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Maintaining vibrant hair color requires careful attention, and sometimes, a fresh start is needed. When dye jobs fade or unwanted tones appear, best clarifying shampoos to remove color can be a valuable tool.
However, not all clarifying shampoos are created equal, especially when dealing with colored hair. Choosing the wrong product can strip your hair of essential moisture, leading to dryness and damage.
This review article focuses on helping you navigate the market and find the best clarifying shampoos to remove color effectively and safely. We understand the importance of quality formulations that cleanse without compromising hair health.
Our guide explores key factors to consider, ensuring you get the best value and achieve the desired results while preserving the integrity of your locks. —
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color Compared

π BEST OVERALL L’Oreal Paris Clarify Sulfate Free Shampoo with Antioxidants
- Sulfate-free formula is gentle on color-treated hair.
- Effectively removes product build-up and residue.
- Provides noticeable hydration and improves manageability.
- Contains Vitamin C and Glycine, beneficial for hair health.
4.6/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo
- Aids in fading hair color.
- Can help prepare hair for new color.
- Suitable for lightening existing hair color.
- Made in the USA.
4.7/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two
- Effectively removes product buildup.
- Suitable for oily hair types.
- Color-safe formula.
- Leaves hair feeling clean and shiny.
4.7/5
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Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo (1 Packet) – Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Product Build Up + Resins from Hair – Shine Restoring
- Effectively removes product buildup.
- Sulfate-free, vegan, and cruelty-free formula.
- Color-safe for treated hair.
- Contains magnesium and limonene to support hair health.
4.4/5
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Odele Clarifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- Effective at removing product buildup and impurities.
- Color-safe formula.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
4.4/5
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MANIC PANIC Prepare to Dye Clarifying Shampoo for
- Effectively removes product buildup and excess oils.
- Contains natural extracts like ginseng, rosemary, and sage.
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
- Prepares hair for optimal color deposit by opening hair cuticles.
4.7/5
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oVertone Haircare The Fader Clarifying Shampoo – pH-Balanced Deep Cleansing Shampoo for All Hair Types – Fast Color Fading Formula with Intense Hydration – Sulfate-Free
- Gently fades semi-permanent hair color.
- Sulfate, ammonia, and paraben-free formula.
- Removes buildup and impurities effectively.
- Suitable for all hair types.
4.4/5
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Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo For All Hair Types – Removes Buildup and Strengthens Hair Cuticle
- Effectively removes product buildup and hard water minerals.
- Suitable for all hair types and textures, including color-treated hair.
- Leaves hair feeling thoroughly cleansed and refreshed.
- Formulated to strengthen the hair cuticle and add shine.
4.6/5
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Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo
- Effectively removes product buildup and impurities.
- Gentle formula designed to avoid stripping or drying hair.
- Aims to improve color vibrancy and shine.
- Color-safe formula.
4.8/5
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Nexxus Clean and Pure Clarifying Shampoo With ProteinFusion
- Lightweight clarifying formula
- Free of silicones, dyes, and parabens
- Contains ProteinFusion for added nourishment
- Aims to restore hair’s strength, elasticity, shine, and moisture
4.7/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color
L’Oreal Paris Clarify Sulfate Free Shampoo with Antioxidants – Sulfate-free formula is gentle on color-treated hair.
The L’Oreal Paris EverPure shampoo and conditioner set aims to protect color-treated hair by removing residue and build-up while providing moisture. The shampoo effectively clarifies the scalp, leaving hair feeling clean. The conditioner delivers noticeable hydration, making hair softer and more manageable.
The sulfate-free formula is a definite plus for those concerned about harsh chemicals, and the inclusion of Vitamin C and Glycine suggests a focus on hair health. While the claim of “2x the moisture” might be subjective, the set does provide adequate hydration. It’s a decent option for maintaining color vibrancy and overall hair health, especially if you’re looking for a sulfate-free alternative.
The recommendation to alternate with their bond repair line is worth considering for damaged hair.
Pros
- Sulfate-free formula is gentle on color-treated hair.
- Effectively removes product build-up and residue.
- Provides noticeable hydration and improves manageability.
- Contains Vitamin C and Glycine, beneficial for hair health.
- Vegan formula free of parabens, dyes and gluten
Cons
- The “2x the moisture” claim might be an exaggeration.
- The scent is relatively generic.
Keracolor Fade Effect Color Fading Shampoo – Aids in fading hair color.
The Color Fading Shampoo offers a straightforward approach to gradually lightening hair color. The 9.75 fl. oz.
bottle provides a decent amount of product for several uses, depending on hair length and frequency of washing. As a fading shampoo, its primary function is to accelerate the color removal process, which can be useful for preparing hair for a new dye job or simply lightening existing color. Being made in the USA might be a positive factor for consumers who prioritize domestically produced goods.
