Is Native Shampoo Good for Colored Hair? Exploring Its Benefits and Drawbacks

AvatarByColleen Barnes Hair Washing & Scalp Care

When it comes to maintaining vibrant, healthy hair after coloring, choosing the right shampoo is essential. Colored hair requires special care to preserve its hue, moisture, and overall integrity. Among the many options available, Native Shampoo has gained attention for its natural ingredients and gentle formulation. But is Native Shampoo truly a good choice for colored hair?

Understanding how a shampoo interacts with color-treated strands can make all the difference in extending the life of your hair color and preventing damage. Many shampoos contain harsh chemicals that strip away color and dry out hair, while others are designed to nourish and protect. Native Shampoo’s reputation for being free of sulfates and parabens suggests it might be a promising option, but how does it actually perform for those with dyed hair?

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of using Native Shampoo on colored hair. Whether you’re looking to maintain your salon-fresh look or simply want a safer, more natural hair care routine, understanding how this product works can help you make an informed decision.

Ingredients in Native Shampoo and Their Effects on Colored Hair

Native Shampoo is formulated with a focus on natural ingredients, which can be beneficial for maintaining the health and vibrancy of colored hair. Colored hair tends to be more fragile and prone to dryness, so understanding the ingredients is key to evaluating whether a shampoo is suitable.

Many Native Shampoo variants feature:

  • Coconut Oil: Known for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil helps to nourish and protect hair strands, reducing breakage and dryness often associated with hair coloring.
  • Shea Butter: Provides deep hydration and helps in restoring the softness of color-treated hair.
  • Aloe Vera: Soothes the scalp and adds moisture without weighing down the hair.
  • Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting hair from environmental damage and helping to maintain color longevity.
  • Natural Fragrances: Unlike synthetic fragrances that can irritate the scalp or strip hair color, natural fragrances in Native Shampoo tend to be gentler.

However, it is important to note that not all Native Shampoo variants are specifically designed for color-treated hair. Some may contain sulfates or other cleansing agents that could potentially strip color or dry out hair if used excessively.

How Native Shampoo Supports Color Retention

Maintaining color vibrancy requires shampoos that cleanse without stripping away the hair dye. Native Shampoo’s generally gentle formula helps in this regard by:

  • Using mild surfactants that cleanse effectively but do not aggressively remove natural oils or color molecules.
  • Incorporating moisturizing agents that prevent hair from becoming brittle, a common issue with chemically treated hair.
  • Avoiding harsh chemicals such as parabens and silicones that can build up on color-treated hair and dull its appearance.

To optimize color retention, users should select Native Shampoo variants labeled “sulfate-free” or specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These formulations help reduce fading and maintain hair’s natural shine.

Comparison of Native Shampoo Features for Colored Hair

Feature Native Shampoo (General) Native Shampoo (Color-Treated Formulation) Ideal for Colored Hair?
Sulfate Content May contain mild sulfates Sulfate-free Color-safe
Moisturizing Ingredients Coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera Enhanced hydration complex Better moisture retention
pH Level Neutral to slightly acidic Balanced for color protection Maintains cuticle integrity
Fragrance Natural fragrances Natural, gentle fragrances Less irritation risk
Preservatives Paraben-free Paraben-free Safe for frequent use

Best Practices When Using Native Shampoo on Colored Hair

To maximize the benefits of Native Shampoo on colored hair, consider the following guidelines:

  • Choose the Right Variant: Opt for the sulfate-free and color-protecting versions specifically designed for colored hair.
  • Wash Frequency: Limit washing to 2-3 times per week to avoid excessive color fading.
  • Use Lukewarm Water: Hot water can open hair cuticles and cause color to wash out faster.
  • Follow with Conditioner: Use a color-safe conditioner after shampooing to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture.
  • Avoid Overuse of Styling Products: Heavy product buildup can dull color and stress hair.

By incorporating these practices, Native Shampoo can effectively support the health and appearance of colored hair without compromising vibrancy or moisture balance.

Effectiveness of Native Shampoo for Colored Hair

Native Shampoo is often praised for its natural ingredient list and gentle cleansing properties, which are important considerations for maintaining colored hair. Colored hair requires specialized care to preserve vibrancy, moisture, and strength, and the formulation of the shampoo plays a critical role in achieving this.

Key factors in determining whether Native Shampoo is suitable for colored hair include its cleansing agents, moisture retention capabilities, and presence of color-safe ingredients.

  • Sulfate Content: Native Shampoo is generally formulated without harsh sulfates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). Sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to strip hair color, making them a better choice for colored hair maintenance.
  • Moisturizing Ingredients: Many Native Shampoo variants contain natural moisturizers such as shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. These ingredients help prevent dryness and brittleness, common issues in color-treated hair.
  • pH Balance: Maintaining a slightly acidic pH (around 4.5 to 5.5) is important for sealing the hair cuticle and preserving color. Native Shampoo formulations typically strive for a balanced pH, which supports color longevity.
  • Absence of Harsh Chemicals: Native avoids parabens and phthalates, which can be harsh on chemically treated hair, thereby enhancing the shampoo’s suitability for colored strands.

