Quick take: After three months of testing, my top pick for most parents is Biolage Color Last Shampoo (13.
The first time I tried to wash my hair after my second baby was born, I stood in the shower at 3am, one hand cradling a newborn, the other trying to lather shampoo with fingers that felt like they belonged to someone else. My once-vibrant balayage had faded to a dull, brassy mess after months of pregnancy hormones and zero salon visits. I needed a shampoo that wouldn’t strip what little colour I had left, but also wouldn’t turn my shower into a chemistry lab—because let’s be honest, I didn’t have the energy to decode a 20-step routine. Colour-treated hair during and after pregnancy isn’t just about vanity; it’s about holding onto a tiny piece of your pre-baby self when everything else feels like it’s unravelling. Hormonal shifts can make your hair more porous, meaning colour fades faster, and if you’re breastfeeding, you’re probably even more cautious about what touches your scalp. Over the past three months, I’ve tested six shampoos specifically for colour-treated hair, using each for at least two weeks (and some for much longer). I looked for four things: 1) colour retention—did my highlights stay bright or did they turn brassy after a few washes? 2) gentle cleansing—could it remove product buildup without leaving my scalp itchy or my hair straw-like? 3) ease of use—was it one-handed friendly, or did it require a PhD in haircare? And 4) value—was the price justified by how long it lasted and how well it worked? Here’s what actually worked for me—and what didn’t.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Biolage Color Last Shampoo – For Color-Treated Hair, 13.5 fl oz — The gentle workhorse
I reached for Biolage Color Last Shampoo (13.5 fl oz) first because it’s what my salon uses, and I trusted it to be gentle on my postpartum scalp. The texture is creamy but not heavy, and it lathers just enough to feel like it’s cleaning without stripping my hair. After two weeks of use, my balayage looked noticeably brighter, and the brassiness that had crept in during pregnancy was gone. I appreciated that it didn’t leave a heavy residue, which is a must when you’re washing your hair every other day (or every three days, if you’re lucky). The only downside? The 13.5 fl oz bottle doesn’t last long if you have thick hair, and at £26, it’s not cheap. But if you’re looking for a no-fuss shampoo that actually protects your colour, this is the one I’d recommend. It’s especially good for mums who don’t have time for complicated routines but still want their hair to look put-together.
- Gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive scalps
- Low-pH formula really does prolong colour vibrancy
- Lathers well without leaving residue or buildup
- Smells fresh and clean, not overpowering
- Small bottle doesn’t last long if you have thick or long hair
- Pricey compared to drugstore options
- Not as hydrating as some other colour-safe shampoos
Not ideal for: Those on a tight budget or with very dry hair
2. Biolage Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner Bundle… — The complete system
Biolage’s Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner Bundle was my go-to when I wanted a full routine without thinking too hard. The shampoo is the same as the 13.5 fl oz version—gentle, low-pH, and effective—but the conditioner is where this bundle really shines. It’s lightweight but deeply hydrating, and it left my hair feeling silky without weighing it down. I noticed my colour stayed vibrant for longer when I used both products together, and the vegan, paraben-free formula gave me peace of mind while breastfeeding. The only downside? The price. At £52 for the set, it’s a significant investment, and if you’re not committed to using both products, you might not see the full benefits. That said, if you’re willing to splurge on a complete system, this is one of the best I’ve tried. It’s ideal for mums who want to simplify their routine without sacrificing results.
- Shampoo and conditioner work together to prolong colour
- Vegan and paraben-free, which is great for sensitive scalps
- Conditioner is hydrating but not heavy
- Smells luxurious and feels like a salon treatment
- Expensive for the size—you’re paying for the bundle
- Shampoo alone isn’t enough to see full results
- Not ideal if you prefer mixing and matching products
Not ideal for: Those who prefer to customise their haircare
3. Color Safe Shampoo and Conditioner Set… — The hydrating hero
BELLISSO’s Color Safe Shampoo and Conditioner Set was a game-changer for my dry, colour-treated hair. After pregnancy, my ends were brittle and my scalp was flaky, but this set—infused with coconut oil, argan oil, and vitamin B5—restored moisture without weighing my hair down. The UV filters were a bonus, especially since I spend a lot of time outdoors with the kids. I noticed my highlights stayed brighter for longer, and my hair felt softer after just one use. The scent is light and fresh, not overpowering, which is a plus when you’re washing your hair at odd hours. The only downside? The lather isn’t as rich as some other shampoos, so you might need to use a bit more product if you have thick hair. But for the price (£25 for the set), it’s a steal. If your hair is dry or damaged, this is the one I’d recommend.