Effectiveness will likely vary based on the initial hair color and condition. It’s important to read the instructions carefully and consider performing a strand test before applying it to the entire head to gauge the expected results and avoid unwanted outcomes.
Pros
- Aids in fading hair color.
- Can help prepare hair for new color.
- Suitable for lightening existing hair color.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Effectiveness varies depending on initial hair color and condition.
- Requires careful application and a strand test is recommended.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two – Effectively removes product buildup.
This clarifying shampoo promises a deep cleanse, targeting oily hair and product buildup. The ‘lemony fresh’ scent is a pleasant addition, and the color-safe formula is a definite plus for those with treated hair. It effectively removes styling product residue, leaving hair feeling cleaner and lighter.
While it does deliver on its promise of a squeaky-clean feel and added shine, some users might find it slightly drying with frequent use. Overall, it seems a suitable option for occasional use to refresh and clarify hair, particularly for those struggling with oiliness or product accumulation.
Pros
- Effectively removes product buildup.
- Suitable for oily hair types.
- Color-safe formula.
- Leaves hair feeling clean and shiny.
- Pleasant, fresh scent.
Cons
- May be slightly drying with frequent use.
Malibu C. Un-Do-Goo Shampoo (1 Packet) – Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Product Build Up + Resins from Hair – Shine Restoring – Effectively removes product buildup.
The Malibu C Favorite pH Balanced Anti-Residue Shampoo aims to remove product buildup and restore shine to hair. It’s marketed as a sulfate-free, vegan, and color-safe option, which is appealing to many users. The inclusion of magnesium and limonene is intended to support hair growth.
Instructions suggest weekly use or before chemical treatments. The shampoo lathers adequately and leaves hair feeling clean, though some users may find it requires a follow-up conditioner for optimal hydration. While effective at removing residue, it’s important to follow the instructions closely and consider using the recommended Malibu C Wellness Remedy for a complete detox.
It is a specialized product, so expectations should be aligned accordingly.
Pros
- Effectively removes product buildup.
- Sulfate-free, vegan, and cruelty-free formula.
- Color-safe for treated hair.
- Contains magnesium and limonene to support hair health.
Cons
- May require a follow-up conditioner for added hydration.
- Best results achieved when used with other Malibu C products.
Odele Clarifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Effective at removing product buildup and impurities.
The Odele clarifying shampoo aims to deeply clean and revitalize hair by removing product buildup, chlorine, and hard water deposits. The formula is designed to be color-safe and gentle, catering to all hair types struggling with buildup. The product boasts a dermatologist-tested, vegan, and cruelty-free formulation, free from harsh chemicals like SLS/SLES sulfates, formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
It has a gender-neutral, all-natural fragrance. While the product highlights its cleaning abilities, the user experience in terms of overall hair feel and long-term effects will determine its effectiveness. Initial impressions based on ingredients and claims are positive.
Pros
- Effective at removing product buildup and impurities.
- Color-safe formula.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Dermatologist-tested.
Cons
- Effectiveness heavily relies on individual hair type and water hardness.
- The natural fragrance might not appeal to everyone.
MANIC PANIC Prepare to Dye Clarifying Shampoo for – Effectively removes product buildup and excess oils.
The Manic Panic Prepare to Dye shampoo aims to create a clean base for semi-permanent hair color application. It effectively removes product buildup and excess oils, utilizing ingredients like ginseng root, rosemary, and sage extract. The light grapefruit scent adds a pleasant touch.
The shampoo also claims to protect hair from UV damage and improve color vibrancy. It boasts a higher pH level to aid in opening the hair cuticle for better color absorption. The product is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of ammonia, PPD, parabens, gluten, and phthalates.
While designed for oily hair and pre-color treatment, users should note its clarifying properties might not be ideal for everyday use, especially for those with dry or damaged hair.
Pros
- Effectively removes product buildup and excess oils.
- Contains natural extracts like ginseng, rosemary, and sage.
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
- Prepares hair for optimal color deposit by opening hair cuticles.
- Pleasant grapefruit scent.
Cons
- Higher pH and clarifying properties may be too drying for frequent use or dry hair.
- Potentially stripping for already damaged hair.
oVertone Haircare The Fader Clarifying Shampoo – pH-Balanced Deep Cleansing Shampoo for All Hair Types – Fast Color Fading Formula with Intense Hydration – Sulfate-Free – Gently fades semi-permanent hair color.
The Overtone The Fader Clarifying Shampoo aims to gently fade semi-permanent hair color while cleansing the hair and scalp. The sulfate-free formula is designed to be safe for all hair types, including those with color-treated hair, which is a plus. The shampoo effectively removes buildup and impurities, leaving hair feeling clean.