Comparison of Native Shampoo Features with Other Color-Safe Shampoos

Feature Native Shampoo Traditional Color-Safe Shampoo Professional Salon Shampoo
Sulfate-Free Yes Usually yes Usually yes
Paraben-Free Yes Varies Yes
Natural Ingredients High concentration Moderate to low Low to moderate
pH Balanced for Color Yes Yes Yes
Specialized Color Protection Technology No Sometimes Yes
Price Range Moderate Varies Higher

Recommendations for Using Native Shampoo on Colored Hair

To maximize the benefits of Native Shampoo for colored hair, consider incorporating the following practices:

  • Follow with a Color-Safe Conditioner: Use a conditioner designed to protect color-treated hair to maintain moisture and enhance color longevity.
  • Limit Washing Frequency: Washing colored hair too often can accelerate color fading. Using Native Shampoo 2-3 times per week can help preserve the color.
  • Use Cool or Lukewarm Water: Hot water can open the hair cuticle, leading to faster color loss. Rinsing with cooler water helps seal the cuticle.
  • Avoid Overuse of Styling Products: Heavy use of heat and chemical styling products can damage colored hair. Native Shampoo’s gentle formula supports healthy hair but should be part of an overall mild haircare routine.
  • Patch Test New Variants: Since Native offers multiple scent and ingredient variants, perform a patch test to ensure no irritation or adverse effects, especially if you have sensitive scalp or hair.

Expert Perspectives on Using Native Shampoo for Colored Hair

Dr. Emily Carter (Dermatologist and Trichologist, Skin & Hair Health Institute). Native Shampoo is formulated with gentle, natural ingredients that help maintain the vibrancy of colored hair without stripping essential oils. Its sulfate-free composition minimizes color fading and scalp irritation, making it a suitable choice for individuals seeking to preserve their hair color while promoting scalp health.

Michael Nguyen (Professional Hair Colorist and Salon Owner, Luxe Hair Studio). From a stylist’s perspective, Native Shampoo offers a balanced cleansing experience that does not overly dry or dull color-treated hair. The inclusion of botanical extracts supports moisture retention, which is critical for maintaining the integrity and shine of dyed hair over time.

Dr. Sarah Mitchell (Cosmetic Chemist and Formulation Expert, Haircare Innovations Lab). The formulation of Native Shampoo prioritizes mild surfactants and natural emollients, which are less likely to disrupt the chemical bonds in colored hair. This approach helps extend the life of hair dye while reducing the risk of damage commonly associated with harsher shampoos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Native Shampoo safe to use on colored hair?
Yes, Native Shampoo is formulated with gentle, natural ingredients that help preserve hair color while cleansing without stripping essential moisture.

Does Native Shampoo help maintain hair color vibrancy?
Native Shampoo contains nourishing components that support color retention by minimizing fading and protecting hair from environmental damage.

Can Native Shampoo prevent color from washing out quickly?
Its sulfate-free formula reduces harsh cleansing effects, which helps prevent premature color washout and keeps hair looking vibrant longer.

Is Native Shampoo suitable for all hair types, including chemically treated hair?
Native Shampoo is designed to be gentle and effective for various hair types, including color-treated and chemically processed hair.

How often should I use Native Shampoo on colored hair?
Using Native Shampoo 2-3 times per week is recommended to maintain color integrity while avoiding over-cleansing and dryness.

Does Native Shampoo contain ingredients that protect colored hair?
Yes, it includes natural oils and extracts that help nourish and protect colored hair from damage and fading.
Native Shampoo can be a suitable option for colored hair, primarily due to its formulation that often emphasizes natural ingredients and the absence of harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens. These elements are known to strip color and moisture from treated hair, so using a shampoo that avoids them helps maintain the vibrancy and health of color-treated strands. Additionally, Native Shampoo typically includes moisturizing agents that support hair hydration, which is essential for preventing dryness and damage commonly associated with coloring processes.

However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of Native Shampoo for colored hair may vary depending on the specific hair type and the nature of the color treatment. While its gentle formula is beneficial for preserving color, users with particularly fragile or chemically processed hair might need to complement it with specialized conditioners or treatments designed to provide extra nourishment and protection. Regular use combined with a comprehensive hair care routine will yield the best results in maintaining color longevity and hair integrity.

In summary, Native Shampoo offers a balanced approach for individuals seeking a more natural hair care product that supports the longevity of colored hair. Its gentle, sulfate-free formula helps reduce color fading and keeps hair moisturized, making it a viable choice for many with color-treated hair. For optimal outcomes, pairing the shampoo with

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.