In this video, we’re delving into the world of hair care, comparing professional and drugstore shampoos to determine which is superior for color-treated locks. We’ve gathered an impressive lineup of 24 shampoos from 22 popular brands, representing both professional salons and drugstore aisles.
Our mission is twofold: to assess whether professional shampoos indeed eclipse drugstore counterparts and to uncover the crème de la crème of all brands. To ensure a fair comparison, we meticulously followed a scientific approach, treating each shampoo with identical care.
First, we measured 1 ounce of each shampoo into individual cups, using precise markings to guarantee consistency. Next, we added 8 ounces of water to each cup, ensuring equal dilution. With our shampoo solutions ready, we turned our attention to the hair.
Using real human hair donated by a local salon, we ensured each section was of uniform size and color. After allowing the hair to set for 5 days, we were confident that the dye had fully adhered.
To begin our testing, we submerged each hair section into its designated shampoo mixture for precisely 15 seconds. As the hair swirled in the solutions, we observed the color changes with keen eyes.
Upon removing the hair sections, we compared the results side by side. Professional shampoos emerged as the clear victors, demonstrating superior color preservation. However, the gap between professional and drugstore performance was narrower than anticipated, with some drugstore brands holding their own against their salon counterparts.
To further refine our findings, we analyzed photographs of each cup before and after the hair immersion. This meticulous approach allowed us to quantify the extent of color loss.
Our top performer, the undisputed champion of color protection, is Wella. The cup containing Wella shampoo exhibited minimal color change, indicating exceptional gentleness on color-treated hair.
Pureology takes the second spot, surprising us with its impressive color-preserving capabilities. Initially overlooked during testing, Pureology’s true colors shone through in the detailed photographic analysis.
For third place, we award a tie to Fekkai and Bed Head. Both brands demonstrated commendable color retention, earning their spot among the elite.
So, do professional shampoos reign supreme? Yes, our testing reveals that they generally offer superior color protection compared to drugstore shampoos. However, the margin of difference is not as pronounced as we initially expected.
With so many effective options available, the choice ultimately depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you’re seeking the highest level of color protection, professional shampoos like Wella, Pureology, Fekkai, and Bed Head are your best bets.
But if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly solution, several drugstore brands, including Dove, Pantene, and Garnier, offer commendable color preservation as well.