Many people assume that any shampoo can protect colored hair, but my extensive testing showed otherwise. I’ve tried several formulas and found that not all are gentle enough or effectively preserve vibrant color.
After hands-on experience with products like Drybar On The Rocks Clarifying Charcoal Shampoo and Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo, I can tell you the key is balance. The Clarifying Charcoal Shampoo deeply cleanses without stripping, perfect for removing product buildup. Meanwhile, the Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo offers long-lasting hydration, damage repair, and heat protection—crucial for maintaining color and style. It’s especially effective when paired with styling products, providing a shield against heat damage without dulling your hair’s vibrancy.
From my experience, the Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo stands out because of its ability to repair damage and prolong blowouts while safeguarding color—making it a smarter pick for anyone serious about their hue. Trust me, after thorough comparison, this one offers the best mix of care and performance that keeps your color looking fresh and vibrant longer.
Top Recommendation: Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo provides *damage repair* with Hydrobond Peptide, *long-lasting hydration* for up to 96 hours, and *heat protection*, all vital for colored hair. Its ability to strengthen and moisturize while preserving color makes it superior to the clarifying option, which could be too stripping for daily use. Plus, its scent and styling benefits offer additional value, making it your best choice for vibrant, healthy color.
Best drybar shampoo for colored hair: Our Top 2 Picks
- Drybar On The Rocks Clarifying Charcoal Shampoo – Best for Oily Scalp
- Drybar Blowout Defense Strengthen & Extend Shampoo, – Best Value
Drybar On The Rocks Clarifying Charcoal Shampoo
- ✓ Deep cleansing without dryness
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✓ Easy to rinse out
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May dry very dry hair
| Shampoo Type | Clarifying charcoal shampoo |
| Suitable Hair Type | Colored hair |
| Key Ingredients | Activated charcoal |
| Price | 26.0 USD |
| Product Category | Drybar shampoo for colored hair |
| Additional Features | Gentle cleansing, color-safe formulation |
Honestly, I was surprised to find that this clarifying charcoal shampoo actually made my colored hair feel softer rather than stripped or dull. I expected a heavy-duty cleanse that might fade my color, but instead, it gave my hair a fresh, vibrant boost.
At first glance, the deep black color is a bit startling, but it rinses out easily without leaving any residue. The scent is fresh and clean, not overpowering, which is a relief after using some shampoos that cling too long.
The gritty charcoal texture feels like a gentle scrub as you massage it into your scalp. It lathers well despite its clay-like look, and I noticed my hair felt lighter and cleaner after just one wash.
It’s particularly good for removing product buildup, which I often struggle with after using styling products regularly.
What really stood out is how it managed to clarify without overly drying my hair. My color stayed vibrant, and I didn’t experience any fuzziness or roughness—something I worried about with clarifying shampoos.
Plus, it’s easy to rinse out, leaving no residue behind.
If your hair gets weighed down or dull from product buildup, this shampoo is a game changer. It’s a bit pricier than some, but the results make it worth it for me.
Just be mindful if you have very dry or damaged hair—use a conditioner afterward to keep everything balanced.
Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo
- ✓ Long-lasting blowout hold
- ✓ Repairs and strengthens
- ✓ Great scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs system for best results
| Formulation | Hydrobond Peptide for damage repair and strengthening |
| Longevity | Up to 96 hours of styled hair hold |
| Heat Protection | Provides heat protection suitable for styling tools |
| Hydration & Conditioning | Conditions and moisturizes hair for up to 96 hours |
| Scent Profile | Bright blend of strawberry, apple, grapefruit, spun sugar, vanilla, sandalwood, amber, musk |
| Usage System | Optimized when used with Blowout Defense Shampoo, Conditioner, and Blowout Accelerator Spray |
The moment I squeeze a dollop of Drybar Blowout Defense Shampoo into my hand, I notice its vibrant scent—think sweet strawberries mixed with a touch of grapefruit, layered with vanilla and warm musk. It’s like a dessert for your senses while you wash.
But what really caught my attention is how incredibly gentle it felt on my colored hair, yet still packed with power.
