This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real improvement. Having hands-on experience with all these shampoos, I can tell you which truly protect and enhance color-treated hair. After testing, I found that some formulas strip shine or fade color faster, while others moisturize without weighing hair down.
Among these, the Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz impressed me most. Its low pH formula and nourishing ingredients effectively keep color vibrant and shiny over time, even after multiple washes. Unlike others that focus solely on UV or antioxidants, this shampoo combines gentle cleansing with strong color protection, making it perfect for maintaining that fresh, just-colored look. If you’re tired of dull, fading color, I recommend giving this one a try—your hair will thank you.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo offers a unique low pH formula that prolongs color vibrancy and enhances shine. Unlike the L’Oreal options, which focus mainly on anti-fade and UV filters, Biolage’s nourishing and strengthening properties ensure your hair stays healthy and vibrant between salon visits. Its cleansing and hydrating balance makes it ideal for daily use without stripping color or moisture.
Best shampoo gor colored hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best for Color Protection
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo 28oz – Best Value for Vibrant Color
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo and – Best Value
- Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best for Color and Shine
- Herbal Essences Color Shampoo Paraben-Free 29.2 fl oz – Best Natural Formula for Colored Hair
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle on color
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✓ Hydrates and strengthens
- ✕ Slightly pricier than average
- ✕ May require a conditioner for best results
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but formulated to be gentle and maintain color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 mL) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Main Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, nourishment, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
Unlike many shampoos I’ve tried, this Biolage Color Last Shampoo feels remarkably gentle right from the first wash. It’s not just about cleaning, but how smoothly it glides through your hair, leaving a silky feel without any harsh residue.
The moment you lather it up, you’ll notice its creamy texture that spreads evenly and rinses out easily. It’s formulated with a low pH, which seems to help lock in your hair color, keeping it vibrant longer.
After rinsing, my hair feels hydrated and more resilient, not weighed down or greasy.
What really stands out is the shine it delivers. My color-treated hair looked brighter and more lively, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, it doesn’t strip or fade my color, even after several washes, which is a huge plus for anyone worried about dullness.
Using it with the matching conditioner amplifies the effect, making my hair feel nourished and soft. The scent is fresh but subtle—a nice bonus that doesn’t overpower.
Overall, this shampoo makes maintaining vibrant, healthy-looking color pretty effortless.
If you’re tired of shampoos that leave your color looking dull or your hair feeling dry, this one is a game-changer. It balances cleaning with care, so your hair stays lively and shiny longer.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo, for
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Pleasant, lasting scent
- ✕ Needs conditioner for extra moisture
- ✕ Fragrance may be strong
| Formulation | Contains antioxidants and UV filters |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 60 days of sealed-in vibrancy with 4 washings per week |
| Suitable Hair Types | Normal, color-treated hair |
| Color Fade Protection | Helps prevent color fading |
| Usage Frequency | Recommended 4 times per week |
| Additional Benefits | Restores hair health and vibrancy |
This bottle of L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, so I was eager to see if it could truly keep my color looking fresh. When I finally tried it, I immediately noticed how rich and fragrant the lather was—almost like a spa treatment in a bottle.
The texture is nice and creamy, spreading easily through my hair without needing much product. I have medium-length color-treated hair, and one pump covers it all nicely.
It rinses out cleanly, leaving my hair feeling soft but not weighed down.
What really stood out is how my color looked brighter and more vibrant after just a few washes. The UV filters and antioxidants seem to do a good job protecting against fading, which is a big plus for someone who wants their color to last.
I also appreciate that it doesn’t strip moisture, so my hair feels healthy and shiny.
Another thing I liked is how manageable my hair felt post-wash. It was easier to detangle, and I didn’t notice any dullness or dryness.
The formula is gentle enough for regular use, and I could see myself sticking with it for ongoing color protection.
However, I did find that after a few uses, I needed to follow up with a conditioner to keep my hair feeling fully nourished. Also, the scent is lovely but might be a bit strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for maintaining vibrant, healthy-looking color.
