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9 Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Clarifying Shampoo, Deep Cleanses + Removes Buildup, For All Hair Types, Especially Oily Hair, 10.14 fl. oz.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,277
Frequency of Use
Moisturizing Properties
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
12804 reviews

Frequency of Use
Sulfate-free and easy to use, this shampoo provides noticeable improvements with consistent use.
Moisturizing Properties
Perfect for those who use a lot of styling products; it clarifies without drying and leaves hair feeling better.
Hair Type Compatibility
This shampoo does not weigh down baby fine hair and is beneficial for overall scalp health.

Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two is a clarifying shampoo that effectively removes buildup and impurities from the hair, making it particularly suitable for people with oily hair. One of its main strengths is its color-safe formula, which ensures that while it cleans deeply, it won't strip away hair color, making it a great choice for those who color their hair. The refreshing lemon scent adds to the pleasant experience of using the product.

In terms of ingredients, the shampoo is designed to maintain a balanced pH level, which is beneficial for preserving the health of your hair and scalp. It’s versatile enough for all hair types, although those with oily hair may notice the most significant benefits. Users can enjoy shiny, bouncy hair after use, which is a big plus for anyone looking to revitalize dull locks.

Frequent use might not be ideal, as clarifying shampoos can be drying if used too often. It's essential to find a good balance and not rely on it daily, especially for those with dry or chemically treated hair. While it does a great job of cleansing, individuals with already dry hair might want to consider pairing it with a good conditioner to maintain moisture levels.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,277
Frequency of Use
Moisturizing Properties
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
12804 reviews

Frequency of Use
Sulfate-free and easy to use, this shampoo provides noticeable improvements with consistent use.
Moisturizing Properties
Perfect for those who use a lot of styling products; it clarifies without drying and leaves hair feeling better.
Hair Type Compatibility
This shampoo does not weigh down baby fine hair and is beneficial for overall scalp health.
#2

Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Hair Shampoo - Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo to Remove Build Up, Styling Product Resins + Restore Manageability - Enhances Shine and Softness (33.8 oz)

Rating
9.8
Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
4806 reviews

Ingredients
Malibu’s clarifying shampoo is my go-to for keeping my curls bouncy. It smells wonderful, doesn’t strip my hair, and has clean ingredients.
Moisturizing Properties
HOLY HECK I'm glad I tried this! My very long curly hair feels silky soft and frizz-free after using this shampoo. It's clarifying but also really moisturizing.
Hair Type Compatibility
This shampoo is a lifesaver for those with hard water. My curls look and feel so much better, and it works well in combination with other hair care products.

The Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Hair Shampoo is a well-regarded option for those looking to effectively remove product buildup without compromising hair color. Its sulfate-free formula is one of its standout features, making it a gentle choice that won't strip away color or moisture from chemically treated hair. With a pH-balanced formula, it’s designed to enhance hair manageability, shine, and softness. The inclusion of vegan ingredients like magnesium and limonene is a plus for those who prefer eco-friendly products that also promote hair health.

One of the strengths of this shampoo is its versatility; it’s safe for both color-treated and chemically processed hair types, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, the recommended usage frequency allows for flexibility; it can be used weekly or before chemical services, depending on individual needs.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the shampoo is effective at clarifying, it can leave hair feeling a bit dry if not followed by a good conditioner. It might also not be ideal for those with very dry or curly hair unless paired with additional moisturizing products. The size of the bottle (33.8 oz) is generous, but for some, the price point might feel a bit high compared to less specialized shampoos.

Rating
9.8
Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
4806 reviews

Ingredients
Malibu’s clarifying shampoo is my go-to for keeping my curls bouncy. It smells wonderful, doesn’t strip my hair, and has clean ingredients.
Moisturizing Properties
HOLY HECK I'm glad I tried this! My very long curly hair feels silky soft and frizz-free after using this shampoo. It's clarifying but also really moisturizing.
Hair Type Compatibility
This shampoo is a lifesaver for those with hard water. My curls look and feel so much better, and it works well in combination with other hair care products.
#3

Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo | For All Hair Types | Removes Buildup & Strengthens Hair Cuticle | 8.5 Fl Oz

Rating
9.5
pH Level
Frequency of Use
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
8543 reviews

pH Level
The shampoo's slightly acidic pH is beneficial for the scalp and hair cuticle, contributing to a healthy skin barrier.
Frequency of Use
Excellent for a deep weekly cleanse, especially for those who use styling products regularly.
Hair Type Compatibility
Highly effective at preventing oil and product buildup on oily and porous hair, leaving it clean and soft without feeling weak.
Color Removal Effectiveness
Leaves hair feeling squeaky clean and refreshed, free of any residue.

Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream is a versatile clarifying shampoo designed for all hair types, making it an appealing choice for those who want to eliminate product buildup and impurities from their hair. One of its standout features is its ability to remove hard water minerals, excess oil, and pollution residue, which can leave hair feeling refreshed and shiny. The inclusion of alpha hydroxy acid and fruit acid helps in deeply purifying the hair while also strengthening the cuticle.

The shampoo is unscented, which may appeal to users sensitive to fragrance, and it effectively prepares hair for further treatments or styling. Its compatibility with both colored and non-colored hair is a plus, allowing a wider audience to benefit from its cleansing properties.

Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream works well for individuals looking to refresh their hair by removing buildup, especially those who deal with hard water or heavy styling products. Its strengths lie in its effective cleansing and compatibility with various hair types, but potential users should consider their hair's moisture needs and adjust usage frequency accordingly.

Rating
9.5
pH Level
Frequency of Use
Hair Type Compatibility

Most important from
8543 reviews

pH Level
The shampoo's slightly acidic pH is beneficial for the scalp and hair cuticle, contributing to a healthy skin barrier.
Frequency of Use
Excellent for a deep weekly cleanse, especially for those who use styling products regularly.
Hair Type Compatibility
Highly effective at preventing oil and product buildup on oily and porous hair, leaving it clean and soft without feeling weak.
Color Removal Effectiveness
Leaves hair feeling squeaky clean and refreshed, free of any residue.

Buying Guide for the Best Clarifying Shampoos To Remove Color

Choosing the right clarifying shampoo to remove color from your hair can be a bit tricky, but with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect product for your needs. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse your hair, removing buildup, impurities, and in some cases, hair color. When selecting a clarifying shampoo, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best results without damaging your hair. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to choose the right one for you.
IngredientsThe ingredients in a clarifying shampoo are crucial because they determine how effective the shampoo will be at removing color and buildup. Look for shampoos with strong cleansing agents like sulfates if you need a deep cleanse, but be aware that these can be harsh on your hair. If you have sensitive or dry hair, opt for gentler ingredients like natural extracts or sulfate-free formulas. Your hair type and condition should guide your choice here.
pH LevelThe pH level of a clarifying shampoo affects how it interacts with your hair and scalp. Shampoos with a higher pH (alkaline) are more effective at opening the hair cuticle and removing color, but they can also be more drying. Lower pH (acidic) shampoos are gentler and help maintain the hair's natural moisture balance. If you have color-treated or damaged hair, a lower pH shampoo might be a better choice to minimize further damage.
Frequency of UseClarifying shampoos vary in how often they can be used. Some are designed for weekly use, while others are safe for more frequent application. If you need to remove color quickly, a stronger formula that can be used more often might be necessary. However, if you have sensitive or dry hair, look for a shampoo that is recommended for less frequent use to avoid over-drying your hair.
Moisturizing PropertiesSince clarifying shampoos can be drying, it's important to consider their moisturizing properties. Some shampoos include hydrating ingredients like oils, aloe vera, or glycerin to help counteract the drying effects. If your hair is prone to dryness or damage, choose a clarifying shampoo with added moisturizers to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
Hair Type CompatibilityDifferent clarifying shampoos are formulated for different hair types. Whether you have curly, straight, fine, or thick hair, there is a clarifying shampoo that will work best for you. For example, curly hair may benefit from a more moisturizing formula, while fine hair might need a lighter, less conditioning product. Consider your hair type and look for a shampoo that specifically mentions compatibility with it.
Color Removal EffectivenessNot all clarifying shampoos are equally effective at removing color. Some are specifically designed to strip hair dye, while others are more focused on removing buildup from styling products. If your primary goal is to remove color, look for a shampoo that explicitly states its color-removing capabilities. Read reviews and product descriptions to gauge how well it performs in this area.

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