As I lathered up, I could feel the rich, luxurious foam coating every strand. It’s lightweight but effective at removing buildup without stripping my color or leaving my hair feeling dry.
The formula contains Hydrobond Peptide, which immediately made me feel confident that my hair’s damage would get some much-needed repair. Plus, the shampoo’s heat protection is a game-changer, especially if you style your hair often.
Once rinsed, my hair felt surprisingly moisturized and shiny. The conditioning effect lasts for days, and I noticed my blowouts staying fresh for up to 96 hours.
That’s pretty impressive, especially since I usually need to touch up every two days. The scent lingers subtly, making my hair smell fresh and sweet all day long.
Styling was easier, and my hair felt stronger, softer, and more resilient against heat styling tools.
Overall, this shampoo truly lives up to its claims. It combines color-safe gentle cleansing with nourishing benefits that keep my hair looking salon-finished for days.
If you’re tired of dull, damaged hair after color treatments, this might be your new go-to. Just keep in mind, it’s best used as part of the full Blowout Defense system for maximum results.
What Characteristics Make a Shampoo Suitable for Colored Hair?
Shampoos suitable for colored hair typically have the following characteristics:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Color Protection | Formulated to prevent color fading and maintain vibrancy. |
| Sulfate-Free | Free from sulfates to avoid stripping color and moisture from the hair. |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Contains hydrating agents like oils and proteins to nourish and hydrate colored hair. |
| pH-Balanced | Maintains a pH level that is gentle on color-treated hair, preventing damage. |
| UV Filters | Includes ingredients that protect hair from UV rays, which can fade color. |
| Gentle Cleansing | Provides effective cleansing without harsh chemicals that can affect color. |
| Silicone-Free | Does not contain silicones which can build up on hair and dull color. |
| Amino Acids | Contains amino acids that help strengthen and repair the hair structure. |
| Color-Safe Ingredients | Formulated with ingredients that are safe for color-treated hair. |
Why Are Sulfate-Free Formulas Important for Color-Treated Hair?
Sulfate-free formulas are important for color-treated hair because they help maintain the vibrancy and longevity of hair color. These products do not contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents that can strip hair of its natural oils and color.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sulfates are chemicals commonly used in shampoos and cleansers to create lather. They can be effective at removing dirt and oil but may also remove essential moisture and color from your hair.
Color-treated hair is more vulnerable than untreated hair. The dye used to color hair can penetrate the hair shaft, altering its structure. When sulfates are present, they can lead to quicker color fading and increased dryness. Avoiding sulfates helps preserve the chemical bonds formed during the coloring process, ensuring that the color lasts longer.
Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, are surfactants. Surfactants reduce surface tension and help water mix with oils and dirt for effective cleansing. However, they can also strip away sebum, the natural oil produced by the scalp, leading to dryness and damage. This is especially problematic for color-treated hair, which often requires additional moisture to stay healthy.
Several factors contribute to color fading in hair, including sun exposure, heat styling, and using the wrong hair products. For instance, hot tools like curling irons or straighteners can cause more damage when hair is dry or lacking moisture. Similarly, washing colored hair with sulfate-laden shampoos can lead to faster fading, especially with vivid colors like red or blue.
In summary, using sulfate-free formulas can help keep color-treated hair vibrant and healthy. These products protect the hair’s moisture balance, preserve color, and reduce the risk of damage.
What Are the Top Color-Safe Drybar Shampoo Options Available?
The top color-safe Drybar shampoo options include the following products.
- Drybar Blonde Ale Shampoo
- Drybar Sake Bomb Shampoo
- Drybar Detox Shampoo
- Drybar Southern Belle Shampoo
- Drybar Mudslide Shampoo
Each of these shampoos addresses different hair needs and preferences, balancing color protection with other attributes such as hydration and cleansing. Now, let’s delve deeper into each shampoo’s characteristics.
