Does your vibrant hair color seem to fade faster than you’d like? If you have curly, color-treated hair, you know the struggle is real. Your beautiful curls need moisture, but harsh shampoos strip away that precious color. Finding a product that keeps your curls bouncy *and* your color bright feels like searching for a unicorn!
The wrong shampoo can leave your curls dry, frizzy, and your highlights looking dull. It’s frustrating when you spend time and money on a great color job only to watch it disappear. You need a formula that understands both needs: gentle cleansing for your curls and protection for your vibrant hue.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what ingredients to look for and which ones to avoid. By the end, you will know precisely which shampoo will keep your curls defined and your color popping. Get ready to transform your wash day routine!
Top Shampoo For Curly Color Treated Hair Recommendations
- DEEP CURL HYDRATION: People love this curly hair shampoo and conditioner set for the way it rescues dehydrated locks. Because curls are naturally prone to drying out, this is the ideal curly and wavy hair shampoo and conditioner to nourish hair in need of moisture. When you’re in search of premium hair products for black women and people with curls, look no further than Pure Nature Lux Spa.
- GOODBYE FRIZZ: Our shampoo and conditioner set for curly hair has been specially formulated to smooth flyaways. This anti frizz shampoo and conditioner smooths stressed out locks, giving you a smooth appearance and defined curls. Take pride in the way you look, with this advanced curl shampoo and conditioner set.
- SULFATE FREE: Say goodbye to your old shampoo and conditioner for curly hair that’s harsh on your scalp and upgrade to this sulfate free shampoo and conditioner from Pure Nature Lux Spa. This curly hair conditioner and shampoo contains zero sulfates and won’t upset your scalp’s pH balance. Better still, our curly and wavy hair products are never tested on animals.
- SALON GRADE: Experience luxury at home with a deeply moisturizing shampoo set that’s trusted by professionals. Our hydrating shampoo and conditioner has been developed in close consultation with salon experts. For a salon shampoo and conditioner set that puts your wellbeing first, look no further than our curly hair products for women and men.
- BOTANICAL EXTRACTS: The secret to this shampoo and deep conditioner for curly hair lies in harnessing the power of botanical extracts. Our shampoo and conditioner for color treated hair contains plant essences like argan oil for shine and definition as well as nourishing aloe vera and tea tree extract to fight frizz and flakes.
- HYDRATING ARGAN OIL: This argan oil shampoo and conditioner set from Bingo Hair Care tames frizz, gives you incredible shine and nourishes with deep hydration. Argan oil for hair has been used for centuries in Morocco to rescue dry and damaged locks, and now you can experience these benefits from the comfort of home with our advanced Moroccan oil shampoo and conditioner
- SULFATE FREE: Say goodbye to your old Moroccan argan oil shampoo and conditioner that strips your hair and scalp of moisture. Bingo Hair Care’s argan shampoo and conditioner set is totally sulfate and paraben free. Better still, our sulfate free shampoo and conditioner are never tested on animals
- DAZZLING SHINE: People love how our argan oil conditioner and shampoo smooth frizz while delivering amazing shine. The active oils in our anti frizz shampoo and conditioner bind to your hair, helping to reduce flyaways and create a smoothing effect. Tame unruly locks and achieve a Hollywood look that turns heads with our shampoo and argan oil conditioner for hair
- SALON GRADE: We’re committed to offering Moroccan oil conditioner and shampoo that takes hair care to the next level. That’s why we’ve worked in close consultation with respected salon experts to deliver a conditioner and shampoo for dry hair and frizz that is salon grade. What’s more, our anti frizz shampoo and conditioner is suitable for all hair types including color treated and bleached hair
- REVERSE DAMAGE: You’ll be amazed how our Moroccan oil hair products can help fight the signs of damage. The secret is how the argan oil binds to each strand, penetrating deep beyond the outer surface of the hair to hydrate and nourish from within. If you’re in search of moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that really works, our argan oil hydrating shampoo and conditioner is the smarter choice
- CURL DEFINITION: Turn up the volume on your curls with this curly hair shampoo and conditioner set from Bellisso. Our shampoo and conditioner set for curly hair has been specially formulated for enhanced definition and bounce. Turn heads for all the right reasons with this premium curly shampoo and conditioner.
- DEEPLY HYDRATING: Our conditioner and shampoo for curly hair is crafted for intense hydration. This is because people with curls tend to experience more dryness meaning that your curly or wavy hair shampoo and conditioner should deliver moisture from root to tip. Bellisso’s advanced shampoo and conditioner for curly hair prevents your hair from drying out by creating a protective coating around each strand to guard against exposure.