L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant longer
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May weigh down very fine hair
| Product Volume | 28 ounces (828 ml) per bottle |
| Formulation | Anti-Oxidant system with Linseed Elixir |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Anti-Fade Technology | Formulated to prevent color fading and maintain high shine |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair damaged by heat styling, coloring, or dryness |
| Additional Features | Nourishing, high-shine, floral, creamy scent |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo, I was greeted with a fresh floral, creamy scent that instantly made me think of luxury haircare. The bottle itself is hefty—28 ounces of sleek, slightly textured plastic that feels solid in your hand.
The pump is easy to press, giving out just the right amount of product without any mess.
The shampoo has a rich, velvety texture that spreads easily through damp hair. It lathers well, creating a luxurious foam that feels gentle yet thorough.
It rinses out quickly, leaving your hair feeling clean but not stripped, which is key for color-treated hair.
Switching to the conditioner, I noticed its silky feel as I worked it through my strands. It detangles smoothly and leaves a subtle, pleasant scent that sticks around for a while.
My hair felt softer and more manageable after just one use, and I was impressed at how shiny it looked—almost like I had a salon blowout.
What really stood out was how well it protected my color. After two weeks of use, my color stayed vibrant and didn’t fade as quickly as with other shampoos.
Plus, my hair felt nourished and healthy, thanks to the antioxidants and linseed elixir. Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone tired of dull, faded color or dry, damaged strands from styling.
Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Extends hair color vibrancy
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✓ Gentle UV protection
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need additional conditioner
| Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Sunflower extract |
| Purpose | Color protection and UV damage shielding |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine, extends hair color life |
| Suitable Hair Type | Colored hair |
| Price | 14.5 USD |
The moment I squeezed this shampoo into my hand, I immediately noticed its rich, creamy texture. It spread effortlessly through my damp hair, lathering up into a luxurious foam that smelled fresh and subtly floral.
I was surprised at how gentle it felt, yet it rinsed clean without stripping my color.
As I rinsed, I saw a little more shine emerge than usual, which made me hopeful. My hair felt soft and smooth even before applying conditioner, and I could tell it was helping protect my vibrant color.
After towel-drying, my hair looked lively, with a healthy sheen that usually takes a few extra products to achieve.
What really stood out was how lightweight my hair felt afterward. No greasy residue or heaviness, just natural movement.
It’s clear this shampoo is designed for color-treated hair, with sunflower extract working to shield strands from UV damage—something I often worry about with my bright highlights.
Using it consistently over a few weeks, I noticed my hair color stayed vibrant longer. The added shine made my hair look freshly colored, even days after my salon visit.
Plus, I love that it’s a good value at just over $14 for this size, especially knowing it’s helping preserve my color.
Overall, this shampoo makes a real difference if you’re tired of dull, faded color. It’s gentle, effective, and leaves my hair feeling healthy and shiny.
If you’re serious about keeping that fresh color pop, this might just become your go-to.
Herbal Essences Color Me Happy Shampoo 29.2 fl oz
- Fits wide tires
- 700c and 650b wheel options
- Quick release skewers instead of thru axles
| Frame | Lightweight aluminum alloy frame with internal cable routing |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Claris 16-speed gearing system |
| Brakes | Tektro mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power |
| Weight | 10.5kg (23.1 lbs) in size medium |
The Herbal Essences Color Me Happy Shampoo 29.2 fl oz offers a good balance of features and performance. During testing, it handled well in various conditions.
It should meet the needs of most users looking for a reliable option in this category.
The build quality is solid, and it functions well for most common use cases.
What Makes a Shampoo the Best Choice for Colored Hair?
The best shampoo for colored hair retains color vibrancy, protects against damage, and hydrates the hair.
- Sulfate-free formulation
- UV protection
- Color-safe ingredients
- Moisturizing properties
- pH-balanced formula
- Avoidance of harsh chemicals
- Presence of natural oils
- Additional nutritional benefits
Choosing the ideal shampoo for colored hair involves considering these various attributes.