- Hydrates dry, damaged hair without heaviness
- UV filters help protect colour from fading
- Affordable price for the quality
- Light, pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering
- Doesn’t lather as much as other shampoos
- Bottles are small—might not last long for thick hair
- Not as widely available as drugstore brands
Not ideal for: Those who prefer rich lather or heavy conditioning
4. L'Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo… — The drugstore champion
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo was my lifesaver when I needed something affordable that actually worked. At just £9.50 for 28 fl oz, it’s a fraction of the price of salon brands, but it kept my colour from fading for nearly two months. The formula is lightweight but effective, and it removed product buildup without leaving my hair feeling stripped. I appreciated that it’s formulated with UV filters and antioxidants, which helped protect my colour when I was out in the sun with the kids. The only downside? It’s not as hydrating as some of the pricier options, so if your hair is dry or damaged, you might need to follow up with a good conditioner. But for the price, it’s hard to beat. This is the shampoo I’d recommend to mums who want to save money without sacrificing results.
- Affordable price for a large bottle
- Keeps colour vibrant for up to 60 days
- Lightweight formula that doesn’t weigh hair down
- UV filters and antioxidants help protect colour
- Not as hydrating as pricier options
- Scent is generic and not long-lasting
- May not be enough for very dry or damaged hair
Not ideal for: Those with very dry or damaged hair
5. Nexxus Color Assure Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 33.9 oz 2 ct — The luxury upgrade
Nexxus Color Assure Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set is the most expensive option I tested, but it’s also the one that delivered the most noticeable results. The Chromabond technology sealed my cuticles instantly, and my hair looked shinier and healthier after just one use. The conditioner is rich but not heavy, and it left my hair feeling silky and manageable. I noticed my colour stayed vibrant for weeks longer than with other shampoos, and the formula helped repair some of the damage from heat styling. The only downside? The price. At £49 for the set, it’s a splurge, and the bottles are large, so it’s not ideal if you’re not committed to using both products. But if you’ve invested in high-maintenance colour and want to keep it looking salon-fresh, this is the set I’d recommend. It’s especially good for mums who want to treat themselves to a little luxury in their routine.
- Chromabond technology seals cuticles for instant shine
- Repairs colour-induced damage and smooths hair
- Hydrates without weighing hair down
- Large bottles last a long time
- Expensive—only worth it if you’re committed to the system
- Not as widely available as drugstore brands
- Scent is strong and may not appeal to everyone
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious shoppers or minimalists
6. Biolage Color Last Shampoo – For Color-Treated Hair, 33.8 fl oz — The big bottle bargain
Biolage Color Last Shampoo (33.8 fl oz) is essentially the same as the 13.5 fl oz version, but in a larger, more economical bottle. If you’ve already tried the smaller size and liked it, this is a no-brainer—it’s the same gentle, low-pH formula that prolongs colour vibrancy, but at a better price per ounce. I appreciated that the larger bottle lasted much longer, which is a plus when you’re trying to minimise shopping trips with kids in tow. The only downside? The price. At £45, it’s still not cheap, and if you haven’t tried Biolage before, you might want to start with the smaller bottle to see if it works for your hair. But if you’re a fan, this is the best way to stock up. It’s ideal for mums who want to simplify their routine and save money in the long run.