It’s also formulated without ammonia or parabens. It’s important to note that results may vary depending on the initial color and hair type. The recommended application is straightforward: apply to wet hair, leave for at least one minute, and rinse.
Overall, this shampoo offers a relatively gentle approach to fading semi-permanent color.
Pros
- Gently fades semi-permanent hair color.
- Sulfate, ammonia, and paraben-free formula.
- Removes buildup and impurities effectively.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula.
Cons
- Color fading results may vary depending on the dye and hair type.
- May require multiple uses to achieve desired fading.
Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo For All Hair Types – Removes Buildup and Strengthens Hair Cuticle – Effectively removes product buildup and hard water minerals.
Redken Hair Cleansing Cream is designed to remove buildup from hair, addressing concerns like product residue, hard water minerals, and excess oil. The shampoo aims to purify and refresh the hair, leaving it shiny and strengthened. Formulated with alpha hydroxy acid and a cleansing complex, it targets various impurities, including copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium.
It is suitable for both color-treated and non-color-treated hair. It aims to deeply cleanse oily and greasy hair, removing dirt, grease, and styling residues, potentially preparing it for salon treatments. Users can expect a thorough cleansing experience with this product.
Pros
- Effectively removes product buildup and hard water minerals.
- Suitable for all hair types and textures, including color-treated hair.
- Leaves hair feeling thoroughly cleansed and refreshed.
- Formulated to strengthen the hair cuticle and add shine.
Cons
- May be too drying for some hair types if used too frequently.
- The clarifying effect may strip color if used excessively on color-treated hair.
Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo – Effectively removes product buildup and impurities.
The Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo aims to remove impurities like hard water minerals, chlorine, and product buildup from hair. It promises a deep cleanse without stripping hair of its natural oils or affecting color vibrancy.
The shampoo claims to improve shine and softness while removing heavy metals and pollutants. Users can incorporate this into their routine weekly or as needed. The product focuses on reviving dull, discolored hair, leaving it soft and vibrant.
Itβs intended to be a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining healthy-looking hair by removing damaging impurities and revitalizing shine.
Pros
- Effectively removes product buildup and impurities.
- Gentle formula designed to avoid stripping or drying hair.
- Aims to improve color vibrancy and shine.
- Color-safe formula.
Cons
- May require additional moisturizing treatments for very dry hair.
- Frequency of use (weekly or as needed) might vary depending on individual hair needs.
Nexxus Clean and Pure Clarifying Shampoo With ProteinFusion – Lightweight clarifying formula
The Nexxus Clean & Pure Clarifying Shampoo aims to detoxify and hydrate hair simultaneously. It’s a lightweight formula designed to remove impurities without stripping the hair of essential moisture. The shampoo features ProteinFusion, a blend of elastin protein and marine minerals, which is intended to smooth and nourish hair.
The absence of silicones, dyes, and parabens makes it a potentially suitable option for those with sensitive scalps or damaged hair. The product promotes itself as capable of restoring hair’s strength, elasticity, shine, and moisture. While it claims to detoxify and lock in moisture in one step, individual results may vary.
Consider using it with other products in the Clean & Pure line for optimal results.
Pros
- Lightweight clarifying formula
- Free of silicones, dyes, and parabens
- Contains ProteinFusion for added nourishment
- Aims to restore hair’s strength, elasticity, shine, and moisture
Cons
- Results may vary depending on hair type and condition.
- May require using other products from the same line to achieve the best results.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color
Understanding Clarifying Shampoos and Color-Treated Hair
Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse the hair, removing buildup from styling products, hard water minerals, and environmental pollutants. However, traditional clarifying shampoos can be harsh and strip color from color-treated hair. The best clarifying shampoos to remove color are formulated to be gentler, often sulfate-free, while still effectively cleansing. These shampoos help maintain color vibrancy while keeping your hair clean and healthy.
Key Ingredients to Look For
When choosing the best clarifying shampoo to remove color, look for sulfate-free formulas. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause color to fade quickly. Ingredients like antioxidants (Vitamin C), Glycine, magnesium, and limonene can support hair health. ProteinFusion can add nourishment. Also, consider shampoos that are vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, dyes, and gluten if those are important to you.
Identifying Your Hair Needs
Consider your hair type and concerns. If you have oily hair, a clarifying shampoo designed for oily hair might be beneficial. If you’re looking to fade your hair color, a color-fading shampoo is a better choice. If you want to maintain color vibrancy, look for clarifying shampoos specifically formulated to be color-safe. If you have hard water, look for chelating ingredients to remove mineral buildup. Always prioritize gentle formulas to extend the life of your hair color.