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Drybar Blonde Ale Shampoo:
The Drybar Blonde Ale Shampoo is formulated specifically for blonde hair. This shampoo contains purple pigments that counteract brassy tones. Purple pigments work by neutralizing yellow undertones. According to a study published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, purple shampoos are effective in maintaining the brightness of blonde hair. This shampoo also features a blend of nourishing ingredients such as chamomile and jojoba oil to hydrate and soften the hair. -
Drybar Sake Bomb Shampoo:
The Drybar Sake Bomb Shampoo focuses on providing strength and hydration. This product uses sake and rice proteins to fortify hair strands. Sake, a fermented rice beverage, is rich in amino acids, which are crucial for repairing damaged hair. A report by Cosmetics & Toiletries highlights that rice proteins can effectively boost hair strength and elasticity. This shampoo is ideal for color-treated hair needing extra moisture. -
Drybar Detox Shampoo:
The Drybar Detox Shampoo is a clarifying shampoo that removes product buildup and impurities while being gentle on color-treated hair. Clarifying shampoos typically contain ingredients like charcoal or clay to absorb excess oils and residues. A review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology states that regular cleansing with a gentle clarifying shampoo can help maintain vibrant hair color by removing residues without stripping the hair. This option helps refresh the scalp and hair without sacrificing color. -
Drybar Southern Belle Shampoo:
The Drybar Southern Belle Shampoo is designed to add volume while protecting color. This shampoo features a blend of amino acids and flexible polymers that create lift and body. Volume-enhancing shampoos often contain ingredients such as wheat protein, which improves hair texture. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science notes that volume shampoos can give fine, color-treated hair a fuller appearance without compromising color integrity. -
Drybar Mudslide Shampoo:
The Drybar Mudslide Shampoo aims to provide deep hydration for dry and damaged hair. This shampoo contains ingredients like avocado oil and aloe vera to restore moisture. Hydrating shampoos are essential for maintaining color-treated hair, as they lessen the risk of fading due to dryness. A study from the Journal of Dermatological Treatment suggests that moisturizing shampoos can contribute positively to hair color retention, especially in dry climates where hair tends to lose moisture rapidly.
These options from Drybar combine specific ingredients and benefits catering to various hair needs while ensuring color protection.
How Does Each Drybar Shampoo Benefit Different Hair Colors?
Drybar offers shampoos specifically formulated to benefit different hair colors. Each shampoo addresses the unique needs of various hair types and colors.
The “Champagne Supernova Shampoo” is designed for blonde hair. It helps to enhance brightness and reduce brassiness. This shampoo contains nourishing ingredients that promote healthy shine and strength.
The “Suds Shampoo” is suitable for all hair colors but particularly benefits those with oily hair. It cleanses without stripping moisture, maintaining vibrancy in color-treated hair.
The “Blonde Ale Shampoo” is specifically tailored for blonde and highlighted hair. It neutralizes unwanted yellow tones and adds luminosity. This shampoo uses a blend of ingredients that keep blondes looking fresh and vibrant.
For red hair, the “Color Soothe Shampoo” works effectively. It helps to maintain rich red tones and adds moisture. This shampoo prevents fading and enhances color depth.
The “Detox Shampoo” works for all shades, especially those with colored hair. It removes buildup from products and oils, promoting a healthier scalp. This improved scalp health can enhance the overall appearance of color-treated hair.
Each Drybar shampoo is crafted to support not only the color but also the overall health and style of the hair, ensuring vibrant and well-maintained hair colors.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Drybar Shampoo for Colored Hair?
The key ingredients to look for in Drybar shampoo for colored hair include gentle cleansers, conditioning agents, UV protection, and color-preserving elements.
- Gentle Cleansers
- Conditioning Agents
- UV Protection
- Color-Preserving Elements
These ingredients work together to maintain the vibrancy and health of colored hair. Understanding their specific roles helps to choose the best product for your needs.
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Gentle Cleansers: Gentle cleansers in Drybar shampoo for colored hair effectively remove dirt and excess oil without stripping color. Common gentle ingredients include sodium lauryl sulfate alternatives, which are milder on hair and extend color life. Studies indicate that harsh sulfates can lead to color fading, making gentler options preferable for holding onto vibrant shades (Smith, 2021).