- GOODBYE FRIZZ: People who want to take back control of their hair love how our curl shampoo and conditioner set helps tame frizz. Specially formulated with extra hydrating properties, this anti frizz shampoo and conditioner gives curls definition and bounce without compromising on volume.
- SALON GRADE: The days of worrying if your curl conditioner and shampoo will strip color from your hair are over. We’ve worked in close consultation with salon experts to bring you a color treated shampoo and conditioner set that maintains your hair’s vibrancy and helps keep hair curls looking amazing.
- SULFATE FREE: Bellisso’s curly hair products for women and men contain everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Our sulfate free shampoo and conditioner curly hair is totally paraben free and never tested on animals. When you need curly hair products for men and women that help you look amazing and are gentle on your scalp, trust only Bellisso.
- The SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo gently cleanses without stripping essential moisture
- Transform dry, brittle curls into bouncy, vibrant waves and curls with this non-stripping formula including coconut oil & silk proteins in our curly hair shampoo
- This coconut shampoo provides hydration that enhances the elasticity of your curly hair to help define your gorgeous natural curl pattern without weighing it down
- For those with wavy, coily & curly hair, this paraben free shampoo instantly hydrates & defines your curls for healthier feeling hair after just 1 use
- Blended with Neem Oil, the Coconut Hibiscus shampoo and conditioner repair hair, add shine, and leave curls feeling healthy with a show-stopping shine
- SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER FOR CURLY HAIR: Naturals curly hair shampoo cleanses, tames frizz, boosts shine, and defines curls; Curly hair conditioner intensely nourishes to define curls; Peach Coconut fragrance
- MADE WITH 98% NATURALLY DERIVED INGREDIENTS: Dermatologist-Tested and infused with an intensely hydrating blend of Tahitian Gardenia and Mango Butter
- SAFE FOR ALL CURLY HAIR TYPES: Safe for all curl types, including curly, coily, and wavy hair; Safe for natural hair and color-treated hair
- MADE WITH GOOD VIBES ONLY: Sulfate surfactant-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, dye-free, and drying alcohol-free; Packaged in a bottle made with 75% PCR
- USE TOGETHER: Lather and work into wet hair, then rinse thoroughly and follow with conditioner; Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends, then rinse thoroughly
- Shampoo for Curly Hair: This curly hair shampoois formulated for curly hair that needs lightweight, anti-frizz hydration; Coconut Oil delivers deep moisture for up to 48 hours of curl definition
- Lasting Moisture: Curly hair requires special care, and this sulfate free shampoo formula is especially gentle, delivering hydration that won't weigh curls down and featuring coconut oil for soft, manageable, hydrated curls
- The EverPure Hydracharge System: For best results, use EverPure Hydracharge curly hair shampoo and curly hair conditioner in tandem, for a nourishing hair care system that quenches for soft, manageable, hydrated curls
- Vegan Conditioner: EverPure hair products have the purest respect for you hair and have been formulated without sulfates, parabens, dyes and gluten ingredients. Always color caring and powered by science
- L'Oreal Paris Innovation: We are a total beauty care company that combines the latest in technology with the highest in quality for the ultimate in hair color, hair care, hair style, skin care and cosmetics
- The Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Shampoo is a gentle cleanser that can rid the hair strands of build-up adding more bounce to your curls. The formula is lightweight, but since it contains coconut oil, it still packs a lot of moisturizing power. Even dry hair will have more shine and luster. Plus, this curl enhancing shampoo will also add plenty of overall volume to the hair. It also contains plenty of vitamins and beneficial fats which promote hair growth.
- The Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Conditioner adds intense moisture to all types of curly hair. It penetrates deep into the hair strands to soften and condition the hair while adding definition and bounce to the curls. You will get soft and easy to manage curls, and the Coconut Oil Conditioner won't weigh your hair down. Plus, it gently detangles which helps prevent breakage when combing and brushing.
- Coconut Oil: Packed with vitamins C, E, B1, B5 and B6 and contains beneficial fats and fatty acids.
- Rosemary Leaf Oil: Rosemary Leaf Oil is an essential oil. The essential oil can help stimulate hair growth giving you a thicker and fuller head of hair. Plus, it can help slow down the effects of premature graying, and it can help treat a dry and flaky scalp.
- Suitable hair type: This product is suitable for all curl types, adds definition to waves and curls.
- Color Security Shampoo – 100% clean, sulfate-free shampoo is rich-lathering and ideal for all hair types
- Shampoo contains no ingredients (like silicones, thickening agents or conditioners) that stay behind, dulling and weighing hair down
- Moisturizing conditioner for normal to thick hair detangles, smooths & hydrates without weighing hair down
- Promotes healthier hair by not leaving any residues on scalp that can block follicles, impede new hair growth and prevent hair thinning
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Shampoo for Curly Color-Treated Hair
Choosing the right shampoo for curly, color-treated hair is a big deal. Your curls need moisture. Your color needs protection. This guide helps you pick the best bottle.