How to Use Clarifying Shampoo Correctly
Clarifying shampoos should not be used daily. Overuse can lead to dryness and color fading. Typically, using a clarifying shampoo once or twice a month is sufficient. Follow with a hydrating conditioner or hair mask to replenish moisture. Always read the product instructions carefully, as usage recommendations may vary. Using the best clarifying shampoo will help keep your hair clean, healthy, and vibrant, without compromising your color.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color
What are the benefits of using a clarifying shampoo if I have color-treated hair?
Clarifying shampoos designed for color-treated hair offer a deep cleanse without stripping your color. They remove product buildup, hard water minerals, and environmental pollutants that can dull your hair and weigh it down. The best clarifying shampoos formulated for color-treated hair also contain nourishing ingredients to maintain moisture and vibrancy, leaving your hair feeling clean, refreshed, and healthy. It’s important to choose a color-safe formula.
How often should I use a clarifying shampoo if I have color-treated hair?
Using a clarifying shampoo too often can strip your hair of essential oils and fade your color. For color-treated hair, aim to use a clarifying shampoo once or twice a month, depending on your hair type and product usage. If you use a lot of styling products or live in an area with hard water, you might need to use it more frequently, but always monitor your hair for signs of dryness.
What ingredients should I avoid in a clarifying shampoo for color-treated hair?
Avoid clarifying shampoos that contain sulfates, as these can be harsh and strip color quickly. Also, be cautious of products with high alcohol content, which can dry out your hair. Look for sulfate-free formulas with moisturizing ingredients like natural oils, glycerin, or aloe vera to help maintain your hair’s hydration and color vibrancy. Always read the ingredient list carefully.
Can clarifying shampoo help prepare my hair for a new color treatment?
Yes, clarifying shampoo can be beneficial for preparing your hair for a new color treatment. By removing buildup and residue, it creates a clean base that allows the new color to penetrate more effectively and evenly. This can result in a more vibrant and longer-lasting color. However, avoid using a clarifying shampoo immediately before coloring, as it can make your hair more porous. A day or two before is ideal.
What are some signs that I need to use a clarifying shampoo?
Signs that you might need a clarifying shampoo include dull, lifeless hair that feels heavy or greasy, even after washing. You might also notice that your styling products aren’t working as effectively or that your hair is difficult to style. If you swim frequently or live in an area with hard water, buildup can accumulate quickly, requiring more frequent clarifying treatments. The best clarifying shampoos will restore shine and bounce.
How do I choose the right clarifying shampoo for my specific hair type?
Consider your hair type when selecting a clarifying shampoo. If you have oily hair, look for a formula that specifically targets excess oil and buildup. For dry or damaged hair, choose a moisturizing clarifying shampoo with hydrating ingredients. If you have fine hair, opt for a lightweight formula that won’t weigh your hair down. Always prioritize color-safe options to protect your color investment.
Can clarifying shampoos fade my hair color?
Traditional clarifying shampoos can fade hair color due to their harsh cleansing agents. However, the best clarifying shampoos designed for color-treated hair are formulated to be gentler and color-safe. These shampoos typically use sulfate-free cleansers and may contain ingredients that help protect color vibrancy. Always check the product label to ensure it’s specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Are there any natural or DIY alternatives to clarifying shampoos?
While there are DIY options, they may not be as effective or safe as professionally formulated clarifying shampoos. Apple cider vinegar rinses can help remove buildup, but they can also be drying and may not be suitable for all hair types. Baking soda is another option, but it can be harsh and damage your hair if used incorrectly. It’s generally safer to use a commercially available, color-safe clarifying shampoo.
What is the difference between a clarifying shampoo and a regular shampoo?
Regular shampoos are designed for everyday cleansing, removing dirt and oil from the hair and scalp. Clarifying shampoos, on the other hand, are formulated for a deeper cleanse, targeting product buildup, hard water minerals, and other impurities that regular shampoos can’t remove. Clarifying shampoos often contain stronger cleansing agents and should be used less frequently.
What are the key factors to consider when selecting the best clarifying shampoos to remove color?
When choosing the best clarifying shampoos to remove color, prioritize sulfate-free formulas to prevent color stripping. Look for hydrating ingredients to maintain moisture and vibrancy. Consider your hair type and specific needs, such as oily hair or hard water buildup. Always check for color-safe claims and read reviews to ensure the product effectively cleanses without compromising your color. Price and availability are also important factors.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
Overall, the L’Oreal Paris Clarify Sulfate Free Shampoo with Antioxidants EverPure shampoo and conditioner set is a solid choice for maintaining color-treated hair. It effectively cleanses and hydrates without harsh chemicals. It’s recommended for those seeking a sulfate-free and color-safe option for daily use.