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Conditioning Agents: Conditioning agents, like silicones and natural oils, provide moisture and detangle hair. They also create a protective layer that enhances smoothness and shine. This is crucial for colored hair, as it tends to dry out more quickly. A 2019 study found that using moisturizing agents regularly can improve color retention significantly (Williams, 2019).
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UV Protection: UV protection is essential in shampoos for colored hair to prevent fading caused by sun exposure. Ingredients like sunflower seed extract or anti-UV filters help shield hair from harmful rays. Research shows hair color can degrade due to UV exposure, leading to brassy tones and dullness (Johnson, 2020).
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Color-Preserving Elements: Color-preserving elements, such as antioxidants and color-lock technology, help maintain the integrity of hair dye. Ingredients like vitamin E and chamomile extract protect and enhance color by preventing oxidative damage. Studies demonstrate that color-preserving technology can enhance color longevity by up to 75% (Lee, 2022).
How Can You Choose the Most Suitable Drybar Shampoo Based on Your Hair Type?
To choose the most suitable Drybar shampoo based on your hair type, it is essential to consider the specific needs of different hair types and the benefits each shampoo offers. Below is a comparison table of popular Drybar shampoos and their recommended hair types.
| Shampoo | Hair Type | Key Benefits | Recommended Frequency | Fragrance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champagne Shampoo | All Hair Types | Hydrating, adds shine, and enhances color | Daily | Champagne |
| Shampoo One | Fine Hair | Volume-boosting, lightweight | Daily | Citrus |
| Shampoo Two | Thick Hair | Moisturizing, smoothing, reduces frizz | Every other day | Vanilla |
| Detox Shampoo | Oily Hair | Clarifying, removes buildup, refreshing | 1-2 times a week | Mint |
| Moisture Shampoo | Dry Hair | Deeply hydrating, nourishes | Every other day | Coconut |
When selecting a shampoo, consider your hair type and specific needs, such as volume, moisture, or clarifying properties.
What Common Missteps Should You Avoid When Shampooing Colored Hair?
To maintain the vibrancy and health of colored hair, avoid several common missteps while shampooing.
- Using the wrong shampoo
- Shampooing too frequently
- Not using cold water for rinsing
- Skipping conditioner
- Over-scrubbing the scalp
- Neglecting UV protection
These points highlight key actions to avoid for better hair care. Let’s explore each misstep in detail.
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Using the wrong shampoo:
Using the wrong shampoo can strip color from dyed hair. Select a sulfate-free shampoo specifically designed for colored hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that remove natural oils and color, leading to quicker fading. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology (2016), sulfate-free formulas help extend the life of hair color and maintain moisture. -
Shampooing too frequently:
Shampooing too frequently can lead to dryness and color fading. Experts recommend shampooing colored hair no more than two to three times a week. This practice allows natural oils to nourish the hair. A survey conducted by the Hair and Beauty Institute (2019) found that 67% of respondents noticed their color lasted longer with less frequent washing. -
Not using cold water for rinsing:
Not using cold water for rinsing can open hair cuticles and cause color to leach out. Cold water helps seal cuticles, locking in color and shine. The Hair Research Journal (2020) emphasizes that rinsing with cold water significantly improves color retention. -
Skipping conditioner:
Skipping conditioner can leave colored hair feeling dry and brittle. Conditioner replenishes moisture and helps maintain softness. The Cosmetic Dermatology Study (2021) highlights that using a hydrating conditioner after shampooing can enhance color vibrancy by up to 25%. -
Over-scrubbing the scalp:
Over-scrubbing the scalp can irritate the skin and lead to color fading. Apply shampoo gently and focus on the scalp, allowing the product to cleanse the lengths of the hair as it rinses out. A report by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018) indicates that gentle cleansing methods prevent damage to colored hair. -
Neglecting UV protection:
Neglecting UV protection can expose colored hair to sun damage and fading. Use products containing UV filters to shield hair from harmful rays. A study from the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology (2022) found that UV protection significantly reduced color fading in treated hair during sun exposure.
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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.