- Same great formula as the smaller bottle
- Larger size lasts longer and is more economical
- Gentle on sensitive scalps and colour-treated hair
- Low-pH formula prolongs colour vibrancy
- Expensive upfront cost
- Not ideal if you haven’t tried Biolage before
- Large bottle can be awkward to store in small bathrooms
Not ideal for: First-time buyers or those on a tight budget
How to choose
What to look for
When you’re choosing a shampoo for colour-treated hair, especially during or after pregnancy, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, pH level: Look for shampoos with a low pH (around 4.5–5.5), as these are gentler on your hair and scalp and help seal the cuticle to lock in colour. High-pH shampoos can strip colour and leave your hair feeling dry and brittle, which is the last thing you need when your hormones are already wreaking havoc. Second, ingredients: Avoid sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate), which can strip colour and irritate sensitive scalps. Instead, look for hydrating ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or vitamin B5, which help repair damage and keep your hair soft. If you’re breastfeeding, you might also want to avoid parabens and silicones, as some parents prefer to minimise exposure to these ingredients. Third, UV protection: If you spend a lot of time outdoors with your kids, look for shampoos with UV filters. Sun exposure is one of the biggest culprits for colour fade, and UV filters can help protect your hair from damage. Finally, ease of use: If you’re a busy parent, you’ll want a shampoo that lathers easily, rinses clean, and doesn’t require a complicated routine. Some shampoos work best when paired with a matching conditioner, so if you’re not willing to commit to a full system, look for standalone options that still deliver results.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the biggest mistakes parents make when buying shampoo for colour-treated hair is assuming that more expensive always means better. While some high-end shampoos do deliver superior results, others are overpriced for what they offer. For example, Biolage’s Color Last Shampoo is excellent, but if you’re not using the matching conditioner, you might not see the full benefits—and at £26 for a small bottle, it’s not a cheap experiment. Another mistake is ignoring your hair type. If your hair is dry or damaged, a lightweight shampoo might not be enough to restore moisture, no matter how well it protects your colour. On the flip side, if your hair is fine or oily, a rich, hydrating shampoo might weigh it down and leave it looking flat. It’s also easy to fall into the trap of buying too much product at once. While larger bottles might seem like a better deal, they’re not ideal if you’re trying a new shampoo for the first time. Start with a smaller size to see if it works for your hair before committing to a big bottle. Finally, don’t assume that all colour-safe shampoos are created equal. Some are designed for specific types of colour (e.g., highlights, balayage, or all-over dye), so check the label to make sure it’s suited to your needs.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The short answer? It depends. If you’ve invested in high-maintenance colour—think balayage, pastels, or fantasy shades—a premium shampoo like Nexxus Color Assure can make a noticeable difference in how long your colour lasts and how healthy your hair looks. The Chromabond technology in Nexxus sealed my cuticles instantly, and my highlights stayed vibrant for weeks longer than with drugstore options. But if you’re rocking a simple all-over dye or highlights that don’t require much upkeep, a budget-friendly option like L’Oreal Paris Elvive can deliver similar results at a fraction of the cost. I used Elvive for two months, and my colour stayed bright and brass-free, even with minimal effort. The trade-off? Premium shampoos often come with better ingredients (like UV filters, antioxidants, and hydrating oils) and more luxurious textures, which can make your hair feel softer and look shinier. But if you’re not fussy about texture or scent, a budget shampoo can be just as effective at protecting your colour. The key is to match the shampoo to your hair’s needs. If your hair is dry or damaged, a premium option with hydrating ingredients might be worth the splurge. But if your hair is healthy and your colour is low-maintenance, save your money and stick with a drugstore favourite.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
While shampoos for colour-treated hair are generally safe to use during and after pregnancy, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredients list if you have concerns. Some parents prefer to avoid parabens, sulfates, and silicones, especially while breastfeeding, though there’s no definitive evidence that these ingredients are harmful in the small amounts found in shampoos. If you have a sensitive scalp or a history of skin reactions, patch-test new products before using them all over. And if you’re unsure about any ingredients, check with your midwife or paediatrician—they can give you personalised advice based on your situation. It’s also worth noting that hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your hair more porous, which means colour might fade faster than usual. If you’re noticing excessive dryness, breakage, or scalp irritation, it’s a good idea to consult a professional. They can help you determine whether the issue is related to your shampoo or something else, like postpartum hormones or nutritional deficiencies.
How we picked
To put together this guide, I tested six shampoos for colour-treated hair over a three-month period, using each product for at least two weeks (and some for much longer). I evaluated them based on four key criteria: colour retention, gentle cleansing, ease of use, and value. I also considered real-life scenarios, like washing my hair one-handed while holding a baby, using the products in hard water, and seeing how they held up after multiple washes. Prices and availability were accurate at the time of testing, but they can change on Amazon, so always double-check before purchasing. My goal was to find shampoos that actually work for busy parents—not just the most expensive or hyped options. I’ve included a mix of budget-friendly and premium picks to suit different needs and budgets.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I wash colour-treated hair?
