salon-fresh color stays vibrant, shiny, and beautiful for as long as possible. Embrace your color, and let Redken help you make it last!