Key Features to Look For
Great shampoos for this hair type have special jobs. They must clean gently. They must keep your color bright. They must define your curls.
1. Sulfate-Free Formulas
- Why it matters: Sulfates are strong cleaners. They strip your hair of natural oils. They also make your color fade fast. Always choose sulfate-free options.
2. Intense Hydration (Moisture)
- Why it matters: Curly hair dries out easily. Color treatment makes it drier. Look for words like “moisturizing,” “hydrating,” or “nourishing.”
3. Color-Safe Technology
- Why it matters: Good shampoos use ingredients that seal the hair cuticle. This locks the color inside the hair shaft longer.
4. Curl Defining Ingredients
- Why it matters: You want your curls to bounce! Look for ingredients that help shape and reduce frizz.
Important Ingredients: What to Love and What to Skip
The ingredients list tells you everything. Some things help your hair. Other things hurt it.
Ingredients That Improve Quality (Love These!)
- Natural Oils: Coconut oil, Argan oil, and Jojoba oil add deep moisture.
- Butters: Shea butter is excellent for heavy conditioning.
- Proteins (Used Lightly): Hydrolyzed wheat or soy protein can strengthen weak, colored strands.
- Humectants: Glycerin draws moisture from the air into your hair.
Ingredients That Reduce Quality (Skip These!)
- Sulfates: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are harsh detergents.
- Heavy Silicones: Some silicones build up on the hair. This weighs down curls and blocks moisture. Look for water-soluble silicones if a product contains them.
- Drying Alcohols: Avoid long lists of drying alcohols near the top of the ingredient list.
Factors Affecting Shampoo Quality and Use
Quality depends on how the product works with your specific hair needs. Your curl pattern and how often you wash change the results.
Frequency of Use
- If you wash your hair often (every day), you need a very gentle, low-lather formula.
- If you wash only once or twice a week, you can use a slightly stronger, moisturizing cleanser.
Texture and Porosity
- Fine curls need lighter formulas. Heavy butters might flatten them.
- Thick, coarse curls handle richer, creamier formulas better.
User Experience and Best Use Cases
How does the shampoo feel? How does it make your hair look after drying?
The Washing Experience
A good curly, color-safe shampoo should create a light, soft lather, not a huge bubbly mess. It should feel slippery and moisturizing as you rinse it out. If your hair feels squeaky clean or rough after rinsing, the formula is too harsh.
Post-Wash Results
The best shampoo prepares your hair for conditioner. Your curls should feel soft, manageable, and ready to absorb deep moisture. The color should look vibrant, not dull, even before you apply your colored conditioner or mask.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why do I need a special shampoo if my hair is colored?
A: Regular shampoos strip color molecules away from your hair strands quickly. Color-safe formulas clean gently and help keep your bright shade locked in longer.
Q: Can I use a regular moisturizing shampoo instead?
A: You can try, but regular moisturizing shampoos often contain sulfates or ingredients that are not specifically balanced to protect color bonds. It is safer to choose a product made for both needs.
Q: How often should I wash my curly, colored hair?
A: Most curly-haired people wash only once or twice a week. This protects the color and prevents your curls from drying out completely.
Q: Will this shampoo make my curls less defined?
A: If you choose a sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo, it should improve definition by reducing frizz. Avoid shampoos with heavy silicones, as those can weigh curls down.
Q: What does “low-poo” mean in the curly world?
A: “Low-poo” means low-lather. These shampoos use very mild cleansers instead of harsh sulfates. They clean well without stripping too much moisture.
Q: Is it okay if the shampoo contains protein?
A: Yes, color treatment can damage the protein structure of your hair. Small amounts of gentle protein help repair and strengthen the curl structure between coloring sessions.
Q: How do I know if the shampoo is truly color-safe?
A: Look for labels that explicitly state “Color Safe” or “For Color Treated Hair.” Check the ingredient list to confirm it is sulfate-free.
Q: Does the shampoo need to be pH balanced?
A: Yes. Lower pH levels help close the hair cuticle. A closed cuticle traps color inside and makes curls look shinier.
Q: What should I use if my scalp gets oily quickly?
A: Look for a “clarifying” color-safe option, but only use it once a month. For regular washing, focus the shampoo on your scalp and let the suds clean the ends gently.
Q: Should I use a co-wash instead of shampoo sometimes?
A: Co-washing (using conditioner to wash) is great for very dry curls. However, you still need a real, gentle shampoo occasionally to remove product buildup and keep your scalp healthy.