I tried Pureology shampoo on color-treated wavy hair but found it just okay for frizz, unlike their amazing gel.

2026-02-26 Shampoo reviews Categroy：Women's Views：110

After accidentally buying Pureology shampoo instead of gel, I found it mediocre for my fine, color-treated wavy hair's frizz in humidity. Stick to their stellar gel!

This is a review from Amazon.com about product:

Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo | For Frizzy, Color-Treated Hair | Smooths Hair & Controls Frizz | Sulfate-Free | Vegan | Updated Packaging | 9 Fl. Oz. |

My Pureology Shampoo Swap for Frizz Control

I accidently bought this Pureology shampoo instead of their hair gel that I adore. The shampoo is fine, the gel is fantastic. I have fine, wavy color-treated hair that frizzes in moisture, but the gel helps a lot. Not so much the shampoo. My mistake.

Shampoo Basics & Tips

Understanding Fine, Color-Treated Wavy Hair

Fine hair lacks volume and gets weighed down easily. Wavy textures (between straight and curly) often frizz due to uneven moisture absorption. Color-treated hair has lifted cuticles, making it porous, dry, and prone to damage. Sulfate-free shampoos like Pureology help preserve color by avoiding harsh cleansers that strip dye molecules.

Why Humidity Causes Frizz

Frizz occurs when hair absorbs moisture from humid air, causing hydrogen bonds to break and the cortex to swell. This disrupts the hair's natural pattern. Anti-humectant ingredients (like silicones in gels) create a barrier to block moisture absorption, while hydrating shampoos may inadvertently increase frizz in high humidity.

Shampoo vs. Gel for Frizz Control

Shampoos cleanse but offer minimal styling hold. Gels contain film-forming polymers (e.g., PVP) that coat hair strands, providing structure and sealing the cuticle to resist humidity. For wavy hair, gels enhance definition while suppressing frizz better than cleansing products.

Caring for Color-Treated Hair

Use sulfate-free, pH-balanced shampoos (ideally pH 4.5-5.5) to maintain cuticle tightness. Incorporate protein treatments monthly to strengthen porous areas. Always follow with conditioner – color-treated hair needs extra moisture to combat dryness from chemical processing.

Choosing Products for Fine Wavy Hair

Avoid heavy oils/butters that cause limpness. Look for "volumizing" or "lightweight" labels. Mousse or lightweight gel applied to damp hair provides hold without weight. Clarify monthly to prevent buildup that exacerbates frizz.

Common Shampoo Questions

Why does shampoo lather less sometimes? Sulfate-free formulas use gentle surfactants (e.g., decyl glucoside) producing fewer suds. Can shampoo cause color fading? Yes, if it contains sulfates or high pH levels. How often should I wash color-treated hair? 2-3 times weekly max to preserve oils protecting color.