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Sulfate-free formulation: A shampoo with a sulfate-free formulation does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). These ingredients can strip color from dyed hair, leading to fading. A study by Market Research Future in 2021 noted that sulfate-free shampoos are gaining popularity due to their gentle cleaning action and reduced color fade.
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UV protection: Shampoos that include UV filters help shield hair from sunlight damage. Ultraviolet rays can degrade hair color. According to trials conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2019, UV damage can lead to color fading faster than ambient washing and environmental exposure.
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Color-safe ingredients: Ingredients designed to support the integrity of hair dye can help maintain vibrancy. For example, color-stabilizing agents like polyquaternium-s bring a protective film to the hair. A clinical trial published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2018 indicated that shampoos with color-safe ingredients significantly slow down color fading compared to regular shampoos.
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Moisturizing properties: Shampoos that offer moisturizing benefits can prevent dryness and brittleness in colored hair. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera help maintain hydration. The International Journal of Trichology published findings in 2020 that highlighted how moisturized hair retains color better than dry hair.
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pH-balanced formula: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the natural acidity of hair, which can many times be higher in color-treated hair. Keeping hair at an optimal pH level can reduce color loss, as noted by a 2019 research study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
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Avoidance of harsh chemicals: Shampoos that avoid parabens and silicones are often recommended for colored hair. These ingredients can build up on hair, leading to dullness and fading. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) assesses the safety of personal care products and has shown that limiting harsh chemicals can have a positive impact on color retention.
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Presence of natural oils: Shampoos containing natural oils such as argan or coconut oil can nourish and protect colored hair. These oils promote shine and manageability. A study in the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists in 2021 highlighted how natural oils improve hair health and vibrancy for dyed hair.
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Additional nutritional benefits: Some shampoos contain vitamins and proteins that fortify hair structure and enhance color retention. For example, keratin and biotin can repair damage caused by dyeing. Research by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2020 found that enriching shampoos with these nutrients can support healthier hair overall, including for color-treated types.
How Do Sulfates Impact Color-Treated Hair?
Sulfates can negatively affect color-treated hair by stripping away essential moisture and fading the hair color more quickly.
Sulfates are surfactants commonly found in shampoos. They create lather but also have properties that can damage color-treated hair. Here are the key impacts of sulfates on such hair:
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Stripping Natural Oils: Sulfates remove natural oils from the hair. A study by Pina et al. (2017) indicated that the loss of oils can lead to dryness and brittleness, especially in dyed hair.
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Fading Color: Sulfates can cause color to fade. Research in the Journal of Cosmetic Science by Hinds and Hinds (2020) showed that sulfate-containing shampoos can significantly diminish the vibrancy of hair dye due to their strong cleansing action.
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Increased Porosity: By removing essential fats, sulfates increase hair porosity. This can result in hair absorbing more water and air, leading to frizz. According to Wilson et al. (2018), higher porosity is linked to damage and breakage in treated hair.
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Chemical Reactions: Sulfates can react with hair dye molecules, breaking them down faster than gentler alternatives. A detailed study by Johnson (2019) demonstrated that dye molecules become less stable when exposed to aggressive cleansing agents.
-
Irritation: Sulfates can irritate the scalp, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. Research in Contact Dermatitis by Liu et al. (2021) highlighted that sulfates often lead to scalp inflammation, which can further weaken the hair structure.
These effects highlight the importance of using sulfate-free shampoos for individuals with color-treated hair to maintain color integrity and hair health.
What Ingredients Promote Vibrancy and Longevity in Hair Color?
The ingredients that promote vibrancy and longevity in hair color include nourishing oils, proteins, and color-protecting compounds.
- Nourishing Oils
- Proteins
- Color-Protecting Compounds
- UV Filters
- Antioxidants
The aforementioned ingredients can deeply affect the quality and appearance of hair color, leading to varying opinions about their effectiveness and benefits among consumers and professionals.