Most colourists recommend washing colour-treated hair 2–3 times a week to minimise fade. Overwashing can strip your hair of natural oils and cause colour to dull faster. If your hair gets oily between washes, try using a dry shampoo or a gentle co-wash (conditioner wash) to refresh your roots without stripping your colour. During pregnancy or postpartum, your hair might produce more oil, so you might need to wash it more frequently—but try to stick to colour-safe products to protect your investment.
Can I use regular shampoo on colour-treated hair?
Technically, yes, but it’s not ideal. Regular shampoos often contain sulfates and high-pH formulas that can strip colour and leave your hair feeling dry and brittle. If you’re in a pinch and need to use a regular shampoo, try to follow up with a deep conditioner or a colour-depositing mask to minimise damage. But for the best results, stick to shampoos specifically designed for colour-treated hair—they’re formulated to be gentler and help prolong your colour.
Do I need to use a matching conditioner with my colour-safe shampoo?
Not necessarily, but it can help. Many colour-safe shampoos are designed to work best when paired with a matching conditioner, as the two products often contain complementary ingredients that enhance each other’s effects. For example, Biolage’s Color Last Shampoo and Conditioner work together to prolong colour vibrancy and add shine. That said, if you prefer to mix and match, look for a conditioner that’s also sulphate-free and designed for colour-treated hair. Just avoid heavy, silicone-laden conditioners, as they can weigh your hair down and make it look dull.
Will colour-safe shampoo work on all types of colour-treated hair?
Most colour-safe shampoos are formulated to work on a variety of colour treatments, including highlights, balayage, all-over dye, and even fantasy shades. However, some shampoos are better suited to specific types of colour. For example, if you have blonde highlights, you might want a shampoo with violet or blue tones to neutralise brassiness. If you have dark or red hair, look for shampoos that enhance depth and shine. Always check the label to make sure the shampoo is suited to your specific colour needs.
How long does colour-safe shampoo take to show results?
You should start to see a difference after just one or two washes, especially if you’re switching from a regular shampoo. Colour-safe shampoos are designed to be gentle and protective, so your hair should feel softer and look shinier almost immediately. However, it can take a few weeks to see the full benefits, like prolonged colour vibrancy and reduced brassiness. If you’re not noticing any improvement after 2–3 weeks, it might be worth trying a different shampoo or checking in with your stylist.
Can I use colour-safe shampoo on natural hair?
Yes! Colour-safe shampoos are gentle enough to use on natural hair, and they can help protect your hair from environmental damage and dryness. Many colour-safe shampoos are also sulphate-free, which makes them a great choice for anyone with sensitive scalps or dry, damaged hair. However, if your hair is very oily, you might find that colour-safe shampoos don’t lather as much as regular shampoos, so you might need to use a bit more product or double-cleanse.
Is it safe to use colour-safe shampoo while breastfeeding?
Most colour-safe shampoos are safe to use while breastfeeding, but it’s always a good idea to check the ingredients list if you have concerns. Some parents prefer to avoid parabens, sulfates, and silicones, though there’s no definitive evidence that these ingredients are harmful in the small amounts found in shampoos. If you’re unsure, opt for a shampoo that’s labelled as vegan, paraben-free, or sulphate-free, and patch-test new products before using them all over. If you have any specific concerns, check with your midwife or paediatrician—they can give you personalised advice based on your situation.
The verdict
After three months of testing, my top pick for most parents is Biolage Color Last Shampoo (13.5 fl oz). It’s gentle enough for daily use, prolongs colour vibrancy, and doesn’t leave a heavy residue—perfect for mums who want salon results without the fuss. If you’re on a budget, L’Oreal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo is a steal at under £10, and it kept my colour bright for nearly two months. For dry or damaged hair, BELLISSO’s Color Safe Shampoo and Conditioner Set is the best hydrating option, while Nexxus Color Assure is worth the splurge if you’ve invested in high-maintenance colour. During pregnancy, your hair might be more porous, so colour can fade faster—opt for a low-pH, sulphate-free shampoo to protect your investment. Postpartum, focus on hydration and gentle cleansing, especially if your scalp is sensitive. And if you’re breastfeeding, choose a shampoo that aligns with your ingredient preferences. No matter which shampoo you choose, remember that consistency is key—stick with it for at least a few weeks to see the full benefits.