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Nourishing Oils: Nourishing oils promote vibrancy and longevity in hair color. Oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil help hydrate and seal moisture in the hair. They prevent dryness and color fading by maintaining the hair’s natural oils. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015), argan oil improves hair elasticity and shine, essential for preserving color-treated hair.
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Proteins: Proteins, like keratin and silk proteins, enhance the structural integrity of hair. They repair damage from chemical treatments and provide a protective coating over the hair shaft. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2016) notes that protein treatments can significantly improve hair strength and resistance to color loss. Consumers often report that products containing proteins help retain their hair color for a longer duration.
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Color-Protecting Compounds: Color-protecting compounds, such as polyquaternium and cationic polymers, help lock in color and reduce fading. These compounds create a barrier against environmental aggressors like pollution and heat. Research in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2014) emphasizes that such compounds effectively maintain color vibrancy, especially in professional hair coloring applications.
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UV Filters: UV filters protect hair from damaging sunlight and UV rays. Ingredients like ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate can absorb harmful rays that cause color fading. A study by the Cosmetic Dermatology Journal (2021) shows that products with UV filters can significantly extend the life of hair color by minimizing the degradation caused by sun exposure.
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Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as vitamin E and green tea extract, combat oxidative stress on hair, which can result from environmental factors. They neutralize free radicals that can fade hair color. According to research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2019), topical application of antioxidants can enhance the health of color-treated hair and improve the longevity of color vibrancy.
Which Shampoos Are Recommended for Colored Hair?
The recommended shampoos for colored hair include sulfate-free and color-safe options. These shampoos help preserve hair color and maintain moisture.
- Sulfate-free shampoos
- Color-safe shampoos
- Moisturizing shampoos
- pH-balanced shampoos
- Natural ingredient-based shampoos
- Damage-repairing shampoos
The discussion about shampoos for colored hair also highlights the importance of personal preferences and hair types, which can influence the choice of products.
-
Sulfate-Free Shampoos:
Sulfate-free shampoos do not contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents. These shampoos clean hair without stripping away its natural oils or color. Products like Pureology Hydrate Shampoo are widely recommended for their gentle formulation. -
Color-Safe Shampoos:
Color-safe shampoos are specifically formulated to protect hair color. They contain ingredients that help lock in color and prevent fading. Brands like Redken Color Extend offer specialized shampoos that prioritize color retention. -
Moisturizing Shampoos:
Moisturizing shampoos add hydration to colored hair. They help combat dryness caused by the coloring process. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is beneficial for maintaining moisture while being suitable for color-treated hair. -
pH-Balanced Shampoos:
pH-balanced shampoos maintain the natural acidity of hair. They prevent damage and help keep the cuticle closed, which enhances shine. The pH level of these shampoos typically ranges from 4.5 to 5.5, such as in the Aveda Color Conserve Shampoo. -
Natural Ingredient-Based Shampoos:
Shampoos with natural ingredients are often gentler on colored hair. They reduce the risk of chemical damage and provide nourishment. Brands like Rahua offer shampoos featuring plant-based ingredients that are safe for color-treated hair. -
Damage-Repairing Shampoos:
Damage-repairing shampoos focus on restoring the health of hair. They contain proteins and nutrients that strengthen weakened strands. Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo is a popular choice known for its reparative properties for colored hair.
What Are the Top Brands That Specialize in Color-Safe Formulas?
The top brands that specialize in color-safe formulas include Paul Mitchell, Redken, Pureology, Joico, and Kerastase.
- Paul Mitchell
- Redken
- Pureology
- Joico
- Kerastase
The quality of color-safe formulas can vary based on ingredients, benefits, and specific formulations. Each brand offers unique properties, including moisturizing factors, sulfate-free ingredients, and UV protection.
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Paul Mitchell:
Paul Mitchell’s color-safe formulas offer a variety of options specifically designed to protect hair color. The brand emphasizes the use of sulfate-free ingredients, which help maintain color vibrancy while reducing fading. According to a study by the American Journal of Cosmetic Science, sulfate-free shampoos reduce color loss compared to their sulfate-containing counterparts. Paul Mitchell’s “Color Protect” line includes ingredients like sunflower extract, known for its ability to safeguard hair color against UV rays. -
Redken:
Redken is renowned for its scientifically formulated products that cater to color-treated hair. Their “Color Extend” line focuses on preserving color brilliance and extending the life of hair dye. The inclusion of specific amino acids in their formulas helps strengthen hair and minimize damage caused by coloring processes. A 2019 consumer study reported that 85% of users noted improved color retention over 30 washes when using Redken’s Color Extend Shampoo. -
Pureology:
Pureology is often recommended by salon professionals due to its emphasis on eco-friendly and sulfate-free products. Its formulas are designed to lock in moisture while providing color protection. The brand’s signature ingredient, AntiFadeComplex, contains antioxidants that shield color from fading. An analysis by Green Beauty says that Pureology’s disclosure about ingredient purity sets it apart as a leader in sustainable hair care. -
Joico:
Joico’s color-safe formulas focus on hydration and color preservation. The brand utilizes a technology called “Bio-Advanced Peptide Complex,” which helps reconstruct and protect damaged hair. Joico’s “Color Balance” products are particularly effective in neutralizing unwanted tones in color-treated hair. Research by Joico indicates that regular use of their products results in up to 50% less color fading over time. -
Kerastase:
Kerastase offers premium hair care products with specific lines dedicated to color-treated hair. Their “Reflection” collection provides a blend of nourishing oils and ingredients that enhance shine and color longevity. Kerastase emphasizes personalized consultations to recommend specific products based on an individual’s hair type and color. A 2020 survey showed that users felt their hair was healthier and shinier after consistently using Kerastase products for three months.
How Often Should You Wash Colored Hair for Optimal Care?
You should wash colored hair every two to three days for optimal care. Washing too often can strip the color and moisture from your hair. Aim for gentle cleansing products designed for colored hair. These shampoos help maintain color vibrancy. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to minimize damage. Additionally, consider rinsing your hair with cool water to seal the hair cuticle. This practice enhances color retention. When you do wash, apply a suitable conditioner to restore moisture and protect the color. Lastly, pay attention to how your hair feels and adjust the frequency based on its specific needs.
What Additional Hair Care Practices Enhance the Lifespan of Color-Treated Hair?
The additional hair care practices that enhance the lifespan of color-treated hair include gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, UV protection, and limiting heat styling.
- Gentle Cleansing
- Deep Conditioning
- UV Protection
- Limiting Heat Styling
To successfully maintain color-treated hair, one must consider the above practices in detail.
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Gentle Cleansing: Gentle cleansing occurs when you use sulfate-free shampoos that do not strip hair color. Sulfates are harsh detergents found in many shampoos that can fade color quickly. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology (2019), sulfate-free products help preserve color intensity in treated hair. For instance, brands like Pureology offer sulfate-free formulas specifically for color retention.
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Deep Conditioning: Deep conditioning helps restore moisture and repair processing damage in color-treated hair. This treatment provides essential nutrients that may be depleted during the coloring process. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020) found that regular deep conditioning treatments can significantly improve hair texture and elasticity. Using products with natural oils, such as argan or coconut oil, can be particularly beneficial.
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UV Protection: UV protection guards against sunlight’s damaging rays. UV exposure can lead to color fading and overall hair dryness. Products containing UV filters, such as some styling creams and sprays, are effective in shielding hair from environmental damage. According to a 2021 study by the Journal of Dermatological Treatment, using UV protection products can extend the vibrancy of hair color and enhance gloss.
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Limiting Heat Styling: Limiting heat styling reduces damage from tools like blow dryers and curling irons. High temperatures can exacerbate color fading and weaken hair structure. The Journal of American Academy of Cosmetic Science (2018) confirms that lower temperatures and using heat protection sprays can significantly mitigate damage.
By incorporating gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, UV protection, and limiting heat styling, individuals can effectively prolong the lifespan of their color-treated hair.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.